The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on UC Davis (10:30 EST).

Pacific enters off a 105-68 home win over lowly Arkansas-Fort Smith, while UC Davis comes in off an 81-67 road win over Washington State. 

So far Pacific averages 77.0 PPG, while conceding 71.8. Six players scored in double figures in the teams most recent victory, led by Lafayette Dorsey with 17 points. 

UC Davis averages 68.3 PPG and concedes just 62.7 (ranked 35th overall.) In their latest victory, the Aggies got 20 points from TJ Shorts.

I’ll point out that Pacific is just 6-20 ATS in its last 26 following a SU victory, while UC Davis is 15-5-2 ATS in its last 22 in front of the home town crowd.

UC Davis comes in off the momentum and confidence building win over the Pac 12 team and I think it carries over here. The Aggies’ defense turns out to be too much for the Tigers to contend with down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the over between the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs (8:35 EST).

The 11-12 Miami Heat are in San Antonio to take on the 16-8 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

Miami enters off a listless 123-95 home loss to Golden State, while the Spurs come in off a 95-92 win over Detroit on Monday. When these teams played in late October, it was San Antonio that punched the 117-100 road victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score here as well.

Miami will be desperate here, as it’s lost three of its last four games. So far the Heat average only 100 PPG, while conceding 103.7. Goran Dragic averages 17.6 PPG.

San Antonio averages 100.6 PPG and allows 97. LaMarcus Aldridge leads the team with 22.8 PPG and had 31 in the first victory over Miami.

I’ll point out as well that the Heat have seen the total go over the number in two of three already this year against good defensive clubs which concede 98 points or less per contest, while San Antonio has seen the total eclipse the posted number in ten of its last 16 in front of the home town crowd.

Miami will look to take San Antonio out of its comfort zone, which means that the Heat will be pushing the pace from start to finish. This can still be a relatively lower-scoring game and and go over this very low number and that’s exactly what I expect. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Saint Louis (8:00 EST).

The 4-2 Southern Illinois Salukis get ready to battle the 3-4 Saint Louis Billikens and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Saint Louis.

The Billikens will be desperate here as they’ve lost four in a row as they get ready to battle the Salukis, who come to town having won two straight, most recently over San Jose State. 

Southern Illinois center Kavion Pippen and 22 points in the win over San Jose State, also blocking five shots and making four steals over his last two games combined. 

Saint Louis won three in a row to open the year, including a 77-71 win over Virginia Tech, but it’s since gone 0-4. Keep your eyes on guard Javon Bess, who is averaging 15.3 points and who had a career-high 22 points in a listless 75-45 setback to Butler this past weekend. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Southern Illinois is already 0-2 ATS this year as an underdog, while Saint Louis is 3-2 ATS in its last five after three or more consecutive losses. 

I think the Salukis remain competitive with Pippen, but I expect the Billikens to risk life and limb today to get back into the win column after the extended stretch of futility. Play on Saint Louis.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* SUPER-TOTAL on the under between the Sacramento Kings and the Cleveland Cavaliers (7:05 EST).

The Kings come to town off a 109-104 road loss to Milwaukee on Saturday, while the Cavs enter off their 12th straight win, a 113-91 road victory over the Bulls on Monday. 

So far Sacramento averages just 95.7 PPG, while allowing 105.7. Zach Randolph averages 13.9 points, plus 6.3 boards per game, while De’Aaron Fox chips in 10.3 points and 3.3 boards per contest.

The Cavs average 111.5 PPG and concede 108.1. LeBron James averages 28 points, 7.9 boards and 8.5 assists per game. 

Note that Sacramento has seen the total go under the number in ten of 19 this year when playing the role of underdog, while Cleveland has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of ten this season after three or more consecutive SU victories.

The last thing the Kings can do is turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to win and with three whole nights off to game-plan, I look for the visitors to come out with a concerted effort. When you add it all up, this number is indeed just a little bit high. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 4-3 Toledo Rockets get ready to battle the 4-4 Titans on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Deroit.

Toledo enters off a 71-69 home win over Texas Southern, while Detroit lost 106-73 to UCLA in its latest action. When these teams met last year, it was the Rockets that scored the 73-65 win, so the “revenge factor” does come into play here.

So far the Rockets average 75.3 PPG and concede 77.1. Nate Navigato had 16 points in his team’s latest victory. 

Detroit averages 91.1 PPG and concedes 92.5. Kameron Chatman had 18 points in the loss to the Bruins. 

I’ll point out though that Toledo is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after allowing 70 points or less in its previous contest, while Detroit is 3-0-1 ATS in its last four following a SU loss of more than 20 points.

Five players average double-digits for the Titans, which doesn’t bode well for this weak Toledo defense. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Detroit.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is the over Wizards/Blazers (10:05 EST).

Washington was without star guard John Wall in the line-up last night and the result was a disastrous 116-69 setback in Utah. Wall won’t be playing tonight either, but I’m expecting a much more spirited effort from the under-manned, but hungry Wizards this evening.

The Blazers are also out to atone for some recent shoddy play, most recently falling 123-116 at home to the Pelicans on Saturday night. Note that when these teams met on November 25th, it was the Blazers which managed the 108-105 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score here as well. 

Washington averages 107.8 PPG and concedes 103.8. Both those numbers however will decline because of Wall’s absence. 

The Blazers average 103.2 PPG, while conceding 100. Damian Lillard averages 25.5 points and 6.2 assists per game, while CJ McCollum adds 21 points a night.

I’ll point out that Washington has seen the total go over the number in two of its last three against teams with losing records, while Portland has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 25 of its last 45 after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest.

These are two hungry teams and despite a few injuries, I’m expecting a very wide open affair as each pushes the pace from start to finish. This number is a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on Utah (9:00 EST).

The 6-1 Utah Utes get ready to battle the 6-2 Butler Bulldogs and while I of course 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 right down to the wire.

Both teams comes in hot. Utah has won two straight, most recently over Hawaii, while Butler has won three straight, most recently over Saint Louis.

Donnie Tillman had 18 points for the Utes in the 80-60 win over the Rainbow Warriors (sixth consecutive game he’s finished in double figures.) 

Butler has won 39 non-conference home games, which includes its latest 75-45 win over Saint Louis. Kelan Martin led the way with 20 poitns and 12 boards. 

From a trend based stand point, this one favors Utah though, as note that the Utes are 3-1 ATS this year against teams with winning records and 2-0 ATS after allowing 60 points or less in their previous outing, while Butler is just 2-3 ATS this season against schools with winning records and only 6-8 ATS in its last 14 after allowing 60 points or less.

I think the Utes’ depth gives them much more than just a “punchers chance” in this matchup. Grab the points, play on Utah.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is on the under Cavs/Bulls (8:05 EST).

The Cavs come to the Windy City having won 11 straight, most recently getting the better of Memphis 116-111 on Saturday. The Bulls enter having dropped eight straight, most recently a 107-106 setback at home to the Kings. 

The Cavs average 111.4 PPG and concede 108.9. LeBron James is arguably having the best start of his entire career by averaging 28.3 points, 7.9 boards and 8.7 assists per game. 

The Bulls average just 95.9 points and concede 107. Justin Holiday leads the nightly charge with 14.7 points plus 4.2 boards per game. 

I’ll point out though that Cleveland has seen the total go under the number in three of four already this year after a non-conference game, while Chicago has seen the total dip below the posted number in interestingly, seven of ten this season against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest and in seven of 11 in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. 

Cleveland handled Chicago 119-112 back on October 24th and comes into this one red hot. But the Cavs have hit a “vanilla” part of their schedule, with upcoming games against a series of bottom feeders (Kings, Pacers, Hawks.) 

I think the Cavs come in a bit complacent here. And the last thing Chicago can do is turn this into a “track meet” and expect to win.

When you add it all up, this number is just a little high in my opinion. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on UTSA (8:00 EST).

The 5-4 UTSA Roadrunners are in Oklahoma to take on the 5-1 Sooners and while I’m not calling for an outright upset, I do think that the visitors can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

The Roadrunners come in having lost back-to-back road games, most recently falling 88-80 to Utah Valley State on Saturday. Keaton Wallace had 21 points and five assists, while Deon Lyle chipped in 13. 

Oklahoma has won three straight, most recently getting the better of North Texas 82-72 on Thursday. Trae Young lead the way in that one with 32 points and ten assists. 

The Sooners have been rolling, but note that they’re still only 11-26 ATS in their last 37 when playing the role of favorite and just 1-4 ATS in their last five in front of the home town crowd. 

The Roadrunners have been struggling, but they’re hungry and note that they’re 10-4 ATS in their last 14 as an underdog and 7-1 ATS in their last eight against opponents with a win percentage of .600 or greater. 

With upcoming games against USC and Wichita State, it’s not too hard to imagine the home side getting caught “looking past” its lowly opponent today. As I stated off the top, I’m not expecting an outright upset, but I do expect a competitive affair. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (7:00 EST).

The Clippers lost the services of Blake Griffin to a knee injury for a few weeks and last night they came out and laid and egg in a 108-82 setback in Dallas.

The Wolves have been alrternating wins and losses of late and most recently fell 111-107 to a desperate OKC team on the road on Friday. 

LA averages 105.9 PPG, while conceding 107.2. Griffin had been leading the nightly charge with 23.6 points, plus 7.9 boards per game, but DeAndre Jordan is the main man now with Griffin sidelined. Jordan averages 10.8 points, plus 13,8 boards per game. 

Minnesota averages 107.7 PPG and concedes 107.4. Karl Anthony Towns averages 20.5 points and 11.6 boards per game, while Andrew Wiggins adds 19.2 points and 4.1 boards. 

I’ll point out that LA is 0-5 ATS in its last five in the second game of the back to back, while Minnesota is a solid 5-0-1 ATS in its last six against the Western Conference. 

The Clippers are “gassed” and under-manned. The Wolves are rested and hungry. This will be a slaughter from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

No need to overthink this one in my opinion. Sacramento comes in off an extremely rare 107-106 win in Chicago just last night and I fully expect a predictable letdown here.

Milwaukee enters off a second straight win after beating Portland 103-91 on the road Thursday. And if recent history is any precedence, then the Bucks have to be loving their chances for another big performance tonight, because when these teams played in Sacramento just last week, it was Milwaukee which secured the relatively simple 112-87 victory. 

Despite last night’s win, note that the Kings still average just 94.7 PPG, while ranked last in the league in three point shooting at just 38.1 percent from range. 

The Bucks average 102.9 PPG and concede 103.9. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 29.2 points, 10.1 boards, 4.5 assists and 1.74 steals. The Bucks are a deep team, which gets balanced scoring. 

I’ll point out as well that Sacramento is 0-4-1 ATS in its last five in the second game of a back-to-back scenario, while Milwaukee is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six against a team with a win percentage below .400. 

Milwaukee returns home off a successful trip and just hammered the Kings by 25 last week. All signs point to another blowout, so lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Fresno State (7:00 EST).

The 5-2 Fresno State Bulldogs get ready to take on the 3-5 LBSU 49ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bulldogs.

Fresno State enters off an 80-67 win over Weber State, while Long Beach State enters off a 91-56 loss to Arizona on Wednesday. 

Fresno State has won three straight. So far the Bulldogs average 79.9 PPG, while conceding 70.1. In the win over Weber State, the Bulldogs shot 52 percent from the floor and went 22 of 29 from the charity stripe, led by Jaron Hopkins with 29 big points.

LBSU averages 73.6 PPG and concdes 82.6. In the loss to the Wildcats the 49ers shot just 41 percent from the floor, led by Bryan Alberts with a team-high 12 points. 

I’ll point out that Fresno State is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 non-conference games and 20-6 ATS in its last 26 following an ATS victory, while LBSU is just 4-9 ATS in its last 13 off a SU loss.

Five players are averaging double figures for the Bulldogs. I think Fresno State’s depth proves to be too much for LBSU to keep up with down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:05 EST).

Minnesota comes to town off a very satisfying 120-102 road win over New Orleans on Wednesday, while Oklahoma City dropped its third straight in a listless 121-108 road loss to Orlando on Friday. 

Note that the Wolves are already 2-0 in the season series with OKC this year, meaning that the Thunder are definitely out for some revenge tonight. 

Minnesota averages 107.8 PPG and concedes 107.2. Andrew Wiggins averages 19 points and 4.1 boards per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns adds 20.4 points and 11.7 boards. 

OKC averages just 102.3 PPG, but it concedes just 99.3. Russell Westbrok averages 22.4 points, 9.2 boards, 9.5 assists and 2.2 steals per game, while Paul George adds 20.5 points, 5.9 boards and 2.75 steals per game. 

I’ll point out that Minnesota is just 1-3 ATS this year already after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Oklahoma City is 5-3 ATS at home this season and 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive SU losses. 

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on North Carolina (8:00 EST).

