My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on UNLV (10:00 EST).

UNLV improved to 20-13 last season and I think it’ll “bring the heat” on Opening night. 

Loyola Marymount was 11-20 last year and the Lions haven’t had a winning season since 2012.

The Rebels have three capable seniors in Noah Robtham, Kris Clyburn and Shakur Julston. Last year Julston averaged 14.6 points and ten boards per game. 

The Lions are already 1-0, coming into this one contented off a 75-43 win over lowly Westcliff. Previous to last year’s disastrous overall start, Loyola Marymount actually went 15-15. But last season was a major step back, especially against the conference, finishing 5-13 in league play. 

The Rebels have the more experienced senior group of players and on opening night, I think that’s going to be more than enough to take care of the “thin” Lions. Loyola Marymount shot only 35.7 percent from behind the arc in their opening victory, which isn’t going to get the job done tonight. 

I’m banking on a blowout. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Yale (9*) (11:00 EST).

This is the 2018/19 Pac-12 China Game in Shanghai. This is the season opener for both teams.

Yale comes in with plenty of veteran leadership this year and I ultimately believe that that factor will prove to be the difference maker on Opening night “across the pond.” Miye Oni averaged 15.1 points and six boards last year, while Alex Copeland averaged 11.2 PPG. Overall 95 percent of their offensive production from last year returns for the Bulldogs. 

Yale has a 42-14 Ivy League record over the last four years and it’s won two league titles in that time.

Cal posted only eight wins last year and it’s once again in re-building mode this season for the most part as well. 

The Bears were one of the worst shooting teams in the country and also one of the worst at turning it over. Paris Austin, a Boise State transfer, is expected to bring some stability to the back-court. 

Note though that Cal is just 4-11-1 ATS in its last 16 neutral site affairs, while Yale is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 neutral site games.

This one has blowout written all over it, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Iowa State (8*) (7:00 EST).

Missouri lost Michael Porter Jr. to the NBA, but the Tigers return several key players, including Jeremiah Tillmon and Kevin Puryear. Missouri got 19 points and ten boards from Mark Smith in the opener vs. Central Arkansas. Overall it was a poor shooting game though, as the team would combine to go just 3 of 18 from beyond the arc.

Iowa State was just 4-14 in Big 12 play last season, but anything short of a tournament spot this year would be considered a disappointment. Iowa State opened with a 79-53 win over Alabama State, as four players would go on to score in double figures, led by Michael Jacobson with 17. So far Iowa State is averaging 111 points per 100 possessions so far this season, while allowing 93 per 100 possessions.

The Tigers lost Jontay Porter to injury and I think he’ll be missed here against a Cyclones team looking to send a message. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on NC Wilmington (8*) (7:00 EST).

The Cardinal were 19-16 last year and they opened this season with a 96-74 home win over Seattle on Tuesday. 

NC Wilmington was just 11-21 last season and it enters hungry after a 97-93 OT road loss to Campbell in its opener.

Last year Stanford averaged 75.9 PPG and it conceded 74.9. KZ Okpala had 29 points in the season opening victory.

Last year UNC Wilmington averaged 79.4 PPG and it conceded 83.4. Ty Taylor II had 29 points in the season opening loss including six three-pointers.

I’ll point out though that Stanford is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine non-conference road games after scoring 95 points or more in a victory in its previous outing.

I think the “hungrier” team is NC Wilmington. The Seahawks return plenty of talent and in a contest which i see coming down to whichever of these teams has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Rivalry Rout is on Texas at 7;00 ET.

Arkansas and Texas will renew their old Southwest Conference rivalry Friday in the Armed Forces Classic at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas returns FOUR of five starters from last year and has a game under its belt, a 71-59 victory against Eastern Illinois. As for Arkansas (playing its season-opener), the Razorbacks lost 79.6 percent of their scoring and 64.7 percent of their rebounding from last year. 

The Razorbacks lost eight players, including five of their top six scorers, from last season's 23-win NCAA Tournament team. All-SEC first team selection Daniel Gafford ( sophomore forward) averaged 11.8 & 6.2 last season is one of just three scholarship players returning. Meanwhile, PG Jalen Harris, who redshirted last season after transferring from New Mexico, is the only Arkansas guard with any Division I experience. The good news for the Razorbacks is that there are some impressive recruits coming in, including 4-star players Isaiah Joe, Ethan Henderson and Keyshawn Embery. We'll see.

The Longhorns finished just 19-15 last season, after blowing a 14-point second-half lead against Nevada in the team's first NCAA contest. Texas does return four of five starters but the loss was a big one, as the 7-0 Bamba (12.9-10.5-3.7 BPG) was the sixth pick of the NBA Draft. However, Texas not only returns four starters but the Longhorns have six freshman. Its crop of freshman was ranked EIGHTH nationally by 247Sports.

Both schools own quality head coaches. Arkansas' Mike Anderson has led UAB, Missouri and now Arkansas, to NCAA berths plus is one of just four current Division I coaches with 15-plus years of experience and no losing seasons. Roy Williams, Tom Izzo and Mark Few are the others. That's pretty sweet company! Texas' Shaka Smart was an impressive 163-56 (.744) at VCU, leading the Rams to the CBI championship in 2010 (his first year as a head coach) and then to the NCAA Final 4 in 2011, as an 11-seed. He's taken the Longhorns to the "Big Dance" in two of his three years at Austin but his overall record was just 50-50 entering the current season.

Nobody is saying Smart needs to win in 2018-19 to keep his job but I bet plenty of Texas people are "thinking it!' Texas has much more experience plus the Longhorns have a game under their belt. The El Paso site is pretty much a home game and as noted above, the Razorbacks have a ton of rebuilding to do. Maybe James Street (or for that matter, Randy Peschel) will be in the stands? If you don't know those names, you are too damn young! Lay the points with Texas.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* TNT Explosion on the Houston Rockets (8:05 EST).

Houston has won three straight on the road, most recently a 98-94 win over Indiana on Monday. With two whole nights off to prepare, I look for the Rockets to come out on top here.

OKC most recently beat Cleveland 95-86 on the road on Wednesday, but with a return home to friendly confines, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here.

Note that Houston does play with a bit of revenge here as well, as the Thunder took two of three in the season series last year. 

The Rockets are averaging 105.3 PPG and they’re allowing 110.1. Of course those numbers are skewed due to the lousy overall start. Houston has started to turn things around of late, led by James Harden is averaging 27.8 points, five boards and 8.2 assists per night.

OKC is averaging 113.2 PPG and it’s allowing 111.3. Russell Westbrook is leading the way with 24.1 points, 8.3 boards and 8.9 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that the Thunder are in fact just 1-4 ATS in their last five home games vs. teams with winning road records, while Houston is 6-2 ATS in its last eight road games against teams with a winning home record. This is the second game of a back-to-back set for OKC and I believe it comes in “flat footed.” 

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* play is on the LA Lakers at 10:35 ET.

Inconsistency has plagued both the T-wolves and Lakers early on. 

Minnesota has yet to win on the rod this season plus the team has been dealing with Jimmy Butler's "moods." 

Butler has been demanding a trade since the preseason and has sat out every other game since the win against the Lakers last week. 

He wouldn't discuss his status for Wednesday's game. 

LBJ and the Lakers are also still trying to find their groove and they trailed 41-17 after the first quarter on Sunday en route to losing 121-107 to the Raptors in a contest in which Toronto was missing star forward Kawhi Leonard (not a good sign).

However, the bottom line is this. 

LA is a poor defensive team but the Lakers can score (118.9 PPG and 49.4 FG percentage both rank 3rd in the NBA) and the T-wolves are allowing 118.5 PPG in going 0-6 SU & 1-5 ATS away from Target Center so far.

10* on the Lakers.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* play is on the Ind Pacers at 8:05 ET.

Yes, the 6-5 Philadelphia 76ers will eventually win on the road, but when? 

They've been unable to do so yet (0-5 SU & ATS) plus with FOUR of their five losses away from home coming by at least 15 points, they've barely been competitive. 

Sunday's dreadful 122-97 loss at Brooklyn featured an NBA-high 28 turnovers! 

The 7-4 Indiana Pacers are off a 98-94 home loss to the Rockets, a defeat which ended a run of three straight wins. Victor Oladipo scored 28 points in the defeat to record his NBA-leading 10th straight game with at least 20 points (he's averaging 23.0 PPG).

The Pacers are allowing just 99.4 PPG at home, while the 76ers are giving up a whopping 122.4 PPG on the road. 

Noting that Indiana has won EIGHT straight meetings at home against Philadelphia makes the Pacers a 9* play.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Champs Classic play is on Duke (9:30 EST).

Duke posted a 29-8 record last year and a 13-5 record in ACC action, while the Wildcats went 26-11 with a 10-8 record in SEC action. 

Both teams feature plenty of new faces, but I think the depth and skill that Duke brings to the table will be just too much for the Wildcats to hang with on Opening Night.

Duke lost its top five scorers from last year, but it recruited Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett, who are considered two of the best talents in the country. It also features 6 foot 8 forward Cam Reddish and leading scorer Marquez Bolden also returns. Last year the Blue Devils averaged 84.4 PPG and allowed 69.6.

Kentucky comes into the new season ranked No. 2. The Wildcats lost many big names to the NBA over the offseason, but they still feature plenty of talent as well in Quade Gren and PJ Washington. Last year the Wildcats averaged 76.8 PPG and allowed 70.2. That was ranked 116th overall. 

I’ll point out as well that the Blue Devils are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 non-conference games and 11-5 ATS in their last 16 neutral site affairs.

Kentucky returns just 31.5 percent of its scoring from last year and on Opening Night, I think the Blue Devils will take advantage.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* CBB TIP OFF OPENER is on Florida (9:00 EST).

Florida has won 27 straight season openers but it’ll have its hands full here. In a contest which I envision being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab the points.

Note that this is a big time revenge game as well for the Gators after the Seminoles embarrassed them 83-66 in Gainesville last year. 

Three starters return for the Gators though, a team which averaged 75.8 PPG. KeVaughn Allen averaged 11.0 points last year. 

FSU is predicted to finish seventh in the difficult 15-team ACC this year. The Seminoles also return three starters. One of those starters though, Phil Cofer, won’t be playing tonight because of a foot injury. Cofer averaged 12.8 points and 5.1 boards last year. 

This one is very evenly matched, but I think the absence of Cofer is a significant one for the Seminoles. The Gators play with revenge and I think they’ll keep this one competitive until the final moments. 

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Boston Celtics (9:05 EST).

Boston will look to be the first team in the league to knock off the Nuggets at home. Denver looks primed for a letdown in my opinion after four straight victories and facing this tough nosed defensive visiting side.

The Nuggets already have some big wins under their belts, including over the Warriors, Pelicans and Jazz, but this sets up as a classic “letdown” spot in my estimation facing the non-conference opponent tonight (despite it being the Celtics). Nikola Jokic had just single digits scoring in the win over the Jazz, but he’d post ten boards and 16 assists as well.

Boston comes in in a foul mood after a last second-three pointer cost them against the Pacers most recently. Kyrie Irving had 18 points, six boards and three assists in the setback. 

I’ll point out though that the road team is 4-1-1 ATS the last six in this series, while the underdog is 3-0-1 ATS the last four in the series. 

Also note that Boston is 20-8 ATS in its last 28 against teams with a winning percentage above .600.

For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Goin Under Total is the under Pelicans/Thunder (8:05 EST).

The Pelicans started off strong, but they’ve since regressed. The Thunder were a mess to open the campaign, but they’ve been firing on all cylinders of late.

Two teams moving in opposite direction collide and in my opinion, points are going to be at a premium.

The Thunder have won four straight, most recently a 134-111 road win in Washington on Friday. Can anyone say “letdown” spot? 

New Orleans on the other hand is coming off five straight losses, most recently a 109-95 setback at San Antonio.

Pelicans’ star Anthony Davis has recently commented about the pressure of having to play at such a high level every night to even give his team a chance to succeed. Davis had 17 points, eight boards, three assists and five blocks in the loss to the Spurs.

OKC has definitely turned things around of late, but note that during its recent win skein it has in fact beaten just one opponent with a winning record. Russell Westbrook had 23 points, three boards and 12 assists in the win over Washington.

I’ll point out that New Orleans has seen the total go under the number in 20 of its last 33 following a divisional contest, while OKC has seen the total dip below the posted number in 14 of its last 19 off an upset win as an underdog.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Wipeout Winner is on the Phoenix Suns (8:05 EST).

What do you base your selections on? As a professional handicapper I base my picks on many different things.

This one sets up great from a situational stand point for the Suns and it’s one I’m primarily basing this particular selection. 

The Grizzlies are 5-2 overall and they come in having won three straight. But with a date at Golden State tomorrow night, Memphis is expected to rest people tonight and clearly it’s not going to be able to help itself in getting caught “looking ahead” to that much more high profile contest.

The Suns clearly don’t have that luxury though, as they come in having lost seven straight. They also play with revenge after falling to Memphis earlier in the season.

Note that Memphis is just 10-19 ATS in its last 29 on the road and only 6-8 ATS In its last 14 after three or more consecutive SU victories, while Phoenix is 31-20 ATS in its last 51 after three or more consecutive SU losses.

It’s do or die, now or never for Phoenix. Expect an outright, but grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is the Jazz/Nuggets over (9:05 EST).

Utah enters off a listless 110-100 home loss to Memphis. Donovan Mitchell sat that one out and the Jazz looked poor on both ends of the floor.

The high-flying Nuggets will look to take advantage and to get out and push the pace of this one from strait to finish. Denver enters off a 110-91 road victory over Cleveland. 

Utah though is averaging 114.3 PPG, while allowing 109.3. The Jazz have been one of the best defensive clubs in the league the last few years, but in the early going so far this season that hasn’t been the case. Note though that the over is 4-1 in Utah’s five road games. 

