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

Clearly the Warriors are the superior team, they come into this one having won five straight, including covering the spread in their last four as well. 

The last time Golden State faced Sacramento, it would smash the Kings 109-86 on February 15th. 

So am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money-line” as well? Of course not.

I simply feel that this sets up as a “trap” game for the Warriors, who will next face the Grizzlies, the Rockets and Spurs respectively. It’s not too hard to imagine the home side taking the foot off the gas a little bit tonight as it focuses on its much tougher upcoming schedule.

The Kings have struggled with offensive consistency since making the DeMarcus Cousins trade, but note that they’ve excelled in this spot for bettors this season, going 8-5 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 11-4 ATS after three or more consecutive losses.

And it’s interesting to note that Golden State is just 3-7 ATS this season when playing with two days rest and only 10-16 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per contest. 

For all the reason’s listed above, I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Sweet 16 O/U 33-Club Play is the over Wisconsin/Florida (9:59 EST).

The No. 8 Wisconsin Badgers get ready to battle the No. 4 Florida Gators in the second day of the Sweet 16 on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I’m expecting this one to eclipse the posted number as the game comes down the stretch. 

Wisconsin comes in off a confidence building 65-62 win over defending champion Villanova, while Florida smashed Virginia 65-39 last Saturday. 

Nigel Hayes had 19 points and eight boards for the Badgers last time out. Wisconsin has now won five of its last six games overall.

The Gators average 77.9 PPG and that offense will be tested by Wisconsin’s tough defense, but I think Florida will have it chances. Make sure to keep your eyes on Devin Robinson, who had 14 points and 11 boards last time out.

I’ll point out as well that the Badgers have seen the total go over the number in 15 of 26 against teams with winning records this year, while Florida has seen the total fly above the posted number in two of its last three against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest.

Both teams are confident right now. Each will be looking to get the other out of its “comfort” zone. These teams are very evenly matched, but fortune favors the bold. I’m expecting a bit more of a wide open affair in this one and for this total to indeed sneak over as it comes down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 30-41 New Orleans Pelicans are in Houston to take on the 49-22 Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

New Orleans comes in off a 95-82 win over Memphis, while Houston nipped by Denver 125-124 in its latest action. 

James Harden had 39 points and 11 assists in the Rockets most recent win. 

DeMarcuas Cousins had 41 points and 17 boards in the Pelicans victory over the Grizzlies. 

I’ll point out though that New Orleans is just 6-8 ATS against the division this year and only 3-5 ATS after allowing 90 points or less, while Houston is 17-7 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 24-11 ATS against teams with losing records.

I think the Pelicans finally stumble as they hit the road and Houston pulls away for the comfortable ATS cover down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 46-24 Cleveland Cavaliers are in Charlotte to take on the 32-39 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

These teams have played twice this year and the Cavs have won both, most recently a 121-109 decision on December 31st. 

But Cleveland has lost two of its last three, while Charlotte comes in having won three straight. Suffice it to say, I think the Cavs are the much “hungrier” team today, especially the way LeBron James called out the rest of his team after the disturbing loss in Denver last time out. 

Newcomer Deron Williams was a stand out in that one with 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting. 

Charlotte comes in off a 109-102 win over the Magic on Wednesday, led by 19 points from Terrence Ross. 

I’ll point out though that Cleveland is 3-1-1 ATS in its last five after scoring 100 points or more in its previous contest, while Charlotte is just 4-10 ATS in its last 14 in front of the home town crowd.

The Cavs have dominated this series this year and I don’t expect anything to change. Lay the points with confidence as James and company come in razor focused and lay the hammer down from start to finish.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SWEET 16 PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina (7:10 EST).

The Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to battle the North Carolina Tar Heels on Friday night on the second day of the Sweet 16 and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the favorite.

Butler comes in off a 75-65 win over MTSU and it’s now won six of its last eight, while UNC is off a 72-65 win over Arkansas and it’s now won eight of its last ten.

The Bulldogs average 76.2 PPG and allow 68.2. Kelan Martin was a stand out in the last round with 19 points. Butler has looked sharp defensively down the stretch, but it now faces one of the nation’s top offenses and suffice it to say, I think it’s going to have its hands full tonight.

UNC averages 85.1 PPG and concedes 70.3 (note though that the Tar Heels have averaged 88.6 PPG on 48.8 percent shooting and allowed just 70.0 in all neutral site games this year). Kennedy Meeks had 16 points to lead four other players in double figures last time out.

I’ll point out that Butler is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven following an ATS victory, while UNC is 20-7-2 ATS in its last 29 neutral site games when playing the role of favorite.

The Tar Heels have been especially sharp on the defensive end of late, allowing just 62.4 PPG over their last nine. Lay the points with confidence, play on North Carolina.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SWEET 16 O/U LEGEND is the under Purdue/Kansas (9:35 EST).

The No. 15 Purdue Boilermakers get ready to battle the No. 3 Kansas Jayhawks in the Sweet 16 on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Purdue advanced after beating Iowa State 80-76 on Saturday, while Kansas reached this point after getting the better of Michigan State 90-70 on Sunday. 

Vince Edwards led the Boilermakers last time out with 21 points and ten boards. Overall Purdue shot 49.4 percent from the floor. The Boilermakers have an above average offense which posts 80.1 PPG. The Boilermakers are also strong defensively in conceding just 67.5. Caleb Swanigan leads all players with 18.5 points, 12.6 boards and three assists per game. 

Kansas is ranked 15th in the nation in scoring with an average of 83.4 PPG, while ranked 173rd on the defensive end in conceding 72 per night. Frank Mason III leads the nightly charge with 20.8 points, 4.1 boards and 5.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that Purdue has seen the total go under the number in four of its last five after scoring 80 points or more, while Kansas has seen the total stay below the posted number in four of its last six as a neutral court favorite in the 3.5 to six points range.

Both teams are fairly thin after the starting five, so adjustments are going to be key in this one. I’m expecting a pretty intense game and for this one to sneak under the number once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Suns/Nets (7:35 EST).

The 22-49 Phoenix Suns are in Brooklyn to take on the 14-57 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it. 

These are a couple of the worst teams in the league. Neither has anything to play for as far as the standings are concerned. Suffice it to say, I’m not expecting a lot of defense played as each of these bottom feeders pushes the pace from start to finish, resulting in what I believe will be very high-scoring affair.

The Suns come in having lost five straight, most recently a 112-97 setback at Miami on Tuesday. The Nets had dropped five of seven before getting the better of the Pistons 98-96 at home on Tuesday. 

When these teams played in Phoenix back on November 12th, the Nets won 122-104.

The Suns have struggled because of injury, but still come in sitting in tenth in the league in scoring with 107.1 PPG. Phoenix though has struggled on the defensive end all year, conceding an average of 112.5 per night. Eric Bledsoe leads the team with 21.1 points, 4.8 boards and 6.3 assists per game. 

The Nets average 105.7 PPG, but are last on the defensive end in conceding 113.6 per night. Big man Brook Lopez leads the nightly charge with 20.8 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Phoenix has seen the total go over the number in eight of 13 this year after three or more consecutive losses, while Brooklyn has seen the total sail above the posted number in 20 of 28 non-conference games and in 15 of 23 against good offensive teams which score 106 plus points per contest.

For all the reasons listed above, I’m expecting this one to fly OVER once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (10:30 EST).

The 27-43 New York Knicks are in Utah to take on the 43-28 Jazz on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Knicks are now officially looking ahead to next season with nothing but pride to play for the rest of the way. The Jazz on the other hand are trying to hold on to fourth place in the West playoffs, a spot which would give them home floor advantage in the first round. 

New York comes in off two straight losses, losing at home to Brooklyn on Thursday and then starting this trip with a 114-105 seback at the Clippers on Monday. The Knicks play a game tomorrow night, so could also be caught looking ahead here.

Utah comes home in a foul mood after dropping three straight to close a four-game road trip. Gordon Hayward was a bright spot with 38 points in the most recent setback.

I’ll point out though that New York is just 1-2 ATS this year against good defensive teams which concede 98 points or less per contest, while Utah is 12-7 ATS this season against poor defensive clubs which allow 106 points per contest.

With a big game against the Clippers on Saturday (the team sitting a half game back in fifth spot in the West), the Jazz can ill afford to drop another “gimme.” This has essentially become a “must win” game for Utah, so lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 37-33 Atlanta Hawks are in Washington to take on the 42-28 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Atlanta comes in with zero momentum, it’s lost four straight, most recently a 105-90 setback at Charlotte on Monday. The Wizards can empathize, they’ve also been scuffling of late, having lost two in a row and four of their last five, most recently a 110-102 setback at Boston on Monday night.

Washington has already won two of three in the season series with Atlanta, including a 112-86 victory on the road in the last matchup back on January 27th.

Atlanta averages 103.4 PPG and concedes 104.5. Paul Millsap leads all scorers with 18.1 points, plust 7.7 boards and 3.8 assists per game. 

The Wizards average 108.8 PPG and concede 106.8. John Wall leads the nightly charge with 22.9 points, 10.8 assists and 1.96 steals per game. 

I’ll point out though that Atlanta is just 3-11 ATS against the division this year and only 8-10 ATS after a loss by ten points or more (also only 2-7 ATS this year after three or more consecutive losses), while Washington is 21-16 ATS at home this season and 16-12 ATS against teams with winning records.

Neither team instills much confidence, but the Wizards are a strong 27-10 at the Verison Center. Atlanta has been without Millsap in the lineup the last two games and I think that once again hurts the Hawks tonight. Look for the Wizards to find a way to get the job done, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:00 EST).

The 26-44 Philadelphia 76ers are in Oklahoma City to take on the 40-30 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The 76ers just blew a 15 point halftime lead in a 112-109 setback in OT to Orlando on Monday, while the Thunder had their five-game win skein snapped with a 111-95 home loss to the Warriors later that same evening.

If history is any precedence though, then OKC has to be loving its chances today as it’s taken 15 straight in the series, including a 103-97 victory in the most recent, back on October 26th.

Despite its recent “up-tick” in play, Philadelphia still ranks 24th in the league in scoring with an average of 102.4 PPG. The 76ers are also below average defensively in conceding 107.6 a night. 

OKC averages 106.7 PPG and concedes 106. Russell Westbrook leads the way with 31.4 points, 10.5 boards and 10.3 assists per game.

I think Philadelphia has a predictable letdown here after its shocking collapse in its last game. The Thunder had been averaging 112 points during their five-game win streak before losing to the Warriors. Suffice it to say, I think Westbrook and company take out their frustrations on their lowly visitors and pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS victory. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My NIT QUARTER-FINALS TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the over Illinois/UCF (7:00 EST).

The UCF Knights get ready to battle the Illinois Fighting Illini in the semi finals of the NIT tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will end up as a higher-scoring affair. 

Illinois has looked dominant through the first two rounds, while UCF had to fight to the bitter end in each of its victories.

These are two battle tested teams and all signs point to an all out slugfest. 

UCF comes in off a hard-fought, come-from-behind 63-62 win over Illinois State. The Golden Knights trailed by 13 at half time, but came all the way back to claim the 1-point victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting Central Florida to carry that second half momentum over into this one.

The Fighting Illini have yet to be tested, cruising to a 71-56 win over Boise State in the second round. Tracy Abrams shot 55 percent in the victory, netting 18 points. Illinois would go on to hit 41 percent from range. It also tallied 17 assists, while only making ten turnovers.

I’ll point out that UCF has seen the total go over the number in five of seven road games this year when the total is set between 130 and 134.5, while Illinois has seen the total eclipse the posted number in four of six this year vs. good defensive teams that concede 64 points or less per contest.

I think Illinois pushes the pace of this one from the outset in an attempt to keep the Knights on their heels. This number is just a little low in my opinion, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is on the under Grizzlies/Pelicans (8:05 EST).

The 40-30 Memphis Grizzlies are in New Orleans to take on the 29-41 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this total is just a little bit high.

The Grizzlies come in rolling, most recently beating San Antonio 104-96 at home on Saturday, their fourth straight victory. New Orleans is also surging, it’s won four of its last five, including a 123-109 decision at home over Minnesota on Sunday. 

Memphis has taken two of three in the season series thus far, including a tight 95-91 victory in the most recent on February 15th. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score here as well as these two teams continue to battle down the stretch.

Despite the recent “up-tick” in play, note that Memphis still only averages 101.4 PPG. The Grizz make up for it on the other end in conceding just 100.4. Big man Marc Gasol leads the nightly charge with 20.1 points and 6.2 boards per game. 

The Pelicans average only 103.6 PPG, while conceding 106. Big man Anthony Davis leads everyone with 27.8 points, 11.8 boards, 1.21 steals and 2.26 blocks per game. 

I’ll point out that Memphis has seen the total go under the number in seven of 11 already this year after three or more consecutive wins, while New Orleans has seen the total go below the posted number in 14 of 22 as a favorite this season.

I don’t think this is going to be a wide open affair, but rather expect to see a lot of half cour sets while on offense. A slower paced game = less points in this case, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOP TOTAL is the under Richmond/TCU.

The Richmond Spiders get ready to battle the TCU Horned Frogs in the quarterfinals of the NIT on Tuesday night and in my opinion, this one has defensive battle written all over it. 

Richmond got by Oakland at home in the last round, while TCU needed OT to beat Iowa 94-92 on the road on Sunday. 

The Spiders average 74.4 PPG and concede 71.6. Note that in its opening round win over Alabama, the defense looked sharp in the 71-64 victory.

The Horned Frogs average 74.2 PPG and concede 70.6. Vladimir Brodziansky leads everyone with 13.7 points, 5.6 boards and 2.2 blocks per game. 