The 6-1 North Carolina Tar Heels get ready to battle the 3-2 Davidson Wildcats in non-conference action this evening and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors UNC.

UNC comes in off an 86-71 home win over Michigan on Wednesday, while Davidson beat Charlotte 85-70 on Tuesday. Note that when these teams played last year, it was UNC that held on for the 83-74 victory.

The Tar Heels got destroyed by Michigan State, only to then bounce back with a convincing victory over the Wolverines. Luke Maye had 27 points and six obards. 

UNC comes into this one averaging 85 PPG, while conceding 71.7.

Davidson comes in averaging 86.6 PPG, while conceding 74.4. The Wildcats broke a two-game slide with the win over Charlotte, shooting 51 percent from the floor. Kellan Grady had 22 points to lead all scorers. 

I’ll point out though that Davidson is just 10-15 ATS in its last 15 as an underdog and only 9-15 ATS in its last 24 non-conference games, while North Carolina is 4-2 ATS in non-conference games already this season and 4-1 ATS when playing the role of favorite.

I think UNC’s depth and superior defense proves to be too much for Davidson. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Cal Riverside (10:00 EST).

The 3-4 Pacific Tigers get ready to battle the 2-3 UC Riverside Highlanders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Cal Riverside. 

The Highlanders are the “hungrier” team in my opinion, as they’ve lost three of their last four. 

The Tigers look poised for a letdown in my opinion. After an 0-3 start, Pacific has won three of its last four. 

So far the Tigers average 75.9 PPG and concede 74.7. Last time out Pacific socred the 80-58 win over Canisius, with five players in double figures. 

Cal Riverside opened the year with an impressive win over Cal, but it’s since lost three of four. Most recenly the Highlanders fell 87-42 to Michigan. It was a tough matchup obviously.

So far the Highlanders average 67.4 PPG, while conceding 76. 

I’ll point out though that Pacific is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten after allowing 60 points or less in its prevoius outing and just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after scoring 80 points or more, while UC Riverside is 3-1 ATS in its last four after failing to score 50 or more points in its previous contest. 

As I stated off the top, I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on UC Riverside.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is on the over Cavaliers/Hawks (7:35 EST).

The Cavs come in as the hottest team in the league off nine straight victories, most recently torching the Heat 107-96 at home on Tuesday. 

The Hawks come in at the other end of the spectrum as they lost for the fourth time in their last five games in a humbling 112-78 home loss to the Raptors on Saturday. 

Cleveland is out for revenge today though after the Hawks pulled off the improbable 117-115 road win in the first matchup back on November 5th. 

The Cavs come in ranked third in the league with an average of 110.8 PPG, while ranked 27th in scoring defense by allowing 108.5. LeBron James averages 28.2 points, 8.2 boards and 8.3 assists.

Atlanta averages 102.2 PPG and concedes 108.2. Dennis Schroder leads the nightly charge with 19.7 points, plust 6.8 assists per game (Hawks are interestingly ranked fifth in the league in three point shooting percentage and 38.2 percent.) 

I’ll point out that Cleveland has already seen the total go over the number in eight of ten this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Atlanta has seen the total go over the number in six of its last ten after scoring 85 points or less in its previous outing.

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

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Tirple Play is on Boston College (9:15 EST).

The 5-2 Boston College Eagles are in Nebraska to take on the 5-2 Cornhuskers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Eagles.

BC averages 77.7 PPG thus far. The Eagles will be looking to bounce back big here though after being held to just 66 points in a loss to Providence last time out. 

Deontae Hawkins and Ky Bowan each had 19 points, while Jerome Robinson chipped in 12. Overall BC has been sharp defensively (other than the loss to the Friars), allowing just 67.3 PPG.

Nebaska looks primed for a letdown here in my opinion after two straight wins. And with games upcoming against four ranked opponents, including No. 2 Kansas and No. 3 Michigan State, it’s not too hard to imagine the home side in some small way, getting caught looking ahead. The Huskers most recently beat LBSU 85-80, led by 26 points from Glynn Watson Jr. 

I think BC is the more complete team. Look for the Eagles to find a way to get the job done and bounce back from the dud against Providence.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Miami Florida (9:15 EST).

Miami comes in off an 86-65 home win over North Florida on Saturday to remain unbeaten, while Minnesota most recently held on for an 89-84 win over Alabama in the final game of the Barclays Center Classic on Saturday. 

Miami averages 79.8 PPG and allows just 54 (ranked third.) In the most recent win over North Florida the Hurricanes got 14 off the bench from both Bruce Brown Jr. and Anthony Lawrence II. 

Minnesota averages 90.7 PPG and allows 69.7. In their most recent victory, Nate Mason had 20 points. 

These are two evenly matched teams with contrasting styles, but note that Miami is 4-2 ATS in its last six after a non-conference game, while Minnesota is just 7-9 ATS in its last 16 after allowing 80 points or more. 

I think the Hurricanes’ strong defensive play keeps the team competitive. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:35 EST).

We don’t have to question the Grizzlies effort today as the team comes to town off eight straight losses. Memphis fired head coach David Fizdale because of it and suffice it to say, I expect the Grizzlies to come in extrenely focused here. 

Most recently Memphis fell 98-88 to Brooklyn on Sunday. Marc Gasol had 18 points, before getting benched for the entire fourth quarter by Fizdale, an unpopular move which triggered his release in the end. 

San Antonio would love nothing more than to kick this Grizzlies team while its down. The Spurs come in off a 115-108 win over Dallas, led by big man LaMarcus Aldridge with 33 points and ten boards. Tony Parker returned in that one as well for San Antonio.

The Spurs are also expected to welcome back leader Kawhi Leonard this week. Everything is going right in San Antonio these days, while Memphis has more questions than answers.

But “motivation” can be a difficult factor for oddsmakers to properly quantify into a line and that’s the case here in my opinion. This is the opening game of a home and home set between the clubs. I think the desperate Grizzlies will at the very least keep this one respectable until the final moments.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

LBSU comes in off a loss against Nebraska, while Arizona will be desperate here as it enters off three straight setbacks. 

The 49ers gave the Huskers a run for their money, but eventually fell 85-80 in their latest action. Gabe Levin led the way with 22 points and 16 boards. 

Arizona looked horrible in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament, dropping all three games (NC State, SMU and Purdue.) The Boilermakers whipped it 89-64 in its most recent action. Deandre Ayton was a bright spot with 22 points and eight boards. 

But I think home cooking is just what the doctor ordrered for the Wildcats today. Arizona has major issues on both ends of the floor, but I think its safe to say that it’s not as bad as what its recent tournament performance would suggest either.

And note, LBSU is already a poor 1-2 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more (it’s just 2-6 ATS in its last eight as a road dog of 12.5 points or more as well), while Arizona is 4-1 ATS in its last five after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games.

For all the reasons listed above, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Milwaukee Bucks (10:05 EST).

I base my selections on many different things. Common sense is a good thing to use in handicapping and that’s the approach I’m taking with this selection.

Both Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry sat out in the Warriors 110-106 home loss to Sacramento.

The Kings clearly have to be feeling great after that victory over the defending champs and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a massive letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. 

Conversely, after a four-game win streak, the Bucks come to town having dropped three of their last four, including a humbling 121-108 setback at Utah in their latest action.

I’ll point out as well that the Bucks are 2-1 ATS already this year off an upset loss as a favorite, while Sacramento is just 1-6 ATS in non-conference games.

For all the reasons listed above, play on Milwaukee.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the LA Lakers (10:30 EST).

The Lakers come in off a loss to the Kings, while the Clippers come in off a win against Sacramento. 

The Lakers lost 113-102 to the Kings last time out. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 20 points, while Kyle Kuzma added 17 points. Rookie Lonzo Ball had a big game with 11 points, 11 assists and seven boards. 

The Clippers beat the kings 97-95, but it wasn’t pretty. Blake Griffin led the way with 33 points and hit the game winning 3-pointer with 3.2 seconds left.

This one sets up great for the Lakers from a trend based stand point though, as note that they’re 4-2 ATS in their last six off an upset loss as a favorite, while the Clippers have struggled in this position by going just 1-2 ATS this season after playing three consecutive road games.

Off back-to-back road victories to end their trip, I think the Clippers have a predictable letdown here. Whle I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Lakers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Maryland (7:00 EST).

Maryland comes to New York to take on the Orange sitting at 6-1 after an 80-65 thrashing of New Mexico last time out.

Keep your eyes on the Terps’ Anthony Cowan, who had 21 points in their latest victory:

“We’re used to winning close games,” Maryland coach Mark Turgeon assessed afterwards. “We had the lead twice in the second half and let it go, but we moved on. Anthony had two phenomenal games down here. He’s the kind of kid who probably can play three games in one day.”

Syracuse comes in on a five game win streak, most recently getting the better of Toledo 72-64 in the Miami Invitational. Tyus Battle was left out of that game with injury and Frank Howard stepped up in his place to pour in 25 points. 

Clearly these teams are very evently matched. The fact that Battle was injured and is questionable for this one is a bit of a concern in my opinion. And if he does play, will he truly be at 100% capacity?

Additionally I’ll point out that this one sets up great for the Terps as far as the trends are concerned, as note that Maryland is 6-1 ATS in its last seven following three or more consecutive home games, while the Orange are just 1-6 ATS in their last seven following a SU win. 

I think Maryland’s depth on offense wears down the home side. 

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on UC Riverside (4:00 EST)

UC Riverside enters off a 75-57 win over Western New Mexico at home, while Michigan comes in off a 68-60 victory over VCU in the Maui Invitational.

UC Riverside averages 73.8 PPG and concdeds 73.2. In the win over WNMU, the Highlanders forced 23 turnovers and were led by Chance Murray with 17 points. 

Michigan averages just 77.3 PPG and allows 63.2. The Wolverines are a poor three-point shooting team and were just 5 of 20 from range in the win over the Rams.

I’ll point out as well that UC Riverside is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog in the 18.5 to 24 points range, while Michigan is just 2-4 ATS in its last six as a home fav in the 18.5 to 24 points range.

With a game at North Carolina on Wednesday, I think the home side gets caught looking ahead.

While I’m definitely not calling for an outright upset, I do think the conditions are right for a competitive affair. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Chicago Bulls (3:35 EST).

Miami beat Boston and then went on the raod and beat the Wolves 109-97 on Friday night. I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the Heat this evening though.

The Bulls will be desperate here, they’ve dropped four straight and nine of their last ten and will be out to atone for a lacklustre 143-94 beatdown in Golden State on the road Friday. 

Note that this is a revenge game as well after Miami took the first one of the season series, 97-91 back on November 1st.

Miami averages 100.9 PPG and concedes 102.5. Hassan Whiteside averags 15.5 points and 12.9 boards per game. Goran Dragic averages 18.9 points, 4.3 boards and 4.7 assists. 

Chicago averages just 94.4 PPG, while allowing 107.3. Lauri Markkanen averages 14.6 points and 8.2 boards per game, while big man Robin Lopez averages 13.1 points and 5.5 boards per contest.

I’ll point out though that Miami is a poor 1-5 ATS as a favorite this season and just 1-3 ATS this year off an upset win as an underdog, while Chicago is already 4-2 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more.

I won’t try to convince you that the Bulls are a good team which has just gotten some tough breaks to open the season, as that’s not the case. Chicago has problems across the board, with injuries being one of the main reasons the team has struggled to this point.

However, I feel this is a bad spot for the Heat, with a game at Cleveland on Tuesday, followed by at New York on Thursday.

All signs point to a letdown/look-ahead for Miami. Grab the points, play on Chicago.

Godo luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Ohio State (3:00 EST). 

Clearly these teams are very evenly matched. Should be a nail-biter in the PK80 tournament on Sunday afternoon and as such, I’m going to grab the points.

Butler held on for a 71-69 win over Portland State most recently. The Vikings went 12 of 26 from range, as the Bulldogs struggled with their perimiter defense. Three players would go on to score more than 14 points, led by Tyler Wideman with 18 points and eight boards. 

The Buckeyes beat the Cardinal 79-71 most recently, holding Stanford to just 36.1 percent from the floor. Ohio State dominated the glass (37-28) and was led by JC Jackson with 23 points. 

I’ll point out that Butler is already 0-2 ATS in all tourney games this year and just 1-3 ATS against teams with winning records, while Ohio State is 2-1 ATS in its last three when playing on one or less days rest.

I like Ohio State to build off its latest performance and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on the Buckeyes.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Nebraska (2:30 EST).

This game is to decide fifth place in the AdvoCare Invitational.

Both teams dropped their quarterfinal contests, ontly to then bounce back with wins on Friday. 

LBSU beat Oregon State, while Nebraska smashed Marist. 

The 49ers look poised for another letdown here though in my opinion after knocking off the Beavers as ten-point underdogs. Gabe Levin and Deishuan Booker led the way in the upset with 14 points apiece.