Denver is averaging 112.5 PPG and it’s allowing 103.6. Nikola Jokic leads the nightly charge with 19.4 points, ten boards and 6.6 assists. 

I’ll point out as well that Utah has seen the total go over the number in three of four this year against good offensive teams which score 106-plus points per contest, while Denver has seen the total go over in 13 of its last 17 after a three games or more SU unbeaten streak.

This number is a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Wizards (8:00 EST).

The Oklahoma City Thunder got off to a slow start, but they go into Charlotte on a two game win streak on Thursday night. 

The Thunder come to the Nation’s capital “dog tired” here to face a Wizards team which comes in desperate after a 1-6 start, including going 0-2 at home. But a favorable matchup here against a “flat-footed” Thunder side, combined with a very “winnable” game against the Knicks on Sunday could have the Wizards completely turned around by the end of the weekend.

It’s essentially a “do or die” game for the Wizards in my estimation and I expect the home side to “answer the call.”

I’ll point out as well that the Thunder are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine in the second game of a back to back in which its playing on the road, while Washington is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 after a four games or more unbeaten streak.

Lay the points and expect a blowout. Play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Down Under Total is the under Clippers/Magic (7:05 EST).

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about these two teams? For me it’s “run and gun” offense and very little defense.

However, I think the conditions are right for more of a defensive affair this evening.

The Clippers enter off a high-scoring 122-113 loss in Philadelphia just last night and I expect the team to come in with “heavy legs” in the second game of the back-to-back. 

The Magic will look to take advantage. Note that Orlando has lost seven straight in this series.

The Magic come in having lost three straight overall and they’ll be desperate to reverse their fortunes with a solid defensive effort in my opinion.

Note as well that LA has seen the total go under the number in 15 of its last 22 road games in the second game of a back to back in which it gave up more than 120 points and lost in the first. 

Additionally note that Orlando has seen the total dip below the posted number in 14 of its last 24 after a three games or more SU/ATS losing streak.

This number is a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Eastern Conf. Showdown is on the Boston Celtics (8:05 EST).

The Bucks are 7-0, most recently coming in off a very satisfying 124-109 home win over Toronto. The Celtics are 5-2 and they enter off a 108-105 home win over Detroit. 

Milwaukee is averaging 120 PPG and it’s conceding 104.1. Giannis Antetokounmpo did not play against the Raptors, but he’s been given the green light to go here. So far Anteokounmpo has averaged 25 points and 14.2 boards per game. 

Boston is averaging 102.4 PPG, while conceding an NBA-best 97.6. Kyrie Irving had his best game of the season last time out, finishing with 31 points. 

Note that Boston is 17-5 ATS in its last 22 at home and 14-3 ATS in its last 17 home games against teams with winning road records, while Milwaukee is still just 1-6 ATS in its last seven on the road and 3-8 ATS in its last 11 against teams with a winning percentage above .600.

All good things have to come to an end. I expect the Celtics’ league leading defense to finally throw a “monkey wrench” into the Bucks’ hot offensive start.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the LA Lakers at 10:35 ET.

To put it mildly, the "LBJ era" is off to a slow start in the City of Angels. The Lakers are still learning how to play with their new superstar and they'd really like to figure out how to win the close games. 2-5 Los Angeles lost its third game by four points or less Monday night at the Minnesota Timberwolves and all five losses have come by single digits. LA will host the 2-5 Mavericks at Staples Center, who also desperate for a win after dropping their past four games (all by single digits!. Dallas did push the San Antonio Spurs to overtime Monday before losing 113-108, but also committed a season-worst 23 turnovers.

Dallas 'limps' in 0-4 away from home, averaging just 104.8 PPG. Sure, the Lakers are only 1-2 at home but they are averaging 126.0 PPG at Staples. With "all hands on deck" ( Lakers are back to full strength after starting SF Brandon Ingram completed a four-game suspension & backup PG Rajon Rondo a three-game ban for their roles in a fight with the Houston Rockets on Oct, 20), look for a 15-point win!

From a trend based stand point, note that LA is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 home games against teams with road winning percentages under .400, while Dallas is just 2-6 ATS In its last eight against clubs with losing records.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on the Det Pistons at 7:05 ET.

Brooklyn comes in dejected here after falling 115-96 against the Knicks on Monday. It was the Nets third straight loss. 

Last night the Pistons fell 108-105 in Boston and while I wouldn’t normally play on a team in the second game of a back-to-back, in this case I’m making an exception. We’re only two weeks into the season, so fatigue is simply not going to be a factor at this point of the season for this World class athletes. In fact, the extra playing time is beneficial in my opinion to continue work things out on both ends of the floor.

If recent history is any precedence, then Detroit has to be loving its chances today as well, as it’s won three straight in this series, including a 103-100 victory in the first meeting at home on October 17th.

The public is quick to back the Nets here in my opinion. They’ve lost three straight and play with revenge, but quite simply this is a horrible match-up for them. 

The Pistons are averaging 110.6 PPG and they’re allowing 112. The Nets are averaging 106.6 PPG and they’re conceding 111.1. 

Brooklyn is just 4-10 ATS in its last 14 at home, while Detroit is 6-2 ATS in its last eight on the road and 8-3 ATS in its last 11 against teams with a winning percentage below .400. 

Summing up. Beating the Nets back on Oct 17 began Detroit's first 4-0 start since the 2008-09 season. The rematch comes with the Pistons off consecutive losses but quarter c

both have come against the Celtics (the East's best team?). Drummond (18.2 & 15.2 on the year) helped the Pistons open the season with a 103-100 win by getting 24 points and 20 rebounds against the Nets. It was his fifth game with at least 20 rebounds against the Nets and his second 20-20 game against Brooklyn The Nets enter on a three-game slide and during that streak, Brooklyn is getting out-rebounded 146-123 and overall, is among the league's worst teams in rebounding at 43.0 per game (24th). The Pistons  nearly overcame a 14-point deficit last night in Boston but won't need any fourth comebacks here, as they top the Nets for the SIXTH time in the last seven meetings.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Indiana Pacers (7:05 EST).

Portland finally stumbled after a great start, falling 120-111 in Miami on Saturday and I think it’ll have its hands full here as well with a Indiana team coming off a 119-107 road win over the Cavs on the weekend. 

Note as well as this does in fact set up as a “double revenge” scenario for the Pacers after the Blazers took both meetings last year.

Overall Portland has averaged 122.4 PPG and allowed 117.2. Damian Lillard is averaging 33.8 points and 6.6 assists per game. 

The Pacers are averaging 111.7 PPG and they’re conceding just 102.8. Victor Oladipo is leading the nightly charge with 21.8 points, 5.3 boards and 1.5 steals per game. 

Additionally note that Indiana is 6-1 ATS in its last seven after allowing 100 points or more in its previous game, while Portland is just 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road and only 1-4 ATS in it last five when playing on one days rest.

Indiana has looked very strong at home in the early going and I expect that trend to continue here. Lay the points, 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Memphis Grizzlies (10:05 EST).

Memphis looked terrible in a season Opening loss, but it’s looked fantastic in two victories since and I think the “under-the-radar” Grizz can keep the momentum rolling in this favorable situation. 

Sacramento has struggled with defensive consistency early and it comes in “dog tired” here after last night’s 126-112 setback at Mile High Denver just last night.

The Grizz enter off an impressive 92-84 win over Utah, as guard Mike Conley had 23 points, seven boards and four assists. 

The Kings are averaging 125.6 PPG, but they’re about to face their stiffest defensive test to date. After completely shutting down dynamic Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell, we have a hard time seeing Kings’ leading scorer De’Aaron Fox having much success today either. 

Memphis comes in having gone 18-10 ATS in its last 28 off an upset win as an underdog and I think it’s getting little respect in this spot.

The Kings are “hungry” for a win, but the Grizzlies will be taking nothing for granted at this point after last year’s disastrous campaign. 

The Grizzlies’ offense catches a break here facing the league’s worst defense. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is the under Knicks/Bucks (8:05 EST).

The Knicks come in off back-to-back losses to Boston and Brooklyn and they’d appear to be in over their heads here as well as New York soldiers forward to start the season without the services of offensive star Kristaps Porzingis. 

The Bucks come sin off victory over Indiana and Charlotte and they’ll look to dictate and control the pace of this one from the outset.

Kevin Knox has come up big for the Knicks in back-to-back games with double digits in scoring off the bench, but he’d also suffer an ankle injury last time out. Tim Hardaway Jr. is now left to do the heavy lifting for an undermanned Knicks squad.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 26 points, 15 boards and six assists in the most recent win over Indiana for Milwaukee. The Bucks haven’t had any issues putting points on the board, but they’ll have an opportunity to pad their defensive stats as well tonight. 

I’ll point out as well that that New York has seen the total go under the number in 18 of its last 32 following a divisional contest, while Milwaukee has seen the total dip below the posted number in 23 of its last 38 following a victory by ten points or more.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Denver Nuggets (8:00 EST).

Denver destroyed the Suns at home last night and I think it’ll carry that momentum over here.

It’s the start of the season, so the “fatigue” factor on the second game of the back-to-back is a “non-factor” in my opinion. 

Golden State has won its first two games of the regular season, including a thrilling buzzer-beater over Utah on Friday. But I think the Warriors will stumble in the thin air of Mile high on Sunday night.

Steph Curry and Kevin Durant combined for 69 points in the win over the Jazz. It was a bitter fight to the end and Golden State is clearly “lucky” to have won it on a tip back from Jonas Jerebko at the buzzer. DeMarcus Cousins and Andre Igoudala remain on the sidelines injured.

The Nuggets got a triple-double from Nikola Jokic last night with 35 points, 11 assists and 12 boards. Denver has plenty of talent and I think it’ll take the two-time defending champs down to the wire. 

I’ll point out as well that Golden State is just 50-51 ATS in its last 101 after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Denver is 40-30 ATS in its last 70 as an underdog.

Grab the points, play on the Nuggets.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* PERFECT STORM on the San Antonio Spurs (10:05 EST).

The Blazers come in off an opening night victory over LeBron James and the Lakers and I believe they’ll suffer a predictable letdown here. 

San Antonio will look to take advantage and to build off its opening night win over the Wolves.

DeMar DeRozan had 28 points in his first game for San Antonio, while LaMarcus Aldridge had 21 points and 19 boards. 

The Blazers got 24 points from guard Nick Stauskas off the bench in their win over the Lakers. Portland would go on to earn the victory despite being edged 34-12 in fast break points.

I’ll point out though that San Antonio is 7-3 ATS in its last ten as an underdog, while Portland is just 17-23 ATS in its last 40 after allowing 115 points or more.

This one has the feel of whichever team that has its hands on the ball last is going to be the one to come out on top. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third pick of my STP is on Utah Jazz 10* (10:35 EST).

Both teams won their openers. Golden State beat OKC 108-100 at home (without Russell Westbrook in the line-up), but it certainly wasn’t pretty, committing 21 turnover and shooting only 26.9 percent from three-point range.

Stephen Curry was a bright spot in the win with 32 points, nine assists and eight boards. 

Utah enters off a 123-117 win over the Kings on Wednesday. Donovan Mitchell and Joe Ingles would go 7 of 16 from three-point land and big man Rudy Gobert was 7 of 9 shooting with 15 boards and three blocks.

I’ll point out though that Golden State is a poor 16-21 ATS in its last 37 when playing with two days rest, while Utah is 5-2 ATS in its last seven after allowing 115 points or more.

I look for Utah to return to form on the defensive side this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first pick of my STP is on the “under” C’s/Raptors 8* (8:05 EST).

Boston enters off a 104-87 win over the 76ers at home, while Toronto finished with a 116-104 home victory in its opener over Cleveland. 

Note that the home team prevailed in all four games last year, with Toronto take the final matchup 96-78 on April 4th. 

Boston didn’t play very well offensively against the 76ers though, shooting only 43.3 percent from the floor, including only 11 of 37 from range. It did force 16 turnovers though, while also holding Philadelphia to just 39.1 percent shooting and 5 of 26 from range. Jayson Tatum led the way with 23 points and nine boards.

Toronto shot decently in its opening win (48.9 percent), but it would go just 14 of 33 from range and only 12 of 20 from the charity stripe. The Raptors did decisively control the boards by a 56-40 margin. Kyle Lowry led the way with 27 points and eight assists, while Kawhi Leonard put up 24 points and 12 boards. 

This is going to be a war each time these teams get together this year and I think the first one falls “under.” 

Good luck…Larry

The second pick of my STP is on Memphis Grizzlies 8* (8:05 EST).

A couple of bottom feeders go head-to-head here and I don’t think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor.

The Hawks lost 126-107 in New York in their Opener. Taurean Prince was a standout with 21 points, six boards and six assists. 

ATL though would commit 24 turnovers which would lead to 29 Knicks’ points.

Memphis also comes in off a “dud,” falling 111-83 in Indiana on Wednesday. Marc Gasol finished with a weak 13 points. 

So where is the advantage? Note that ATL is just 25-30 ATS in its last 55 after a loss by ten points or more, while Memphis is 9-6 ATS in its last five after scoring 85 points or less.

The Grizzlies have the advantage at home and I believe they’re the team to bounce back here. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Wizards (8:05 EST).

This is the second game of a back-to-back for Miami, which just played and lost in Orlando last night. The Heat are an older team and while it’s still just the second game of the season, I do indeed believe that fatigue will be a factor here.

Miami will now look to take advantage in its opening game of the year in front of the home town crowd after finishing in eighth in the East last year. 

Note as well that Miami is dealing with several injuries to open the year, including to James Johnson, Dion Waiters, Wayne Ellington and Justise Winslow. 

Last year the Wizards averaged 106.6 PPG and conceded 106. Bradley Beal led the team with 22.6 PPG last year, as star guard John Wall missed significant time with injury. Wall is back and he’s joined by free agent signings Austin Rivers, Jeff Green, Thomas Bryant and Dwight Howard. 