I’ll point out that Richmond has seen the total go under the number in six of ten non-conference games this year and in seven of 12 on the road, while TCU has seen the total stay below the posted number in seven of 11 this season after scoring 80 points or more, in seven of 13 non-conference games and in 11 of 18 in front of the home town crowd this season.

TCU is playing without its starting point guard and comes back home after an exhausting OT road win. Richmond’s strength is on the defensive side of the ball and I expect the visitors to play with added emphasis on that end of the floor tonight. 

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Warriors/Thunder (8:00 EST).

The 55-14 Golden State Warriors are in Oklahoma City to take on the 40-29 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

Golden State comes in off a 117-93 destruction of Milwaukee on Saturday, while Oklahoma City smashed Sacramento 110-94 earlier the same day.

Oklahoma City plays with revenge today as Golden State has so far taken all three meetings this season. 

When Kevin Durant went down the Warriors lost three straight. Durant is still out, but since then Golden State has reeled off three straight victories. Stephen Curry had 28 points in the win over the Bucks and Golden State shot 60 percent collectively from the floor. 

The Warriors own the No. 1 offense, averaging 116.12 PPG, while ranked in the middle of the pack on the defensive end in conceding 104.9. 

The Thunder average 106.9 PPG and concede 106. OKC has won five straight and is led by the Triple Double Machine, Russell Westbrook, who averages 31.7 points, 10.3 assists and 10.5 boards per game. 

When these clubs met last month, Westbrook had 47 points in his team’s 130-114 home loss. With Durant on the bench for this one, look for Westbrook to once again try to put on a show in front of his ex-teammate and now bitter rival. 

OKC has in fact averaged 115 points over its last six games. Facing a now confident Warriors team that’s looking to make a statement of their own with their wounded superstar urging them on from the sidelines, all signs point to another high-scoring shootout.

The over is 11-4 in the last 15 between these teams in Oklahoma City. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* CBI TOURNEY SIDE OF THE YEAR is on George Washington (8:00 EST).

The George Washington Colonials are getting ready to battle the Illinois-Chicago Flames in the second round of the CBI.

Last year the Colonials won the NIT title. George Washington opened the CBI with a win over Toledo, while Illinois-Chicago earned a slim two-point win over Stony Brook in the round of 16.

The Colonials had a tough non-conference schedule and dropped five games to Georgia, UAB, Penn State, Florida State and Miami, but they’d also pick up quality victories over Harvard, South Florida, Temple and UCF. Tyler Cavanaugh had 29 points in the victory over Toledo.

The Flames finished the season three games below .500, but still managed to earn a postseason birth. After getting through the first round though, I’m expecting a letdown tonight. Dominique Matthews was a standout with a game-high 21 points in the win over the Seawolves.

Illinois Chicago is just happy to be here, while George Washington would love to add the CBI tournament title to its resume after winning the NIT last season and I’m expecting this experienced team to do more than enough to come away with the comfortable ATS victory tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on South Caroilna (8:40 EST).

The South Carolina Gamecocks are ready to battle the Duke Blue Devils on Sunday night in the second round of the NCAA Tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

South Carolina smashed Marquette 93-73 in the opening round, while Duke got by Troy 87-65. The Gamecocks average 72.7 PPG this year, but make up for it on the other end by conceding just 64.7. They also rank seventh overall in 3-point defense in allowing just 29.7 percent. Sindarius Thornwell had 29 points in the victory over the Golden Eagles.

Duke has averaged 80.8 PPG this year, while allowing 69.7. Grayson Allen had 21 points in the victory over the Trojans. 

I’lll point out though that South Carolina is 9-5 ATS in its last 14 neutral court games and 8-4 ATS in its last 12 when playing with one or less days rest, while Duke is just 13-16 ATS as a favorite this year and only 7-9 ATS after scoring 80 points or more.

South Carolina’s offense was firing on all cylinders against Marquette and I’m expecting it to carry that momentum over here. The Gamecocks have a fantastic defense as well and while I won’t be so bold as to call for an outright upset, I do think that South Carolina can at the very least, take this one down to the wire and keep it competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Pacers/Raptors (6:05 EST).

The 35-33 Indiana Pacers are in Toronto to take on the 40-29 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Both teams are hungry for victories. The Pacers are fighting for a playoff spot, while the Raptors are fighting to maintain theirs. 

Indiana comes in off a 98-77 victory over Charlotte on Wednesday, while Toronto had dropped three of four before taking down Detroit 87-75 on Friday. 

The Raptors have won seven of the last eight meetings in the series, including a 111-98 victory at home in the most recent matchup back up April 8th, 2016.

Indiana comes in refreshed and ready to roll after three whole nights off. The Pacers average 104.3 PPG and concede 104.9. Paul George leads the nightly charge with 22.4 points and 6.4 boards per game. Note that the Pacers rank eighth overall in knocking down 37 percent of their shots from range.

Toronto averages 106.8 PPG and concedes 103.3. DeMar DeRozan leads everyone with 26.9 points, plus 5.4 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that the Pacers have seen the total go over the number in seven of their last 11 after allowing 90 points or less, while the Raptors have seen the total sail above the posted number in 16 of 24 against teams with winning records and in 20 of 34 in front of the home town crowd thus far.

The regular season is winding down and these two teams will meet three times over the next three weeks. This is an important game and I think we’ll see a more wide open affair, with each pushing the pace from start to finish. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is on the under Wolves/Pelicans (6:05 EST).

The 28-40 Minnesota Timberwolves are in New Orleans to take on the 28-41 Pelicans on Sunday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it. 

Minnesota looks to rebound after two straight losses, while New Orleans looks to keep the momentum rolling after winning three of its last four.

The Wolves need to put the focus back on the defensive side of the ball if they want to get back into the winners circle, in their last two setbacks they’ve given up an average of 120 points. 

New Orleans beat the Rockets 128-112 last time out, led by 30 points, seven assists, six boards and six three-pointers from Solomon Hill. Hill came into that one averaging 6.5 PPG to that point. 

I’ll point out that Minnesota has seen the total go under the number in 12 of 21 this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while New Orleans has seen the total stay below the posted number in ten of 14 this season off an upset win as an underdog.

The Pelicans just held the Rockets to 13 of 40 from range and nobody other than James Harden had more than 13 points for Houston.

I’m expecting an all out war between these two young clubs and for this one to indeed fall under once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* UNDERDOG SUPER SHOCKER is on the Memphis Grizzlies (9:05 EST).

The 52-15 San Antonio Spurs are in Memphis to take on the 39-30 Grizzlies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

San Antonio comes to town off a 110-106 home loss to Portland, while Memphis beat Atlanta 103-91 on Thursday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the Grizzlies have to be loving their chances for an upset today, because in the lone meeting between the clubs earlier in the year, they’d score the 89-74 home victory. 

San Antonio has started to show some signs of fatigue finally, it’s just 2-2 over its last four after winning nine in a row. The Spurs average 106.5 PPG and concede 98.5.

The Grizzlies average just 101.4 PPG, but make up for it on the defensive side in conceding just 98.2. In the win over Atlanta, they’d hold the Hawks to 40 percent shooting. Big man Marc Gasol had 18 points, ten boards and ten assists. 

I’ll point out that San Antonio is just 4-8 ATS this year against the division and only 3-7 ATS when playing on two days rest, while Memphis is 10-7 ATS off an upset win as an underdog and 15-11 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 points or more per contest.

With a much “easier” game at home tomorrow night against the Kings, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors also in some small way getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. 

I like the Grizzlies to battle hard until the final moments, grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SECOND ROUND NCAA SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Gonzaga (5:15 EST).

The No. 1 Gonzaga Bulldogs get ready to battle the No. 8 Northwestern Wildcats on Saturday night in the second round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bulldogs.

Northwestern advanced by upsetting Vanderbilt, led by Bryant McIntosh who poured in 25 points. 

Gonzaga advanced by crushing South Dakota by 20 in the first round. The Bulldogs have now won 33 straight.  Gonzaga features the No. 1 ranked defense, while the offense is ranked 13th. Nigel Williams-Goss has averaged 16.6 points, 5.8 boards, 4.8 assists and 1.7 steals in 33 games this year. 

The Wildcats simply do not have an answer for Williams-Goss, who I’m expecting to have another big game here. 

I’ll point out as well that Northwestern is just 1-2 ATS in its last three against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest, while Gonzaga is 22-8 ATS as a favorite this season.

I think the No. 1 seed sends a message to the rest of the tournament with a full four quarter effort and expect it to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SECOND ROUND NCAA TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the under Wisconsin/Villanova (2:40 EST).

The Wisconsin Badgers get ready to battle the Villanova Wildcats in the second round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

The Badgers advanced by beating Virginia Tech 84-74 on Thursday, while Villanova pulled away for a 76-56 win over St. Mary’s on Thursday. 

Wisconsin averages 72.8 PPG, while conceding just 61.5. Bronson Koenig had 28 points in the opening round victory. 

Villanova averages 77.6 PPG and concedes just 62.6. The Wildcats held Mount St. Mary’s to just 36.8 percent from the floor, including only 5 of 21 from range. Josh Hart leads all scorers with 18.7 points and 6.5 boards per game.

These are two average offenses going head-to-head on Saturday afternoon. This is also two superb defenses battling it out in the second round.

I think points are going to be at a premium as I expect these two defensive oriented clubs to grind it out to a classic, lower-scoring under.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* END-OF-NIGHT BAIL-OUT BLOWOUT is on UCLA (9:55 EST).

The 22-13 Kent State Golden Flashes get ready to battle the 29-4 UCLA Bruins in the first round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the favorite.

Kent State won the MAC Tournament title and the automatic bid to the Big Dance after beating Akron 70-65 on Saturday, while UCLA fell to No. 7 Arizona 86-75 in the Pac-12 Tournament semifinals on Friday. 

The Golden Flashes average 76.9 PPG and concede 72.3. Jaylin Walker led the way with 30 points and six boards in the win in the championship game. 

UCLA is No. 1 in the nation in averaging 90.4 PPG, while allowing 75.3. Isaac Hamilton had 20 points in the loss to the Wildcats.

i’ll point out that Kent State is just 1-3 ATS in its last four non-conference games, while UCLA is 10-3 ATS this year in non-conference contests and 4-2 ATS in all neutral court affairs. 

The Golden Flashes had a great tournament run, but I have a hard time seeing Kent matching pace with the high-powered Bruins. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Michigan State (9:20 EST).

The 19-14 Michigan State Spartans get ready to battle the 21-11 Miami Florida Hurricanes in the opening round of the NCAA tournament on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors MSU.

The Hurricanes were 10-8 in the ACC and lost to UNC in the Quarterfinals of the ACC Tournament contest. The Spartans were 10-8 in league play and fell to Minnesota in the Quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tourney.

Miles Bridges had 20 points for the Spartans in the Quarterfinal loss. The Spartans averaged 71.4 PPG and allowed 68.4 this season.

Miami averages 69.4 PPG and concedes 63.7 Davon Reed finished with seven points in the loss to the Tar Heels.

I’ll point out that Michigan State is 3-0 ATS this year after scoring 60 points or less, 6-2 ATS off a loss against a conference rival and 4-1 ATS against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest, while Miami is just 2-8 ATS in non-conference games and 2-4 ATS in all neutral court affairs this season. 

I think the Spartans are the better coached team and expect them to at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 47-21 Houston Rockets are in New Orleans to take on the 27-41 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Rockets are poised for a letdown here after three straight wins, including a victory over the Cavs in that stretch. 

New Orleans though will be hungry here, it had won two straight before then suffering a loss at red hot Miami on Wednesday.

Houston is in third in the West, with no real shot at being able to catch either the Warriors or Spurs.

New Orleans still has a playoff shot, but its hopes are dwindling. This is the most important stretch of the enitre season for the Pelicans, with three straight at home. 

I’ll point out though that Houston has in fact struggled in this spot already this year, going just 11-16 ATS after a win by ten points or more and only 4-5 ATS after scoring 130 points or more. 

And note that New Orleans has excelled in this position, going 14-8 ATS this season against poor defensive clubs which allow 106 points per contest. 

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’ll recommend grabbing the points in the end. Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NCAA OPENING ROUND DOG OF THE YEAR is on Troy (7:20 EST).

The 22-14 Troy Trojans are looking to upset No. 2 seed Duke and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

I’m not predicting an outright upset or anything, but I do think that the Trojans own an offense capable of keeping it a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

Duke could get caught looking past its lowly opponent today, after going 11-7 in the ACC regular season and finishing fifth overall, the Blue Devils would steam roll through the conference tournament, en route to the title over Notre Dame.

Troy won the Sun Belt title to punch its ticket to the Big Dance.

The Trojans average 78.4 PPG and concede 71.1. Jordan Varnado leads the team with 16.5 poitns, 7.1 boards and 1.4 blocks per contest. 

Duke averages 80.7 points and concedes 69.8. This team is loaded and had four players that average in double figures.

I’ll point out though that Troy is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 as an underdog, while Duke is already 0-2 ATS this year as a neutral court favorite of 12.5 points or more.

The Blue Devils don’t play defense very well and they very easily could have already peaked. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* OPENING ROUND BLOWOUT is on Oregon (2:00 EST).

The 22-12 Iona Gaels are getting ready to battle the 29-5 Oregon Ducks on Friday night in the opening round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Ducks.

The Gaels beat Siena 87-86 in OT in the MAAC touranment final last Monday, while Oregon had its eight game win streak snapped with an 83-80 setback to No. 7 Arizona in the Pac-12 Tourney Final. 