Nebraska steamrolled Marist 84-59 as an 11.5 point fav. The Huskers shot almost 57 percent from the floor and posted 23 assists on 34 field goals made. Four players reached double figures, led by Isaac Copeland and Anton Gill with 17 apiece. 

II’ll point out that LBSU is already 0-2 ATS this year against schools with winning records, while the Huskers are already 2-0 ATS when playing with one or less days rest.

I think the Nebraka’s defense and depth prove to be too much for the 49ers to overcome. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Houston Rockets (8:05 EST).

New York comes in off a deflating loss in Atlanta just last night and I expect the team to have a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back as well. 

The Rockets are off their third straight win and nine of their last ten in a 125-95 victory at Denver on Wednesday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Houston has to be loving its chances tonight as well, because when these teams met back on November 1st, it was the Rockets that socred the relatively simple 119-97 road victory. 

The Knicks have been great at home this year, going 5-2, but terrible on the road, now just 1-5 away from friendly confines after last night’s setback. 

The Rockets average 113.3 PPG and allow just 103.5, which ranks the team tenth. Houston has always been able to score, but now it looks as if its ready to seroiusly challenget Golden State because of its improved performance on that end of the floor. 

I’ll point out as well that the Knicks are 1-4 ATS in their last five in the second game of a back to back scenario, while Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last five against teams with a winning SU record. 

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

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on Davidson (7:00 EST).

The 2-1 Davidson Wildcats get ready to battle the 3-3 Appalachian State Mountaineers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Wildcats. 

Davidson comes in off an 81-68 loss to Nevada, while the Mountaineers come in off an exhausting 105-99 double OT loss to James Madison.

Suffice it to say, I think that Appalachian State comes in with “heavy legs” and “hung over” from that emotional and draining setback.

And if recent history is any precedence, then Davidson has to be loving its chances today, because when these teams met last year it was the Wildcats that came out on top with a comfortable 86-74 victory. 

So far the Wildcats average 95 PPG and allow 94. Peyton Aldridge is averaging 22.7 PPG. 

The Mountaineers average 95 PPG and allow 76. Justin Forrest was a bright spot in the team’s double OT loss, finishing with a season-high 36 points. 

I’ll point out though that Davidson is 5-1 ATS in its last six when its opponent allows 100 or more points in its previous outing, while App State is just 6-14-2 ATS in its last 22 against teams with winning records. 

Davidson is the deeper team, with three players averaging at least 18 PPG. 

For all the reasons listed above, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Richmond (6:00 EST).

The 3-0 Georgetown Hoyas are ready to battle the 1-4 Spiders on Saturday night and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing the points in a contest which I foresse being decided by whichever team has the ball in its hands last. 

The Hoyas are led by 6-10 Jessie Govan, who is averaging 21 points and 14.3 rebounds per game. So far Georgetown averages 86 PPG and allows 60.7. 

The Spiders have struggled to open the year, most recently coming off a loss against UL Lafayette, a game which saw Grant Golden pour in 24 points. 

Richmond would actually shoot a great 50 precent from the field, but 19 turnovers would be too much for the team to overcome. 

I’ll point out though that Georgetown is just 12-18 ATS in its last 30 when playing the role of favorite and just 5-7 ATS in its last 12 after allowing 60 points or less in its previous contest, while Richmond is 2-1 ATS this year as an underdog and 2-1 ATS against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest.

I think the hungry Spiders keep this one interesting until the final moments.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 34-CLUB PLAY is on Milwaukee (9:00 EST).

The 4-1 Milwaukee Panthers are in Wisconsin to take on the 2-3 Badgers and while I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitley think that this one will end up being a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Milwaukee comes in off a 72-71 win over Elon, while Wisconsin fell 72-71 to UCLA. These teams haven’t played since 2015, when the Panthers defeated the Badgers 68-67. 

The Panthers rallied from a 17-point halftime deficit to knock off the Phoenix at home, outrebounding Elon 41-35 and committing just five turnovers. Keep your eyes on Brock Stull, who had 21 points, five boards and five assists in the victory. 

Milwaukee won’t be intimidated here at all, as it’s already beaten Iowa State this season. So far the Panthers average 70 PPG and concede 64.

Wisconsin averages 75 PPG and concedes 66. The Badgers allowed UCLA to shoot 54 percent from the floor last time out though. Ethan Hpp was a standout, posting 19 points, nine boards and five assists. 

Additionally I’ll point out that the Panthers are 6-1 ATS in their last seven on the road and 4-0 ATS in their last four non-conference games, while the Badgers are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten following an ATS victory.

The Panthers come in on top form, especially on the defensive end, conceding just 56 points to Iowa State and only 51 points to FIU earlier in the year. 

Obvoiusly the Badgers are tough at home, but this should be a nail-biter. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

I think the Knicks have a letdown here after winning two straight, most recently a 108-100 victory at home over Toronto.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for ATL, as it’s lost three straight and seven of eight after falling 116-103 at home to the Clippers on Wednesday. 

New York used a 41-10 third quarter to hammer the Raptors last time out. The Knicks average 104.9 PPG and concede 103.4. Big man Kristaps Porzingis averages 27.3 points, 7.4 boards and 2.31 blocks per night. 

Atlanta averages 102.8 PPG and concedes 108.2. Dennis Schroder keeps his team competitive by averaging 19.7 points, plus 7.1 boards per game. 

I’ll point out though that New York is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 108 points or more in its previous contest, while Atlanta is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive SU losses. 

With a game tomorrow night at Houston, I think the Knicks get caught looking ahead. Grab the points, play on Atlanta.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:35 EST).

The Clippers are in a free-fall right now, most recently dropping their ninth straight in a 107-85 setback to the Knicks on Monday. 

The Hawks can empathize, as they lost their second straight and sixth of their last seven in a 96-85 setback on the road in San Antonio on Monday. These teams played twice last year and it was the Clippers that won both, meaning that this does also set up as a double revenge scenario for Atlanta tonight. 

LA averages 104.9 PPG and concedes 106.6. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 22.7 points, 7.8 boards and 4.7 assists per game. In the loss to New York the Clippers shot just 37.5 percent from the floor, including just 10 of 32 from range. 

Atlanta averages 102.8 PPG and concedes 107.8. Dennis Schroder keeps his team respectable most nights by averaging 19.7 points, plus 7.1 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that LA is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven againt a team with a losing straight up record, while ATL is 5-1 ATS in its last six home games against a team with a losing road record.

I think the Hawks are the hungrier team here. They’ve been kicked around long enough and finally have an opponent to take advantage of. After a hot start, the Clippers are in complete dissaray. 

Grab the points, play on Atlanta.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Toledo (7:00 EST).

Toledo comes to New York off an 84-74 win over Oakland at home, while the Orange dispatched that same Oakland team 74-50 in their most recent action. 

In the early going the Rockets are ranked 69th in scoring in the nation with an average of 85.7 PPG, while ranked 212th on the defense side by conceding 74.3. Jaelan Sanford is avering 23.3 PPG after putting up 26 in the win over the Golden Grizzlies. 

The Orange are ranked 185th in the country in scoring with an average of 75.5 PPG, while ranked 14th on the defensive side by conceding 56.0 PPG. Syracuse is led by Tyus Battle, with 23 PPG this year and he’d post 25 against Oakland.

I’ll point out though that Toledo has fared well in this spot for bettors, going 11-6 ATS in its last 17 as an underdog and 14-10 ATS in its last 24 non-conference games, while Syracuse has struggled in this position by going just 16-18 ATS in its last 34 against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest. 

A matchup of contrasting styles. I think Toledo’s high-powered offense keeps the visitors in this one late. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WEEKLY WIPEOUT WINNER is on Minnesota (8:00 EST).

The 0-3 Alabama A&M Bulldogs get ready to take on the 4-0 Golden Gophers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Gophers.

The Bulldogs most recently fell 104-67 to Alabama in their latest outing. Amari Gouldbourne led the way with 17 points and four assists in the setback. So far Alabama A&M has averaged 62.7 PPG.

Minnesota most recently destroyed Western Carolina 92-64. Jordan Murphy led the way with 23 points, while Amer Coffey chipped in 15 points and four assists. So far the Golden Gophers average 94.2 PPG in the early going. 

I’ll point out though that Alabama A&M is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven non-conference games, while Minnesota is 7-3 ATS in its last ten at home.

The Gophers will go up early and look to maintain pressure right up until the final horn. So far Minnesota’s biggest margin of victory this year has been by 28 points, but I expect an absolute blowout tonight, even with second stringers leading the way in the second half.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Stanford (11:30 EST).

The 2-0 North Carolina Tar Heels are in Stanford to take on the 3-1 Cardinal and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

UNC comes in off a 93-81 home win over Bucknell, while the Cadinal defeated Northwestern 73-59 on Friday. 

Joel Berry II had eight points in his return from injury in the Tar Heels win over Bucknell. Luke Maye had 20 points. So far UNC has averaged 89.5 points over its first two games, while conceding 75.

Stanford has averaged 75.2 PG over the first four and allowed just 67. Reid Travis had 16 points in his teams latest victory. 

I’ll point out that the UNC is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 on the road, while Stanford is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven against a team with a winning straight up record. 

Travis is a difficult matchup for the Tar Heels. The Cardinal have a couple more games under the belts to figure things out and I believe they keep this one close on their home floor.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Atlanta Hawks (8:35 EST).

The 3-13 Atlanta Hawks are in San Antonio to take on the 10-6 Spurs and while I’m not going to call for the outright upset, I do believe that the hungry visiting side can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

The Hawks most recently fell 110-99 to the Celtics, looking great in the first half and then falling apart in the second. 

San Antonio is finding ways to win, but I think it comes in flat-footed and disinterested against its lowly Eastern Conference opponent tonight. 

The Hawks won’t be rolling over and with Dennis Schroeder in your line-up, you always have a “punchers chance.” Schroeder had 23 points, nine assists, two boards and two steals in the setback to the Cetlics.

The Spurs came from behind to knock off the Thunder 104-101 on Friday night, led by 26 points and nine boards from big man LaMarcus Aldridge. 

Does the fact that the Hawks are 14-9 ATS in their last 23 against the Southwest division mean anything here? Well, it certainly doesn’t hurt. Also note that the Spurs are already 0-3 ATS this season when playing on two days rest.

With a game at Western conference foe Minnesota on Wednesday, I look for the Spurs to get caught looking ahead and I expect the desperate visiting side to at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the ample spread that it’s been afforded.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the under Jazz/76ers (7:05 EST).

The Jazz come in off their first road win of the year after smashing the Magic 125-85 on Saturday. This is the finale of a four game Eastern swing for Utah and I think it’s going to suffer a predictable letdown. 

The 76ers had their two-game win streak snapped in a 124-116 home loss to Golden State on Saturday. 

When these teams played on November 7th, it was Philadelphia which secured the 104-97 road victory and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score here as well once it’s all said and done.

Utah is 27th in the league in scoring with 100.5 PPG and it’s ranked fifth in the league in scoring defense by conceding 100.8 PPG. Derek Favors and Rodney Hood have been recent standouts with big man Rudy Gobert still out with injury for a few more weeks.

Philadelphia averages 109 PPG and concedes 110.4. Big man Joel Embiid averages 22.8 points, plust 10.9 boards per game. 

I’ll point out though that Utah has seen the total go under the number in 11 of its last 19 off an upset win as an underdog, while Philadelphia has seen the total dip below the posted number in 12 of its last 20 after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest.

The conditions and the numbers both point to the under as the correct call in this one.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 2-1 Long Beach State 49ers are getting ready to battle the 2-1 WVU Mountaineers on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors West Virginia.

LBSU beat San Francisco and San Francisco State, before then falling 89-81 at Oregon State. The 49ers have five players who average at least ten points. In the loss to the Beavers, they’d let Oregon State shoot 55.4 percent from the field and go 22 of 29 from the line. 

Turnovers continue to plague LBSU, having committed 55 through the first three games. 

WVU opened with an 88-65 loss to Texas A&M, before then smashing American and Morgan State. The Mountaineers were 28-9 last year and they returned three starters from that team, so the loss to A&M was a difficult one. 

But with two “cream puffs” to get back on track, I think WVU carries that progression over here against LBSU. Keep your eyes on Daxter Miles Jr. who had 32 points in 22 minutes against Morgan State. 

Additionally I’ll point out that LBSU is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven as a road dog of 12.5 points or more, while WVU is 2-0 ATS in its last two as a home fav in the 18.5 to 24 points range.

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

Good luck…Larry

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

The 2-1 Oakland Golden Grizzlies are in Syracuse to take on the 3-0 Orange on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Oakland comes in off a 13 point loss to Toledo and after Syracuse it has a tough game against Kansas. I think this sets up as a classic letdown/trap for the visitors today, who come in “bummed” off the loss to the Rockets, while also not able to help themselves in some small way “looking ahead” to their matchup with the Jayhawks. 