I’ll point out as well that Miami is just 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Eastern conference, while Washington is 5-2 ATS in its last seven home games.

Miami is tired and injured. The Wizards are rested and focused.

Everything points to a rout, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Houston Rockets (8:05 EST).

New Orleans will once again be in the thick of things when the playoffs roll around. Anthony Davis is an MVP candidate and he’s supported by Jrue Holiday and now Julius Randle.

I’ll point out though that the Pelicans have lost each of their last three regular season openers.

Houston has improved its overall win total in each of the last three years. A trip to the NBA Finals likely would have happened last season if point guard Chris Paul hadn’t have gone down, but he’s back and healthy and ready to go. The team only got deeper with the addition of Carmelo Anthony as well.

I’ll point out as well though that New Orleans is just 2-5 ATS inits last seven in its last seven in Houston.

I think the Rockets send a message to the rest of the league with a decisive lop-sided blowout on Opening Night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Miami Heat (7:05 EST).

Miami had 44 wins last year and it was knocked out of the first round of the playoffs by the 76ers. Dwayne Wade is back and so too is big man Hassan Whiteside, who comes into the campaign fully healthy. The Heat also have all star Goran Dragic. 

Orlando starts a new era under head coach Steve Clifford. The Magic have a lot of new faces this season, so they’ll once again be leaning heavily on Nikola Vucevic and Aaron Gordon. 

I’ll point out as well that the Magic are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven at home.

Miami has won five of its last six regular season openers and all signs point to another victory here. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:05 EST).

The Nets will be desperate for a better season after managing just 28 wins last year. D’Angelo Russell was a bright spot with 15.5 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Rondae Hollis-Jefferson wavered 13.9 PPG. Jeremy Lin is gone and big man Kenneth Faried has arrived.

Detroit was just 39-43 last year. Blake Griffin led the way with 19.8 points, 6.6 boards and 6.2 assists per game, while Tobias Harris averaged 18.1 points and 5.1 boards per contest. 

Opening night and anything can happen. Neither team is “hungrier” than the other at this point of the season, but note that despite their poor overall record, Brooklyn was a money-making 35-17 ATS in its last 52 on the road.

Also note that the road team is 5-0 ATS in its last five in this series.

I’m expecting a hard-fought battle until the end. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is on the under 76ers/Celtics.

The 76ers improved by a whopping 24 victory from 16/17 to 17/18. After taking care of Miami in the first round, Philadelphia was then bounced from the second from these very Celtics. 

Philly averaged 109.8 PPG last year but if the 76ers hope to make a real push for the title, clearly they’ll have to get things figured out defensive after allowing an average of 105.3 PPG last year. Big man Joel Embiid led the way with 22.9 points, 11 boards and 1.76 blocks per game, while Ben Simmons added 15.8 points, 8.1 boards, 8.2 assists and 1.73 steals per game. 

Last year the Celtics averaged 104 PPG, while conceding just 100.4. Kyrie Irving led the way until he was injured with 24.4 points and 5.1 assists per game. Irving and Gordon Hayward are both at 100% health and the rest of the team (Marcus Smart, Al Horford and standout Jayson Tatum) remain. 

This one has the feel of an all “war” to me, rather than a wide-open All Star Game style of contest. 

Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (9:05 EST).

The Golden State Warriors head into Game 4 of the NBA Finals sitting at 72-29 overall this year, while the Cleveland Cavaliers are 62-40.

I had a play on Cleveland in Game 3 and it would unfortunately come up “just short.” With their backs against the wall and desperate to avoid the embarrassing sweep, I look for the Cavs to at the very least keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door with what I believe to be a very healthy spread afforded to them in this “do or die” situation. 

What more can be said about these teams which literally hasn’t been said about a million times at this point by every sports broadcaster, handicapper or “couch surfer” over the last four years.

This is the fourth straight year that these teams have met in the Finals, and while the cast of characters remains the same for the Warriors (for the most part), as LBJ goes, so goes Cleveland.

Suffice it to say, the strengths and weaknesses of these teams/players is well known to even the most casual basketball fan.

And so for this selection, I won’t bother breaking down individual player match ups, or re-cap the numbers/stats that the star players from each side posted in Game 3.

Instead I’m focusing on the overall “situation” and some strong ATS trends that completely support this selection. 

It’s hard to imagine the Warriors having a “letdown” at this point of the whole thing, but there is absolutely no question whatsoever that this does indeed set up as a classic “letdown” spot for the visitors. With the knowledge that they’ll be able to “easily” wrap this one up at home in Game 5, I predict this “mental lapse” will in fact occur.

The Warriors are an amazing team there is no doubt, and this is just a horrible “matchup” for James and the Cavaliers. But I think the stage is set for an upset here.

(Additional supporting ATS stats added shortly)

While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything finally points to a “nail-biter” in Game 4. 

Grab the points, play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (9:05 EST).

I had a play on Golden State in Game 1 and then I decided to skip Game 2.

However Game 3 sets up perfectly for the Cavaliers, who I believe will finally get over the hump and at the very least, earn the ATS cover with the handful of points they’ve been afforded.

Obviously this series could easily be tied at 1-1 if the Cavs’ JR Smith didn’t have a brain-lapse at the end of Game 1. Golden State was fortunate to earn the extra period and then LeBron James would run out of gas at the end. 

It was reported after that loss that the Cavaliers locker room took the setback incredibly hard. And that was evident in Game 2, as Golden State took control of the pace early and then never looked back. James posted a triple-double, but it wasn’t enough as the rest of his team struggled with consistency.

However the Cavaliers are not out of it yet. Cleveland went down 2-0 to Boston in the Eastern Conference Finals, before then rebounding in a big way in Game’s 3 and 4 at home. 

And I’m now banking on that same “magic” working for the Cavaliers here with their backs against the wall.

Stephen Curry set an all time NBA Finals record with nine 3-pointers in Game 2 and clearly the defending champs have to be feeling pretty good about themselves. But Golden State has looked susceptible this post-season, as Houston pushed the Warriors to the brink in the Western Conference Finals. I think a letdown is imminent for Golden State here.

I’ll point out as well that Cleveland is 5-1 ATS in its last six after back-to-back SU/ATS losses, while Golden State is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after scoring 120 points or more in its previous contest.

In conclusion: Only 20 teams have ever recovered from an 0-2 deficit in the playoffs to win a series but an LBJ-led team has been responsible for three of those comebacks. The latest came in the Eastern Conference Finals of 2018 against Boston, when the Celtics won the first two games at TD Garden but James and the Cavaliers took the series in seven, winning Game 6 at home and then Game in 7 in Boston.

All know that the Cavs and Warriors are meeting in a fourth straight NBA Finals and Cleveland is set to host its fourth Game 3 in that span. After splitting two OT games in 2015, the Cavs won Game 3 by a 96-91 score, but then lost three in a row. The following year, trailing 0-2, the Cavaliers hammered the Warriors by 30 ponts in Game 3 and eventually won the series for their first championship, rebounding from a 3-1 deficit. Last June, the Cavaliers were on the verge of winning another Game 3 but blew a six-point lead over the final 3:09 and lost, 118-113.

So here we sit, with the Cavs down 0-2 for a third straight year. Iquodala (knee) has been upgraded to questionable for Game 3 but he hasn't played since Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals and it seems like stretch to think that he'll play a significant role. Shaun Livingston made his five field-goal tries for 10 points to give Golden State a lift in the first half of Game 2, after making all four of his shots Thursday. JaVale McGee scored 12 points, making all six of his shots in his first career NBA Finals start in Game 2 as Kerr made a lineup switch that proved spot on. He is 8-of-9 shooting so far. Think those two will shoot that well here in Cleveland?

Golden State's "Core Four" is devastating but not unbeatable. For Cleveland, if not now, when?

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Golden State Warriors (9:00 EST).

The Cavaliers have LeBron James, but not much else. The King has already lost to the Warriors in two of three Final appearances and while he may be able to pull off another upset overall in this series, I don’t think the Warriors will stumble at home in Game 1.

James has already gone on record as saying that he normally uses Game 1 of a series as a “feeler.” The Cavaliers are horrible defensively, especially around the perimeter. Golden State looks more susceptible than it’s ever been, but this is a horrible matchup for James and company.

Give the Warriors’ defense credit as well in Game 7 and throughout the series with high-scoring Rockets. 

The cast of characters from both teams is well known to even the most casual basketball fan (and that includes both their strength’s and weaknesses), so I’m not going to bother breaking down any individual player match ups here. 

I will point out though that the Cavs are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight overall in this series, while the Warriors are 4-1 ATS in their last five at home in this series.

Also note that home teams in Game 1 of the NBA Finals are 17-3 SU over the last 20 years and over the last 15, have gone 13-2 SU/ATS.

Golden State won both regular season meetings against the Cavs, albeit before Cleveland overhauled its lineup at the end of the year.

To this point LBJ has been able to carry his team in the postseason. However, James now faces the most “complete” team in the entire league.

In my opinion, everything points to a major ATS “b-l-o-w-o-u-t” for the home side in Game 1. 

Lay the points, play on the Warriors.

Good luck..Larry

My 10* WCF Game 7 WINNER is on the Houston Rockets (9:05 EST).

I had a play on the Warriors in Game 6, but I think the Rockets will at the very least take Game 7 right down to the wire as these two hungry teams battle for a right to play for the NBA Championship.

Whether Chris Paul plays or not, I think Houston has a legitimate shot at taking this one outright. So am I suggesting to “sprinkle a little on the money line?” I am in fact. However, the sharp play here is the points in my opinion. 

The Rockets will be doubling down defensively this evening as they look to duplicate their Game 4 and 5 success. The Warriors were able to take care of business on their own floor in Game 6, but Golden State has shown many “cracks in the armor” this season and everything points to another possible letdown here as well.

Golden State is shooting 47.1 percent from the floor in the playoffs, including just 34.7 percent from range. Klay Thompson exploded for his best effort in the postseason in Game 6 with 35 points.

Houston is averaging 43.8 percent in the postseason, including just 35 percent from long-distance. James Harden was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with 32 points, seven boards and nine assists. 

I’ll point out though that from a trend based stand point, there’s no question that this one favors the home side, as note that Golden State is just 18-25 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more, while Houston is 9-6 ATS this season after allowing 115 points or more.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Rockets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ECF GAME 7 WINNER is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:35 EST).

I played on the Cavs in their Game 5 loss in Boston and then I came back with them again in Game 6. While recent history would suggest that the Celtics should be the savvy call here (note that the home team has both won and covered in every game in this series thus far,) I’m expecting history to be re-written tonight, as LeBron James will look to cement his place as the greatest player in the history of the game.

James was unstoppable in Game 6, posting 46 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists. Kevin Love was lost early in the first quarter, but it wouldn’t matter as James completely took over and the rest of his teammates provided the rest. 

The Celtics have been an unbelievable story to this point, advancing to Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals without Kyrie Irving or Gordon Hayward, arguably their best players. Boston’s future is clearly bright.

But LBJ is all about making and breaking history and trends and I simply can’t see “The King” losing against these young Celtics.

(additional supporting ATS trends to be added shortly)

My hat goes off to the Celtics. Bravo. But sorry guys, you’re in the path of a true juggernaut, a machine which will settle for nothing less than a trip to the NBA Finals.

Grab the points, play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Golden State Warriors (9:05 EST).

With Chris Paul out for the Rockets, I expect the desperate Warriors to put the foot on the gas from start to finish in Game 6 and to finish with a similar result as to their Game 3, 41-point beatdown victory.

So far Houston is shooting 44.4 percent from the floor in the playoffs, including only 34.7 percent from range. Paul had 20 points, seven boards and six assists in the Game 5 victory before then aggravating his ham-string, forcing the dynamic point guard to have to miss this crucial contest. Eric Gordon was another bright spot with 24 points off the bench. 

Golden State is shooting 46.9 percent from the floor in the playoffs and only 34.1 percent from range. Kevin Durant had 29 points in the latest setback, while Stephen Curry added 22. 

I’ll point out though that Golden State is 6-2 ATS in its last eight off an upset loss as a favorite, while Houston is just 1-2 ATS this year off an upset win as an underdog (and only 7-18 ATS in the same position over the last three seasons.) 

Houston has the momentum, but the loss of Paul is unbelievably significant. Golden State can smell the blood in the water and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a rout once the final horn sounds.

Lay the points, play on the Warriors.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:35 EST).

Most everyone that’s actually making a wager on the Cavaliers will be banking on the fact that the home side has completely dominated in every game of this series thus far. 

For whatever reason the Cavs’ role players and bench are unable to perform on the road, while it would seem none of the Celtics are able to perform at a high level and get over the hump away from friendly confines either.

And I do indeed believe we’ll see this trend carry over again here. LeBron James was reportedly “dead tired” after Game 6, something that “The King” would take as an offense.

James is arguably playing the best basketball of his entire 15 year career right now and I think he’s going to put on a classic performance in this one, attacking early and often and throughout. 

When they were up 2-0 and heading to Cleveland, it set up as a natural letdown spot for the Celtics in Game 3. And so too does it now in Game 6, as Boston will collectively have it in the back of its mind that it will still have one last chance to clinch the series in front of the home town crowd, a place which to this point in the playoffs has pretty much been “automatic” for it.

I’ll point out as well that Boston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five road games overall, while Cleveland is 4-0 ATS in its last four home games against a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600. 

I base my picks on many different things. This particular one doesn’t have anything to do with individual player match ups. For all the reasons listed above though, lay the points with confidence.

Play on the Cavaliers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is the over Warriors/Rockets (9:05 EST).

I had a play on Houston in Game 4. The Rockets put on one of the most impressive playoff defensive performances of all time in that one.

However, I believe that Golden State is going to push the pace of this one in an attempt to wrench back control of this series after that humbling defeat at home.