Iona got 21 points and ten boards from Jordan Washington in the win over the Saints. The Gaels average 80.5 PPG and concede 76.4. 

Oregon averages 79.1 PPG and concedes just 65 (33rd in the country). Dillon Brooks leads the nightly charge with 16.3 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Iona is just 1-5 ATS in its last six following a SU win and 0-4 ATS in its last four NCAA Tournament contests, while Oregon is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 NCAA Tournament games.

Chris Boucher is out for Oregon, but the Ducks are deep and have stifiling defensive attack. Iona is unable to stop anyone and I’m expecting it to fall away as the game comes down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is the under Oklahoma State/Michigan (12:15 EST).

The 20-12 Oklahoma State Cowboys are ready to battle the 24-11 Michigan Wolverines in the first round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Michigan rolled through the Big Ten and beat favored Wisconsin by 15 in the Conference tournament final. The Wolverines haven’t had issues scoring this year, but it’s been their defense which lacks in their losses. But the 56 points they gave up to the Badgers shows just how far the team has come on the defensive end of the court as well. 

The Cowboys were all over the map as far as their game-to-game consistency was concerned this year. Six straight conference losses were followed by ten victories in their next 11. However, OKS would then lose its next three, including a 92-83 setback to Iowa State in the Big 12 tournament game. 

I’ll point out though that Oklahoma State has seen the total go under the number in seven of 11 as an underdog this year, while Michigan has seen the total dip below the posted number in 17 of its last 22 in the first round of tournaments.

I think these teams come out a bit flat footed in the early contest and this total sneaks below once it’s all said and done. Play on the under.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Virginia Tech (9:40 EST).

The 22-10 Virginia Tech Hokies are in Wisconsin to take on the 25-9 Badgers on Thursday night in the first round of the NCAA tournament and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the underdog.

The Hokies won six of their last nine, ending with a 74-68 loss to FSU in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals last week. 

The Badgers had their three-game win streak snapped in a listless 71-56 setback to Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament title game on Sunday. 

I simply feel that Virignia Tech has the offensive firepower to test the Badgers’ stout defense. Note that the Hokies average 79.3 PPG, while conceding 74.4. Zach LeDay leads the nightly charge with 16.3 points and 7.4 boards per game. 

Wisconsin started the year 20-3, but then struggled down the stretch by going 5-6 over its final 11. The Badgers average 72.4 PPG, but make up for it by conceding just 61.1. Bronson Koenig leads the way with 14.1 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Virginia Tech is already 4-1 ATS in all neutral court affairs this year and 11-4 ATS when playing the role of underdog, while Wisconsin is just 3-4 ATS in all neutral court games and just 3-4 ATS in its last seven as the favorite.

For all of the reasons listed above, I’m grabbing the points. Play on the Hokies.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOURNEY SIDE OF THE MONTH is on VCU (7:20 EST).

The 26-8 VCU Rams are getting ready to face the 28-4 Saint Mary’s Gaels in the opening round of the NCAA tournament on Thursday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Virginia Commonwealth.

Saint Mary’s was second best to Gonzaga in the WCC this year and would lose in the Championship game to the Bulldogs. 

VCU was the second-best team in its conference as well and it would lose in the A-10 Championship to Rhode Island.

It’s a matchup of two teams looking to bounce back and I’m expecting an all out battle until the final moments. 

One player to keep your eyes on for the Rams is Jequan Lewis, who led the way with 14.7 points, 4.6 assists and 1.7 steals per game this season. VCU’s normally stout defense stumbled uncharacteristically in the loss to Rhode Island, but it was a strength of the team throughout the season, allowing just 66.3 PPG, ranked 44th in the country. 

The Gaels got destroyed 74-56 in the Championship game last Tuesday. Calvin Hermanson was a bright spot with 14 points in the setback. Saint Mary’s would go on to allow the Bulldogs to shoot 50 percent from the floor, which was out of the norm, as they allowed the second fewest points in the nation this year, allowing only 56.5 PPG.

I’ll point out though that VCU is 3-0 ATS in its last three NCAA tournament games, while Saint Mary’s is just 1-2 ATS in its last three NCAA tournament contests and only 1-2 ATS this year after scoring 60 points or less. 

I think Saint Mary’s is the better team, but it’s not THAT much better. VCU won’t be rolling over here and it will believe it has every opportunity to win this one straight up as well. The Rams’ defense has been suffocating as well this season and they have the offense to match pace.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST).

The 38-29 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Toronto to take on the 39-28 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

OKC comes in complacent in my opinion after rolling to a third straight win, most recently a 122-104 road victory in Brooklyn on Tuesday. 

The Raptors had lost four of six before smashing Dallas 100-78 on Monday and suffice it to say, with two nights off to focus and prepare, I’m looking for the home side to build off that impressive performance.

The Thunder average 106.6 PPG and concede 106.2. The error of margin is obviously extremely slim. Russell Westbrook leads the way wih 31.8 points, 10.6 boards and 10.1 assists per game. 

Toronto averages 107.2 PPG and concedes 103.4. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 27.2 points and 5.4 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that OKC is just 1-4 ATS in its last five road games and only 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road against teams with a winning home record, while Toronto is 8-1 ATS in its last nine when playing on two days rest and 4-1 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference.

Kyle Lowry is still missing from the mix in Toronto, but despite that, the Raptors are still the deeper team. Serge Ibaka gets a shot at his old club tonight, so look for the home side to come out extra motivated. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Virginia (12:40 EST).

The 29-5 NC Wilmington Seahawks get ready to battle the 22-10 Virginia Cavaliers at 12:40 EST on Thursday to open the NCAA Tournament for real and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Cavs.

The Seahawks won the regular season and tournament title in the Colonial conference. NC Wilmington averaged 84 PPG and allowed 75.3 on neutral courts this year. Over their last six games though the Seahawks have given up an average of 77.3 points. NC Wilmington has six players that average at least 7.8 PPG, led by CJ Bryce with 17.6 PPG. 

Virginia has won four of its last five and owns the nation’s No. 1 defense, allowing just 55.6 PPG. The Cavs average just 66.7, but they catch a break today clearly in facing the Seahawks mediocre defense. 

I’ll point out as well that UNC Wilmington is just 1-5-1 ATS in its last seven following an ATS victory, while Virginia is 16-7 ATS in its last 23 following a SU loss.

The Cavs have a weak offense, but they’ve played well against weaker defenses. The Seahawks have played exceptionally well this year, but now face the No. 1 defense in the entire country. 

I think Virginia pulls away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Princeton (12:15 EST).

The 23-6 Princeton Tigers are ready to battle the 25-9 Notre Dame Fighting Irish at noon EST on opening Thursday of the NCAA Tournament and while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

Princeton knows how to win. The Tigers come into the Tournament having won 19 straight after beating Yale in the championship game of the Ivy League Tournamant Final. 

ND won eight of ten to close the year, falling 75-69 to the Blue Devils in the ACC Touranment title game on Saturday. 

Princeton went undefeated in league play and held Yale to just 37.7 percent shooting in the championship game. Myles Stephens had 23 points and eight boards.

The Tigers average 72.1 PPG and concede just 61.6, ranked tenth overall in the country.

The Fighting Irish average 78 PPG and allow 69.2. Notre Dame though allowed Duke to shoot a smoking 60.8 percent from the floor in the title game. Bonzie Colson leads all players with 17.5 points and 10.2 boards per game.

I’ll point out though that Princeton is 8-5 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less and 2-1 ATS in all neutral court affairs this season, while Notre Dame is just 3-4 in non-conference contests and just 1-2 ATS in its last three neutral court contests.

The Tigers are pretty thin after their starting five, but they’ll be leaving everything they have on the floor tonight, as there’s no point in trying to reserve anything at this point. Notre Dame has looked brilliant at times this year, but has also struggled in the “bigger” moments. 

I think Princeton takes this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 32-34 Milwaukee Bucks are in LA to take on the 40-27 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Milwaukee’s big six-game SU/ATS win streak is over and suffice it to say, I think the team will suffer a predictable letdown here as it hits the West Coast to take on a revenge minded Clippers team. 

The Bucks got smashed 113-93 in Memphis, allowing the Grizzlies to shoot 52 percent from the floor and go 14 of 27 from range. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 18 points. 

The Clippers will be in a foul mood after falling 114-108 in Utah on Monday. It was a tough matchup, as LA had won nine straight in Utah previous to that, so the Jazz were extra fired up for that one. Chris Paul had 33 points in the setback. 

I’ll point out though that Milwaukee is just 4-11 ATS in its last 14 following a straight-up loss and just 1-4 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss of more than ten points, while LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.

Milwaukee beat LA, 112-101 in Milwaukee back on March 3rd. Suffice it to say, I think its “payback” time. Milwaukee has only covered in four of its last 14 trips to LA. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 37-30 Memphis Grizzlies are in Chicago to take on the 32-35 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Grizzlies broke a five game losing streak with a convincing 113-93 win at home on Monday over the Bucks and I think the visitors carry that momentum over here.

Chicago had also lost five straight before managing a 115-109 road win over Charlotte on Monday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Memphis after it fell 108-104 at home to the Bulls back on January 15th.

Memphis only averages 101.4 PPG, but the 100.7 they concede is ranked fourth in the league. Marc Gasol averages a team high 20.1 PPG.

Chicago averages just 102 PPG and concedes 103.3. Jimmy Butler leads everyone with 23.4 points and 6.2 boards per game, while Dwayne Wade adds 18.8 points and 4.5 boards per contest. 

I’ll point out though that Memhis is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 against teams with a losing straight-up record, while Chicago is 0-5 ATS in its last five when playing on one days rest.

I have a hard time seeing the Bulls post another 115 points like they did against the Hornets in their last game, note that previously they had not exceeded 95 during their five-game losing streak. I think the Grizzlies 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 Portland Trailblazers (8:00 EST).

The 29-37 Portland Trailblazers are in San Antonio to take on the 52-14 Spurs and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the hungry visitors can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

The Blazers are 2.5 games behind Denver for the final playoff spot in the West and were likely caught “looking ahead” to this game against the Spurs after suffering a poor 100-77 loss in New Orleans just last night. Suffice it to say, I think the Blazers bounce back here after that listless performance. Damian Lillard was a bright spot with 29 points. 

San Antonio on the other hand looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion, it’s won 11 of its last 12 after beating Atlanta earlier in the week. Kawhi Leonard had 31 points in Monday’s 107-99 win over the Hawks.

I’ll point out though that Portland is 12-8 ATS this season against good offense clubs, while San Antonio is interestingly just 5-8 ATS in its last 13 against teams with losing records. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for the Blazers would be an understatement as they’ve dropped five straight in the series and both so far this season. I like the visitors to play with a lot more intensity tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NIT OPENING ROUND SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Central Florida.

The 19-14 Colorado Buffaloes are battling UCF in the opener of the NIT on Wednesday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Knights.

The Buffs were eliminated from the Pac-12 Tournament by Arizona, while the Knights lost to SMU in the semi-final of the AAC tournament. Colorado finished the season with an offense and defense each ranked outside the top 100 in the nation.

The Knights ran into a tough Mustangs team in their 70-59 loss in the ACC tournament. But the 22 wins on the year was a school best. BJ Taylor had 20 points in the eventual loss.

I’ll point out though that Coloardo is just 1-4 ATS in its last five allowing more than 90 points in its previous game, while UCF is 4-0 ATS this year following an ATS loss and 4-1 ATS in its last five at home.

Colorado has to travel across the country after a lackluster performance in its conference tournament and I think it’s overmatched here anyways. UCF put together a great overall season and making it to the semi-finals of the ACC Tournament is a big accomplishment. UCF is at home and I think will take full advantage of this opportunity. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina Central (6:40 EST).

The 25-8 North Carolina Central Eagles get ready to battle the UC Davis Aggies in the First Four and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Eagles.

After losing two in a row, NC Central won its last three games of the year to win the MEAC conference tournament, led by its 22nd ranked defense.

UC Davis upset UC Irvine in their conference tournament to advance to this point. Note that the Aggies rank lower than NC Central in both PPG and points allowed. 

NC Central would hold Norfolk State to just 35.4 percent shooting in its 67-59 Championship victory, holding it to 21 points in the second half and forcing 17 turnovers. Patrick Cole was a standout with 18 points and eight boards to lead three other players that also scored in double figures.

Note that the Eagles have won all three of their neutral site affairs already this season.

UC Davis only shot 38 percent from the floor, but it would hold UCI to just 34.6 percent in its 50-47 conference victory. The Aggies would force 20 turnovers, but also had 16 of their own. It wasn’t a pretty victory and I think the team has to be feeling pretty good about itself in just scoring the upset in the Conference tournament and is likely just happy to be here. Brynton Lemar scored 20 points in the Championship game. 

I’ll point out that NC Central is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 neutral site games, while UC Davis is just 1-4 ATS in its last five as an underdog.

I think the Eagles are the better all around team in this matchup and I expect their smothering defensive play to be just too much for the Aggies to handle tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on on Wake Forest (9:10 EST).

The 19-13 Wake Forest Demon Deacons are getting ready to battle the 20-13 Kansas State Wildcats in “The First Four” on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Deacons.

Kansas State lost 51-50 to West Virginia in its latest action, while Wake Forest fell 99-90 to Virginia Tech in its conference tournament. 

The Demon Deacons though come into the NCAA tourney playing solid ball, they’ve won four of their last five. Wake Forest is a weak defensive team, it allows 83 PPG in neutral court affairs this year, but the offense continues to shine, averaging 88. 

The Wildcats have averaged 69.8 PPG and conceded 60.7 in neutral court contests this season. Also note, that the Wildcats have in fact allowed 72 PPG in true road games this year. 