Note that the Golden Grizzlies got just seven points from their bench in the loss to Toledo.

The Orange needed a 29-6 run to beat Texas Southern and I think Syracuse carries that momentum over here. Tyus Battle had 21 points and was one of five that scored in double figures.

I’ll point out as well that Oakland is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 80 points or more, while Syracuse is 8-5 ATS in its last 13 when playing with one or less days rest.

The Orange are the deeper and more skilled team and I expect them to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the LA Lakers (9:35 EST).

I think Denver has a letdown here after its big 146-114 home win over New Orleans on Friday. It was the team’s fourth win in its last five games. 

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the young Lakers who lost for the fifth time in six games, falling at home to Phoenix 122-113 on Friday. 

This is a revenge game for LA as well, as Denver has won four of the last five in the series, including taking two of three last year. 

Denver averages 108.5 PPG and concedes 105.4. Paul Millsap leads the way with 16 points and 6.3 boards per game, while Will Barton adds 14.1 points. Big man Nikola Jokic contributes 16.2 points, 11.6 boards and 4.7 assists per game. 

LA averages 104.3 PPG and concedes 107.4. Brook Lopez averges 15.1 points and 4.9 boards per game, while Brandon Ingram adds 14.9 points. Despite his recent struggles, Lonzo Ball adds 8.8 points, 6.6 boards and 6.8 assists per game. 

I’ll point out as well that Denver is just 1-5 ATS this year against teams with losing records and 0-3 ATS this season after scoring 115 points or more, while LA is 3-2 ATS against clubs with winning recrds and 5-4 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest.

I think the desperation in which the Lakers play with tonight, turns out to be the difference. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Indiana (6:00 EST).

The 2-1 South Florida Bulls get ready to battle the 1-2 Hoosiers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Indiana.

So far the Hoosiers have lost to Indiana State and Seton Hall, while the Bulls come to Assembly Hall off a win over lowly Stetson on Wednesday. 

It wasn’t easy for USF either, edging Stetson 75-72 in the end. So far four Bulls are averaging double-digits, led by Tulio DaSilva, with 14 PPG in the early going. 

For Indiana you’ll want to keep your eyes on sophomore forward De’Ron Davis, who leads the team in scoring with 11.7 PPG thus far. The Hoosiers have been getting decent production from their bench, which averages 29 PPG, with four different reserves averaging double figures.

Defense has been the main issue for Indiana early, but the Hoosiers catch a break here facing the impotent Bulls.

I’ll point out as well that South Florida is a poor 5-8 ATS in its last 13 against teams with losing records and 0-2 ATS in its last two against poor defensive teams which allow 77 plus points per contest, while Indiana is 2-0 ATS in its last two after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive contests.

I like the Hoosiers to continue their solid offensive play and to finally show up on the defensive side as well. Beating Stetson is one thing, but contending with a focused Hoosiers team which to this point has drastically underperformed is quite another. Lay the poitns with confidence, play on Indiana.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Oregon State (11:00 EST).

The 2-0 Long Beach State 49ers are set to square off against the 1-1 Oregon State Beavers on Saturday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Beavers.

LBSU comes in off a 95-70 win over San Francisco, dominating the glass by a 51-28 margin. There is some room to read between the lines though, as the 49ers would turn the ball over 21 times. Bryan Alberts led the charge with 18 points in that one, while Barry Ogalue had 15 points and eight boards.

The Beavers are looking to bounce back here after a 75-66 defeat at the hands of the Wyoming Cowboys. Oregon State was a 7.5 points favorite in that one. Clearly the Beavers can’t be happy with their performance. Oregon State just couldn’t get anything to fall that night, hitting only 40 percent from the floor and going just 4 of 20 from range. Tres Tinkle was a standout with 20 points and 14 boards, while Drew Eubanks added 18 points as well. 

I’ll point out that LBSU is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 94 points or more, while Oregon State is 2-1 ATS in its last three afte rbeing held to 68 points or less in its prevoius contest.

LBSU’s sloppy play catches up to it here in my opinion, as the Beavers look to make amends after their poor performance against the Cowboys.

I’m expecting a rout, lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:35 EST).

Is Boston ever going to lose again? The Celtics come to Atlanta on the heels of a 14-game win streak, including having just knocked off the defending champs at home in an impressive 92-88 victory on Thursday. 

I believe the C’s do finally have a letdown here though as I look for the hungry Hawks to take this one right down to the wire.

The Hawks come in with momentum/confidence as well after smashing the Kings 126-80 in their most recent action, the team’s largest margin of victory of all time. Atlanta would go on to record 40 assists, which was the most in the league since December 15th, 2016 when the Warriors posted 41. 

"Right now we have (one of) the worst record in the NBA, so any win is a good win and we'll take it," Atlanta forward Taurean Prince assessed.

Note that this is a revenge game for the Hawks as well after the Celtics won 110-107 back on November 6th. 

I’m expecting Atlanta to push the pace of this one and to not go down without a fight. Grab the points, play on the Hawks.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* SItuational Stunner is on Alabama State (11:00 EST).

The 0-3 Alabama State Hornets play their fourth straight road game here. So far they’ve averaged 63 PPG, while conceding 94. Ed Jones has been a stand out with an average of 10.7 points and four rebounds per game, while Reginald Gee averages 10.3 points and four boards. 

The Ducks average 85 PPG and concede 60.5 thus far. Troy Brown has averaged 17.5 points and three assists, while Paul White has added 16 points and six boards. 

Of course I’m not calling for an outright upset here. Note that Oregon hasn’t lost a home game since January of 2015.

But with a series of “cream puffs” to open the year, I think the Ducks get caught looking past their lowly opponent today.

This is great experience for the Hornets, who can focus on conference play after a tough non-conference schedule. I like Alabama State to keep this relatively interesting until the final ten minutes or so. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Miami Heat (7:05 EST).

This is an immediate revenge scenario for the Heat after the Wizards took the first game of this home and home set 102-93 at South Beach on Wednesday. 

So far Miami averages 101.3 PPG, while conceding 103. Big man Hassan Whiteside contributes 15.7 points, plus 13.9 boards per game, while Dion Waiters adds 16.6 per contest. 

Washington averages 110.7 PPG and concedes 105. John Wall averages 20.8 points and 9.4 assists per game, while Bradley Beal contribues 23.9. 

The Heat though have responded well in this spot for bettors, going 19-10 ATS in their last 29 off an upset losss as a favorite, while also going 24-10 ATS in their last 34 when trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent. 

Conversely, this is a position in which the Wizards have really struggled in, going 12-16 ATS in their last 28 off an upset win as an underdog (including 0-2 ATS this year.)

With a tough road trip starting in Toronto on Sunday, I think the home side also gets caught looking ahead here.

While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Heat.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Elon (6:30 EST).

The 1-1 FIU Panthers are getting ready to battle the 1-2 Elon Phoenix on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Phoenix.

This non-conference game is part of the Black and Gold Shootout. When these teams played last year, it was Elon that won 84-81 in OT. 

Last year FIU went just 7-24. In their last game the Panthers lost 70-64 in OT to Stetson. FIU was only able to shoot 37.9 percent from the floor, led by Eric Lockett with 19 points. The Panthers also committed 16 turnovers. 

Elon fell 76-67 to Furman in its latest action. The Phoenix shot 44.5 percent from the floor, but only 20.8 percent from range. They also committed 16 turnovers. Keep your eyes on Tyler Seibring, who had 15 points in the setback. While only two players average double figures in points, the Phoenix still have a much deeper/talented lineup overall than FIU, wiith eight players averaging at least 5.7 PPG. 

Additionally I’ll point out that FIU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five neutral site games, while Elon is 6-1 ATS in its last seven following a SU loss.

Elon’s already played Duke and it’s clearly the better overall team. I look for the Phoenix to bounce back here and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable cover. This line could be a lot higher and I think the oddsmakers have made a mistake.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Stanford (6:00 EST).

The 2-0 Northeastern Huskies are in Stanford to take on the 2-1 Cardinal and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Northeastern comes in off an 83-49 win over Wentworth, while Stanford fell 67-61 at home to lowly Eastern Washington on Tuesday. 

The Huskies have defeated two suspect opponents in Boston University (65-59) and Divsion 2 Wentworth (83-49.) Thomas Murphy has been a bright spot, averaging 11.5 points over his first two games. 

Northeastern finished just 15-16 last year and it was picked to finish sixth in the ten team CAA.

Clearly Stanford will be looking to take advantage here, something it failed miserably in doing against Eastern Washington. 

The Cardinal couldn’t get anything to drop, shooting a poor 33 percent from the field, including just 2 of 16 from range. Reid Travis had 20 points in the losing effort. Travis has now scored at least 20 points in each of Stanford’s three games. 

I’ll point out though that Northeastern is just 1-3 ATS in its last four non-conference games, while Stanford is 6-4 ATS in its last ten after failing to cover the spead in three or more consecutive contests.

The Huskies’ competition has been pathetic to this point, but now they face a determined Cardinal side that’s looking for a big rebound effort after such a terrible performance. 

Stanford is deeper, more talented and experienced and I expect it to easily pull away down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Golden State Wariors (8:05 EST).

Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr said two weeks ago that the Celtics were “the team of the future in the Eastern Conference.”

Clearly Golden State has had this one circled on its calendar for a while now and while some may think the Celtics actually have a shot in this game, I definitely do not.

Golden State has won seven straight, including a 110-100 win over Orlando on Monday.

Boston has won 13 straight, most recently a 109-102 victory on the road in Brooklyn. 

The Warriors average 119.6 PPG and concede 107.7. Kevin Durant averages 24.8 points, 7.5 boards and 5.2 assists per game, while Stephen Curry posts 25.2 points, plust 6.7 assists per contest.

The Celtics average 102.7 PPG and concede 94.5. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 20.6 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Jaylen Brown contributes 14.7 points and 6.7 boards.

The Warriors are a unique team, as they can damage you in so many ways offensively. If you want to get into a “run and gun shootout,” then they have no problems with that. If you want to play a slower-paced game and run half court sets while on offense, they have no issues with that either. They hurt you from 3-point land, in the paint and also in transition. 

The Celtics have been amazing early, but I think they’re in for a rude awakening tonight. Lay the points, play on Golden State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Auburn (11:30 AM EST).

The 1-0 Indiana State Sycamores are in Auburn to take on the 1-0 Tigers on Thursday morning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Tigers.

Indiana State looks ready for a letdown here in my opinion after its big opening night win over Indiana. Brenton Scott was a standout in the upset with 24 points. Indiana State relied heavily on the 3-ball last year (34.6 percent of its points from range), which doesn’t bode well against this Auburn defense which is out for some redemption.

The Tigers can score as well, as last year they averaged 80.4 PPG. In their win over Norfolk State, Auburn put up 102 points. Bryce Brown led the way with 31 points. While the 102 points was impressive, the 74 given up were not. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much more concerted effort from the Tigers on the defensive end this evening. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Indiana State is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven following an ATS win, while Auburn is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a favorite. 

I look for the Tigers to continue their hot offensive play and to fine tune their defensive unit in this favorable matchup. Lay the points with confidence, play on Auburn.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the over 76ers/Lakers (10:35 EST).

Maybe surprisingly, neither team has been playing to many high-scoring affairs of late. I think that changes tonight in a big way though.

The 76ers broke a two-game slide with a win over the Clippers on Monday, while the Lakers enter off a 100-93 victory over Phoenix on Monday. 

Philadelphia averages 107.9 PPG and concedes 109.5 Big man Joel Embiid leads the team with 20.9 points, plus 10.8 boards per contest. WIth Jerryd Bayless, Robert Covington, Daro Saric, JJ Redick and Ben Simmons, the 76ers’ future is bright.

LA averages 103.3 PPG and concedes 105.9. Brook Lopez has been big this year, contributing 15.3 points, plus 4.8 boards per game. With Jordan Clarkson, Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Julius Randle and Kyle Kuszma, the Lakers future also looks pretty good.

I’ll point out that the 76ers have seen the total go over the number in five of six this year following a non-conference game, while the Lakers have seen the total eclipse the posted number in both times this season following a divisional contest. 

I expect these two young and talented teams to push the pace from start to finish and for this total to indeed soar above the posted number once the final horn blares. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Pittsburgh (7:00 EST).

The 1-0 Cal Santa Barbara Gauchos are at Pittsburgh to take on the 0-2 Panthers on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Panthers are coming off loss to Navy and Montana, while the Gauchos managed a win over North Dakota State last Saturday. 

Cal Santa Barbara was 6-22 last year, but it looked decent in its 86-66 victory over North Dakota State. Max Heidegger had 33 points, including hitting eight from range. 