The Rockets are going to have to match pace.

So far the Warriors are shooting 47.1 percent from the floor in the playoffs, while hitting only 33.8 percent from range. Stephen Curry was a bright spot in the Game 4 loss with 28 points, while Kevin Durant would add 27 points and 12 boards.

The Rockets are hitting only 44.5 percent from the floor in the postseason, including just 35.1 percent from three-point land. James Harden had 30 points in the latest victory, while Chris Paul added 27.

I’ll point out though that the Warriors have seen the total go over the number in 13 of 21 already this year off an upset loss as a favorite, while the Rockets have seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of their last seven after allowing 95 points or less in their previous outing.

These are two of the highest-scoring teams in the league, but each to this point has struggled to find its stroke in the playoffs.

With so much on the line and with each side pushing from the opening tip until the final horn, I’m finally expecting these clubs to play to a higher-scoring shootout.

Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:35 EST).

So far it would seem that the home floor advantage will be significant in this series. While the trend has carried over through the first four games of this series, I do now finally expect “The King” and company to find a way to punch one into the win column in Game 5.

Cleveland is so far shooting 46.3 percent in the playoffs, including only 34.9 percent from range. LeBron James has been unstoppable after his Game 1 sub-par performance and he had 44 points in the latest victory. Kyle Korver added 14 of the bench.

Boston is shooting 44.4 percent from the floor in the postseason, including 35.2 percent from range. Jaylen Brown was a bright spot in the latest setback with 25 points, while Terry Rozier added 16 points, six boards and 11 assists. 

I’ll point out though that Cleveland is 9-6 ATS the last three years in the conference finals and 6-2 ATS in its last eight after scoring 110 points or more, while Boston is just 4-5 ATS the last three years in the conference finals and only 2-3 ATS in its last five after allowing 110 points or more.

I think Cleveland’s role players finally show up on the road and I expect James to continue his historic push for another NBA Finals appearance.

Play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Situational Stunner is on the under Cavs/Celtics (8:35 EST).

The first three games of this series went “under” the number, while Game 4 went “over.” For a number of different reasons I think that Game 5 will be a very defensive affair as each side desperately claws for the advantage.

So far it would seem that the home floor advantage will be significant in this series. While that trend may or may not hold true in Game 5, I do definitely expect the home side to play with a renewed sense of urgency, especially on the defensive end of the floor. 

Cleveland is so far shooting 46.3 percent in the playoffs, including only 34.9 percent from range. LeBron James has been unstoppable after his Game 1 sub-par performance and he had 44 points in the latest victory. Kyle Korver added 14 of the bench.

Boston is shooting 44.4 percent from the floor in the postseason, including 35.2 percent from range. Jaylen Brown was a bright spot in the latest setback with 25 points, while Terry Rozier added 16 points, six boards and 11 assists. 

I’ll point out as well that Cleveland has seen the total go under the number in six of its last eight on the road, while Boston has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. 

Clearly Boston is not going to be able to get into a “shootout” with “The King” and expect to win this contest, so with the home side indeed trying to control the pace of this one, I’m banking on this total staying well below the posted number. 

Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Houston Rockets (9:05 EST).

Golden State took Game 1, but Houston answered in Game 2 with a resounding victory.

The Rockets though were once again grounded in Game 3, looking more like a deer caught in the headlights than a basketball team. But with that awkward contest out of the way, I believe the “real” Rockets show up for Game 4 as they try to avoid the dreaded 3-1 hole.

Houston took two of three games in the regular season series from the Warriors, including the teams’ respective very first contests of the year (in Golden State.)

The Warriors’ played much more aggressively in Game 3 and they were able to slow down the Rockets’ role players. But Houston is very well coached and I expect it to make the necessary adjustments to keep Game 4 much more competitive. 

It’s safe to say that Houston will be pushing the pace of this one in an attempt to combat Golden State’s more aggressive style. I think it’ll be successful in doing just that. 

Boston looked unstoppable over the first two games of its series at home, before then coming out and laying an egg in Game 3 in Cleveland and there’s no question that there are parallels between the East/West Conference Finals. 

As mentioned above, the playoffs are all about “adjustments” and there’s no reason not to think that the West leading Rockets won’t be able to come up with a much more effective game-plan in this one.

And I’m absolutely banking on that happening. Outright victory? It’s possible.

But in a contest which I envision being decided late, in extra time, or by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I’m grabbing as many points as I can. Play on the Rockets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is on the over Rockets/Warriors (8:05 EST).

This series is all tied up at 1 game apiece after the Rockets claimed a 127-105 victory in Game 2. 

It’ll be the exact same game-plan for Houston in Game 3 as what it deployed in Game 2, as the Rockets would get out and push the pace from the very first tip. So far Houston is averaging 45.3 percent from the floor, including 35.6 percent from range in the playoffs. However in Game 2 the Rockets shot 51.1 percent from the field, while hitting 16 of 42 three point attempts. James Harden and Eric Gordon each had 27 points, while PJ Tucker added 22 in the dominant victory.

Golden State is hitting 47.3 percent from the floor, including 33.2 percent from range in the postseason. The Warriors would go on to shoot 45.9 percent in the Game 2 loss, including converting just 9 of 30 from behind the 3-point line. Kevin Durant led the way in the losing cause with 38 points, while Stephen Curry added just 16. 

(additional supporting O/U ATS stats/trends added shortly)

Golden State is going to benefit from the three days off of rest, while also being able to play this important contest in front of the home town crowd.

But the last thing the Rockets can do is take the foot off the gas either.

With each side pushing the pace, look for this total to fly over the number sooner, rather than later.

Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Las Vegas Insider is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:35 EST).

LeBron James is 6-0 in the East Finals when down 2-0 throughout his 15 years in the NBA.

So James has more points, assists, steals, blocks and every other stat in this series than the rest of his other starting teammates combined. If Cleveland has any shot at making it back into this series, “The King” is going to need a couple of his guys to “step up” in Game 3.

I’ve played Cleveland over the first two games of this series, and I’m obviously 0-2. However, with Cleveland's backs against the wall I do now definitely feel that the Cavs will answer the bell with their best overall effort yet.

Boston has been playing unbelievably and no one is more surprised than myself by its performance. But Game 3 sets up as a classic letdown spot for the Celtics if I’ve ever seen it. 

So far, Boston is shooting 45 percent from the floor in the playoffs, including 35.8 percent in the series. Jaylen Brown had 23 points and seven boards in the latest victory, Terry Rozier added 18 points and big man Al Horford continued to be a difference maker as well with 15 points and 10 boards. Six different Boston players scored in double figures in Game 2  

James exploded for 42 points, 10 boards and 12 assists in the Game 2 setback and there’s no question that James will be expecting his teammates to step up and respond in kind in Game 3 (note: Kevin Love added 22 points and 15 boards.)

Note as well that Boston is a poor 11-17 ATS in its last 28 after playing three consecutive home games, while Cleveland is 6-2 ATS in its last eight after back-to-back ATS losses to the same team.

There’s no way that the Cavs go down without a fight. This one has blowout written all over it. Play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EAST-CONF FINALS TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the over Celtics/Cavaliers (8:35 EST).

So far LeBron James has more points, assists, steals, blocks and every other stat in this series than the rest of his other starting teammates combined. If Cleveland has any shot at making it back into this series, “The King” is going to need a couple of his guys to “step up” in Game 3.

So far I’ve played Cleveland over the first two games of this series, and I’m obviously 0-2. However, with Cleveland's backs against the wall I do now definitely feel that the Cavs will answer the bell with their best overall effort yet.

Boston has been playing unbelievably and no one is more surprised than myself by its performance. But with the home side looking to push the pace of Game 3 from start to finish, the Celtics are going to be forced to match that effort. 

The C’s would outscore the Cavs 36-22 in the third quarter in Game 2. So far, Boston is shooting 45 percent from the floor in the playoffs, including 35.8 percent in the series. Jaylen Brown had 23 points and seven boards in the latest victory, Terry Rozier added 18 points and big man Al Horford continued to be a difference maker as well with 15 points and 10 boards. Six different Boston players scored in double figures in Game 2  

James exploded for 42 points, 10 boards and 12 assists in the Game 2 setback and there’s no question that James will be expecting his teammates to step up and respond in kind in Game 3 (note: Kevin Love added 22 points and 15 boards. It’s interesting to note that LeBron James is 6-0 when down 2-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals throughout his career. I think the shift in venue is the difference maker as far as the total is concerned tonight, as all signs point to a shootout between these two hungry teams. However, the Cavs are a dreadful 14-32-1 ATS at home this year (regular and post season).

In conclusion, no way the Cavs go quietly here. The team's guard trio of Hill (3 of 8 / 1-4 on threes), Korver (4 of 11 / 2 of 7) and Smith (2 of 16 / 0 of 7) can't possibly be this bad again at home. The Cavs are an 'ugly' 14 of 57 on threes (24.6%) as a team this series, after shooting 37.2 percent during the regular season. The Cavs have struggled ATS at home but have averaged 110.3 PPG all season on their homecourt. After averaging a pathetic 88.5 PPG in losing Games 1 and 2, anyone really think the Cavs won't 'light up the scoreboard' in this one? Of course, considering the Cavs are allowing 108.8 PPG at home, one can see why their ATS mark is so poor. However, that means the "average" final score of a Cleveland home game is  219.1 PPG or about two 'TDs' higher than this total!

Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Houston Rockets (9:05 EST).

I had a play on the Rockets in Game 1 and while the selection came up short in the end, I believe that Houston will rally and find a way to bounce back in Game 2. Note that Houston did take two of three between the clubs in the regular season. 

So far Golden State is shooting 47.4 percent from the floor in the playoffs this year, including just 33.5 percent from range. Kevin Durant came up big in the Game 1 victory with 37 points, while Klay Thompson would add 28. Draymond Green had just five points, but he posted nine boards, nine assists, two steals and two blocks.

The Rockets are hitting 44.7 percent from the floor, including 35.3 percent from range. James Harden was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with 41 points and seven assists, while Chris Paul would add 23 points and 11 boards. 

I’ll point out though that Golden State is still just 6-19-1 ATS in its last 26 following a SU victory over more than ten points, while Houston is 5-1 ATS in its last six after allowing 100 or more points in its previous outing. 

This is one of the biggest games in franchise history and I expect Houston to respond in a big way. Everything points to a blowout here, play on the Rockets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:35 EST).

LBJ entered Game 1 of the Eastern Conference LBJ seeking his eighth straight trip to the NBA Finals, after the Cavs swept the Raptors for a second straight postseason. "The King" dominated in Cleveland first two series, averaging 34.3 points, 9.4 rebounds and 9.0 assists, while nailing a pair of buzzer-beaters to boot. Giving him some important cover in the Toronto series was the team's second-best player, Kevin Love. After averaging 10.9 points on 31.9 percent shooting in his first eight contests this postseason, Love scored at least 21 points in each of the final three games of that series, averaging 25.0 & 11.0 in those three. Love averaged 22.6 points and 12.4 rebounds in last season's conference finals against Boston, adding to Cleveland's confidence. heading into this series. What's more, Cleveland's supporting cast, a three-guard lineup featuring Hill, Korber and Smith, looked very mediocre against the Pacers but looked ready for primetime vs. the Raptors.

So what happened in Game 1? LBJ played his worst game of the 2018 playoffs, scoring just 15 points on 5 of 16 shooting (0-5 on threes). Also, Love resorted to his early playoff form, making just 5 of 14 shots with 17 points. As for that three-guard lineup of Hill, Korver and Smith, that trio shot 6 of 19 from the floor while combining for a total of only 14 points. The Cavs shot just 36.0 per overall, including a just brutal 4 of 26 (15.4%) on threes. Meanwhile, the Celtics connected on 51.2% as a team, with a trio of players (Brown, Morris and Horford) scoring 20-plus points.

Knowing that the Celtics are 37-0 all-time when taking a 2-0 series lead, it may be more than fair to call Game 2 a "must-win" for the Cavs. Cleveland won three games at Boston by an average of 30 points in last season's conference finals plus has gone 9-3 at Boston the last four regular seasons.

With so much on the line, I expect “The King” to bounce back with another signature effort. Play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Houston Rockets (9:00 EST).

Simply put, I don’t think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real factor in this one (in Game 1 anyways!)

Golden State knocked out both the Spurs and Pelicans in five games, while Houston would get past both the Wolves and Jazz in five as well. Note that the Rockets would take two of three in the regular season.

Golden State is shooting 46.9 percent from the floor in the playoffs this year, including only 32.9 percent from range. Stephen Curry had 28 points, seven boards and eight assists in the Game 5 win over New Orleans. 

Houston is hitting 44.6 percent from the floor in the postseason, including 35.3 percent form range. Chris Paul had 41 points, seven boards and ten assists in the Game 5 victory over Utah. 

Both teams are healthy, but Paul, James Harden and the Rockets have been waiting all season for this moment and I believe they’ll ride the incredible wave of emotion to a solid victory in Game 1.

Lay the points, play on the Rockets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (3:30 EST).

Cleveland has advanced by dispatching the Pacers in seven games, while then going on to sweep No. 1 seed Toronto in four straight. Boston got to this point by defeating Milwaukee in seven and then Philadelphia in five. Note that the Cavs took two of three in the regular season.

Cleveland smashed Toronto 128-93 in Game 4 and I think it carries that confidence and momentum over here. It’s interesting to note that Celtics’ big man Al Horford, who to this point has been a difference maker for his team, is just 1-15 lifetime against LeBron James’ led teams in the postseason. 

After struggling in the first round, the Cavs’ bench players and other starters looked “in sync” against the Raptors and there’s no reason not to think that that chemistry won’t also be carried over here.

Chemistry is what the Celtics are all about, as this is a team that is playing and winning right now without its legitimate super star in Kyrie Irving. 