And I’ll point out that Wake Forest is 6-1 ATS in its last seven after allowing more than 90 points and 5-0 ATS in its last five against the Big 12, while Kansas State is a dismal 1-4 ATS in its last five NCAA tournament games.

For the most part the Wildcats have struggled against the “elite” offenses this year. True they just held the Mountaineers to 51 points, but they also allowed an average of 81.4 PPG when facing Oklahoma, Iowa State, Oklahoma State and WVU earlier in the season. 

Wake catches a break in facing the anemic Wildcats’ offense, a unit which has managed a paltry 61.4 PPG in its last five games.

The Demon Deacons’ dynamic offense turns out to be the difference in the end, play on Wake Forest.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is the under Blazers/Pelicans (8:05 EST).

Two teams still in the hunt for a playoff spot and which have looked better of late collide on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

These teams have played twice already this year, with each winning on its home floor.

Portland needs to start stringing some wins together if it wants to secure the eighth spot. The Blazers have won five of their last six. It’s no secret that Portland pushes the pace from start to finish and rarely worries about the defensive side of things, but note that the Blazers have in fact seen the total go under the number in two of their last three on the road and two of their last three as an underdog.

Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins are great players, but they’ve yet to find much chemistry since the big trade. It’s going to take some time for the new-look Pelicans to “gel” obviously. 

New Orleans can ill afford to get into a “track meet” with the Blazers and expect to win today, so I’m expecting to see a lot of half-court sets while on offense. 

And I’ll point out that the Pelicans have in fact sen the total go under the numer in three of their last four when playing with two days rest and in nine of 13 off an upset win as an underdog.

I think this number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Pacers/Knicks (7:35 EST).

The 34-32 Indiana Pacers are in New York to take on the 26-41 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

The Pacers come in having alternated wins/losses over their last ten games, most recently coming off a 102-98 victory over the Heat at home on Sunday. 

The Knicks returned home looking to bounce back after a 1-3 road trip, but would come out flat in a humiliating 120-112 loss to the Nets on Sunday. 

Indiana has won eight of the last ten in the series, but New York took the last matchup 109-103 on the road on January 23rd.

The Pacers own the sixth seed in the East. Indiana averages 104.7 PPG and concedes 105.6. Paul George leads the nightly charge with 22.2 points and 6.4 boards per game.

The Knicks average 105.5 PPG and concede 108.8. Carmelo Anthony averages 23 points and six boards per game. 

I’ll point out that Indiana has seen the total go over the number in (not surprisingly), 14 of 25 this year against poor defensive teams which allow 108 plus points per contest, but also in (interestingly), seven of 11 against the Atlantic division, while New York has seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of six after playing three consecutive road games. 

I think this is going to be a wide open affair and when taking into account the rest of the above information, everything does indeed point to the over as the correct move in this one.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Mavericks/Raptors (7:30 EST).

The 28-37 Dallas Mavericks are in Toronto to take on the 38-28 Toronto Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

Dallas had won four in a row and six of seven before falling 100-98 at home to the Suns on Saturday. 

Toronto is in a death spiral right now, it lost for the fourth time in six games in a 104-89 setback in Miami on Saturday. 

The Raptors are hungry for a break out performance here, last year they took both meetings with Dallas, including a 103-99 home victory in the last machup on December 22nd, 2015.

The Mavericks only average 98.4 PPG, while conceding just 99.8. Those numbers are skewed though, in that Dallas tanked the first two months of the season due to numerous injuries. The Mavs have been playing a lot better of late, especially on the offensive end now that they’re healthier. Harrison Barnes leads all scorers with 20.1 points and 5.2 boards per night.

Toronto is still fourth in the Eastern conference and it’s tenth in the league in scoring with an average of 107.3 PPG. On the defensive end it’s ranked eighth, conceding 103.8 PPG. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 27.2 points and 5.4 boards per game.

I’ll point out that Dallas has seen the total go over the number in three of its last four off an upset loss as a favorite, while Toronto has seen the total sail above the posted number in 17 of 27 non-conference contests this year and in three of four after playing to three or more consecutive “unders.” 

These are two teams that are downright desperate for a victory. I’m expecting a faster paced affair and for this one to eclipse the posted number as it comes down the stretch, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmakers Error is the under Blazers/Suns (10:05 EST).

The 28-36 Portland Trailblazers are in Phoenix to take on the 22-44 Suns and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

In fact, this is one selection which I don’t feel we need to overanalyze whatsoever. These teams are similar in many respects, in that each likes to get out and push the pace of the game from start to finish. Both are decent offensively and each is poor on the defensive side of the ball.

But that said, the situation sets up perfectly for a slightly lower-scoring affair this evening, as each team comes in off a game just last night, with Portland coming off a crushing OT loss at home to the Wizards, while the Suns come in off a 110-98 setback at Dallas. 

I’ll point out that Portland has seen the total go under the number in six of ten this year when playing on back-to-back days, while Phoenix has seen the total dip below the posted number in two of its last three in the same position.

I think each team comes in gassed and expect this total to sneak below the number once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Indiana Pacers (7:05 EST).

The 31-34 Miami Heat are in Indiana to take on the 33-32 Indiana Pacers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

No need to overthink this one in my opinion. This one sets up great for Indiana in that Miami played just last night, hammering the Raptors in a very satisfying 104-89 victory.

Indiana on the other hand comes in desperate, it’s lost two of its last three, including a listless 99-85 setback at Milwaukee on Friday. 

The Pacers also play with double revenge after dropping both games to the Heat this year.

Miami still only averagses 102.3 PPG despite its recent turnaround in play.

Indiana averages 104.8 PPG and will be risking life and limb today as it fights for playoff positioning.

With two nights off before a long home stretch, I think the tired Heat come out flat tonight and the hungry home side takes full advantage. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on SMU (4:15 EST).

The 29-4 Cincinnati Bearcats are ready to battle 29-4 SMU in the AAC Championship Game this afternoon and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Mustangs. 

SMU would finish 17-1 in league play, it’s only loss coming at the hands of Cincinnati. The Mustangs would later go on to avenage that setback at home and suffice it to say, I’m expecting another rout here today as well.

Cincinnati advanced by taking down UConn 81-71, while SMU beat UCF 70-59. 

Despite the victory, the Bearcats struggled with consistency yestreday, shooting just 40 perecent from the field. They’d also miss 29 of 47 field goal attmeps and 12 of 19 three-pointers. Things clearly won’t get any easier in facing the Mustangs.

SMU has now won 15 in a row after yesterday’s complete performance, dominating on both ends of the court. Sterling Brown had 20 points, making all seven free throws in the process in the victory. 

I’ll point out that Cincinnati is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with a winning percentage above .600, while SMU is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 in the same position. 

Ultimately though I think the Mustangs are playing better than the Bearcats right now. I’m expecting a comfortable ATS victory once it’s all said and done. Play on SMU.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Wisconsin (4:00 EST).

The 23-11 Michigan Wolverines are getting ready to battle 25-8 Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship game and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Badgers.

Michigan has had to win three straight to make it here, most recently getting the better of Minnesota 84-77 yesterday. I unfortuantely had the Gophers in that one. 

No. 2 Wisconsin has cruised to the finals with two straight victories, destroying the Hoosiers by ten and then annihilating Northwestern by 28. 

These teams split a pair of games this year. Each was within six points.

Michigan averages 74.9 PPG and concedes 65.8 Derrick Walton Jr. leads the nightly charge with 15 points and 4.6 assists per game.

Wisconsin is among the best in the nation on the defensive end of the floor though and I believe this will be the difference maker today (allowing 61.1 PPG, ranked seventh overall).

I’ll point out as well that Michigan is just 1-2 ATS in its last three as an underdog, while Wisconsin is 10-6 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less.

Wisconsin has looked untouchable over the first two games of this tournament. I’m expecting a comfortable ATS victory, play on the Badgers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is the under Arizona/Oregon (11:00 EST).

The 29-4 Oregon Ducks get ready to battle the 29-14 Arizona Wildcats in the Pac-12 Conference Championship game and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Oregon took out Arizona State and Cal to advance, while Arizona beat Colorado and UCLA. 

Oregon has won eight in a row, while Arizona has won eight of its last nine. When these teams met earlier in the year, the Ducks managed the higher-scoring 85-58 victory. But as mentioned off the top, I’m expecting a much more defensive affair this time around.

Oregon averages 79.6 PPG and concedes just 64.5.

Arizona averages 77.7 PPG and concedes just 65.

These are two good offensive clubs, but I’d venture so far as to say that each is “great” on the defensive side.

And I”ll point out that Arizona has in fact seen the total go under the number in six of seven this year after scoring 80 points or more and in three of four tournament games already, while Oregon has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of eight after allowing 60 points or less and in three of four tournament games.

I’m expecting an all out war and for this one to ultimately fall under the number once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the under Wizards/Blazers (10:05 EST).

The 39-24 Washington Wizards are in Portland to take on the 28-35 Trailblazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Washington comes to town of an extremely satisfying 130-122 victory at Sacramento just last night. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting the Wizards to come in tired this evening. 

The Blazers have won four straight, including a 114-108 home win over the lowly 76ers are on Thursday. Washington beat the Blazers in their only other meeting this year, 120-101 at home on January 16th. 

These teams rank in the top ten in scoring and in the bottom third on the defensive end. That’s why this total has been set so high.

But I’ll point out that Washington has seen the total go under the number in three of its last four after posting 120 points or more in consecutive victories, while Portland has seen the total dip below the posted number in interestingly five of seven against the Southeast division already this season.

I don’t think Washington can get into a “track meet” with the red hot Blazers and expect to win this one in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. I think the visitors try to slow this one down. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Memphis Grizzlies.

The 35-29 Atlanta Hawks are in Memphis to take on the 36-29 Grizzliez and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Grizzlies have lost four straight and will obviously be extremely focused in trying to end that streak of futility.

Atlanta comes in off a very satisfying 105-99 home win over the Raptors just last night and now has to travel cross country and play a non-conference contest. Can anyone say “letdown spot?”

The Grizzlies are coming off a humbling 122-109 home loss to the Nets, the worst team in the league: “I don’t know what to say,” said forward Zach Randolph afterwards.

Marc Gasol was a bright spot though with 20 points, five boards, five assits, a steal and a block. 

I’ll point out that Atlanta is 1-4 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference, while Memphis is 13-6 ATS in its last 19 when playing on one days rest.

Atlanta is gassed and I think comes out flat. No excuses for Memphis tonight, it’s a perfect set of situational factors working in its favor and I expect it to answer the call. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the New York Knicks (5:05 EST).

The 26-39 New York Knicks are in Detroit to take on the 32-33 Detroit Pistons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Knicks are looking to rebound after a 104-93 loss to Milwaukee on Wednesday. It was their third loss in their last four gams. 

So while New York will clearly be “hungry” to get off the schneid with a victory, Detroit is poised for a predictable letdown here after its come from behind 106-101 home win over the Cavaliers on Thursday. 

So far these teams have split a pair of games this year, with the Knicks winning 105-102 at home on November 16th in the most recent.

New York averages 105.6 PPG and concedes 108.6. Carmelo Anthony averages 23.1 points and six boards per game. 

Detroit averages just 102.1 PPG and concedes 102.3. Tobias Harris leads the way with 16.3 points plus 5.2 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that New York is 2-1 ATS in its last three following a loss by ten points or more, while Detroit is just 3-6 ATS this season off an upset win as an underdog. 

With a game at Cleveland early next week, I think the home side lets the foot off the gas tonight. 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 New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is Minnesota (1:00 EST).

The 22-11 Michigan Wolverines are taking on Minnesota in the Semi Finals of the Big Ten Tournament from the Verizon Center in the nation’s capital on Saturday morning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Golden Gophers.

Minnesota got by Michigan State 63-58, while Michigan managed a second straight win in as many days in yesterday’s 74-70 OT victory over Purdue.

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Golden Gophers have to be loving their chances today, as when these teams met one other time earlier in the year, they’d come away with the 83-78 win at home.

The Wolverines average 74.6 PPG and concedes 65.6. Derrick Walton Jr. leads the way with 14.6 points and 4.5 assists per game.

Minnesota held the Spartans to just 32.8 percent shooting on Friday. Jordan Murphy led the way with 13 points and ten boards. He leads the team with 11.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. Minnesota averages 75.2 PPG and concedes 68.6.

I simply feel the three games in three days will be too much for the Wolverines to overcome and look for Minnesota to ride its smothering defensive play to another victory over Michigan this season. Play on the Golden Gophers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PAC-12 CONF TOURNAMENT TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the over UCLA/Arizona (11:30 EST).

The UCLA Bruins lost to the USC Trojans on January 25th, but from that point on they’d go on to win nine straight to finish the regular season, avenging all three of its losses during that stretch.

That included a Round 2 76-75 win over USC. It was an important win for UCLA, as it clearly wasn’t at its best, but it still managed to grind out the victory. Bryce Alford, the all-time school leader in 3-point shots made, was just 2 of 10 from the field. Suffice it to say, I don’t expect the sharp-shooter to struggle like that in back-to-back games (the 76 points scored was well beolow the Bruins’ average of 91.3 PPG).

The Wildcats annihilated the Buffaloes in the second round 92-78 and I’m expecting that offensive effeciency to get carried over here. Arizona would shoot 56 percent from the floor and hit ten 3-pointers and were led by 20 points from Lauri Markkanen and 19 from Allonzo Trier.

These teams split a pair of games this year, with one contest going “under” and one going “over.” But I think the writing is on the wall and and explosive nail-biting shootout is in the cards. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is the under Wizards/Kings (10:35 EST).