Pittsburgh pretty much features an entirely new team this year, a squad which nearly posted its first win of the campaign, but it would ultimately succumb 83-78 in overtime to the Grizzlies. 

The loss snapped Pittsburgh’s 20 game win streak at home: 

“I don’t think about [the fan support for the team],” head coach Kevin Stallings assured. “I support my team. I’m just worried about making my team better. We have had to start over, so that’s a little bit of what we are dealing with. We have some good players who are going to grow into very good players. There are going to be some growing pains along the way.”

I’ll point out though that UC Santa Barbara is just 7-14 ATS in its last 21 following a non-conference game, while Pittsburgh is is 3-1 ATS in its last four after back-to-back SU setbacks.

Clearly this game means a lot to the Panthers. Crowd support has not been good to open the campaign, but a convincing win tonight would go a long way in starting to turn that trend around. I look for the home side to lay it all on the line and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the San Antonio Spurs (8:35 EST).

The Spurs are rolling as they come in having won four of their last five, most recently smashing the Bulls 133-94 at home on Saturday. 

The Mavs are moving in the opposite direction, as they’ve lost two in a row and eight of their last nine after losing 112-99 at Oklahoma City on Sunday night. 

So far San Antonio averages 103 PPG and allows 99.6. Big man LaMarcus Aldridge is leading the nightly charge with 21.8 points and 8.5 boards per game, while Pau Gasol averages 10.9 points and 8.1 boards per game. 

Dallas averages 99.5 PPG and concedes 107.7. Harrison Barnes tops all players with 19 points and 7.1 boards per game, while rookie Dennis Smith Jr. averages 14.8 points and 4.9 assists per game.

I’ll point out that the Spurs are 4-1 ATS in their last five road games against a team with a home winning percentage of less than .400, while Dallas is a horrible 1-10 ATS in its last 11 when playing on one days rest.

Greg Popovich has his team firing on all cylinders again despite injuries to key players. That doesn’t bode well for this young Mavs side which is struggling with consistency across the board.

All signs point to a rout. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is on Miami Ohio (7:00 EST).

The 0-1 Wright State Raiders are at Miami Ohio to take on the 1-0 Redhawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Wright State most recently lost 84-80 to Loyola Chicago, while the Redhawks managed to nudge past Fordham 55-54 in their season opener. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Miami Ohio after Wright State beat it 89-87 last year. 

Last year Wright State averaged 77 points per game and conceded 72.4. The Blue Raiders let Loyola Chicago hit 55 percent from the floor. Grant Benzinger was a standout with 16 points. 

Miami Ohio averaged 70.3 PPG last season and conceded 74.5. While only shooting 33 percent from the field in their opening victory, the Redhawks would go on to win the rebound battle by a decisive 53-25 margin. Jalen Adaway had 15 points and 14 boards. Logan McLane had ten points and 11 boards, including five offensive.

The Redhawks’ smothering defensive play and the home court advantage make Miami Ohio the correct call in this one. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on North Dakota State (11:00 EST)

The 0-1 North Dakota State Bison are ready to take the 1-0 USC Trojans at the Galen Center tonight and while I’m not actually calling for an outright upset, I do definitely believe this is too many points to be giving up here.

The Bison enter off an 85-66 loss to UC Santa Barbara. Paul Miller was a bright spot with 18 points and six assists, while AJ Jacobson had ten points and two boards. After losing five of its last seven on the road, I think NDSU can catch the home side looking past it.

USC has a game against Vanderbilt up next, which is another non-conference matchup of course, but clearly a much bigger challenge coming from the SEC.

USC most recently beat CS Fulerton 84-42. Chimezie Metu had 18 points and ten boards. The Trojans have now won six of their last seven at home.

I feel this is a great spot for the hungry Bison, as I believe that USC comes in complacent, while also looking ahead to its next game. Grab the points, play on North Dakota State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is on the over Kings/Wizards (7:05 EST).

The Kings had their two-game win streak snapped in a 118-91 setback at New York on Saturday, while Washington picked up its second straight victory in a 113-94 win over Atlanta on Saturday night. 

Note that Sacramento plays with revenge here after Washington took the first game of the season series, 110-83 back on October 29th. 

So far the Kings average 94.8 PPG and allow 105.3. The Kings are loaded with talent, including D-Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield, Skal Labissiere, George Hill, Zach Randolph, Vince Carter and Bogdan Bogdanovic. 

The Wizards have had no issues scoring this year, ranked second overall with an average of 111.5 PPG. The defense though has been a major problem, ranked in the lower-half in allowing 107.1. John Wall averages 20.3 points and 9.7 assists per game, while Bradley Beal averages 24.6 points. 

I’ll point out that Sacramento has seen the total go over the number in four of five already this year against teams with winning records, while Washington has seen the total soar above the posted number in eight of its last 14 after playing three consecutive home games.

This one has the feel of a wide open, run and gun shoot-out. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Indiana (6:00 EST).

Houston crushed the Grizzlies 111-96 just last night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a letdown here finally from the Rockets as they transition for this Eastern Conference contest.

Conversely, Indiana looks ready to build off its 105-87 win over the Bulls on Friday to snap a four-game slide. 

Houston averages 110.5 PPG and concedes 104.1 .James Harden leads the team with 29.9 points and 4.9 boards per game. 

Indiana averages 109 PPG and concedes 108.4 Victor Oladipo had 25 points, six boards and six assists against the Bulls.

I’ll point out though that Houston is just 2-3 ATS this year against teams with losing records and interestingly, just 1-3 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest, while Indiana is 20-14 ATS in its last 34 after allowing 90 points or less and already 3-2 ATS in front of the home town crowd this season.

I think “the road” catches up to Harden and company today and the rested/focused Pacers at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Princeton (6:00 EST).

Butler beat Kennesaw State 82-64 on Friday, but this will be the first game of the year for Princeton. 

Both teams played in the NCAA Tournament last year and each will be expecting to return this season as well.

The Tigers faced Notre Dame in the opening round and they’d unfortnately drop a hard-fought 60-58 battle. 

Butler made it to the Sweet 16 before bowing out to eventual champion North Carolina. 

Princeton was undefeated in Ivy League action last year and it’s favored to win the conference again this season. 

Keep your eyes on Tigers’ junior guard Devin Cannady, who averaged 13.4 points and 3.6 boards last year, but who will be playing a much bigger role this season. 

There’s some room to read between the lines in Butler’s win on Friday, as note that it was just six of 25 from range and it also missed 11 of 23 free throws. 

The Ivy League is battle tested and Princeton has plenty of veteran experience and overall talent. I’m not calling for an outright upset, but I do definitely expect the Tigers to keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Grab the points, play on Princeton.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Sacramento Kings (8:05 EST).

The Kings come in with a ton of momentum as they’ve won two in a row, most recently a 109-108 upset victory at home over the 76ers. 

The Knicks on the other hand look primed for a letdown here. New York had won three straight and six of seven before losing their final game of their road trip, 112-99 in Orlando on Wednesday. The first game back from an extended trip often can be considered a “trap” for a team and I believe that will in fact be the case here today.

Also note, not only is this is a “letdown” spot, but it’s also a “look ahead” spot as well for the Knicks, who have the Cavs coming to town on Monday night. 

The Kings have looked a lot better on both ends of the floor of late, but the team still ranks just 29th in scoring with 95.2. Sacramento has been better on the defensive end, ranked 11th by conceding 104.2. Zach Randolph leads the team with 13.6 PPG. But the Kings get the job done by committee, with Buddy Hield, Willie Cauley-Stein, George Hill and Vince Carter. 

New York averages 105.4 PPG and concedes 106.3 Kristaps Porzingis averages 30 points, 7.5 boards and 2.3 blocks per night. 

But as mentioned off the top, I love Sacramento to keep the momentum rolling and to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire against a distracted Knicks side. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Akron (7:00 EST).

This is the opener of the NE Ohio Coaches vs. Cancer Classic. 

Cleveland State returns three starter sand eight letter winners from a team that went a horrible 9-22 last year. In all the Vikings welcome seven newcomvers. 

Not only does Cleveland State have a lot of new faces on the bench, it also has a new face in head coach Dennis Felton. 

But the Zips will be felling confident here, as they’ve taken three straight in this series, including a 65-53 win in the 2015/16 season opener.

Also note that Akron is 21-12 all time against CSU in front of the home town crowd. 

And that doesn’t bode well in my opinion for Felton’s new team, which comes in having dropped three straight season openers. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Cleveland State is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight against the MAC and only 6-15 ATS in its last 21 non-conference games, while Akron is 5-2 ATS in its last seven non-conference contests.

For all the reasons listed above, play on Akron.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on the Milwaukee Bucks (9:05 EST).

The 4-6 Milwaukee Bucks are in San Antonio to take on the 7-4 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the hungry visitors.

This the final game of an extended road trip for the Bucks and they come in having lost four straight, most recently a 124-119 setback to Cleveland on Tuesday. 

The Spurs enter on the other end of the spectrum, having won three in a row, most recently a 120-107 win over the Clippers on Tuesday.

It’s interesting to note that these two teams split a pair of games last year, each winning on the others floor.

Giannis Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with 40 points, nine rebounds and four blocks in the loss to the Cavs. So far the Bucks average 105.4 PPG and concede 108.7. Note that the newly acquired Eric Bledsoe is supposed to suit up for Milwaukee tonight (and if he doesn’t, I still love this play as I think this sets up as a letdown spot for the home side.)

The Spurs still only average 101.7 PPG, while conceding 100.6. So far big man LaMarcus Aldrige has filled the void left by still injured superstar Kawhi Leonard by averaging 22.6 points plus 8.3 boards per game. Aldridge had 25 in the Spurs latest victory.

I’ll point out though that Milwaukee is 13-9 ATS in its last 22 after three or more consecutive SU losses, while San Antonio is just 37-43 ATS in its last 80 after three or more consecutive SU victories.

I like the desperate Bucks to at the very least, take this one down to the wire for the comfortable ATS cover. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Iowa State (9:00 EST).

Missouri was 8-24 last year, while Iowa State was 24-11, advancing to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Both teams have new faces this season though. Iowa State is expected to take a step back this year, while Missouri is expected to take a step forward.

Regardless of that, I still think that the Cyclones bring enough talent to the table to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Iowa State returns one starter and three players overall from last years team. Keep your eyes on Solomon Young, who averaged 4.4 points and 3.3 boards over 12 games last year. ISU also welcomes transfer Jeff Beverly from UTSA, who scored in double-digits 28 times for the Roadrunners last year. 

The Cyclones feature a strong backcourt in senior guard Donovan Jackson and freshman Lindell Wigginton. 

The Tigers return three players that averaged double figures last year. New coach Cuonzo Martin is hoping to revive a program which has fallen on hard times of late. Michel Porter Jr. and Jeremiah Tilmon lead a front court which is expected to be among the best in the SEC. 

Missouri has big expectations, but lacks chemistry and experience. The Cyclones are an entirely different team, but the system and pieces that do carry over will be more than enough to keep this one close unitl the final moments in my opinion. 

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Yale (9:00 EST).

Both teams have high hopes this year after each lost in their respective conference championship games last season. 

Yale fell to Princeton in the Ivy League championship game. The Bulldogs are loaded with veteran experience this season though, led by now fully healthy guard Makai Mason, who was lost for the 2016/17 campaign with injury. 

Mason is surrounded by talent, including Jordan Bruner, Miye Oni and Blake Reynolds. 

Creighton lost to Villanova in the Big East Tournament title game. The Bluejays also lost point guard Maurice Watson Jr. to the NBA. Creighton ran an extremely fast paced offense last year, with just 15 seconds per offensive possession, but with Waston Jr. gone, I have a hard time seeing the Bluejays matching that speed. 

This is going to be a battle, but in the end I think the depth and overall experience that the Ivy League school brings to the table today will in the end keep this score a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on Oklahoma State (8:30 EST).

The Pepperdine Waves were 9-22 last year, while the Oklahoma State Cowboys were 20-13. 

Brad Underwood left the coaching job at Oklahoma State, starting the Mike Boynton Jr. era for the Cowboys. 

The Cowboys return two starters and ten letter winners from a year ago, while the Waves return just one starter.

Pepperdine once again has more questions than answers as the season gets underway. Most specifically is how will it fill the void left by star Lamond Murray, who averaged 21.4 PPG last year? 

The Waves had many players injured last season, including Kameron Edwards, who averaged 7.2 points and 4.2 boards in 2015/16. Edwards is back and so too is Amada Udenyi, who played in just six games last year after blowing his achilles. 

Jeffrey Carroll leads the Cowboys this year. Last season he averaged 17.5 points and 6.6 boards, while shooting 44.4 percent from range. 

Oklahoma State also had some talent to replace in the offseason, but it has some a plethora of it just waiting to fill the void. Keep your eyes on Brandon Averette and Cal State Northridge transfer Kendall Smith, who averaged 16.7 points and 4.8 assists last season. 