Like Cleveland though, Boston has struggled at times in the playoffs on the offensive end, so far shooting 44.6 percent from the floor and 36 percent from range. Horford, Jaylen Brown, Terry Rozier and Jayson Tatum have played “above” their heads to this point and I think they’ll finally stumble against a rejuvenated “King” and company (at least in Game 1 anyways!)

I will be the first to admit that I have been very surprised at how well the Celtics have played to this point, but until they can prove to me that they can slow down James, who enters on perhaps the biggest/strongest run of his career, the correct call in this one is on Cleveland.

Good luck..Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Philadelphia 76ers (8:00 EST).

My most recent 10* 34-Club Play release came on the 76ers in Game 4 and suffice it to say with their backs once again “against the wall,” I’m expecting the visiting side to find a way to take this one back home for a Game 6. 

Philadelphia finally got into the win column in Game 4’s 103-92 victory. Ben Simmons had 19 points and 13 boards, while TJ McConnell added 19. Big man Joel Embiid had 19 points and 13 boards. 

Boston ran out of gas in Game 4 and everything points to another letdown here in my opinion. The Celtics have so far shot just 44.6 percent from the floor. After a gruelling seven game series win over the Bucks and three straight victories over the 76ers, I think the writing is on the wall for the exhausted home side. 

I’ll point out that Philadelphia is 12-3 ATS in its last 15 following an ATS victory. 

I think the 76ers have the momentum now and I look for them to push Boston to the brink with another big effort.

Play on Philadelphia.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the New Orleans Pelicans (10:35 EST).

I’ve played on New Orleans through each of the first four games of this series and I’m just 1-3. But with their backs against the wall, I expect the desperate Pelicans to at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. 

So far New Orleans is hitting 47.9 percent from the floor, while shooting 36.1 percent from range. Big man Anthony Davis was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with 26 points and 12 boards, while E’Twaun Moore added 20. 

The Warriors can smell the Western Conference Finals, but I think they’ll come in a tiny bit complacent here. Golden State is so far hitting 46.7 percent from the floor, and only 33.6 percent from range. Kevin Durant came up huge last time out with 38 points, nine boards and four steals. Draymond Green was another bright spot with eight boards, nine boards and nine assists. 

I’ll point out though that the Pelicans are still 6-1 ATS in their last seven on the road, while the Warriors are just 4-14 ATS in their last 18 after a SU victory and only 4-13 ATS in their last 17 when playing on one days rest.

Desperation breeds motivation and winning unquestionably can lead to complacency. I’m banking on the desperate visitors at the very least keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with what I believe to be an ample amount of points afforded to them.

Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (8:05 EST).

It’s do-or-die. Time to put up or shut up. The Jazz face elimination tonight and because of that, I think the visitors will keep this one very competitive until the final moments.

Utah is so far shooting 45.5 percent from the field in the playoffs and also hitting 35.9 percent from range. Donovan Mitchell was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with 25 points and nine boards, while Joe Ingles added 15 points and 18 boards. Big man Rudy Gobert was also productive with 11 points, ten boards and three blocks.

The Rockets are hitting 44.2 percent from the floor in this series, including only 34.2 percent from range. Chris Paul led the charge in the Game 4 victory with 27 points, 12 boards and six assists, while James Harden added 24 points. 

I’ll point out though that Houston is still just 7-10 ATS in its last 17 after allowing 90 points or less in its previous contest, while Utah is 3-1 ATS in its last four when trailing in a playoff series.

This one has “nail-biter” written all over it. Grab the points, play on the Jazz.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over Jazz/Rockets (8:05 EST).

If you’ve bought this three-game report, then you have access to my analysis on the Jazz. I don’t think that Utah is going to win Game 5 outright, but I do expect Utah to play very competitively.

The Jazz were shutdown at home by Houston in Game 4 and because of that, I’m expecting the usually defensive minded visitors to instead push the pace of this one from start to finish.

I like the Jazz, but Houston won’t be rolling over obviously as it looks to end this series tonight as it looks to avoid an awkward Game 6 back in Utah.

As far as I’m concerned, the overall conditions of this one just scream “over.” 

I’ll point out as well though that from a trend based stand point, this one also sets up extremely well for a higher-scoring shootout. 

As note that the Jazz have seen the total go over the number in five of their last eight when trailing in a playoff series, while Houston has seen the total eclipse the posted number in seven of its last 11 when leading in a playoff series. 

I think this number is indeed a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Toronto Raptors (8:35 EST).

Toronto fought tooth and nail all season to gain home court advantage in the Playoffs for this exact matchup. The Cavs have knocked the Raptors out of the playoffs each of the last two seasons and with a 3-0 start in this series, Cleveland is well on its way doing it again.

The Cavs were pushed to seven games by the Pacers in their first round series and I firmly believed the the Raptors would be able to take advantage of that fact.

But LeBron James has elevated his play to another level once again and he now has his team poised for another return to the Eastern Conference Finals. 

Toronto will be playing for pride here as it desperately tries to stave off elimination. The Raptors have so far been confounded in this matchup, but there’s no question that the visitors possess the skill and depth to at least take one game in this series outright.

Note as well that the Cavs are 0-5 ATS at home this postseason and when going for a sweep they are a 'money-burning' 13-32-1 (28.9%) ATS at home on the year.

I’m banking on the Raptors playing their best game of this series and I look for them to take this one back to Toronto for at least one more contest.

Grab the points, play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 34-CLUB PLAY is on the Philadelphia 76ers (6:05 EST).

It’s the biggest game of the year for the 76ers. Philadelphia is in an 0-3 hole and it’ll be playing for pride today as it desperately tries to avoid the sweep. 

I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve been wrong about this Boston team up until now. The Celtics are playing at an extremely high level, helped by the brilliance of head coach Brad Stevens. But in my opinion, a letdown is imminent here.

The Celtics edged Philly 101-98 in Game 3, as the Sixers not only shot just 39.2% for the game but also just 30% on threes (9-of-30). What's more, the Sixers were just plain sloppy down the stretch. 

However, don't expect this up and coming young team to go quietly in Game 4. 

Let's not forget that Boston lost all three games at Milwaukee in the first round, getting blown out in two of them (by 24 and 16 points) plus the Celtics lone cover came in a game in which they once trailed by 28 points! 

Yes, the 76ers are just 2-2 SU & ATS this postseason at home but they finished the regular season on a 21-1 SU run at home, going 17-5 ATS.

This one has complete blowout written all over it. Boston takes the night off and then tries to wrap this one up at home.

Lay the points, play on the 76ers.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the New Orleans Pelicans (3:30 EST).

I released one of my signature “LEGEND” plays on the Pelicans last time out and they’d go on to smash the Warriors 119-100. While the outright win is clearly not out of the question here either, in a contest which I envision being decided late or even in extra time, I’m going to grab the points and the hungry home side.

Golden State is shooting 46.5 percent from the floor in the playoffs, but just 33.6 percent from range. Klay Thompson was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with 26 points, while Kevin Durant added 22. The Warriors bench looked pathetic though, managing 20 points between them (with eight of those points coming in garbage time.)

New Orleans is hitting 49.5 percent from the floor in the postseason, including 38.9 percent from range. The Pelicans were on fire in Game 3, hitting 50 percent from the floor and 14 of 31 from behind the arc. Big man Anthony Davis led the way with 33 points, 18 boards, three assists and four steals in the victory, while Jrue Holiday added 21 points, seven boards and five assists.

From a trend based stand point, this one definitely sets up nicely for the home side as well, as note that Golden State is just 3-13 ATS in its last 16 when playing on one days rest and only 2-11 ATS in its last 13 road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while New Orleans is 5-0 ATS its last five at home and 6-0 ATS in its last six following a SU victory over more than ten points.

For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Toronto Raptors (8:30 EST).

To say I’m surprised by the energy levels of LeBron James and the Cavs after their gruelling seven game series win over the Pacers would be an understatement. 

James is putting up historic numbers over the first two games of this series and now Toronto finds itself in a disastrous 2-0 hole. All the hard work that the Raptors put in to gain home court advantage in the playoffs over the regular season has been completely wasted.

Toronto has had little success on the road in the playoffs and even less when facing a James led team. 

But with all of that said, I do now firmly believe that the Raptors will put together their most complete game in this series and while an outright win is obviously not out of the question, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Kyle Lowry was a bright spot in the losing cause in Game 2 for Toronto and so far he’s averaging a solid 17.8 PPG. DeMar DeRozan struggled though with 24 points on 11 of 23 shooting, including going 0 for 5 from range. Suffice it to say, I think DeRozan is poised for a breakout performance in this series.

James was unstoppable in Game 2, but he looked very pedestrian at times during the win over Indiana in the first round. Toronto only gave up an average of 103 PPG during the regular season and it goes without saying that I’m expecting the visitors to do a much better job defending The King this time around. 

I’ll point out as well that Toronto is 9-6 ATS as an underdog this season, while Cleveland is just 20-47 ATS as the fav (and just 13-31 ATS at home.)

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Las Vegas Insider is on the Philadelphia 76ers (5:00 EST).

I’ll admit, the Celtics have surprised me. Boston needed seven games to get by the Bucks and I thought they’d be “gassed” after that exhausting series. 

But Boston destroyed Philadelphia in Game 1. A letdown spot seemed imminent in Game 2, but once again the C’s battled from behind and found a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

While the Celtics managed to get a win in the first two games, I do now firmly believe that Boston will have a predictable letdown on the road here.

Boston is managing to win despite shooting poorly, just 44.8 percent from the field thus far, including 37.6 percent from range. Jayson Tatum had 21 points in the Game 2 victory, while Terry Rozier added 20 points, seven boards and nine assists. 

Philly looked sluggish in Game 1 after nearly a week off, but there was no excuse for its collapse in Game 2. Rookie Ben Simmons is going to be playing with a chip on his shoulder tonight after being held to just 1 point in Game 2. Joel Embiid was a bright spot in the losing cause with 20 points and 14 boards. 

Note that Boston is still just 4-6 ATS this year after playing three consecutive home games, while Philadelphia is 29-14 ATS at home and 25-21 ATS this season trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. 

I do not think that the Celtics are as good as they’ve shown over the first two games and I do not believe that the 76ers are as bad as they’ve seemed in the same span.

Expect a big time “correction” this evening, as everything points to a blow-out of epic proportions.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on the New Orleans Pelicans (8:05 EST).

It’s the Pelicans biggest game of the year (until Game 4 of course), but an 0-3 hole would almost assuredly be too much for New Orleans to overcome against the Warriors.

With the home side risking life and limb to get back into this series, I expect the Pelicans to at the very least keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door.

Note that on April 7th, the Pelicans beat Golden State in New Orleans 126-120. 

Kevin Durant has so far led the way for the Warriors in the Playoffs and he had 29 points in the Game 2 victory. Stephen Curry will be in the starting line-up tonight for the visitors, but I still don’t think it’ll be enough against this desperate home side.

New Orleans is shooting well in the postseason at 49.4 percent, including 37.7 percent from range. Anthony Davis was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with 25 points, 15 boards, five assists, two steals and three blocks, while Jrue Holiday added 24 points, eight boards and eight assists. 

I’ll point out as well that Golden State is a poor 2-10 ATS in its last 12 road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while the Pelicans are 4-0 ATS in their last four at home.

In a contest which I envision being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I’m grabbing the points.

Play on New Orleans

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Toronto Raptors (6:05 EST).

Cleveland has knocked Toronto out of the playoffs each of the last two seasons. The Cavs two took two of three regular season meetings, but after an epic seven game series win against the Pacers in round 1, Cleveland looked poised for a letdown against revenge-minded Toronto in Game 1 of this second round series. 

That wasn’t the case though as Cleveland would hold on for the two point OT win. The Cavs shot just 43.1 percent from the floor against Indiana, including only 33.2 percent from range.

Cleveland was led by LeBron James in Game 1 with 26 points, 11 boards and 13 assists. Kevin Love though struggled again, finishing with seven points and 13 boards. 

Despite the Game 1 setback, the Raptors are shooting the ball well overall in the postseason at 46.6 percent, while going 39.7 percent from range. DeMar DeRozan led the way with 22 points in a losing cause in Game 1. Big man Jonas Valanciunas posted 21 points and 21 boards. Note that Fred Van Fleet missed a potential game winner in the final seconds of OT. 

I’ll point out as well that the Cavs are just 1-4 ATS in their last five after allowing 100 points or more and just 1-4 ATS in their last five following a SU win, while the Raptors are still 5-1 ATS in their last six at home and 5-2 ATS in their last seven following an ATS loss. 

The Cavs accomplished what they wanted in Toronto, winning at least one of the two games. I believe fatigue does finally play a big factor for Cleveland tonight, which I expect to fold up its tents early under the intensity in which the Raptors play with tonight.

The desperate Raptors pull away for the comfortable cover once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Utah Jazz (8:00 EST).

I had a play on Utah in Game 1 and while that play came up short, I expect the Jazz to respond in Game 2.

Admittedly the Rockets are most likely better than Oklahoma City, but we all remembered what happened to Utah its Game 1 matchup with the Thunder in the Opening Round. 

The Jazz laid an egg, but then promptly turned around and dominated in the Game 2 victory and then going on to take the series in six.

Utah will be leaving everything it has on the floor tonight as it tries to avoid the 0-2 hole. Utah shot 50 percent in Game 1, but its defense faltered.

The Jazz sport the No. 2 defense in the league and suffice it to say, I believe Rudy Gobert and company bounce back in a big way tonight.

Houston went 3-0 in the first round at home against the Wolves, but it shot just 45.1 percent in Game 1. The Rockets got a super human performance from James Harden, who finished with 41 points, eight boards and seven assists. 

I’ll point out though that the Jazz are still 16-7 ATS in their last 23 against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest and 3-2 ATS in its last five when trailing in a playoff series.