The 39-24 Washington Wizards are in Sacramento to take on the 25-39 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Washington has won three straight, over Orlando, Phoenix and Denver respectively. 

Sacramento enters on the other end of the spectrum, it’s lost six in a row, most recently a setback at San Antonio on Wednesday.

Washington stomped the Nuggets 123-113 on Wednesday. Sacramento on the other hand had a 28-point, second-quarter lead at San Antonio evaporate in the eventual 114-104 setback. With big man and offensive star DeMarcus Cousins gone, the Kings have struggled with offensive consistency. 

I’ll point out that Wasington has seen the total go under the number in two of its last three non-conference contests and in 21 of its last 36 after scoring 115 points or more, while Sacramento has seen the total dip below the posted number in 11 of 15 overall so far in the second half and in 15 of 23 this year against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per game.

With Cousins gone, Washington has the size advantage. I think we’ll see a lot of half court sets on offense and when taking into account the rest of the information listed above, the correct move in my professional opinion is indeed on the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Nevada (10:00 EST).

The 20-11 Fresno State Bulldodgs get ready to battle the 26-6 Nevada Wolf Pack from the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas in the semi-finals of the Mountain West Conference Tournament on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Pack.

Fresno State advanced by beating New Mexico 65-60 in the quarters, while Nevada smashed Utah State 83-69 on Thursday. 

It’s difficult to beat any team three times in a single season. Even great teams have difficulty pulling that feat off against much lesser competition.

Fresno State is a very good team obviously. But I wouldn’t classify it as a “great” team. 

Nevada is the No. 1 seed in the tournament, but it comes into this one playing with the “double revenge factor” after inexplicably dropping both games to the Bulldogs during the regular season, accounting for half its conference losses this year.

Fresno State averages 74.3 and concedes 70.2. The Bulldogs hit 6.3 three point field goals per game, but shoot only 35.3 percent from range overall. Jaron Hopkins leads the nightly charge with 13.3 points and 5.5 boards per game.

Nevada averages 79.8 PPG and concedes 71. The Wolfpack average 9.2 three point field goals per contest, while hitting 38.6 percent from range. Marcus Marshall leads the way with 19.7 points and 3.6 assists per game.

The Wolfpack are dealing with an injury to Elijah Foster, but they’re a deep team and I think their offensive production will be just too much for the Bulldogs to keep up with today. I’m on Nevada.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin’ Over Total is the over Pacers/Bucks (8:05 EST).

The 33-31 Indiana Pacers are in Milwaukee to take on the 30-33 Bucks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

Indiana has alternated wins and losses over its last eight, most recently picking up a 115-98 home victory over Detroit on Wednesday. 

Milwaukee comes in on fire, it’s won four straight, most recently getting the better of the Knicks 104-93 on Wednesday night. 

The Bucks will have their hands full tonight though against a revenge minded Pacers team which has dropped the first two in the series so far this season, most recently a 116-100 home loss on Feberuary 11th. 

With the win over Detroit, the Pacers maintained their two game edge over the Pistons and Bulls. Indiana looked sharp, hitting 50 percent from the floor and going 11 of 23 from range, led by 21 points and eight boards from Paul George.

The Pacers average 105.1 PPG and concede 105.8. 

The Bucks average 105.2 PPG and concede 104.8. Giannis Antetokounmpo leads the nightly charge with 23.3 points, 8.7 boards, 5.5 assists, 1.74 steals and 1.95 blocks per game. In the win over the Knicks he had 32 points, 13 boards, seven assists, four steals and two blocks.

I’ll point out that Indiana has seen the total go over the number in eight of 12 this year following a divisional contest, while Milwaukee has seen the total eclipse the posted number in three of its last four against teams with winning records and in 22 of 34 at home overall thus far.

This is an important divisional contest and I’m expecting each of these teams to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. When taking into account all of the above factors, I think this number is just a little low. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN PERFECT STORM is on Purdue (12:00 EST).

The Michigan Wolverines get ready to battle the Purdue Boilermakers in the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tournament from the Verizon Center in Washington and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Boilermakers.

Purdue comes in fresh after earning a bye through the first two rounds. And now the Boilermakers will be looking to avenge a 12 points loss (82-70) to Michigan back on February 25th.

The Wolverines beat Illinois 75-55 yesterday. Interesting to note that Michigan was late for the 12 PM EST start due to taking a morning flight to Washington after a minor plane crash on Wednesday. 

Suffice it to say, this one sets up great for the Boilermakers in many respects. Purdue will have to keep its eyes on Derrick Walton Jr. who leads the team with 14.7 points and 4.5 assists per game. Michigan ranks second in the Big Ten in three point percentage with a 38.6 rate, but that comes at a cost as it struggles in defending from range (allowing 37.9 percent) and in rebounding (-1.6 margin).

Purdue is led by Caleb Swanigan, who averages 18.7 points and 12.6 boards per game. He also shot 54 percent form the floor and 44.9 percent from behind the arc this season. 

The Boilermakers lead the Big Ten in three-point shooting and also rank first in field goal percentage (also first in overall offense with 80.5 PPG and first in rebounding margin, +7.1).

I’ll point out that the underdog is just 1-4 ATS the last five in this series, while Pursude is a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four neutral court affairs.

You can’t teach “size,” and in this department the Boilermakres have a big advantage in 7-2 center Issac Haas. Combined with Swanigan and all of the above situational and trend based factors, I think the correct call is on Purdue.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-15 Hawaii Rainbow Warriors are set to battle the 10-17 Long Beach State 49ers in the quarterfinals of this year’s Big West Tournament. Note that this is a rematch of last year’s title game which was won by Hawaii 64-60.

These teams closed their respective regular season’s against each other, with LBSU winning by nine points just last week. They did split the season series though, with the Warriors winning the first one.

But if recent history is any precedence, then Hawaii has to be loving its chances today as this is the third consecutive year the teams have met in the Big West tourney, with the Warriors winning both. Keep your eyes on the Bows’ Noah Allen, who averages 15.5 points. 

Temidayo Yussuf had 23 points in the 49ers win over Hawaii last Saturday, but I’ll point out that Long Beach State has struggled in this spot for bettors this year, going just 4-9 ATS against clubs with winning records and only 7-8 ATS when playing the role of favorite, while Hawaii has excelled by going a perfect 2-0 ATS this season after allowing 80 points or more.

I’m expecting this one to come down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-EAST PERFECT STORM is on Creighton (9:30 EST).

The 23-8 Creighton Bluejays are set to battle the 20-11 Providence Friars and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bluejays. 

The Bluejays dropped three of their last four, iincluding a 91-83 road setback to Marquette on Saturday. 

Providence closed with six straight wins, including an 86-75 road victory over St. John’s in its finale. 

These teams split a pair of meetings this year, with Providence scoring the narrow 68-66 road win in the latest on February 22nd. 

The Bluejays lost point guard Maurice Watson Jr. in late January and then went 6-7 down the stretch. The Conference tournament is a chance for a new start though, note that Creighton did finish by averaging 83.5 PPG and conceding 72.9. Marcus Foster leads the team with 18.5 PPG. The team would go on to connnecton on a blistering 51.2 percent from the floor this year and was 40.3 percent from range. 

Providence averages 70.6 PPG and concedes 66.5. Rodney Bullock led the team with 16.1 points and 6.4 boards per game. The Friars are now in the mix for a tournament invite after the late season surge, but I think they’ll struggle to match pace with this elite Creighton offense.

I’ll point out as well that the Bluejays are 5-2 ATS off a loss against a conference rival this season and 15-7 ATS as a favorite, while Providence is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 86 points or more.

I’m banking on Creighton’s offense to be the difference maker tonight, play on the Bluejays.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over USF/UConn (8:00 EST).

The 7-22 South Florida Bulls get ready to battle with the 14-16 Connecticut Huskies in the first round of the AAC Tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

South Florida finished just 1-15 in the AAC, while UConn was just 9-9 in league action.

The Bulls come into the tournament off five straight losses, while UConn dropped four straight to the end the year. 

Clearly both teams can not be happy with the way they performed this season. The conference tournament though gives teams one last shot at turning things around. Clearly neither is going to be able to just “flip a switch,” but the motivation levels will unquestionably be high for both sides.

These teams played twice this year and the Huskies took both, winning 81-60 in the first one and 97-51 in the second one. In the latter, UConn would go on to hit 16 three-pointers. 

I’ll point out that USF has seen the total go over the number in nine of 12 on the road this year and in six of seven against teams with losing records, while UConn has seen the total eclipse the posted number in its last four against teams with losing records and in both tournament games that it’s played in this year.

Both games these teams played in the regular season would have easly blasted past this number and I don’t see anything changing tonight. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:00 EST).

The 50-13 San Antonio Spurs are in Oklahoma City to take on the 35-29 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Spurs are poised for a letdown here, they’ve won nine in a row, including seven straight since the All Star break. Most recently San Antonio would take care of the Kings 114-104 at home on Wednesday.

Conversely, the Thunder will be desperate tonight, they’ve lost four straight after falling 126-121 at home to the Trailblazers on Tuesday. 

OKC also plays with revenge after falling 108-94 in the first meeting between the teams in San Antonio on January 31st.

San Antonio averages 106.6 PPG and concedes 98.4. Kawhi Leonard leads the nightly charge with 26.3 points, six boards and 1.89 steals per game. 

OKC averages 106.3 PPG and concedes 106.5. Russell Westbrook averages 32.1 points, 10.5 boards and ten assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that the Spurs are just 5-9 ATS in their last 14 on the road and only 5-8 ATS in their last 13 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per game, while OKC is 21-10 ATS at home this year, 14-9 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent 9-6 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 8-4 ATS after scoring 115 points or more.

With a matchup at home against Golden State on Saturday night, I think the visitors finally have a small mental lapse this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN RND. 1 TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the under Indiana/Iowa (6:30 EST).

The 17-14 Indiana Hoosiers sqaure off against the 18-13 Hawkeyes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defenisve battle written all over it.

Indiana is on the bubble for making it to the Big Dance. The Hoosiers did post big wins over the Jayhawks and Tar Heels, but they’d also struggle against very average teams and were just 2-8 on the road. Nothing less than a run to the championship game will likely be enough for Indiana this year. 

Iowa is also on the bubble, but with a 10-8 record in conference, the Hawkeyes have a greater chance than the Hoosiers. 

These teams met once already this year and Iowa would escape with the high-scoring 96-90 OT win on February 21st at home.

But as mentioned off the top, I think this one sets up as more of a defensive affair this time around as I am expecting each of these desperate teams to ramp things up on the defensive side of the ball this evening. 

These teams are in fact very similar and very evenly matched. Both have above average offenses and below average defenses.

But note, Indiana has seen the total go under the number in eight of 13 this year after scoring 80 points or more and in five of eight after allowing 80 points or more, while Iowa has seen the total dip below the posted number in 11 of 16 this season after scoring 80 points or more and in nine of 15 when playing the role of underdog.

The pressure is on both teams to win tonight. I’m expecting an all out battle and for this one to comfortably stay under once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry 

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Temple (3:30 EST).

The 14-17 East Carolina Pirates are getting ready to battle the 16-15 Temple Owls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Owls.

The Pirates were 6-12 in league play, while Temple went 7-11. 

Both teams struggled down the stretch of the regular season, losing three of their final five. However, Temple did manage to “right the ship” after winning its final two of the regular season.

These teams split a pair of games this year with both winning comfortably on its home floor. 

I’ll point out though that ECU is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine neutral court games, while Temple is 10-6 ATS in all neutral court games the last two seasons. 

The Owls are clearly the “hotter” of these two evenly matched teams at the moment, coming into the conference tournament on two straight victories. I expect that momentum to get carried over here. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* C-USA PERFECT STORM is on Florida Atlantic (9:00 EST).

The 10-19 FAU Owls get ready to battle the 17-14 Marshall Thundering Herd on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Owls.

The Owls play with revenge after falling to Marshall by 17 earlier in the season. 

FAU though has performed well in this spot for bettors of late, going 3-1 ATS in its last four as an udnerdog and 12-8 ATS in its last 20 after allowing 80 points or more.

Marshall on the other hand has not done well in this position, going 0-3 ATS in its last three conference tournament games (in fact it’s 0-9 ATS in its last nine games played in the month of March) and just 1-2 ATS in its last three when playing on a neutral court.

I think the Owls can match pace and keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 38-25 LA Clippers are in Minnesota to take on the 25-37 Timberwolves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

LA comes in with some momentum, as it’s won two straight after beating the Celtices 116-102 at home on Monday. The Wolves have been playing a lot better of late and sit 3.5 games back for the final playoff spot. 

The Clippers average 107.9 PPG and concede 104.9. Blake Griffin leads all scorers with 22.1 points, 8.5 boards and 5.1 assists per game. LA is just 1.5 games behind the Jazz for fourth place in the West, which is coveted for home court advantage.

The Wolves average 104.8 PPG and concede 105.1. Karl Anthony Towns leads with 24 points and 12.3 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that LA has seen the total go over the number in nine of its last 13 road games against a team with a losing home record and in 22 of its last 32 when playing on one days rest, while Minnesota has seen the total eclipse the posted number in nine of its last 11 when playing on one days rest. 

Four of their last five and eight of their last 11 in the series have gone over the number and everything once again points to a higher-scoring shootout. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 37-26 Toronto Raptors are in New Orleans to take on the 25-39 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

Toronto will be hungry here, it’s dropped two of its last three, including a listless 101-94 setback at Milwaukee on Saturday. 