The Cowboys have more talent and are the much bigger overall team. I think Oklahoma State will wear down the Wave down the stretch and I look for it to pull away for the comfortable cover once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Delaware (7:00 EST).

Delaware is coming off a 13-20 record from a year ago, while Richmond was 22-13 overall. 

The Blue Hens are expected to take a big step forward this season though as leading scorer Ryan Daly is back after posting 16 points and 7.4 boards last year. The team also returns its second leading scorer in Anthony Mosley, who averaged ten points and shot 47.9 percent from the floor. 

Richmond made it to the A-10 Tournament semifinals last year, but the team lost its top two scorers from that team. Third leading scorer Khwan Fore is back though and he averaged 11.2 PPG last season. Note though that Fore is injured right now and will be out for another month. Additionally I’ll point out that Richmond lost its top rebounder from a year ago as well.

Ultimately I think the experienence and talent that the Blue Hens bring to the table today makes this game much more even than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on West Virginia (6:00 EST).

These teams meet on Friday at the Ramstein Air Force Base on ESPN and suffice it to say, I think this one favors the Mountaineers.

Texas A&M won just 16 games overall last year. The Aggies though are expected to take a step forward this season with returning big man Tyler Davis, along with DJ Hogg and Robert Williams.

I’ll point out though that the Aggies have lost three straight neutral site affairs.

WVU has made the NCAA tournament three straight years and with Bob Huggins as coach, the players faces may change, but the system always remains the same.

The Mountaineers are loaded with talent, including Esa Ahmad (who is suspended for the first half of the season) and Jevon Carter from last year’s team, while you’ll also want to keep your eyes out for rising star Sagaba Konate.

I’ll point out that WVU has won five of its last seven neutral site affairs.

The Aggies sport a ton of talent as well, but I think the Mountaineers’ relentless defensive play (a trademark of Huggins), proves to be too much for Texas A&M on Opening Night, half way around the World. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the under Cavaliers/Rockets (8:05 EST).

The 5-6 Cleveland Cavaliers are in Houston to take on the 8-3 Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below this sky-high number.

It would be easy to just assume this will be a high-scoring game. The Cavs’ struggles to start the year are well known. They average 109.9 PPG, while allowing 113.9.

Cleveland most recently comes in off a 124-119 home win over the Bucks.

Houston has won three straight and it most recently destroyed Utah 137-110 on Sunday. The Rockets average 109.9 PPG and allow just 103.9. Clearly that’s a vast defensive improvement from a season ago.

This is an important road trip for the Cavs, as a losing streak on the West Coast would put the team in a pretty big hole. If Cleveland has any hopes of turning its season around, it’s going to have to commit to the defensive end of the floor.

That’s something that Houston has alrready done this year and I expect that improved defensive play to get carried over here. 

I’ll point out as well that Cleveland has interestingly seen the total go under the number in 12 of its last 21 against the Southwest division, while Houston has seen the total dip below the posted number in 13 of its last 20 against the Central.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 4-6 Miami Heat are in Phoenix to take on the 4-7 Suns. Both teams have had to deal with plenty of on and off court drama to open the year and clearly neither can be happy with their overall record at this point.

With these two hungry teams dealing with injuries and new faces, while also trying to navigate shaky starts to the 2017/18 campaign, I’m expecting each to push the pace of this one from start to finish and I look for this total to eclipse the posted number as the game comes down the stretch.

So far the Heat average just 101.2 PPG while conceding 103.9. James Johnson had 21 points, nine boards, six assists and three steals off the bench in a losing cause at Golden State last time out. 

But Miami is loaded with veteran talent, including Goran Dragic and Dion Waiters. 

The Suns finally dealt Eric Bledsoe and got big man Greg Monroe in exchange from the Bucks. Phoenix enters off a loss against the Nets in which TJ Warren had 20 points and nine rebounds.

Phoenix averages 104.8 PPG and concedes 114.8. 

I’ll point out that Miami has seen the total go over the number in 16 of its last 26 after playing to three or more consecutive unders, while Phoenix has seen the total go over the number in four of five already this year against clubs with losing records.

For all the reasons listed above, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

Utah is coming off a humbling 137-110 loss in Houston, a game in which James Harden exploded for 56 points. 

Nothing that the normally steady Jazz can’t bounce back from though. Especially at home.

The 76ers have won four in a row, including a 121-110 victory over the Pacers in their latest game. But with big man Joel Embiid expected to sit for rest purposes, I believe that Philadelphia will stumble in this tough road atmoshphere. JJ Redick was a stand out in the lastest victory with 31 points on 8 of 12 from range.

Utah has actually lost two straight, also coming up short to the Raptors prevoius to the Rockets setback. Center Rudy Gobert looks to bounce back as well after just 13 points and five boards in that one.

I think it’s interesting to note though that Philadelphia is just 8-13 ATS in its last 21 after playing to three or more consecutive “overs,” while utah is already 5-1 ATS at home this season and 20-12 ATS in its last 32 after a loss by ten points or more.

Expect a return to the norm on the defensive side of the ball for the Jazz on their home floor tonight and look for the 76ers to struggle without Embiid in the line-up. Lay the points, play on Utah.

Good luck….Larry

My 10* NBA GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:30 EST).

The 8-2 Boston Celtics are in Atlanta to take on the 2-8 Hawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Both teams come in off victories, with the Celtics winning their eighth straight with a 104-88 win over Orlando, while the Hawks notched their second victory of the season with a huge 117-115 upset win over the Cavs in Cleveland yesterday afternoon.

These teams average the same amount of points almost, with the C’s pouring in 102.8 per night, while the Hawks average 101.1. That’s where the similarities end though, as ATL is ranked 24th in scoring defense by conceding over 110 per game, while Boston is No. 1 on the defensive side by allowing just 93.8. 

Clearly the Celtics are the better team, but with a three-game home stand starting on Wednesday with the Lakers up first, I think this sets up as a classic “trap” for the visitors.

Atlanta on the other hand can’t afford to bask in the glory of its big win over Cleveland last night after the terrible start to the year.

Back-to-back upsets? Maybe. But in a contest which I foresee being decided late, I’m going to grab the points just in case.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Portland Trailblazers (9:05 EST).

The 4-4 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Portland to take on the 5-4 Trailblazers on Sunday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

OKC comes in off a deflating 101-94 loss to the Celtics at home and I think that residual disappointment gets carried over here. The Thunder have looked great defensively, but the offense has yet to find its stride. 

The Blazers got back into the winners circle after a short two-game slide, holding on for a 113-110 victory over the Lakers on Thursday. And now I think Portland carries that momentum over here.

Paul George had 25 points and ten boards, while Russell Wesbrook added 19 points, 11 assists and six boards in the Thunder’s crushing loss to Boston. Carmelo Anthony though was just 3 of 17 from the floor, finishing with ten points.

Portland needed a a last second three-pointer to beat the upstart Lakers from Damian Lillard to seal the victory. Lillard would go on to finish with 32 points, going 14 of 14 from the charity stripe. In all the Blazers would hit 24 of 27 from the free throw line. 

I’ll point out as well that Oklahoma City is just 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Western Conference, while Portland is 3-1 ATS in its last four after allowing 110 points or more in its previous contest.

With a more “winnable” game at Sacramento on deck, I think OKC gets caught looking ahead here as well. 

Play on Portland.

Good luck…Larry

8* O/U PERFECT STORM on the under Pacers/Knicks (7:35 EST).

The 5-4 Indiana Pacers are in New York to take on the 4-4 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

New York has won four of its last five. Indiana had won three in a row before a loss at Philadelphia on Friday. 

I think the Pacers will fall flat here after their 121-110 road loss to the 76ers, dropping them to just 2-3 away from friendly confines. Victor Oladipo was a bright spot with 31 points and so far he’s averaging 26 PPG. 

New York star Kristaps Porzingis had 37 points in his team’s 120-107 home win over the Suns, also adding seven boards, three blocks and a steal. Note that Enis Kanter has posted eight straight double-doubles. 

I’ll point out though that Indiana has seen the total go under the number in 20 of its last 35 after allowing 115 points or more this year (and in its only game this year in that situation), while New York has seen the total dip below the posted number in eight of its last 13 after playing to three or more consecutive “overs.” 

All things considered, I do indeed feel this number is just a little high. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (8:05 EST).

The 1-9 Dallas Mavericks are in Minnesota to take on the 5-3 Timberwolves on Saturday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Dallas comes in off a listless 99-94 loss at home to New Orleans just last night. 

Minnesota is trending in the opposite direction, it won its third straight by beating the Pelicans 104-98 on the road Wednesay. 

The Wolves took two of three meetings between the teams last year, with the home side winning each time.

So far the Mavs average just 98.2 points, while conceding 108.3. Harrison Barnes leads the way with 16.3 points and 6.1 boards per game. 

The Wolves average 108.8 PPG and allow 113.1. Andrew Wiggins averages 19.5 PPG, while Karl Anthony Towns puts in 21.4 points and 11 boards. 

With a game at home tomorrow night against Charlotte (before a big road trip, with a stop in Golden State to kick things off), I’m fully expecting Minnesota to push the pace of this one from the opening tip until the final horn. 

And a chance to pad their defensive stats against this tired and dejected Mavs team, I expect the Timberwolves to lay the hammer down and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Brookly Nets (10:30 EST).

The 3-5 Brooklyn Nets are in LA to take on the 3-5 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

No need to overthink this one in my opinion. The young Lakers come in off a hard-fought and disheartening 113-110 loss at Portland just last night and clearly they’re going to be “gassed” here.

The Nets will look to take advantage. After starting 3-2, Brooklyn has lost three in a row. 

Brooklyn remains in the top ten in the league in scoring, but is now also once again one of the worst on the defensive side of the floor. D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 21.7 points, 5.7 assists and 4.1 boards per game. 

LA moved Russell to the Nets so that it could make room for Lonzo Ball, so expect the ex-Laker to go out and try and prove a point tonight.

Additionally I’ll point out that the Nets have done extremely well against the Pacific for a long time now by going 41-18-2 ATS in their last 61 against the division, while LA has struggled in this spot for bettors by going just 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 against the Atlantic.

The situation favors the visitors, I like Brooklyn to pull away down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the Orlando Magic (7:05 EST).

The 1-5 Chicago Bulls are in Orlando to take on the 6-2 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Chicago is reeling, it’s lost two straight, most recently a 97-91 setback on the road to Miami on Wednesday, while Orlando comes in on the other end of the spectrum, having won two straight and five of six, most recently a 101-99 effort over the Grizzlies on the road.

This would usually set up as a bit of a letdown spot for Orlando, a team that’s overachieved on a road trip returns home and lays an egg in its first game. However, I don’t think that will be the case tonight so early in the season.

Chicago ranks as the worst offense in the entire league with just 90 PPG. It’s been decent defesively, allowing only 101.2 PPG, but clearly this isn’t a recipie for success. Lauri Markkanen leads the team with 17.2 points plust 9.3 boards per game.

The Magic are second in the league in scoring with 114.9 PPG, while ranked 18th on the defensive side in conceding 106.8. Evan Fournier leads a balanaced attack with 22 points per game, while high-flyer Aaron Gordon adds 20.7 points, plus 8.7 boards per game.

I’ll point out that Chicago is just 1-5 ATS in its last six against clubs with winning straight up records, while Orlando is in fact 10-5 ATS in its last 15 after playing three consecutive road games.

The Bulls will get Portis back next week, but until then I have a hard time seeing Chicago keeping pace with the surging Magic. Lay the points with confidence, play on Orlando.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:35 EST).

The 3-4 LA Lakers are in Portland to take on the 4-4 Blazers. 

LA had lost two straight before smashing the Pistons 113-93 at home on Tuesday. Portland though comes in off consecutive losses, falling 99-85 to the Raptors on Monday, before dropping a hard-fought 112-103 OT loss in Utah last night. 

With a game at home tomorrow night against Brooklyn though, I think the young Lakers get caught “looking ahead” to that one.

LA is averaging just 103.4 PPG, while allowing 106.6, while Portland is averaging 107.6 PPG and conceding just 98.3. 

The duo of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum is a formidable one. The Lakers are filled with a ton of talent, but not a lot of experience.

LA has struggled mightily in this spot for bettors as well, going just 5-13 ATS in its last 18 after a win by ten points or more, while Portland has excelled in this position by going 27-18 ATS in its last 45 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest.

After a stretch of poor play, I expect Portland to defend its home floor against the up-start Lakers. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:05 EST).

The 1-6 Atlanta Hawks are in Philadelphia to take on the 3-4 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Hawks are going to be desperate tonight after dropping six straight, most recently falling 117-106 at home to Milwaukee on Sunday. 

Conversely, I think the young 76ers look primed for a letdown here after their second consecutive victory, most recently posting an impressive (and highly satisfying) 115-107 road win over Houston on Monday. 