It’s hard to say too many negative things against the high-flying Rockets, but note that they’re just 20-21 this year following a victory by ten points or more.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Jazz.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the under Pelicans/Warriors (10:30 EST).

I had a play on New Orleans in Game 1 and while the Pelicans did look good after one quarter, by half time they were down by 19 points.

Golden State would then never look back, shooting the lights out in the 123-101 victory. The total in that one went over the number by a single point. 

Stephen Curry is expected back in the line-up as well for the defending champs, but regardless of that fact, I believe that Game 2 will be much more of a defensive affair. 

New Orleans got tricked into playing the Warriors’ style of game and it just wasn’t able to keep pace. The Pelicans got into a shooting match when they should have been trying to work it more into big man Anthony Davis.

Sweeping the Blazers did not help New Orleans at all, but with that awkward first game out of the way, I expect to see a much more focused and confident Pelicans side.

Give the Warriors credit obviously, as they didn’t look overly impressive in their five-game series victory over the Spurs. 

New Orleans looked like a deer “caught in the headlights,” but I’m expecting a much better effort this time around. Especially on the defensive end of the court, as clearly New Orleans can ill afford to turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to hang with the high-flying Warriors.

The situation/conditions point to the under as the correct call in Game 2.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on the Toronto Raptors (8:00 EST).

No need to overthink this one in my opinion, as LeBron James and company come in dog-tired after their gruelling seven game series against the Pacers.

Toronto had a more difficult time then expected with Washington, but the Raptors would get the job done in six games, including a crucial victory on the road.

The Raptors played hard all year and won the Eastern Conference for this exact moment. The Cavaliers have knocked Toronto out of the Playoffs each of the last two years and they took two of three in the regular season series. Suffice it to say, it’s payback time for Toronto tonight.

Simply put, the Cavaliers do not have the depth to hang with Toronto. Cleveland was carried into the second round by a historic performance from LeBron James, but asking The King to duplicate that feat again in Game 1 is asking too much in my opinion. 

The Raptors have plenty of weapons, their more rested, they have a distinct home court advantage and they play with a massive sense of revenge.

I’ll point out as well that Cleveland is 0-4 ATS in its last four following a SU win, while Toronto is 5-0-1 ATS in its last six at home. 

For all the reasons listed above, lay the points with confidence.

Play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL ODDSMAKERS ERROR is on the under 76ers/Celtics (8:00 EST).

If Boston has any shot in Game 1, or this series, it’s going to need to once again step up on the defensive end. 

After an exhausting seven game opening round series victory over the Bucks, the last thing the Celtics can afford to do is turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to hang with the well rested and offensively adept 76ers. 

Joel Embiid averaged 18.7 points, 10.3 boards and 3.0 blocks against the Heat in the 76ers’ 4-1 opening series victory. Rookie Ben Simmons had 18.2 points, 10.6 boards and 9.0 assists. 

Boston was undefeated at home in its series win over the Bucks, so despite being tired, it also has to be feeling pretty confident tonight. Al Horford had 18.1 points, 8.7 boards and 3.3 assists per game while Jaylen Brown added 17.9 points. 

Horford is a big body who is going to be able to man up and test Embiid and I think he’ll be a big difference maker once again in this series. 

I’ll point out as well that Philadelphia has seen the total go under the number in five of its last seven when playing with three or more days rest, while Boston has seen the total dip below the posted number in interestingly eight of its last 12 after three or more consecutive SU home victories. 

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Utah Jazz (3:35 EST).

Am I suggesting to you that you should “sprinkle” a little on the money line? I am not. 

I simply feel that the league’s No. 1 defense is going to keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are tying to lead us to believe (in Game 1 anyways.) 

Houston advanced by taking out Minnesota in five games, but now James Harden and company have to contend with Defensive Player of the Year candidate Rudy Gobert. Utah was ranked second in the NBA in defensive efficiency at 101.6 points per 100 possessions. 

Utah will be especially motivated here as well after the Rockets swept the season series. 

It’s a classic battle of strength vs. strength, with Houston leading the league in most offensive categories.

The Jazz though behind Donovan Mitchell have found their stride offensively in the playoffs. The temporary loss of Ricky Rubio is significant, but more over the long-term in my opinion. 

I’ll point out as well that Utah is 26-19 ATS this year against good offensive teams which score 106 plus points per contest, while Houston is just 19-21 ATS this season after a win by ten points or more.

The Rockets were the cream of the crop all year, but the Jazz went 30-5 when Gobert returned in late December. 

As mentioned off the top, I’m not calling for the outright upset, but everything points to a much closer than expected battle. Grab the points, play on the Jazz.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ROUND 2 GAME OF THE YEAR is on the New Orleans Pelicans (10:35 EST).

The 48-34 New Orleans Pelicans are at Golden State to take on the 58-24 Warriors in Game 1 of their second round series and while I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I believe the visitors will keep this one competitive until the final moments.

New Orleans swept Portland and it comes in averaging 114.5 PPG, while conceding 105.5 in the playoffs. Anthony Davis has been unstoppable to this point and I have a hard time seeing the bigs in Golden State doing much either. Davis is averaging 33 points and 11.8 boards per night.

The Warriors are also going to have their hands full with Jrue Holiday, who is averaging 27.8 points and 6.5 assists. You’ll also want to keep your eyes on Nikola Mirotic, who is averaging double figures, and guard Rajon Rondo is surging right now as well, averaging 13.3 assists. 

Note that New Orleans has won five straight on the road. 

Golden State comes in averaging 105.6 PPG and allowing 96.8 after dispatching the Spurs in five games. Kevin Durant is leading the charge with Stephen Curry sidelined with injury with 28.2 points and 8.6 boards, while Klay Thompson averaged 22.6 points and 2.8 assists. 

Note that the Warriors have split their last eight in front of the home town crowd.

I’ll point out as well that New Orleans has been money in the bank all season for bettors in this spot, going 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 130 points or more in its previous contest and 16-10 ATS against clubs which allow 106 plus points per contest.

Conversely this is a position in which the Warriors have struggled mightily in, going just 17-25 ATS at home this season and only 9-10 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. 

Whether Curry plays or not, I still love the Pelicans here. Curry will have some rust if he does come back and I don’t think that the defending champs have an answer for Davis, who could be poised for super star status if he’s able to take over this series and somehow manage another upset. 

Regardless, the stage is set for a competitive back and forth battle in Game 1. Grab the points, play on the Pelicans.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the OKC Thunder (10:35 EST).

I had a play on the Thunder in Game 5 and they’d storm from behind to score the 107-99 victory. With its back against the wall once again, I think that Oklahoma City will at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments.

OKC had to erased a 25 point deficit and I think it’ll carry that momentum over here. While the Thunder only shot 43 percent, they’d go on to hit a decent 9 of 21 from range. Russell Westbrook exploded for 45 points and 15 boards, while Paul George added 34 points and eight boards. The Thunder come in averaging 107.9 PPG and conceding 104.4. 

The Jazz average 104.1 PPG and they concede 99.8. Donovan Mitchell had 23 points in Game 5, going just 1 of 7 from range. Overall Mitchell is having a great series, but the Thunder played the rookie effectively in Game 5. 

I think the pressure is on Utah here. The Jazz absolutely collapsed in Game 5 and with that defeat still fresh on their minds, another outright upset is definitely not out of the question tonight either.

That said, in a game which I foresee coming down to whichever one of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab as many points as I can.

Play on the Thunder.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Indiana Pacers (8:05 EST).

It’s another do-or-die situation after Cleveland took a 3-2 series lead with a LeBron James’ buzzer-beater in Game 5. 

James made a block on Pacers star Victor Oladipo at the end of the game, a play which was later deemed to be a goaltend. And after that missed/flubbed call, James would go on to hit the winning shot with time winding off the clock. Kyle Korver was a bright spot as well with 19 points for Cleveland. 

Oladipo looked great in Game 1, but he’s since dropped off. However, I think he’ll respond with another big game here as he looks for some retribution after the crucial missed call in Game 5:

“I got a step on him and I felt I even got grabbed,” Oladipo said afterwards. “It hit the backboard and he blocked it. It was a goaltend. It’s hard to even speak on it. That layup is huge.”

Note as well that Indiana is 21-13 ATS this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent and 24-18 ATS at home overall, while Cleveland is just 20-22 ATS on the road. 

James has been incredible, but fatigue becomes a factor here I think. I’m banking on the home side bouncing back and pushing this series to a decisive Game 7.

Play on the Pacers.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Washington Wizards (7:00 EST).

It’s do or die for the Wizards on Friday night. Toronto took Game 5, 108-98 at home on Wednesday. The Raptors achilles heel over the years though has been their play on the road and I believe it’s going to come back to haunt them again this evening.

DeMar DeRozan had 32 points in the Game 5 victory for Toronto, while Kyle Lowry added 17 points and 10 assists. The Raptors average 111.7 PPG and they concede 103.9. 

The Wizards average 106.6 PPG and they concede 106. Clearly the margin for error is pretty slim most nights for Washington. But desperation and home court advantage can’t be overlooked. John Wall was a bright spot in a losing cause in Game 5 with 26 points, nine boards and nine assists. 

I’ll point out as well that Toronto is still just 2-6 ATS in its last eight when leading in a playoff series, while Washington is 9-4 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:05 EST).

Home court advantage. Home ice advantage. Home field advantage. Sometimes it means a lot and other times it’s an angle which can be completely blown out of proportion.

Teams play all year long though to gain the upper hand in the Playoffs and so far in this series, the home floor advantage has meant everything. 

With their backs against the wall, I look for the Bucks to respond this evening and to push this Opening Round series to a decisive Game 7 on Saturday. 

Boston comes in averaging 103.8 PPG in the playoffs, while allowing 104. Jaylen Brown is averaging 21.8 points and 5.4 boards, while Al Horford is contributing 18.2 points and 8.6 boards.

Note though that the Celtics have lost five straight on the road.

Milwaukee is averaging 104 points and cone ding 103.8. Giannis Antetokounmpo is averaging 25.4 points and 8.8 rebounds while Khris Middleton is averaging 25 points and 3.6 assists.

Note that the Bucks have won five of their last six in front of the home town crowd.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Bucks.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (9:35 EST).

No need to overthink this one in my opinion. With their backs against the wall, I look for the Thunder to deliver the goods in this do or die situation.

OKC looked in control after its 116-108 Game 1 victory, but Utah has stormed back to take three straight behind some lock down defense against Thunder star Russell Westbrook.

The home side though will be throwing everything it has at the Jazz tonight and I think that’s going to be more than enough to send this one back to Utah for a Game 6. Donovan Mitchell had 33 points in the latest victory, while Joe Ingles finished with 20 points for the Jazz.

OKC is shooting just 43.6 percent in this series, including just 37.3 percent from range. Paul George had 32 points, while Westbrook had 23 points and 14 boards in the Game 4 setback. 

The Thunder though are 4-1 ATS in their last five after three or more consecutive losses, while the Jazz are just 4-6 ATS in their last ten when playing the role of underdog. 

Winning can lead to complacency and desperation leads to motivation.

With the knowledge that they can still comfortably wrap up this series in Game 6 at home, I think the Jazz finally have a letdown here against this desperate Thunder side. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST).

So far home court advantage has played a big part in this series and suffice it to say, I’m fully expecting that trend to carry over here. 

So far the Wizards have shot 49.4 percent in this series, including 42.2 percent from range. Washington was down 11 at the half, but outscored Toronto 66-47 in the second of Game 4 for the victory. Bradley Beal had 31 points, while John Wall added 27 points, 14 assists and four steals. 

Toronto had its chances in Game 4, but it failed to deliver the goods. Toronto’s achilles heel over the last five years has been its play on the road in the postseason. So far the Raptors are hitting 48.3 percent in this series, including 43.2 percent from range. DeMar DeRozan was a bright spot in the latest setback with 35 points, while Kyle Lowry added 19. 

I’ll point out though that Washington is 0-4 ATS in its last four following a SU victory and 0-7 ATS in its last seven following an ATS win, while Toronto is 4-1 ATS in its last five after allowing 100 points or more in its previous game. 

Playing in Toronto is a difficult task for any team, but even more so in the Playoffs. After back-to-back lacklustre performance on the road, everything points to a bounce back blowout for the home side in Game 5.

Lay the points, play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Situational Stunner is the under Bucks/Celtics (7:05 EST).

So far the home team has come out on top in each of the first four contests. Without the offensive depth to hang with Milwaukee though, I expect the Celtics to try and slow the pace of Game 5 down. 

Milwaukee has so far shot 54.2 percent in this series, including 43.6 percent from range. Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks actually trailed in the final minute of Game 4, before the versatile super star secured the win with a last second tip-in. In all he’d finish with 27 points, seven boards and five assists. Note though that Eric Bledsoe struggled again with nine points and five assists.

Boston is down a couple of key pieces, but it’s defensive core remains in tact. The Celtics have shot just 44.2 percent from the floor so far in this series. Jaylen Brown was a bright spot in a losing cause with 34 points and eight boards, while Jayson Tatum added 21 points. 

So far all four games of this series have gone “over” the number. But I firmly believe that Game 5 sets up as a classic defensive affair. Fatigue is also an issue at this point of the Opening Round series. 

The O/U ATS trends do not support this play at all, as these two teams have played to a surprising amount of “overs” of late and overall this season. 

However, this play is not based on past trends, it’s based on the here and now and the overall situation. 

This one has defensive battle written all over it. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (10:35 EST).

Oklahoma City is on the ropes, as a loss tonight would make it 3-1 for Utah. The Thunder will be leaving everything they have on the floor though and while I obviously wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to be decided by whichever of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last.

The Thunder had only 49 points in the second half of Game 3’s 115-102 setback. OKC shot 47.4 percent from the floor and it was 14 of 28 from range, but it still wasn’t enough. Paul George was a bright spot with 23 points. Star Russell Westbrook was a no-show for a second-straight game, so he’ll clearly be extra motivated this evening.

OKC averages 107.9 PPG and it concedes 104.4. 

Utah averages 104.1 PPG and it concedes 99.8. The Jazz shot an unreal 52.5 percent in Game 3 and won the rebound battle 48-33. Ricky Rubio had a huge night with 26 points, 11 boards and ten assists. Rookie Donovan Mitchell continued his strong campaign with 22 points. 

The Thunder have struggled for bettors overall this year, but OKC has done decently as the underdog this season (10-7 ATS). The Jazz on the other hand are still just 12-19 ATS in their last 31 after scoring 115 points or more in their previous contest. 

I can’t see Westbrook laying an egg three games in a row. I also have a hard time seeing Rubio matching his epic Game 2 performance (think Dwayne Wade last week, laying a complete egg in Game 3 after his legendary Game 2 victory over the 76ers in Philadelphia.) 

OKC has had success from range and combined with the massive sense of desperation it’ll be playing with, everything does indeed point to the comfortable cover.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* O/U ODDDSMAKERS ERROR is on the over Cavs/Pacers (8:35 EST).

This is a big game. Indiana will be trying desperately to take a 3-1 series lead, while the Cavaliers will be laying everything on the line in an attempt even it up. 

The Cavaliers looked great after the first half of Game 3, but the Pacers turned up the Heat on the defensive end and somehow managed the 92-90 victory. LeBron James was great in a losing cause with 28 points and 12 boards, but the rest of his team will be extra motivated here after letting The King down once again. Note that the Cavs average 110.9 PPG in the regular season and conceded 109.9.

Indiana has to be feeling confident. The Pacers are a versatile team and I think they can adjust and play any style. Note that Indiana finished by averaging 105.6 points and conceding 104.2 in the regular season.

I’ll point out as well that the Cavs have seen the total go over over the number in eight of 12 already this year after playing to three or more consecutive unders and in 22 of 35 in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Indiana has seen the total go over the posted number in four of its last six after allowing 90 points or less in its previous contest.

With the visitors pushing the pace from start to finish and the home side forced to match, all signs point to this one sailing above the number as it comes down the stretch. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on the Milwaukee Bucks (1:05 EST).

I have taken Milwaukee through the first three games of this series and I am obviously just 1-2. Game 3 was a decisive victory finally for the Bucks though and suffice it to say, I look for the team to carry that momentum over here. 

After back-to-back duds, the Bucks finally exploded on both ends of the court in Game 3’s decisive 116-92 result. 

It wasn’t even close as the Celtics would get no closer than 14 over the final three quarters. In the end Boston shot 40 percent from the floor and went just eight of 24 from range. Al Horford was a bright spot in the losing cause with 16 points, while Greg Monroe added 15 points and 12 boards. 

Milwaukee played like a desperate team from start to finish in Game 3 and I believe Giannis Antetokounmpo and company can smell the blood in the water. Antetokounmpo had 19 points, five boards, six assists, two steals and two blocks, while Khris Middleton had 23 points, eight boards and seven assists. 

The Bucks got big time production from their secondary weapons though which was key, as Eric Bledsoe and Jabari Parker each poured in 17 points. 

Note as well that Boston is just 19-23 ATS in its last 42 after allowing 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Milwaukee is 6-2 ATS in its last eight after scoring 115 points or more.

The Celtics caught the Bucks napping in Game’s 1 and 2, but Boston came back down to Earth in Game 3. I expect the home side to once again play with a fierce passion and to tie this series up.

Lay the points, play on the Bucks.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (7:35 EST).

It’s essentially do-or-die for the Wolves, who will be risking life and limb to try and avoid an 0-3 hole. 

Chris Paul exploded for 27 points in Game 2, after being held to just 11 in Game 1. James Harden though was just 2 of 18 from the floor and finished with 12 points. 

The Wolves were dead cold shooting over the first two games. Nemanja Bjelica would end up coming off the bench to lead all scorers in Game 2 with 16 points.

But with the shift in venue, I’m expecting Karl-Anthony Towns and Jimmy Butler to have a much better effort this evening. The duo had a great overall campaign, but they combined for just 16 points in Game 2. 

I’ll point out as well that Houston has in fact struggled in this spot for bettors all year, going just 18-20 ATS after a win by ten points or more and just 5-9 ATS when playing with two days rest.

Conversely this is a spot in which the Wolves have excelled in, going 4-1 ATS in their last five after scoring 85 points or less.

With their season essentially on the line, I look for the hungry Wolves to at the very least take this one right down to the wire.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* O/U ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is the UNDER 76ers/Heat (2:35 EST).

So far I’m 2-1 in this series, taking the 76ers over the first three games thus far. It’s going to be an all out war in Game 4, as Miami looks to control the pace of this one. Suffice it to say, when the smoke clears at the end, I’m expecting this total to sneak below the posted number.

I said Joel Embiid would be a difference maker in Game 3 and the big man would not disappoint, logging 30 minutes and going for 23 points, seven boards, four assists and three blocks. 

Philadelphia shot a blistering 50 percent from the floor, including an unreal 52.9 percent from range. Suffice it to say again, I am not expecting the 76ers to match those extremely efficient numbers against a Heat side which will be doubling down with its defensive effort. 

I also predicted that Dwayne Wade would have a major letdown in Game 3 after his historic performance in Game 2 which saw him score 28 points, grab seven boards, three assists and two steals. Wade would indeed have a letdown in Game 3, finishing with eight points, five assists, two boards, one steal, one block and four turnovers. Goran Dragic was a bright spot for Miami in a losing cause with 23 points. 

Miami was competitive in the first half of Game 3, but came out completely flat in the second. The Heat though will be risking life and limb today to try and even things up and I expect a full four quarter effort.

I’ll point out as well that Philadelphia has seen the total go under the number in seven of its last ten after a win by ten points or more, while Miami has seen the total dip below the posted number in nine of 15 this year already when trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Milwaukee Bucks (9:35 EST).

With their backs agains the Wall, I look for the desperate 0-2 Bucks to rally and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. And after taking a 2-0 lead at home and without star Kyrie Irving in the line-up, I believe the Celtics have a predictable letdown here.

Boston took Game 1, 108-102, before than winning 106-102 in Game 2. 

The Celtics come into this one without the services of Irving. Also Gordon Hayward (after the first five minutes of the season) and Marcus Smart is also gone with surgery to his hand. Somehow though Boston continues to defy the odds and find ways to win. Jaylen Brown led the way last time out with 30 points. 

It’s now or never for Milwaukee though. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way last time out with 30 points nine boards and eight assists, while Khris Middleton added 25 points. 

I’ll point out that Boston is just 4-5 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU victories, while Milwaukee is 5-2 ATS this season after playing three or more consecutive road games and 10-5 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite.

Desperation breeds motivation and winning leads to complacency. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Bucks.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Wizards (8:05 EST).

With their backs against the Wall, I like the Wizards to finally respond here. And with the shift in venue, I believe the Raptors suffer a letdown finally in Game 3. Toronto took Game 1, 114-106 and Game 2, 130-119. 

The Raptors come in averaging 111.7 PPG and conceding 103.9. Kyle Lowry had 13 points and 12 assists in the latest victory, while DeMar DeRozan added 17 points, after going for 37 in Game 1.

Washington averages 106.6 PPG and it condos 106. Bradley Beal had 19 points in Game 1, but just eight in Game 2. Star John Wall was a bright spot in the losing cause last time out with 29 points.

I’ll point out though that Toronto is just 2-4 ATS in its last six when leading in a playoff series, while Washington is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 after three or more consecutive SU losses.

No need to overthink/overanalyze this one. It’s do-or-die for the Wizards essentially this evening and I believe that the desperation in which they play with will help them bounce back in this series and cover the small spread.

Lay the points, play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:35 EST).

I played on the Warriors over the first two games of this series, but I feel that the Spurs have more than just a “punchers chance” in Game 3. 

If you asked me if I thought the Spurs could win a game in this series without Kawhi Leonard and the Warriors having Stephen Curry in the line-up, I’d likely have said no. 

If you asked me before the series if I thought the Spurs could win a game without Kawhi Leonard in their line-up and with the Warriors without Curry, I’d likely have said yes.

And that’s absolutely the way I feel right now as well. And if the Spurs were ever to get back into this series and steal the momentum, clearly Game 3 is the time to step up and do it.

The Warriors were anything but perfect down the stretch of the regular season and they’re definitely not susceptible to a letdown. 

Leonard has been deemed out for the remainder of the playoffs and his status is uncertain moving forward, but the veteran core and remaining players, including LaMarcus Aldridge will be risking life and limb tonight to try and pull off the upset.

And I think combined with Golden State’s complacency, that that home side does in fact have a very real shot at pulling off the outright upset. 

Note as well that Golden State is just 15-21 ATS this year after a win by ten points or more and only 17-20 ATS after scoring 115 points or more, while San Antonio is 26-14 ATS at home and 4-1 ATS this season after three or more consecutive SU losses.

Grab as many points as you can, play on the Spurs.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the Portland Trailblazers (9:05 EST).

I’ve played the Pelicans through the first two games of this series, but with their backs against the wall, I look for Damian Lillard and the desperate Blazers to put forth their best effort of the series and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. 

The Pelicans are getting monster production from Anthony Davis. Which was fully expected. New Orleans though has also gotten a lot from veteran guard Rajon Rondo and from swingman Jrue Holliday. 

The same though can’t be said of Portland’s superstars Lillard and CJ McCollum, who to this point have struggled. Both will be playing with a chip on their shoulder in this one though and as mentioned off the top, I believe they have much more than just a “punchers chance” in taking this it outright. 

The numbers support us as well, as note that Portland is 22-16 ATS on the road this year and 7-4 ATS after paling three consecutive home games, while New Orleans is just 19-21 ATS at home. 

I’m not counting out Lillard quite yet. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Blazers.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the Philadelphia 76ers (7:05 EST).

After stomping the Heat in Game 1, Miami would bounce back with a win over Philadelphia in Game 2 behind a vintage performance from veteran guard Dwayne Wade.

Wade’s performance was amazing, but suffice it to say, I’m not expecting lightning to strike twice in a row for Miami.

In fact, I think it’s pretty safe to predict that Wade will be a “no-show” (comparatively anyways), after his heroic Game 2 effort. Wade went on to post 28 points off the bench. 

There’s no reason not to think that the incredibly deep 76ers won’t be able to bounce back here. And the entire dynamic of the series is about to take another major shift with the expected return of Philadelphia big man Joel Embiid. 

Ben Simmons was a bright spot in a losing cause for Philadelphia with 24 points, nine boards and eight assists. 

Normally “rock steady” with their production, the group of Dario Saric, Robert Covington, Marco Belinelli and JJ Redick went a combined 7 of 34 from behind the arc. And suffice it to say, I don’t expect that talented group to struggle in back-to-back games. 

Miami also got a big game from Goran Dragic last time out with 20 points, four boards and three assists. The Heat looked great in that victory, but as I pointed out that with the return of Embiid, I believe the home side is going to be in trouble tonight.

I’ll point out as well that the 76ers are 10-4 ATS already this year when playing with two days rest, while Miami is just 4-10 ATS in the same position (also only 2-12 ATS following a win by ten points or more.) 

Embiid is a difference maker. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:35 EST).

I am making a play on three teams which lost their respective Game 1 Opening Round contests and the third is on the Minnesota Timberwolves.

While I’m not calling for the outright upset, I absolutely believe that the hungry Wolves will at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Minnesota would fall 104-101 in Game 1 and I believe all signs once again point to a very competitive battle.

This is also a big time “revenge” game for the Wolves, as the Rockets have taken six straight in the series. 

The Wolves shot 43.8 percent from the floor and went just eight of 23 from range. Andrew Wiggins was a bright spot in the losing cause with 18 points and six boards. 

Houston has been touted by many as the team to beat in these Playoffs, but Game 1 was far from a dominating performance. If it wasn’t for James Harden, the Rockets would have lost. Harden shouldered the load once again with 44 points and eight assists. Chris Paul was the only other player in double figures with 14. 

Note that the Wolves are 6-2 ATS in their last eight in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Houston is just 4-9 ATS when laying on two days rest. 

For all the reasons listed above, play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (8:05 EST).

I am making a play on three teams which lost their Game 1 match ups in the Opening round of the playoffs and the second is on the Utah Jazz.

I had a play on the Jazz in Game 1 and while they’d come up short in that one, I think the visitors will be able to at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. 

Utah would go on to drop Game 1, 116-108. To say this is a “revenge” game would be an understatement, as OKC took three of four in the regular season as well. 

The Jazz shot 47 percent form the floor, but they were out rebounded 46-42. Donovan Mitchell led the way with 27 points and ten boards. It was a rare “off night” on the defensive end for Utah, which comes into Game 2 still ranked second in the league in conceding 99.8 points per night.

OKC shot 48.2 percent from the floor, led by 36 points from Paul George. Russell Westbrook would add 29 points and 13 boards. The Thunder come in averring 107.9 PPG and conceding 104.4. 

Despite the Game 1 victory though, I’ll point out that the Thunder are still a terrible 16-24 ATS at home this season.

I’ll also point out that Utah is 5-2 ATS in its last seven after allowing 115 points or more.

I like Utah’s defense to get back on track here and at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (7:05 EST).

I’m making a play on three teams which lost Game 1 of their opening round series. The first is on the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Pacers come in content after accomplishing the 98-80 rout of the Cavs on Sunday. To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think, as Indiana would also take three of four in the regular season as well. 

Indiana shot 45.6 percent and 11 of 28 from range. The Pacers were edged 44-42 on the boards though. Victor Oladipo had a monster game with 32 points, six boards, four assists and four steals, while Myles Turner added 16 points and eight boards.

Cleveland shot an even worse 38.5 percent from the floor and went just 8 of 34 from range. LeBron James was the lone standout with 24 points, ten boards and 12 assists. 