New Orleans can empathize, as it lost for the fifth time in seven games with an 88-83 setback to the Knicks in its latest action.

Toronto has has won three straight in the series, including a hard-fought 108-106 OT victory in the first matchup of the year back on January 31st. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similiar final combined score here as well once it’s all said and done.

The Raptors come in refreshed and refocused with three nights off. Toronto averages 107.9 PPG and concedes 104. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 27.6 points and 5.4 boards per game.

After acquiring DeMarcus Cousins from the Kings, the Pelicans have yet to find their groove. New Orleans is 21st in the league in scoring offense with 102.8 PPG, while ranked 20th in scoring defense in conceding 106 per contest. Anthony Davis leads the nightly charge with 28.1 points and 11.8 boards per game.

I’ll point out Toronto has seen the total go over the number in nine of its last 12 against the Southwest division and in 28 of its last 39 against the Western Conference, while New Orleans has seen the total go over in nine of its last 13 home games against a team with a winning road record. 

Five of their last seven in the series hav gone over the number and everything once again points to a higher-scoring affair. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the under Nets/Hawks (7:35 EST).

The 11-51 Brooklyn Nets are in Atlanta to take on the 34-29 Hawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

I think the Nets are poised for a big letdown here after their rare road victory over Memphis on Monday, beating the Grizzlies 122-109. 

Conversely, the Hawks will be desperate to return to form here after losing three straight and six of their last eight, including a 119-111 home loss to the Warriors on Monday. 

Brooklyn averages 105.7 PPG and concedes 114.3. Brook Lopez leads the nightly charge with 20.4 PPG. 

Atltanta averages only 103.8 PPG, while conceding 104.7. Paul Millsap leads with 18.1 points, 7.9 boards and 3.7 assists per game. 

Both teams are struggling with game-to-game consistency. Note that the under is 5-0 in Brooklyn’s last five against teams with a winning straight up record and 6-2 in its last eight against the Eastern conference. And note that Atlanta has seen the total go under in six of its last eight following a straight up loss.

The total has stayed under in five straight between these teams and I’m expecting all of these strong trends to continue tonight. This number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* MWC PERFECT STORM is on San Jose State (2:00 EST).

The 14-15 San Jose State Spartans get ready to battle the 14-15 Utah State Aggies on Wednesday afternoon in the Mountain West Conference Tournament from Las Vegas and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Spartans.

SJSU backed its way into the tournament by losing four straight, including a 74-62 defeat at Wyoming on Saturday. Utah State also closed the season with a loss, dropping a 66-59 decision to UNLV on the road on Saturday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for San Jose State would be a bit of an understatement, as the Aggies have won the last ten straight in the series, including an 81-75 road victory in the only matchup this year back on February 22nd.

SJSU averages 72.2 PPG and allows 74.5. Brandon Clarke leads the nightly charge with 17.9 points and 8.7 rebounds per contest. 

Utah State averages just 71.8 PPG and concedes 70.6. Jalen Moore leads all scorers with 16.6 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that the Spartans are 2-1 ATS this season after three or more consecutive losses, while Utah State is already 1-3 ATS in its last four after scoring 60 points or less.

I think the Spartans have the firepower to take this one down to the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC PERFECT STORM is on Syracuse (12:00 EST)

The 20-10 Miami Florida Hurricanes are getting ready to battle the 18-13 Syracuse Orange and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Syracuse.

These teams played at the start of the year and the Orange would notch the 70-55 home win. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance here. 

Miami comes in with zero momentum after dropping its final two games of the year. Davon Reed leads the team with 15.3 PPG, while Ja’Quan Newton chips in 13.9. 

The Hurricanes average 72 PPG and concede just 63.4.

The Orange average 76.4 PPG and concede 70.7. Andrew White III scored 40 points in his teams 90-61 regular season finale over Georgia Tech. 

I’ll point out thought that Miami Florida is just 1-3 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a road loss in which it scored 56 points or less, while Syracuse is 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 88 points or more.

I think the Orange carry over the momentum from their push to close the regular season and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Syracuse.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the LA Lakers (8:35 EST).

the 19-44 LA Lakers are in Dallas to take on the surging 26-36 Dallas Mavericks and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the hungry visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. 

LA comes in off seven straight losses, most recently a 105-97 setback to the Pelicans on Sunday. The Lakers are in full rebuilding mode right now, but clearly the team is going to be hungry to get off the schneid.

Conversely, the suddenly over-achieving Mavericks look poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning their second straight and fourth in their last five with a 104-89 home victory over OKC on Sunday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as Dallas has won 13 straight in the series, including a 122-73 home victory on January 22nd. 

LA averages 103.9 PPG and concedes 110.8. Julius Randle, D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Nick Young all average double figures.

The Mavs are still last in the league in scoring with an average of just 97.9 PPG. Dallas is tough defensively in conceding only 99.7. Harrison Barnes leads the team with 20.1 points and 5.1 boards per night. 

I’ll point out though that LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Dallas is 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 90 points or less.

After big wins over Memphis and Oklahoma City, the Mavs now face the dregs of the league in the Lakers, followed by the Nets and then Suns. All at home. It’s simply not too hard to imagine the home side finally coming in a tiny bit complacent here as it looks past its lowly opponent to this very favorable/vanilla part of its schedule.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC ROUND 1 SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Boston College (2:30 EST).

The 18-12 Wake Forest Demon Deacons are getting ready to take on the 9-22 Boston College Eagles in the first round of the 2017 ACC Tournament from the Barclays Center in New York and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

This is a “double revenge” scenario for BC, which lost 79-66 to Wake Forest in the first matchup this year and 85-80 at home in the second contest.

Beating a team three times in one year is tough even for really great teams and Wake Forest is decent, but I think it’s safe to say that not many would classify the Demon Deacons as “great.”

Wake would actually notch a few quality wins down the stretch, beating Louisville 88-81 and Virginia Tech 89-84. Note that the Demon Deacons average 82.1 PPG and conceded 77.2.

BC averages 72.3 PPG and concedes 77.9. The Eagles closed out a miserable season by losing 14 straight. One bright spot was Jerome Robinson, who averaged a team-high 18.7 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Wake is just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 neutral site games and only 1-5 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while BC is 2-1 ATS in its last three after a three games or more winless streak.

Boston College has a decent offense, putting up 80 points against the Demon Deacons in the last matchup. I think Robinson and company will keep this one competitive once again, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 40-22 Boston Celtics are in LA to take on the 37-25 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Boston comes in off a deflating 109-106 loss at Phoenix on Sunday, while the Clippers come in off a big victory over the Bulls.

Suffice it to say, I think the C’s have a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. 

Boston averages 108 PPG and got 35 points from Isaiah Thomas yesterday afternoon, but it wasn’t enough as the defense looked horrible. 

The Clippers had lost four games after the All-Star break, but Jamal Crawford would score 28 points and LA would net the 109-100 victory over Chicago: “He’s going to always break out,” LA coach Doc Rivers said of Crawford. “I always tell him to give yourself a shooter’s chance. If you don’t shoot it, you have no chance of breaking out of it.”

The Clippers average 107.8 PPG and concede 104.9.

I’ll point out that Boston is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven against the Pacific, while LA is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 when playing on one days rest.

I think the Clippers come in focused on the task at hand and take advantage of this favorable matchup. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 31-30 Indiana Pacers are in Charlotte to take on the 27-35 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Indiana comes in off an extremely satisfying 97-96 win in Atlanta just last night. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here.

Charlotte enters off a much needed 112-102 road win over Denver on Saturday. These teams have split a pair of game this year, each winning on its home floor. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting the Hornets to build off their latest victory and to keep this trend alive.

This is the finale of a five-game road trip for Indiana as well, so it’s definitely not too hard to imagine Indiana getting caught “looking ahead” to its upcoming home stretch. And note, despite the victory, Indiana has lost eight of its last ten. 

Indiana averages 105.3 PPG and concedes 106.2.

Charlotte averages 104.9 PPG and concedes 104.6. The Hornets would go on to shoot 16 of 27 from range in the win over Denver, Kemba Walker led all scorers with 27 points. 

The Hornets are still alive in the playoff race, sitting three games back of eighth spot. Note that they’re 16-13 at home this year.

And I’ll point out that Indiana is just 12-17 ATS on the road this season, while Charlotte is 3-1 ATS this year after a win by ten points or more. 

Charlotte is 0-8 ATS in its last eight at home, but I think that lop-sided trend ends tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Northern Illinois (7:00 EST).

The 15-16 Northern Illinois Huskies are at Eastern Michigan to take on the 15-16 Eagles and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

These teams are pretty evenly matched as they head into the first round of the MAC Tournament. Northern Illinois stumbled down the stretch, losing three straight to close the year, including an 87-82 setback at Ball State on Friday, while EMU also suffered a loss in its finale, falling 60-56 at home to Toldedo on Friday. Note that these teams split a pair of games this year, each winning on its home floor.

Eugene German was a bright spot for NIU in the loss to Ball State, finishing with 17 points. Note that the Huskies average 72.3 PPG and concede 70.6. 

EMU averages 78.5 PPG and concedes 72.9. The Eagles shot just 37.7 percent from the floor in the loss on Friday though and were only 4 of 18 from range. 

I’ll point out that Northern Illinois is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more consecutive SU losses and 8-6 ATS on the road, while Eastern Michigan is just 4-7 ATS at home and just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 after scoring 60 points or less.

Both teams have struggled down the stretch, but the conference tournament gives each an opportunity to turn over a new leaf. I’m expecting a battle down to the wire and 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 Northern Illinois.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM on the over Pelicans/Lakers (9:35 EST).

The 24-38 New Orleans Pelicans are in LA to take on the 19-43 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

LA will be desperate to get off the schneid and break a six-game slide, most recently falling to the Celtics on Friday. New Orleans is just 1-4 in its last five since trading for DeMarcus Cousins and will be eager to bounce back here after a tough OT loss to San Antonio in its latest action.

These are two teams hungry for a victory. I believe each is going to push the pace from start to finish.

Cousins had 19 points and 23 boards for the Pelicans in their low-scoring 101-98 OT loss to San Antonio: “We had some costly turnovers, I know I threw one,” Cousins lamented afterwards. “It was just bad execution down the stretch. They were the better team down the stretch…. This is one of our better games since we’ve come together. It showed some positives and also some things we still have to work on.”

The Lakers are going to be trying new lineups every night until the end of the season as the team is in full-blown rebuilding mode. Brandon Ingram and Larry Nance will both be seeing considerable time until the end of the year. The Lakers have not had an issue scoring on most night,s averaging over 105 PPG, but the defense ranks in the bottom five in the league, which I think comes back to haunt them once again this evening.

I’ll point out that New Orleans has seen the total go over the number in three of its last four after failing to reach the 100 point plateau after suffering a loss in OT in its previous outing, while LA has seen the total sail above the posted number in five of seven this season after playing three consecutive home games and in 13 of 20 this year against poor defensive teams which allow 106 PPG.

Despite the win/loss record since acquiring Cousins, New Orleans has looked a lot better of late, as it would steam roll Detroit, before then taking the Spurs down to the wire. 

I’m expecting a classic “run-and-gun” shootout and for this one to fly OVER as it comes down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT SUPER SIDE is on Wisconsin (6:00 EST).

The 23-7 Minnesota Golden Gophers are in Wisconsin to take on the 22-8 Badgers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Minnesota is rolling no doubt, it’s won eight straight, most recently an 88-73 home victory over Nebraska.

The Badgers though will be looking to atone for their shocking 59-57 loss to Iowa on Thursday.

Note that the Badgers beat the Golden Gophers 78-76 in OT earlier in the season, getting the straight-up victory, but unable to cover against the spread. 

Minnesota averages 76.5 PPG and concedes 69.1. Nate Mason had 25 points in the win over Nebraska. 

Bronson Koenig was a lone bright spot in the seback to Iowa for Wisconsin, he’d finish with 19 points. Koenig has now reached 17 points or more in three straight games. 

Wisconsin though has lost three straight and five of its last six to fall to 11-6 in league play. Note that the Badgers average 72.6 PPG and concede 62. 

It’s Senior Night in Wisconsin and the place is going to be rocking. The Badgers have a chance to finish off the season strong with a big win in front of the home town crowd over a tough opponent and that’s exactly what I’m expecting. I think Wisconsin’s tough defensive play turns out to be the difference. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:05 EST).

The 10-49 Brooklyn Nets are in Portland to take on the 25-35 Trailblazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

When these teams met on November 20th, Portland came away with the 129-109 victory. Suffice it to say, I expect a similar final outcome here as well.

Brooklyn was smashed in Utah just last night and I think will come into this one “gassed.” 

Conversely, the Blazers are finally coming off a big win and will be looking to snowball that momentum after beating the Thunder 114-109 at home. Portland would shoot 49.4 percent from the floor and go 10 of 25 from range. 

But more impressievly, Portland would hold OKC to just 39.5 percent shooting, while outrebounding it by five. Damian Lillard had 33 points and five assists. 

I’ll point out that Brooklyn is just 3-9 ATS in its last 12 against the Western Conference, while Portland is 5-2 ATS the last seven in this series.

Portland can ill afford to lets games like these slip through its fingers as it continues its hunt for a playoff spot. I’m expecting a blowout from start to finish, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnsota Timberwolves (9:05 EST).

The 25-36 Minnesota Timberwolves are in San Antonio to take on the 46-13 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Wolves come in playing their best basketball of the season, having won two straight and four of their last five after destroying Utah 107-80 on the road on Wednesday. 

The Spurs won their sixth straight last night, needing OT in the 101-98 victory in New Orleans. Suffice it to say, i think the home side is going to be “gassed” tonight.