Dennis Schroder led Atlanta with 21 points and eight assists in his team’s most recent setback. So far ATL is ranked 25th in scoring with 99.6 PPG, while ranked 19th in scoring defense by conceding 107.6. Marco Belinelli contributes 14.6 points and 2.6 boards per game.

Philadelphia averages 104.1 PPG, while ranked 21st on the defensive end in conceding 108.3. The 76ers shot an unreal 55 percent from the floor in their win over the Rockets. Joel Embiid leads the team with an average of 20.8 points and ten boards per contest. 

I’ll point out though that the Hawks have excelled in this spot for bettors, going 15-11 ATS in their last 26 when playing with two days of rest, while the 76ers are interestingly just 16-21 ATS in their last 37 against the Southeast division. 

I’m not calling for an outright victory, but I do definitely expect the hungry Hawks to at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on Atlanta.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:30 EST).

The 2-4 Phoenix Suns are in Brooklyn to take on the 3-4 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Phoenix travels across the country after falling 114-107 in Portland on Saturday, while Brooklyn lost its second straight in a 124-111 setback at home to the Nuggest on Sunday. 

So far the Suns are ranked 19th in the league in scoring with 102.5 PPG, while ranked second to last on the defensive side in conceding 117.2. Devin Booker had 34 points in the loss to Portland. With Eric Bledsoe now gone, TJ Warren will be leaned upon more, so far he’s chipped in 14 points and 5.2 boards per game.

The Nets are dominating offensively, averaging 114.7 PPG. Unfortunatley for Brooklyn though it’s conceding 118.3 (the worst in the league.) Spencer Dinwiddle came off the bench to lead the Nets with 22 points in the team’s most recent setback. But so far D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 19.8 points and 5.2 assists per game. 

From a trend based stand point, this was favors the home side as note that Phoenix has struggled in this spot for bettors for some time now, going just 4-15 ATS in its last 19 when playing with two days rest, while Brooklyn has excelled by going 13-6 ATS in its last 19 against the Pacific division. 

The Suns’ lack of depth will continue to be a problem for the team until it can deal Bledsoe. Brooklyn comes in rested, focused and healthy. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the UNDER between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Miami Heat (7:35 EST).

The Wolves have so far played six games this year and so far the Over/Under has gone 5-0-1, while Miami has seen it go 3-2 thus far. 

The Wolves broke a two game slide by beating OKC 119-116 on Friday, while Miami has lost two straight, most recently a 96-90 setback at home to Boston on Saturday. 

These teams played twice last year and both contests went “over” the number, including the Heat’s 123-105 victory on March 17th in Miami.

So far the Wolves average 106.8 PPG, while conceding 114.2. Andrew Wiggins averages 19.3 points and 4.5 boards per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns posts 24.8 points and 11.8 boards. Towns had 33 points, 19 boards and four blocks in the win over the Thunder.

The Heat average just 103 points, while allowing 106. Goran Dragic averages 20.2 points, 3.6 boards and four assists per contest. 

I’ll point out though that Minnesota has seen the total go under the number in four of its last five when playing on two days rest, while Miami has seen the total go under the number in 51 of its last 87 when playing the role of underdog and in 13 of its last 22 after playing three consecutive home games.

The Heat are desperate to stop their small two-game slide and will look to slow down this contest whenever possible so as to avoid getting into a “track meet” with the high-flying Wolves. And for Minnesota, with a game at New Orleans and the “Twin Towers” up next, it’s not too hard to imainge the visitors getting caught “looking ahead” to that one.

I think the numbers and the overall situation point to the under as the correct move in this particular contest.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is the over Magic/Hornets (6:05 EST).

For a number of different reasons, I think this number is just a little low.

The Magic come in “firing on all cylinders” to open the season, now 4-1 and having won three straight, most recently a 114-87 smoke-job of the Spurs on Friday.

The Hornets have alternated wins and losses this year and will be eager to return to the winners circle after a lacklustre 109-93 setback to the Rockets on Friday. 

So far in the early going Orlando is second in the league in scoring with an average of 118 PPG, while ranked 20th in scoring defense in conceding 107.2 per contest. Evan Fournier led the charge against the Spurs with 25 points. The Magic are second in the league in field goal percentage with 49.8 percent collectively.

Charlotte is averaging just 99.2 PPG thus far, while allowing 99.6. Kemba Walker leads the team with 22 points and 5.8 assists per game, while Dwight Howard is averaging 14.4 points and 17.6 boards per contest.

The Hornets though have seen the total go over the number in 22 of their last 38 against poor defensive clubs which allow 106-plus points per contest. Also note that Orlando has seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of its last seven after three or more consecutive SU victories.

This number is just a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:05 EST).

Houston is 5-1 and comes in off a big 109-93 win at Charlotte just last night. Memphis will look to take advantage of a tired and complacent Rockets team and build off its latest 96-91 victory at home over Dallas on Thursday. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the Grizz have to be liking their chances, as note that Memphis scored the 98-90 road win over the Rockets back on October 23rd.

Houston averages 105.8 PPG and concedes 102.8. With last night’s victory at Charlotte, the Rockets are already 4-0 on the road to start the year. Can anyone say letdown spot here? Not surprisingly, James Harden is leading the charge with 26.4 PPG, while Eric Gordon contributes 24.6. 

Memphis averages 100.4 PPG and concdes just 95.2. Marc Gasol averages 25 points and 10.8 boards per game, while Mike Conley adds 19.4 points and 4.2 assists per night. 

With a night off before a “cream puff” at home against Philadelphia, it’s not too hard to imagine the Rockets also getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. 

I’m banking on the Grizzlies taking advantage. Play on Memphis.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH is on the over Rockets/Hornets (7:05 EST).

The 4-1 Houston Rockets are in Charlotte to take on the 2-2 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

The Rockets bounced back from their first setback of the year to take down Philadelphia 105-104 on the road on Wednesday, while on the same night Charlotte was busy laying the smack down on Denver, 110-93. Houston took both meetings between the clubs last season.

In Houston’s one point win on Wednesday, Eric Gordon nailed a three-pointer as time expired for the victory. 

The Rockets were sloppy, turning the ball over 19 times, but sharp from the charity stripe, going 21 of 24. So far Houston averages 105.8 PPG, while allowing 102.8. James Harden leads the nightly charge with 26.4 PPG and 9.6 assists, while Gordon adds 24.6 PPG. 

Charlotte on the other hand is already 2-0 at home to open the year. The Hornets have so far averaged 100.8 PPG and allowed 97.3 in the early going. Frank Kaminsky had 20 points off the bench to lead all scorers in the Hornets most recent victory. Note that veteran Dwight Howard has been dominating early, averaging 13.3 points and 17.8 boards per game. 

It’s interesting to note that Houston has seen the total go over the number in 14 of its last 25 against good defensive clubs which allow 98 points or less per contest, while Charlotte has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 30 of its last 46 after a win by ten points or more. 

I’m expecting a more wide open affair than what the bookmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (8:00 EST).

The 1-3 Atlanta Hawks are in Chicago to take the 0-3 Bulls and in my opinion, all signs point to a cover for the visiting side.

The Hawks opened the year with a win but have since dropped three straight, most recently a 104-93 setback at Miami on Monday. The Bulls can empathize, as they’ve lost three straight as well, most recently a 119-112 setback on the road in Cleveland. 

So far ATL is ranked 21st in scoring in the early going with 103.3 PPG, while ranked 20th in scoring defense in conceding 110. Kent Bazemore and Taurean Prince each had 20 points in the Hawks most recent setback. 

Chicago is averaging 96.3 PPG, while allowing 107.7. Justin Holiday had 25 points in the Bulls’ most recent loss. 

I’ll point out that ATL is 4-1 ATS in its last five agains the Central division, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after allowing 100 points or more in its previous contest and just 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Eastern Conference. 

Mirotic and Portis are still out for Chicago, making the Hawks the deeper overall team tonight. I like Atlanta to take advantage of that fact and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. 

Good luck…Larry

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

With a game at Golden State up next, I think the Wizards leave everything on the floor tonight as the team tries to move to 4-0 to open a season for the first time since 1974. 

Washington most recently defeated Denver 109-104 on Monday, while the Lakers enter off a 119-112 setback at home to New Orleans on Sunday.

So far the Wizards are averaging 115 PPG this year. Bradley Beal averages 23.3 PPG, while John Wall averages 24.3 PPG and 10.0 assists. Forward Otto Porter addes 18.3 points and 9.0 boards. 

The Lakers struggled with the Pelicans’ big men and they’ll have their hands full again tonight. All eyes will once again be on LaVar Ball for LA, he’s so far averaging 9.4 points, 8 boards and 12 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that the Lakers are just 14-27 ATS in their last 41 against good offensive teams which score 106-plus points per contest, while the Wizards are 20-16 ATS in their last 36 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per game.

Wall and Beal are on a mission right now and won’t be “looking past” the Lakers today. Instead, this is a golden opportunity for Washington before a tough game on Friday night in Golden State. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:05 EST).

The Pacers are primed for a letdown here after their epic 130-107 beatdown win over the Wolves as a ten point dog on the road last night.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the 1-2 Thunder today, who come into this one off consecutive losses, including a 115-113 setback to Minnesota in their latest.

The Thunder actually had 38 points in the fourth quarter in the loss against the Wolves, but it wasn’t enough after a shaky start to the contest. Russell Westbrook had 31 points in that one. Paul George though will be looking to do some damage against his former team though and after posting just 14 points in the setback to Minnesota. 

I’ll point out though that Indiana is just 5-12-1 ATS in its last 18 when playing on zero days rest, while the OKC Thunder are 7-1 ATS in their last eight against the Eastern conference. 

Indiana has allowed an average of 119 points so far this year and it comes in contented after last night’s upset win. The Thunder on the other hand will be eager for a big performance after a slow start to the season. No need to overthink this one, play on OKC.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (7:35 EST).

Chicago gave Cleveland more of a fight than expected last night, but the Cavs would pull away down the stretch for the 119-112 victory in the end.

Brooklyn also played last night and it’ll limp home after falling 125-121 in Orlando.

LeBron James is not surprisingly leading the way so far for the Cavs this year with 25 points, 8.3 boards and 6.3 assists per game. Kevin Love chips in 17 points and 10.3 boards per contest. Cleveland wasn’t the best in back-to-back scenarios last season, going just 7-11, but clearly it catches a break here facing the lowly Nets, who also come in off a game just last night.

The Nets are second in the league in scoring offense and second to last in scoring defense. Brooklyn’s struggles in back-to-back games was much worse that the Cavs last year as it would go just 1-13 in such instances, allowing an average of 115.6 points in those contests.

I’ll point out as well that Cleveland is 9-2-1 ATS in its last 12 on the road, while Brooklyn is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven home games against a team with a winning road record.

I think the Cavs’ veteran experience in the second game of the back to back situation proves to be the difference tonight. Lay the points with confidence, play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 1-2 New Orleans Pelicans will look to use their size to score an upset win over the smaller 2-1 Portland Trailblazers today.

New Orleans comes in off a 119-112 road win over the Lakers on Saturday, while the Blazers look poised for another letdown here in my opinion after their first loss of the season in a 113-110 setback at Milwaukee. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then the Pelicans have to be liking their chances tonight as they’d go on to take three of four in the series last season.

So far New Orleans is averaging 110 PPG, while allowing 114.3. Anthony Davis is averaging 31.7 PPG and 17.3 RPG. DeMarcus Cousins is posting 28.3 points and 11.7 boards per contest. 

Portland is so far averaging 116 points and conceding just 95. Damian Lillard is averaging 23.7 points and 5.3 assists per game while CJ McCollum has posted 27 PPG thus far. 

I’ll also point out that the Blazers are a poor 2-6 ATS in their last eight against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest, while the Pelicans are 23-20 ATS in their last 43 in the same position.

The duo of Davis and Cousins is a considerable one and now it appears as if their supporting cast is finally starting to wake up after the convincing road win over the up-start Lakers. The Blazers got out to a quick start, but looked exposed in the loss to the Bucks.

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for New Orleans to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on under Raptors/Spurs (8:30 EST).

The 2-0 SU/ATS Toronto Raptors have seen the Over/under go 2-0 so far this year, while the 2-0 SU and 1-1 ATS San Anontio Spurs have seen it go 1-1. 

This is the start of a tough six game road trip for the Raptors and suffice it to say, I think the team is going to struggle with offensive consistency in this one. 

Toronto most recently pulled away for a relatively simple 128-94 win over Philadelphia on Saturday, while San Antonio topped the Bulls 87-77 in its most recent action.

So far the Raptors are averaging 122.5 PPG, a number which is clearly unsustainable. Toronto has also looked sharp defensively in conceding just 97 PPG. That’s likely not a number the team can maintain for too much longer either, but regardless, it’s still impressive. So far it’s been DeMar DeRozan leading the charge and he had 30 points in his team’s latest victory.

LaMarcus Aldridge had 28 points and ten boards in the Spurs’ win over Chicago. San Antonio is still playing without leader Kawhi Leonard, which doesn’t bode well for the Spurs in a long-term scenario. Note that the Spurs are averaging just 97 PPG through two games, while allowing just 88. 

Additionally I’ll point out that despite its early high-scoring games, Toronto has in fact seen the total go under the number in 35 of its last 63 as an underdog and in 55 of its last 94 on the road overall, while San Antonio has seen the total go under the posted number in five of its last seven road games.

I think the shift in venue throws a “monkey wrench” into the Raptors offensive consistency and I expect the home side to put added emphasis onto the defensive end of the floor with its star player sidelined with injury. This number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over Grizzlies/Rockets (8:05 EST).

Two of the top teams in the West collide on Monday night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting some offensive fireworks.

The Memphis Grizzlies are 2-0 ASU/ATS, while the Houston Rockets are 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS. So far the Grizz have seen the Over/Under go 0-2, while the Rockets have seen it go 1-2. 

Memphis looks primed for a big run in my opinion after its confidence boosting 111-101 home win over the Warriors on Saturday. 

The Rockets come in off a 107-91 win over the Mavericks on Saturday and will also be looking to keep the goods times rolling.

Note that these two teams split four meetings last year, with Houston posting a 123-106 win in the most recent meeting here back on March 4th. 

The Grizz used a 32-20 third quarter to secure their win over the defending champs. Big man Marc Gasol had 34 points and 14 boards. Note that Memphis would go 10 of 27 from range as well.

So far Memphis averages 107 PPG, while ranked seventh on the defensive side in conceding 96 PPG.

That defense though is about to be tested by the high-flying Rockets, who average 111.3 PPG. The Grizzlies do catch a break in facing Houston’s mediocre 15th ranked defense which concedes 104 PPG. Note that James Harden has averaged 27.7 PPG thus far.

I’ll point out as well that Memphis has seen the total go over the number in 21 of its last 33 off an upset win as an underdog, while Houston has seen the total go over the number in 25 of its last 35 following a divisional contest.

For all the reasons listed above, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick in my Superstar Triple Play is on the under 76ers/Pistons (7:05 EST).

The 76ers are going to be pretty hungry here as they come into this one winless, looking to get off the schneid and break their 0-3 slide. 

Conversely, I think the Pistons come in a bit complacent after they just climbed back above .500 with a win against the Knicks on Saturday. 

So far Philadelphia has struggled on both sides of the ball, averaging just 100.3 PPG, while allowing 116.7. Jerryd Bayless averages 15.7 points, as does Ben Simmons. Big man Joel Embiid adds 14.5 points plus 13.5 boards per contest.

Detroit also struggles offensively, averaging only 101.2 PPG. The Pistons have been better on the defensive end, ranked sixth overall in conceding 102.4 per game. Tobias Harris leads the way with 24.3 points and 6.3 boards per game, while Reggie Jackson addes 16.7 points and 6.7 assists per game. 

I’ll point out as well that Philadelphia has seen the total go under the number in 19 of its last 34 following a divisional contest, while Detroit has seen the total go under the number in 14 of its last 21 home games. 

I think Detroit will look to “control” this one while on offense with a lot of half court sets, a tactic which I believe will help result in pushing this total under the number once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

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

Chris Paul is out for the Rockets for 2 to 4 weeks, but I don’t think that’s going to matter in the end. 

The Mavs look horrible, losing their opener 117-111 at home and then falling 93-88 to the Kings as a 6 point favorite just last night.

Houston has won two in a row after beating Sacramento 105-100 on Wednesday. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the home side has to be liking its chances tonight, as the Rockets would go on to take all four games in the series last season.

Depth seems to be a major issue early in Dallas and the second game of a back-to-back doesn’t bode well for Dirk Nowitzki and company (note that the Mavs are a poor 6-11 ATS in their last 17 off an upset loss as a favorite.)

Houston knocked off Golden State by 1 point on Opening Night and then battled from behind to beat Sacramento as well. So far the Rockets have averaged 113.5 PPG, while allowing 110.5. James Harden led the way last year and so far this season he’s also leading the team with 27 points, 4.5 board and 9.5 assists per night. 

Note that the Rockets hit 27 of 29 free throws in the victory over the Kings as well.

Additionally I’ll point out that Dallas is just 1-5-1 ATS in its last seven against the Western Conference, while Houston is 3-1 ATS in its last four when playing on two dasy of rest.

I like Harden to push the pace from start to finish and for the home side to pull away for the comfortable ATS cover once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:05 EST).

While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I do definitely feel this is a few too many points to be giving up to what will be a highly focused and prepared home side.

Besides, the Warriors come to town off a satisfying and harder than expected 128-120 win at New Orleans just last night. 

Note that Golden State has been bad in this spot for bettors over the last few years as well, going just 14-19 ATS in its last 33 after allowing 115 points or more. 

Golden State was pretty good in the second game of back-to-backs last year, but the Grizzlies are a tough home team. In its win over the Pelicans most recently, Memphis would go on to force 18 turnovers. Mike Conley went on to post 27 points. 

Additionally note that the Grizzlies have played well against the tough Pacific division, going 4-1 ATS in their last five against it.

I think the Memphis defense keeps the home side competitive late, so grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Toronto Raptors (7:35 EST).

I’m expecting a rout from start to finish in this one.

Despite finishing among the best in the East the last few years, I think that the Raptors are being severely undervalued in this spot. 

Last season the Raptors were tenth in scoring with 106.9 per contest, while eighth on the defensive side in conceding 102.6. 

The 76ers were one of the worst teams in the league last year, but they should be vastly improved this season with a young core of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons and Markelle Fultz.  

The sky is the limit for this young Philadelphia team, but clearly it’s going to take more time for it to reach its full potential.

With Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan leading the show in Toronto though, the time is NOW for the Raptors. Note that Jonas Valanciunas had 23 points and 15 boards in his team’s 117-100 win over the visiting Bulls on Opening night. 

Embiid is out for this one, as the 76ers work him back into game shape after sitting out most of last season with injury, meaning that Valanciunas has a major advantage tonight.

I’m banking on Toronto’s depth to be too much for the younger 76ers to handle down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (8:05 EST).

Jeff Teague replaces Ricky Rubio as point guard in Minnesota this year. Rubio returns to Minnesota tonight as part of the Utah Jazz. 

Minnesota head coach Tom Thibodeau brought over Taj Gibson and Jimmy Butler to the Wolves as well in the offseason. 

Minneosta now looks to punch its first win of the year after falling 107-99 at San Antonio in its season opener on Wednesday. Andrew Wiggins had 26 points, while Karl Anthony Towns had 18 points and 13 boards:

"We didn't close out the way we needed to against a team like that," Thibodeau said. "You have to play, particularly down the stretch. We just have to do better. We didn't have a lot of turnovers, but the ones we had were very costly. That's something we have to take a look at."

I think the Jazz come in a bit complacent here after their big 106-96 opening night win agaisnt the Nuggets on Wednesday. Big man Rudy Gobert was a standout with 18 points and ten boards. 

Minnesota though plays with revenge tonight after Utah took took three of four meetings a year ago. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Utah is just 22-23 ATS in its last 45 following a victory by ten points or more, while Minnesota is 45-31 ATS in its last 76 against a team with a winning record. 

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is on the under Knicks/Thunder (8:05 EST).

New York is in a complete rebuild after trading Carmelo Anthony to the Thunder in the offseason. Derrick Rose is gone as well from The Big Apple. Enes Canter was signed in the offseason and Doug McDermott came over in the Anthony trade. Kristaps Porzingis will be the “go to” guy in New York now.

Last season the Knicks were tied for 18th in the league in scoring with 104.3 PPG, while ranked 23rd in scoring defense in allowing 108.

The Thunder averaged 106.6 PPG and allowed 105.8. Russell Westbrook posted an amazing season with 31.6 points, 10.7 boards and 10.4 assists per game. He’ll be joined by Anthony and Paul George, a unit which is expected to compete with the Warriors once it’s all said and done. 

Both teams have new faces and new systems to incorporate. While Porzingis is now the face of the Knicks, one has to wonder where the team is going to find consistent offense now that Anthony is gone?

OKC has the potential to be a championship team, but it could also be a big disaster, with three alpha males unable to form proper chemistry. 

I’ll point out that the under 3-0-1 in New York’s last four road games, while OKC has seen the total dip below the number in two of its last three at home.

This number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Phoenix Suns (10:00 EST).

Portland was 41-41 last year and got swept in the first round by the Warriors.

Phoenix was just 24-58 and missed the postseason for a seventh consecutive year. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Suns after the Blazers took three of four meetings last season, including in the last one, a 130-117 home win on April 1st.

The Blazers averaged 107.9 PPG last season and conceded 108.5. Damian Lillard averaged 27 PPG and 5.9 assists, while CJ McCollum chipped in 23. 

The Suns averaged 107.7 PPG and allowed 113.3, which was last in the league. Phoenix added Josh Jackson, Mike James, Alec Peters and Davon Reed in the offseason. Eric Bledsoe led the nightly charge with 21.1 PPG last year, while Devin Booker averaged 22.1 PPG. 

Phoenix won’t have McCollum in the ilne-up though due to a one game suspension, which I think will be a big difference maker on Opening Night.

I like the Suns to hold serve on their own floor and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:30 EST).

Minnesota was 31-51 last year, but is expected to make big strides this season with the continued development of star players Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns. 

The Wolves also brought in veteran guard Jimmy Butler from Chicago, who looks re-focused and in great shape coming out of the preseason. Last year the Wolves averaged 105.6 PPG and allowed 106.7.

The Spurs averaged 105.3 PPG and allowed 98.1. San Antonio should once again be a strong defensive club, but it lacks offensive firepower. The team signed Rudy Gay, but Kawhi Leonard is expected to miss tonight’s game.

San Antonio signed big man LaMarcus Aldridge to a long-term deal, but along with Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, the Spurs are certainly not getting any younger right now.

With Parker and Leonard out of the line-up for the home side, I have a hard time seeing the Spurs keeping pace with the high-flying Wolves. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Milwaukee Bucks (7:30 EST).

Boston lost its Opening Night game in Cleveland last night and it also lost All Star Gordon Hayward for the season after he suffered a gruesome leg injury.

Now the deflated C’s have to retiurn home and try to muster up the same energy to face a Bucks team that can smell the blood in the water. 

Milwaukee made the playoffs last year and then lost in six games to the Raptors in the first round. The Bucks didn’t make too many changes in the offseason

Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to have a massive year for the Bucks. He’s joined by Jabari Parker and Greg Monroe and in my opinion, they have a very legitimate shot at taking this one outright.

Kyrie Irving looked pretty good last night for his new team, but with the knowledge that Hayward is now out for the year and coming off the setback in Cleveland, I think this absolutely sets up as a classic “letdown” spot for the Celtics right out of the gates here.

No need to overthink this one in my opinion, I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Houston Rockets (10:35 EST).

Houston won 55 games last year and finished as the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. James Harden averaged 29.1 PPG and posted an NBA best 11.2 assists and finished second in the MVP race behind Russell Westrbrook.

Harden has some big time help in the form of All-Star point guard Chis Paul and now the Rockets will look to even better their results in 2017/18.

And what better test than against the best in the league? The Warriors are back on top after defeating the Cavaliers in five games last season.

Golden State didn’t do too much to its lineup and is once again expected to contend for the NBA title once it’s all said and done. 

I’ll point out though that Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last five on the road, while Golden State is interestingly just 1-2 ATS in its last three Opening Night games.

Houston is out for revenge here after faling in five games to Golden State in the conference finals last year, except this time it has arguably the best point guard in the World running the show. 

While I’m not calling for an outright upset, I do definitely believe this is a few too many points to be giving up here. Play on Houston.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (9:00 EST).

With their backs against the wall, I think the Cavaliers will at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with what I feel to be a very healthy spread afforded to them in this one.

Down 3-0, the Cavs came out like gang-busters and never looked in their big Game 4 victory and clearly there won’t be any change in game-plan tonight.

Cleveland will have to throw everything it has at the Warriors once again if it has any hopes of taking this one back to its own floor. The Cavs though finally solved the Warriors defense after setting several offensive records in Game 4.

One of the biggest differences though was the play of the Cavs role players, who finally stepped up and made their presence known.

Am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money line?” I’m not. I simply feel that the Cavs made some big time adjustments in Game 4 and I believe they’re going to take what they learned and make it extremely difficult on the Warriors again tonight.

I’ll also point out that Cleveland is 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 115 points or more, while Golden State is just 1-5 ATS this year after a loss by ten points or more and only 5-7 ATS this season after allowing 115 points or more.

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

Good luck…Larry