I’ll point out though that Indiana is a disastrous 6-14 ATS this year following a win by ten points or more, while Cleveland is 4-2 ATS in its last six when trailing in a playoff series.

I think a highly motivated James and company finally break “the Pacers curse” with a complete game and I look for them to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable SU/ATS victory.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the New Orleans Pelicans (10:35 EST).

My Opening Night LEGEND play was the Pelicans and I’m “back on the horse” again in Game 2. While I wouldn’t be completely surprised by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because in my opinion this one has the feeling of whichever team has its hands on the ball last is likely going to come out on top.

New Orleans shot 47.7 percent in Game 1, getting 35 points and 14 boards from Anthony Davis. I told you to keep your eyes on Rajon Rondo in Game 1 and the veteran guard would not disappoint, scoring six points, eight boards and 17 assists. 

Jrue Holiday and Nikola Mirotic also played a big role in the upset. New Orleans comes in averaging 111.7 PPG and conceding 110.4. 

Portland averages 105.6 points and it concedes 103. Damian Lillard had 18 points, going 6 of 23 from the floor. CJ McCollum also struggled, posting 19 points on 7 of 18 shooting. 

The Pelicans were able to slow down Lillard and McCollum and Game 1 and I anticipate another blanketing defensive performance this time around as well from the visitors. The Blazers though struggled in slowing down Davis, and his role players continue to get the job done as well.

As mentioned off the top, while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end be grabbing the points in what I expect to be a much closer battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:05 EST).

I had a play on Milwaukee in Game 1 and it would unfortunately hit a 3-point shot at the end of regulation, pushing the game to OT, one which saw the Celtics pull away for the win and cover.

With its back against the wall, I like Milwaukee to battle tough and to at the very least, sneak in through the back door with the handful of points it’s been afforded here.

The Bucks shot 48.2 percent from the floor and nailed 21 three pointers in Game 1, but it wasn’t enough. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 35 points, 11 boards, seven assists and three steals in the setback, while Khris Middleton added 31 points, eight boards and six assists. 

Boston shot 41.5 percent from the floor in Game 1 and was just 11 of 26 from range. The Celtics did go 24 of 27 from the charity stripe, while also forcing 20 Bucks’ turnovers. Al Horford led with 24 points, 12 boards, four assists and three blocks, while Terry Rozier added 23.

I’ll point out though that the Bucks have responded well in this spot for bettors, going 6-2 ATS their last eight after allowing 112 points or more while also falling in OT in their previous outing, while Boston is interestingly just 4-8 ATS in its last 12 after scoring 110 points or more, while also winning an OT playoff contest in its previous outing.

How far can Boston go without Kyrie Irving? The Bucks will look to take advantage here as they lay everything on the line to try and score the split.

For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 34-CLUB PLAY is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST).

I had a play on the Warriors in Game 1 and they’d roll to a 113-92 victory. The absolute best possible thing that the Warriors could do for themselves is to end this series as quick as possible. That way they’d hope their next opponent plays a few extra games in its opening series, so as to give more time for Stephen Curry to heal and prepare for the next round.

With the news that star players Kawhi Leonard is out now for the remainder season and after San Antonio collapsed so badly in the second half of Game 1, I believe that the defending champs can smell the blood in the water. 

Rudy Gay was a bright spot off the bench in the loss for the Spurs with 15 points, while LaMarcus Aldridge looked pretty pedestrian, finishing with 14 points (the lone starter to finish in double digits.) 

The Spurs looked helpless without Leonard, as JaVale McGee did a great job in slowing down Aldridge. Note that Golden State won the rebound battle 51-30 as well.

Golden State’s late season “swoon” had no effect on its play in Game 1 of the Playoffs. Klay Thompson had 27 points, while Kevin Durant added 24 points, eight boards and seven assists. McGee had 15 points and two blocks, while Draymond Green finished with 12 points, eight boards and 11 assists. 

Note that San Antonio is just 1-4 ATS in its last five when trailing in a playoff series, while Golden State is 8-2 ATS in its last ten in the first round of the playoffs.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Warriors.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Las Vegas Insider is on the under Wolves/Rockets (9:00 EST).

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about these two teams? For me it’s “run and gun offense” and very little defense being played.

Despite that being the truth, I believe that Minnesota will be risking life and limb tonight in trying to slow this game down whenever possible so as to take the Rockets our of their “comfort zone.” 

Minnesota beat Denver in OT in the final game of the season to sneak in the playoffs. The Wolves come in averaging 109.5 PPG and conceding 107.3. Jimmy Butler is back in the line-up and he averages 22.2 points and 4.9 assists per game.

The Rockets average 112.4 PPG and they concede 108.9. James Harden leads the team with 30.4 points and 8.8 assists per game.

I’ll point out though that Minnesota has seen the total go under the number in three of its last nine when playing on three or more days rest, while Houston has seen the total dip below the posted number five of its last seven in the same position.

With the visitors doing everything they can to slow Game 1 down, look for this one to sneak under the posted number at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Utah Jazz (6:30 EST).

The Jazz and Thunder finished with identical 48-34 records. Utah comes in with plenty of momentum though and I like the team to carry it over in Game 1 of this Opening Round series. 

The Jazz have lost just six times since late January. Utah averages 104.1 PPG and it’s won 15 of its last 17 on the road. Rookie Donovan Mitchell is averaging 20.5 points and 3.7 assists per game, while Jae Crowder adds 11.8 points and 3.8 boards per night. 

The Thunder went 5-5 down the stretch. OKC enters average 107.9 PPG and conceding 104.4. Russell Westbrook leads the nightly charge with 25.4 points and 10.3 assists per game, while Paul George adds 21.9 points and 5.7 boards. 

(additional ATS supporting stats added shortly)

Utah doesn’t have the overall talent that OKC possesses, but it functions better as a unit. The Jazz’s chemistry, combined with their superior defensive plays sees this one come down to the final moments.

Grab as many points as you can, play on the Jazz.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the Milwaukee Bucks (1:00 EST).

While I obviously wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to come down to whichever team has its hands on the ball last.

Milwaukee averages 106.5 PPG and it concedes 106.8. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 26.9 points and ten boards, while Khris Middleton adds 20.1 points and four assists. Note that Eric Bledsoe is a strong third option as well.

Boston lost star Kyrie Irving for the rest of the season to injury and it would then predictably lose four of its final six games. The C’s average 104 PPG and they concede 100.4.

Jaylen Brown averages 14.5 points and 4.9 boards, while Jayson Tatum adds 13.9 points and five boards per game. 

I’ll point out though that the underdog is 14-5 ATS in the last 19 in this series and the road team is 11-4 ATS the last 15. Also note that Boston is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight when playing with three or more days rest.

Milwaukee can smell the blood in the water without Irving in the line-up. It’s now or never for the Bucks to take control of this series and send a message to their opponent.

Grab the points, play on Milwaukee.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on the New Orleans Pelicans (10:30 EST).

While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I believe that the hungry visiting side will at the very least take this one right down to the wire.

The Pelicans closed the regular season with five straight victories and I’m fully expecting the team to carry that momentum over here. 

New Orleans averages 111.7 PPG, while Portland averages 105.5. Pelicans big man Anthony Davis finished the year with 28.1 points, 11.1 boards, 2.3 assists and 2.5 blocks per game, while Jrue Holiday averages 25.2 points and six assists.

You’ll also want to keep your eyes on New Orleans’ point guard Rajon Rondo, who closed the regular season on a tear.

The Blazers are of course led by star Damian Lillard, who put up 26.9 points, 4.5 boards and 6.6 assister per night, while CJ McCollum added 21.4 points, four boards and 3.4 assists per game.

I’ll point out though that from a trend based stand point, this one favors the visitors, as note that the Pelicans are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 on the road, while the Trailblazers are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight at home in this series.

These clubs split four meetings this year by an average of just 6.7 points. Everything points to another competitive battle in Game 1, so grab as many points as you can.

Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

The third 9* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Philadelphia 76ers (8:00 EST).

Philadelphia big man Joel Embiid is sitting Game 1, but I still believe that the red hot 76ers will have more than enough in the tank to cover this mid-sized spread once it’s all said and done.

Miami comes in cold, splitting its last ten games. Note that the Heat average 103.4 PPG and they concede 102.9. Goran Dragic averages 17.3 points and 4.8 assists per game, while Hassan Whiteside contributes 14 points and 11.8 boards per night.

Note that the Heat have lost five of their last six on the road. 

Note that the 76ers haven’t lost a game since March 13th, while also not dropping a single home contest since January 15th. Philadelphia averages 109.8 PPG and it concedes 105.3. Philadelphia is an incredibly deep team, led by Ben Simmons with 15.8 points and 8.1 boards per night.

I’ll point out though that Miami is just 4-9 ATS tho shear when playing with two days rest, while Philadelphia is 9-4 ATS in the same position.

No upset here. For all the reasons listed above, play on the 76ers.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Toronto Raptors (5:30 EST).

Some of the Washington players recently said publicly that they’re happy to be facing Toronto instead of Philadelphia to open the Playoffs and clearly that’s not going to be sitting well with DeMar DeRozan and company. 

DeRozan put up 23 points and 5.2 assists per game this season, while teammate Kyle Lowry added 16.2 points and 6.9 assists per night. 

Washington counters with John Wall, who averaged 19.4 PPG, and with Bradley Beal who contributes 22.6. 

Wall and Beal are tough to slow down, but beyond these two, the Wizards are thin. Washington does feature the talented Kelly Oubre Jr and Markieff Morris, but neither has much experience at this level.

The Raptors are a battle tested group that’s played together for years. They know what it takes at this point of the season and I’m fully expecting them to put the foot on the gas from start to finish.

I’ll point out as well that Washington is just 1-7 ATS in its last seven on the road and only 1-5 ATS in its last six road game against a team with a winning home record, while Toronto is 6-2 ATS in its last eight when playing with three or more days rest.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Golden State Warriors (3:00 EST).

Much was made about the Warriors’ slump to end the regular season. Stephen Curry is sidelined with injury and KD and the rest of the crew have seemingly run out of gas.

But as Golden State head coach Steve Kerr has said several times over the last few weeks, the “real” season starts tonight and I’m not going to read too much into the last couple of weeks of results. 

The Warriors, in my opinion, took the foot off the gas to end the regular season, planning and preparing for the Playoffs early. But now that they’re here, I fully expect the defending champs (sans Curry), to put on a show tonight.

San Antonio has relied primarily on big man LaMarcus Aldridge this season, anchoring a defense which leads the league in many statistical categories. The offense though will simply not be able to keep up with veteran Manu Ginobili as the main weapon at this point of the season. 

The Spurs’ only hope is to slow this one down and grind out a victory.

But I don’t see that happening. 

Kevin Durant will be playing like a man possessed tonight for the Warriors and Draymond Green will also be looking to make a statement. Their leadership has been called into question recently and they’ll be looking to answer their critics with a big game. And I’m fully expecting that to happen. Klay Thompson will also be a player in which the Spurs will have a hard time slowing down.

I’ll point out that San Antonio is 0-7 ATS in its last seven road games, while Golden State is 5-2 ATS in its last seven when playing with three or more days rest.

For all the reasons listed above play on the Warriors.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (8:00 EST).

The 38-43 Detroit Pistons are in Chicago to take on the 27-53 Bulls in a meaningless contest and for a number of different reasons, I think this one faovrs the visitors.

Chicago is 27-53 and it comes in off back-to-back losses. Detroit enters off consecutive setbacks as well, most recently falling to Toronto. 

Both teams will go through significant changes in the offseason, but for me this one boils down to some strong “against-the-spread” statistics.

As note that Detroit is 5-1 ATS in its last six on the road, while Chicago is just 11-13 ATS this year after three or more consecutive losses.

The Pistons are also 8-1 ATS in their last nine against losing opponents. 

I think Detroit’s current line-up has more than enough in it to take out the ravaged Bulls.

Play on the Pistons.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:30 EST).

Philadelphia won its 14th in a row by besting Dallas 109-97 at home on Sunday, unable to cover the 13 point spread. With many of the starters sitting this one out for the visitors, I think the home side keeps this one competitive.

And that’s exactly what Atlanta did most recently, beating Boston 112-106 on the road on Sunday. Note that this is an “in season double revenge scenario” as well, with Philadelphia having taken both prior match ups, including a 101-91 road win in the most recent on March 30th.

The 76ers can’t afford to take the foot off the gas with the Cavaliers sitting just a game behind them in fourth spot. But with a game tomorrow night at home against the Bucks and with big man Joel Embiid sitting this one out, I think the stage is set for an upset.

Perhaps not a straight up upset, but certainly I’m expecting a much tighter battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. 

The Hawks are arguably playing their best ball of the year right now, having gone 4-1 ATS in their last five. 

Everything points to a “nail biter” in my opinion, so grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the LA Clippers (10:30 EST).

There’s no question that this game “means” a lot to the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Pelicans are locked in a tie with three other teams with the identical record in the West with just two games to go. New Orleans is currently in the fifth spot, but San Antonio and OKC each also sit 18 games back of the Rockets. Minnesota sits 19 games back, as too does Denver. With two games remaining in the regular season, as I stated off the top, this does indeed “mean” a lot to the visiting side.

The Clippers sit 22 games back and won’t be making a trip to the playoffs. LA though will look to try and play spoiler any way it can and to avenge a 121-116 setback in mid March.

The Pelicans are surging, but after upsetting the Warriors on the road in their last matchup, I absolutely believe this sets up as a major letdown spot for the visitors.

I’ll point out as well that New Orleans is just 15-18 ATS this year against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest, while LA is 11-6 ATS in its last 17 against poor defensive teams which concede 106-plus points per night.

While I’m not calling for the outright upset, everything points to this one coming right down to the wire. Grab the points, play on the Clippers.

Good luck…Larry