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as well as the Spurs have won 11 straight in the series, including a 122-114 victory at home on January 17th in the most recent.

In Minnesota’s most recent win, it would shoot 50 percent and hit eight 16 from range. The Wolves would also hold the Jazz to just 38.9 perecent from the floor and only four of 19 from behind the arc. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 21 points and 15 boards.

It was a “sloppy” win for the Spurs last night, who would miss 10 of 25 free throw attempts.

I’ll point out that the Wolves are 14-9 ATS this year against good offensive teams which average 106 PPG, while San Antonio is just 1-3 ATS in its last four against teams with losing records.

I think the stage is set for the outright upset, but in the end, I’ll recommend grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BAIL-OUT BLOWOUT is on Colorado State (8:00 EST).

The 21-9 Colorado State Rams are in Nevada to take on the 24-6 Wolfpack and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

This is a big game, as both teams are 13-4 and the winner will be crowned the Mountain West regular season champ. Both teams are likely to be included in the NCAA tournament, but that’s not 100% guaranteed for the loser. 

The Rams come in having won seven in a row, while Nevada has won five in a row. 

The revenge factor does not come into play here, as this is the first time the teams have faced each other this season.

Colorado State comes in off a dramatic win over Wyoming, as Prentiss Nixon hit a three pointer with six seconds left to lift the Rams to victory. Colorado State shot 51 percent from the floor and only committed six turnovers, while forcing 11. 

Nevada handled SJSU in its latest action, cruising to the 82-67 victory. Marcus Marshall had 20 points. 

I’ll point out that Colorado State is 10-1 ATS on the road this year and a perfect 2-0 ATS as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Nevada is just 5-7 ATS after scoring 80 points or more this season.

I like the Rams to at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WCC TOURNEY RND 1 GAME OF THE YEAR is on San Francisco (6:30 EST).

The 20-11 San Francisco Dons are ready to battle the 16-15 Santa Clara Broncos as the No. four/five seeds. 

Both teams finished 10-8 in league play and each handed the other a loss away from home.

The Dons looked great in non-conference play, picking up quailty wins over teams like Utah, but would then open conference action by losing four of their first five. San Francisco responded though by winning seven of their next eight, before then dropping three of its final five. 

The Dons come in with some momentum though after handling Pepperdine 75-65 on the road in their final regular season contest.

Keep your eyes on Ronny Boyce, who leads San Francisco with 12.8 PPG. Also note, I think it’s important to point out that the Dons make 9.3 shots from range per game, which is second in the conference and 33rd in the nation.

This year has already been a success for the Broncos, who have won five more games than they did a season ago and clinched a winning league record after going 7-11 last year. 

Santa Clara though lost two of three to end the season, including a deflating 14 point setback at Saint Mary’s in the regular season finale. The Broncos lead the conference in 3-pointers made with 9.6 per contest, but note that they’re ninth overall in scoring with just 66.5 PPG. 

I’ll point out that San Francisco is 5-1 ATS in its last six when playing on five or six days rest, while Santa Clara is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the same position and already 1-4 ATS in all tournament games this season.

I think the Dons are the better all around team and I have a hard time seeing the Broncos matching pace down the stretch. Play on San Francisco.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Detroit Pistons (6:05 EST).

The 29-32 Detroit Pistons are at Philadelphia to take on the 23-38 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Detroit is looking to hold onto its playoff spot, it comes into this one having lost two of its last three, most recently a humbling 109-86 setback in New Orleans on Wednesday. 

The 76ers are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after they broke a three-game slide with a 105-102 home win over New York just last night. 

Detroit ranks 26th in scoring at 101.5 PPG. It makes up for it on the defensive side, ranked sixth overall in conceding 102.1 PPG. Tobias Harris leads the nightly charge with 16.2 points and five boards per game.

Philadelphia averages just 101.7 PPG, but concedes 107.4. The team is dealing with several injuries and I think it will struggle to keep up with this focused Pistons side.

I’ll point out that Detroit is 6-2 ATS this year when playing with two days rest and 11-7 ATS after a loss by ten points or more, while Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 105 points or more.

The 76ers are going to be gassed tonight after the victory over the Knicks on Friday, while the Pistons come in completely rested. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on Rutgers (12:00 EST).

The 18-12 Illinois Fighting Illini are at Rutgers to take on the 13-17 Scarlet Knights and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Knights have lost six straight, but they’re out to play the role of spoiler this afternoon, as despite coming into this one on a four-game win streak, the Illini still find themselves on the big dance bubble. 

To say this is a revenge game would be a bit of an understatement too, as Illinois has won all four meetings against Rutgers since both became a part of the Big Ten. 

Even with a win today though, Illinois is guaranteed nothing as far as the NCAA Tournament. Take note that the selection committee didn’t put one Big Ten team in their debut top 16 rankings earlier in the month, so perhaps only running the conference tournament table would ensure its inclusion.

The Fighting Illini have been hot, but it’s not too hard to imagine the team finally getting caught looking ahead to what could be and past their lowly opponent this afternoon. 

Despite finishing with the last seed in the confernce tournament, the Scarlet Knights will be playing for pride today in the final home game of the year. One player to keep your eyes on is sophomore guard Corey Sanders who averages 12.9 points and 3.3 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Illinois is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after a three game or more unbeaten streak, while Rutgers is 2-1 ATS in its last three in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent if scoring less than 67 points in that contest.

I think the home side at the very least takes this one down to the wire and sneaks in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

The 10-49 Brooklyn Nets are in Utah to take on the 37-24 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Nets are poised for an immediate return to mediocrity after they broke a 16-game road losing streak with a 109-100 effort over the Kings on Wednesday. 

The Jazz have lost two straight and will be out to atone for a brutal 107-80 home loss to the Wolves on Wednesday. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then Utah has to be liking its chances for a bounce back performance as it’s taken five straight in the series, including a 101-89 road win in the first matchup this year back on January 2nd.

Brooklyn averages 105.4 PPG, which lands them 14th overall. The Nets though are last in the NBA in scoring defense in conceding a whopping 114.2 PPG. Brook Lopez has been a standout this year, leading with 20.5 PPG.

Utah averages 100.2 PPG, but concedes just 96 per contest. George Hill is one of four players averaging double figures, with 17.7 points per contest.

I’ll point out that the Nets are just 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 on one days rest, while the Jazz are 5-1 ATS in their last six following a double-digit loss at home. 

Brooklyn is ripe for a letdown after the rare win, while the hungry Jazz are desperate to wash the stink of back-to-back pathetic efforts out of their mouths. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Grizzlies/Mavericks (8:35 EST).

The 36-25 Memphis Grizzlies are in Dallas to take on the 24-36 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it. 

The Grizzlies come in with momentum after winning their second straight by smashing the Suns 130-112 at home on Tuesday. The Mavericks had their two-game win streak snapped with a 100-95 road loss to Atlanta on Wednesday. 

Not only will Dallas be eager to get back onto the winning track, but it’s also out to atone for a deplorable 80-64 loss to Memphis back on November 18th. 

The Mavericks were banged up and looking for answers at the beginning of the year, clearly they look a lot better in every respect at this point of the season. 

On most nights, it’s the Grizzlies defense which gets the job done as the they concede just 99.8 PPG, while averaging 101.2. Marc Gasol averages a team high 20.6 points and 6.2 boards per game.

The Mavericks average just 97.7 PPG and concede 99.8. Interesting to note though that Dallas is ranked 6th in the three-ball department with 10.8 per game.

And take note, despite these being a couple of defense oriented clubs, the Grizzlies have in fact seen the total go over the number in three of four this year after scoring 115 points or more and in seven of 12 after a victory by ten points or more, while Dallas has seen the total sail above the posted number in four of its last seven against teams with winning records.

Both teams are playing their best basketball of the season and I expect that to translate into effecient production this evening. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE REVENGE PLAY OF THE MONTH is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST).

The 36-25 Toronto Raptors are in Washington to take on the 36-23 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Wizards pulled away for a win at home and then followed that with a victory on the road over these very Raptors the next night. I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for Washington.

Conversely, the Raptors are hungry and searching for answers after losing point guard Kyle Lowry to injury for an undetermined amount of time. Toronto though can take confidence in knowing that when it last played in the nation’s capital, it would come away with the 113-103 victory on November 2nd.

DeMar DeRozan is healthy and averaging 27.8 PPG and he’s now joined with newcomers Serge Ibaka and PJ Tucker. 

Toronto averages 108 PPG and concedes 104.

Washington averages 107.9 PPG and concedes 105.4. 

I’ll point out that Toronto is 14-7 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Washington is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 overall and only 1-2 ATS in the second game of a back to back after scoring 105 points or more in the first game.

I think this one comes down to the wire and will therefore be grabbing the points. Play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on Brown (7:00 EST).

This looks like a good spot to pull the trigger on the lowly Brown Bears.

Neither of these teams will be playing in any postseason tournaments. Columbia comes to town off a win, but had lost five in a row previous to that.

Columbia beat Brown 83-78 at home back on February 4th, so this does indeed set up as a “revenge” scenario.

Brown is currently tied for last in the Ivy with Cornell and Dartmouth, so a win on senior night would go a long way in making sure it can claw its way out of the basement.

Besides, the Lions are also going to be get caught “looking ahead” to their season finale tomorrow at Yale.

It’s a perfect set of situational factors to take advantage of. Also note that Columbia is just 1-3 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while Brown is a perfect 2-0 ATS after scoring 60 points or less and 6-4 ATS when playing with five or six days rest.

I’m jumping on the revenge minded home side on Senior Night, play on Brown.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is the under Thunder/Blazers (10:30 EST).

The 35-25 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Portland to take on the 24-35 Blazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

OKC has won four straight and scored at least 108 in each, most recently besting the Jazz 109-106 on Tuesday. I think the Thunder finally have a bit of a letdown here though. 

Portland was a force last year, but this season has been a struggle for the Blazers. That said, they sit only just 2.5 games out of the final playoff spot. The Trail Blazers will be especially focused here after going 1-3 on their most recent road trip, including losing 120-113 in OT to Detroit on Tuesday. 

I’ll point out that OKC has seen the total go under the number in six of nine against the division this season and in nine of 11 after three or more consecutive victories, while Portland has seen the total dip below the posted number in 12 of 20 this year after allowing 115 points or more.

After taking all of the above factors into consideration, I think these two normally high-scoring clubs play to a much lower-scoring competitive battle tonight. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Iowa (9:00 EST).

The 16-13 Iowa Hawkeyes are in Wisconsin to take on the 22-7 Badgers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Iowa comes to town off a great 83-69 road win over Maryland, while Wisconsin enters off a deflating 84-74 loss at Michigan State.

The Hawkeyes are looking to roll towards the finish line, they’ve now won two straight. The Hawkeyes would shoot 48.4 percent from the floor in the win over the Terps and a monster 61.6 percent from range. They also looked sharp defensively, holding Maryland to 44.8 percent from the floor and just 32.4 percent from beyond the arc. 

Iowa averages 80.6 PPG overall, while conceding 77.7. Peter Jok leads the nightly charge with 20.6 PPG.

Wisconsin averages just 73.1 PPG, but concedes just 62.1. Nigel Hayes led all scorers with 22 in the loss to MSU.

I’ll point out though that the road team is 5-1 ATS the last six in this series and the dog is 8-2 ATS the last ten in this series. 

The Badgers are the team struggling right now, they’ve given up 82 and 84 points over their last two games. Iowa’s offense is firing on all cylinders, I’m going to grab the points and expect a nail-biter.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Golden State Warriors (8:00 EST).

The 50-10 Golden State Warriors are in Chicago to take on the 30-30 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Warriors dropped the second game of a back-to-back in a 112-108 setback at Washington on Tuesday, while Chicago had its four game win streak snapped with a 125-107 home loss to Denver on Tuesday. 

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Warriors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve won three straight in this series, including 123-92 at home in the first matchup back on February 8th. 

Kevin Durant is out for the Warriors, but I say who cares. At least for this game anyways. I like the Warriors to rally together today and use Durant’s injury as fuel to compete for the rest of the regular season. 

Note that Golden State boasts the No. 1 offense with 118.1 PPG, while ranked 14th on the defensive end in conceding 105.5.

The Bulls average just 102.9 PPG, while ranked seventh overall in conceding 103.4 per night. Chicago is led by Jimmy Butler, with 24 points and 6.3 boards per game. 

I think it’s important to point out that Chicago is last in the league with 6.7 three pointers per game and last overall by shooting 32.5 percent from range.

Also note that Golden State is 4-1 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference.

I have a hard time seeing the Bulls keeping pace with what should be a highly motivated Stephen Curry and company. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-EAST PERFECT STORM is on Xavier (9:00 EST).

The 17-11 Marquette Eagles are at Xavier to take on the 18-11 Musketeers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Marquette enters off a 73-69 loss to Providence, while the Musketeers come in off an 88-79 loss to Butler.

This is a big game for both teams, but note that this sets up as a revenge scenario for the home side after it was embarrassed 83-61 at Marquette earlier in the year.

The Golden Eagles let a late lead slip away in the loss to Providence last weekend. Marquette averages 82 PPG and concedes 74.1.

The Musketeers average 74.7 PPG and concede 71.4. One player to keep your eyes on today and who I think will be a difference maker in tonight’s contest is Trevon Blulett, who sat out in the first game against the Golden Eagles. Blulett had 21 points in the loss to the Bulldogs on Saturday. 

Xavier is still on the bubble, likely needing to win its final two games to get invited to the Big Dance. 

I’ll point out that Marquette is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with winning records, while take note that the favorite is 4-1 ATS in the last five in this series overall. 

After scoring 79 points against Butlers tough defense, I’m expecting the Musketeers to carry that momentum over here. Play on Xavier.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC PERFECT STORM is on Boston College (8:00 EST).

The 9-20 Boston College Eagles are at Notre Dame to take on the 22-7 Fighting Irish and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that the visitors can catch the home side a bit complacent and expect them to keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

The Eagles come into this one with nothing to lose, except perhaps just one more game. BC enters on a 12 game losing streak and is just 2-14 in ACC action.

The Irish are rolling towards the tournament having won five in a row. Notre Dame is now 11-5 in league play this year. 

Not surprisingly, this is a “revenge” game for the visitors after they fell in a competitive 84-76 fight earlier in the season.

The Eagles average 72.7 PPG, while conceding 77.7. Two players average in double figures in Jerome Robinson (19.3) and Ky Bowman (14.5).

Notre Dame averages 78.9 PPG and concedes 69.3. Four players average in double figures for the Irish, led by Bonzie Colson with 16.8 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that BC is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 against teams with a winning percentage above .600 and 5-2 ATS in the last seven in this series overall, while Notre Dame is 0-2 ATS this year against teams with losing records.

Boston College has been outscored by just 12.0 PPG over its last 12 games. The Irish have a much more important game at Louisville on the weekend and I think will be caught looking ahead to that one. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over 76ers/Heat (7:05 EST).

The 22-37 Philadelphia 76ers are in Miami to take on the 27-33 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Philadelphia has lost three of it last four, most recently a 119-108 home loss to the Warriors on Monday. The Heat lost for just the third time in 19 games with a listless 96-89 road defeat to the Mavs on Monday. 

Miami looks to get back on track and atone for that poor performance and it also plays with revenge today as Philly has taken two so far in the season series this year, including a 117-109 home win on February 11th.

The 76ers average 101.7 PPG and concede 107.1. The offense looked pretty good against the Warriors, but just couldn’t keep pace down the stretch against Golden States relentless barrage. 

The Heat average 101.6 PPG and concede 102. Goran Dragic is the team leader with 20.3 points, 3.9 boards and 6.1 assists per game.

I’ll point out though that over 5-0-1 in Philadelphia’s last six games following a double-digit loss at home and 8-2-1 in its last 11 following a straight up loss of more than ten points. 

Miami has played a lot better on the offensive end, which doesn’t bode well for a 76ers team struggling on the defensive side. This number is just a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on over Mavericks/Hawks (7:35 EST).

The 24-35 Dallas Mavericks are in Atlanta to take on the 33-26 Hawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Dallas comes in off a second straight victory, besting the Heating 96-89 on Monday, while the Hawks snapped a three-game slide with a convincing 114-98 road win at Boston on Monday. 

Note that this sets up as a big time revenge game for Dallas today as Atlanta has won six straight in the series, including a 97-82 road win back on January 7th.

The Mavericks are last in the league in scoring with 97.8 PPG, while fourth on the defensive end in conceding 99.8. The defense continues to be a strong point for the team, but after a siuggish start to the year, the offense has also improved dramtically since. Harrison Barnes leads the way with 20.1 points and 5.2 boards per game. 

The Hawks average 103.4 PPG and concede 104.2. Paul Millsap leads the nightly charge with 17.8 points, 7.8 boards and 3.7 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that Dallas has seen the total go over the number in 30 of its last 50 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Atlanta has seen the total sail above the posted number in two of its last three following a win by ten points or more.

These are two teams which are going to fight to the finish. This number is just a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over Knicks/Magic (7:05 EST).

The 24-36 New York Knicks are in Orlando to take on the 22-38 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

These teams are on the outside of the playoff picture looking in and while making the postseason is more likely a “pipe dream,” I’m expecting them to each push the pace from start to finish.

New York comes in off its seventh loss in its last nine games after falling 92-91 at home to Toronto on Monday, while Orlando has dropped two straight and six of seven before getting back into the winners circle with a 105-86 win at home over Atlanta on Saturday. 

So far they’ve split a pair of games this year, with Orlando taking the latest in a 115-103 road victory on January 2nd.

The Knicks are 12th in the Eastern Conference, 4.5 games behind the Pistons for the final playoff spot. They’re 13th in the league in scoring at 105.8 per contest. Defensively they allow 109.1. Carmelo Anthony leads the nightly charge with 23.5 points and six boards per night. 

Terrence Ross had 24 points to lead Orlando in the win over Atlanta. Orlando still just averages 99.7 PPG, while allowing 105.8. Evan Fournier is the leading scorer with 16.6 points per game.

I’ll point out though that New York has seen the total go over the number in three of four already this year after playing to three consecutive “unders” and interestingly in ten of 13 against the Southeast division, while Orlando has seen the total sail above the posted number in three of four this season after playing three or more consecutive home games.

New York is down a few key pieces, but that just means “next man up.” Orlando is ready to build off its latest victory and try to take advantage of its inconsistent opponent. All signs point to a shootout, play the OVER.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN PERFECT STORM is on Northwestern (7:00 EST).

The 19-10 Michigan Wolverines are in Northwestern to take on the 20-9 Wildcats and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Michigan looks poised for a letdown here after winning five of its last six games.

Conversely, the Wildcats will be risking life and limb tonight as they’ve lost two straight.

The Wolverines are led by Derrick Walton Jr., who has averages 18 points, 6.3 boards and 5 assists over his last nine outings. 

Note though that Michigan has not won back-to-back road games all year. 

Northwestern will be especially motivated tonight after the way it fell to Indiana in its last game, succumbing 63-62 after blowing a 7-point lead with just under two minutes to play. After going just 1-5 SU in its last six, clearly a  win today against the Wolverines would put Northwestern back firmly in the NCAA tournament conversation. Bryant McIntosh was a bright spot in the loss to the Hoosiers, finishing with 22 points. “We’re going to keep fighting,” Wildcats’ head coach Chris Collins said earlier in the week. “Our guys are hurting right now and I want them to hurt but make no mistake we’re going to fight back.”

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 9-13 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 2-7 ATS on the road, while Northwestern is 10-7 ATS as a favorite this season and 15-7 ATS against schools with winning records.

I’m expecting the hungry home side to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Northwestern.

Good luck…Larry

My A-10 PERFECT STORM is on St. Joseph’s (7:00 EST).

The 19-9 Rhode Island Rames are at St. Joseph’s to take on the 10-18 Hawks and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I do think that the hungry home side will at the very least, take this one down to the wire and comfortably sneak in through the back door with the ample spread that it’s been afforded in this matchup.

St. Joe’s comes in desperate after losing eight straight, most recently a hard-fought 61-60 setback at St. Louis on Saturday.

Conversely, the Rams come in complacent after winning three in a row, most recently over VCU. The Rams already smoked the Hawks at home 88-58 on January 3rd, so it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking past” their lowly opponent today. 

I won’t try to convince you that the Rams are overrated and the Hawks have gotten some bad breaks this season, as that’s not the case. Rhode Island is the better team, but I think the situation favors the home side. The long losing streak, the final home game and the revenge factor are all big time motivational factors working in favor of the Hawks tonight.

But also note that Rhode Island is just 5-6 ATS on the road this year, while St. Joseph’s is 7-5 ATS this season off a loss against a conference rival.

Grab as many points as you can, play on St. Joe’s.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SEC PERFECT STORM is on Auburn (6:30 EST).

The 17-12 Auburn Tigers are in Georgia to take on the 17-12 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Auburn comes to town of a 79-68 home loss to Arkansas and has now lost four of its last five. Georgia enters off an 82-80 home win over LSU and has won four of its last five.

I think the Bulldogs come in a tiny bit complacent and expect the hungry Tigers to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Also note that Auburn plays with revenge after dropping the first meeting back in December 96-84. 

The Tigers average 80.1 PPG, while conceding 79.4. 

The Bulldogs average 72.4 PPG and concede 69.8. 

I’ll point out though that Auburn is 7-4 ATS on the road this year and 3-1 ATS in its last four as an underdog, while Georgia is just 3-9 ATS at home and only 4-9 ATS as the favorite.

I’m banking on the desperate visitors to keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the under Hornets/Lakers (10:35 EST).

The 25-34 Charlotte Hornets are in LA to take on the 19-41 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Charlotte has lost 13 of its last 15 and will almost assuredly miss the playoffs. The Lakers have been out of contention for a while now and have lost four straight.

Not a lot to get pumped up about in this one for either side.

Charlotte beat LA 117-113 in December, but clearly I’m expecting a much slower-paced and less effecient affair this time around. 

LA has since been blown up, with leading scorer Lou Williams gone and Magic Johnson continuing to make moves.

I’ll point out that Charlotte has seen the total go under the number in six of its last eight after playing three consecutive road games, while LA has seen the total dip below the posted number in two of its last three following a loss by ten points or more.

Both teams are limping towards the finish line. All signs point to a sloppily played contest and for this one to indeed stay under once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Penn State (8:30 EST).

The 16-13 Ohio State Buckeyes are at Penn State to take on the 14-15 Nittany Lions and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the home side.

These teams are tied for tenth place in the Big Ten standings. Ohio State enters off an 83-73 win over Wisconsin on Thursday, while Penn State enters off three straight losses, including an 81-71 road loss to the Golden Gophers last weekend. 

So not only will Penn State be looking to get off the schneid after three straight losses, but it’s also out to avenge both losses it suffered to OSU last year (this is the first matchup this season). 

Ohio State averages 72.7 PPG and concedes 69. Jae’Sean Tate leads the nightly charge with 14.1 points and 6.3 boards per game.

Penn State averages 72.1 PPG and concedes 72.2. Tony Carr leads the team with 13.2 points and 4.0 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Ohio State has struggled in this spot though, going 1-4 ATS in its last five against the conference and only 10-29-1 ATS in its last 40 on the road overall, while Penn State is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven at home.

I think the Buckeyes come back down to earth after playing one of their best games of the entire season. The Nittany Lions on the other hand will be risking life and limb to break the slide and have a big advantage in playing at home tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Texas A&M (7:00 EST).

The 15-13 Texas A&M Aggies are in Missouri to take on the 7-21 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Aggies won for the second time in three games in a 56-53 home win over Alabama on Saturday, while Missouri lost its fourth straight in a deflating 80-77 road loss at Ole Miss last weekend.

The Tigers put up a fight in the first meeting between the schools, but eventually fell 76-73. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger win today for the Aggies.

Texas A&M averages 71.9 PPG and concedes just 68.8. Tyler Davis leads the nightly charge with 14.3 points and 6.8 boards per game.

Missouris averages 69 PPG and concedes 72. Jordan Barnett leads the team in scoring with 12.6 points and 6.2 boards per contest.

I’ll point out that Texas A&M is 4-0 ATS in its last four road games against teams with a home winning percentage of less than .400 and 4-1 ATS in its last five following an ATS loss, while Missouri is just 1-3 ATS in its last four against teams with winning records.

The Tigers are limping towards the finish line, while the Aggies continue to keep momentum levels high. This one means a lot more to Texas A&M as far as the conference standings are concerned and in my opinion, all signs do indeed point to a lop-sided affair once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-14 Mississippi State Bulldogs are in South Carolina to take on the 21-8 Gamecocks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Bulldogs come in with zero momentum after six straight losses, most recently a 29 point beatdown setback by Vanderbilt.

The Gameocks on the other hand finally come in with some momentum after snapping a three-game slide with a victory over Tennessee on Saturday. Suffice it to say, I think South Carolina carries that momentum over in this one.

Mississippi State already lost at home 77-73 to South Carolina on February 11th and it clearly won’t get any easier for it on the road in this extremely hostile environment. 19 turnovers was the difference in that one, compared to just 11 for the Gamecocks.

But the Bulldogs have taken a step back since then, last week’s 77-48 loss to Vandy was perhaps the worst effort of the season. 

The Gamecocks are fighting for conference positioning and won’t be taking anything for granted. They sure looked a lot better against the Vols, holding them to 33.3 percent shooting in the 82-55 destruction: “This certainly resembles what we’ve been doing, in terms of defensive intensity,” senior guard Duane Notice said following the win over Tennessee.

Four players reached double-figures in scoring for South Carolina, which clearly doesn’t bode well for the struggling Bulldogs.

I’ll point out that Mississippi State is just 1-2 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU losses and 0-2 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while South Carolina is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 60 points or less. 

I think the Bulldogs simply go through the motions today. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONF GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Golden State Warriors (7:05 EST).

The 49-9 Golden State Warriors are in Philadelphia to take on the 22-36 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Golden State enters off a third straight win and sixth in its last seven after handling the Nets 112-95 at home on Saturday. 

The 76ers have played a lot better over the last month, but looked primed for a letdown here after a late rally came up short in a 110-109 setback at new York on Saturday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the Warriors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve taken six straight in the series, including in the most recent, a 117-105 home victory back on March 27th.

Golden State is the No. 1 ranked offense in the league with an average of 118.2 PPG. The Warriors also lead the league in assists with 31 a night. Golden State is in the middle of the pack on the defensive end, ranked 12th in conceding 105.4 per night. Kevin Durant is leading the nightly charge with 25.7 points and 8.4 boards per game.

Despite the recent “up tick” in play, Philadelphia is still ranked 25th overall in scoring with 101.6 PPG, while ranked 23rd on the defensive end in conceding 106.9. 

I’ll also point out that Golden State is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss and 5-2-1 ATS in its last eight against the Eastern Conference, while Philadelphia is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after allowing 110 points or more.

I think the visitors keep the foot on the gas from start to finish and pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry