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

The 17-11 Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns are at Appalachian State to take on the 8-19 Mountaineers and while I obviously 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 home side.

The Cajuns come in complacent in my opinion after three straight wins. So far Lafayette averages 80.2 PPG and allows 78. Fank Bartley IV is averaging 15.7 points and 4.4 boards per game. 

Note that the Cajuns have split their last four road games.

The Mountaineers are going to be the much “hungrier” team today, they’ve lost ten of their last 12 and will be looking to make a statement on senior night. So far the team averages just 70.8 PPG, while conceding 77.5. 

Note that App State is a “different” team at home though, having won six of its last ten there. 

I’ll point out as well that Louisiana Lafayette has already struggled mightily in this spot for bettors, going just 3-4 ATS when playing with one days rest and only 1-5 ATS off a win against a conference rival, while Appalachian State is already a perfect 2-0 ATS this year after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games and 2-0 ATS as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range.

I’m banking on this one coming down to the wire, so grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 21-7 USC Trojans are in Arizona to take on the 13-16 Sun Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Arizona State most recently fell 87-75 to UCLA, while USC enters off a 90-77 loss to Arizona on Thursday.

When these teams met earlier in the year, the Trojans would hold on for the 82-79 victory behind 29 points by Elijah Stewart. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger differential in the second game. 

USC owns a solid offense which averages 78.4 PPG. Defensively the Trojans are pretty mediocre in conceding 73.6. Keep your eyes on big man Bennie Boatwright, who has a combined 43 points over his last two games. 

Arizona State shot just 38.8 percent from the floor in its loss to UCLA and was out-rebounded 49-30. The Sun Devils average 79.1 PPG, but concede 81.8. 

I’ll point out that USC is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 90 points or more, while ASU is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 85 points or more.

I like USC to bounce back and to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is the over Blazers/Raptors (6:05 EST).

The 24-33 Portland Trail Blazers are in Toronto to take on the 34-24 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

The Blazers had lost three straight before torching the Magic 112-103 on the road on Thursday, while the Raptors won their second straight after knocking off Boston 107-97 at home on Friday. 

These teams met on December 26th and it was the Raptors that scored the 95-91 road win. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much more wide open affair this evening and look for this total to eclipe the posted number as the game comes down the stretch.

The Blazers average 107.4 PPG and concede 110. Portland is led by Damian Lillard, who puts up 25.8 points and dishes out 5.7 assists per contest. 

The Raptors average 108.4 PPG and concede 104.2. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 27.6 points and 5.3 boards per contest. 

I’ll point out that Portland has seen the total go over the number in seven of nine this year when playing with two days rest, while Toronto has seen the total sail over the posted number in three of four this season after playing to three or more consecutive “unders” and in 16 of 25 non-conference games.

All signs point to a shootout, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is the over Celtics/Pistons (6:05 EST).

The 37-21 Boston Celtics are in Detroit to take on the 28-30 Pistons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Boston will be especially motivated here after dropping its second straight, most recently a 107-97 setback to rival Toronto on Friday.

Detroit comes in with momentum, it’s coming off its second straight victory, this time a 114-108 OT home win over the Hornets on Thursday. 

The C’s have taken two of the first three meeting this year, including a 113-109 home victory in the most recent matchup on January 30th. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score in this one as well.

Boston averages 108.2 PPG and concedes 105.7 Isaiah Thomas leads the way with 29.7 points and 6.3 assists per contest.

The Pistons average 101.5 PPG and concede 101.8. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 33 points and nine boards in the victory over the Hornets.

I’ll point out though that Boston has seen the total go over the number in three of its last four when playing the role of favorite, while Detroit has seen the total sail above the posted number in five of eight already this year when playing with two days of rest.

Both teams hungry for a win today, I’m expecting a faster pace and for this one to go over as it comes down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is the under Suns/Bucks (3:35 EST).

The 18-40 Phoenix Suns are in Milwaukee to take on the 25-31 Bucks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Phoenix will be desperate to get off the schneid, it’s coming off its sixth loss in its last eight games, this time a 128-121 OT setback in Chicago on Friday. 

The Bucks had their three-game win streak snapped in a 109-95 setback at home to Utah on Friday. 

Milwaukee has won three straight in the series, including an incredibly high-scoring 137-112 road win back on February 4th. Suffice it to say, I’m finally expecting a much more defensive affair this evening. 

The Suns were even lucky to make it to OT against the Bulls, as they had 19 turnovers and were just 15 of 25 from the charity stripe. Phoenix averages 107.2 PPG and concedes 112.7.

The Bucks average 105.5 points and concede 105.5 as well. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 33 points, 12 boards and five steals in the setback to Utah. 

I’ll point out though that Phoenix has seen the total go under the number in three of its last four following a non-conference contest, while Milwaukee has seen the total dip below the posted number in two of its last three after allowing 109 points or more.

These teams get out and push the pace and rarely get back defensively. But despite their first meeting eclipsing the number, they’ve in fact played to some lower-scoring affairs against each other over the last couple years and I expect that trend to carry over here (four of the last five have stayed “under” the number). This number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on SDSU (8:00 EST).

The 16-11 San Diego Aztecs are at Colorado State to take on the 19-9 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Rams are tied for first place in the Mountain West and would need to win the tournament to get invited to the Big Dance. 

San Diego State has endured it’s toughest season in quite some time and enters at 8-7 in MWC play, good for sixth spot. 

But when these teams met on January 28th, it was an all out war, one which Colorado State won 78-77. I think it’s payback time today.

The Aztecs have in fact been playing a lot better of late, before stumbling 63-55 at home to Fresno State on Wednesday, they’d won three straight. 

The Rams can’t take anything for granted at this point of the season, but it’s not too hard to imagine the home side finally taking the foot off the gas a little after winning five straight and eight of its last nine. 

SDSU averages 69.7 PPG, but concedes just 63.5.

Colorado State averages 72.8 PPG and concedes 67.1.

The differential between these teams is in fact negligible. 

I’ll point out though that the Aztecs are 2-1 ATS in their last three against teams with winning records, while the Rams are only 1-2 ATS in their last three as a home fav of four points or less or pick.

I like the visitors to take this one down to the wire, play on San Diego State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EAST-CONF BLOWOUT OF THE MONTH is on the New York Knicks (7:35 EST).

The 21-35 Philadelphia 76ers are in New York to take on the 23-35 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The 76ers are coming off a game just last night, besting the red hot Wizards 120-112 and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back.

The Knicks however will be desperate to break their current slide of futility, they enter off their sixth loss in their last seven games, most recently falling 119-104 to the Cavs on the road Thursday. 

New York also plays with revenge here after falling 98-97 in Philadelphia back on January 11th.

Despite the recent “up tick” in play for the 76ers though, note that they’re still just 8-19 on the road this season. They also only average 101.2 PPG, while conceding 106.8. 

New York averages 106 PPG and concedes 109.4. Carmelo Anthony still leads the way with 23.3 points and six boards per contest.

I’ll point out though that Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three on the road, while New York is 12-7 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more and 10-7 ATS after a loss by ten points or more.

I think a desperate, hungry and revenge-minded Knicks team finally gets off the schneid with a convincing effort. Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin’ Over Total is the over Hornets/Kings (5:05 EST).

The 24-33 Charlotte Hornets are in Sacramento to take on the 29-28 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Both teams are still hopeful on making the playoffs, so this is an important game for each. And because of that, I’m expecting a really wide-open affair tonight.

The Hornets will be especially focused as they look to avoid a sixth straight loss, most recently a 114-108 OT setback to Detroit.

In their first game without big man DeMarcus Cousins, the Kings came up with a 116-100 home win over Denver on Thursday. 

When these teams played on January 28th, the Kings scored the narrow 109-106 road win and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score in this one as well.

Charlotte averages 104.5 PPG and concedes 104.4. Kemba Walker leads the nightly charge with 22.7 points and 5.5 assists per game.

Sacramento averages 103.2 PPG and concedes 105.6. The offense looked pretty good against the Nuggets though as the team transitions its offense to more a “run-and-gun’ style without Cousins in the lineup.

I’ll point out that the over is 5-1 in Charlotte’s last six road games against teams with a losing home record, while Sacramento has seen the total sail above the posted number in seven of its last eight against the Eastern Conference. 

Five of these teams last six in the series have flown above the posted number and all signs point to another offensive affair tonight. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on TCU (2:00 EST).

The 22-6 West Virginia Mountaineers are at TCU to take on the 17-11 Horned Frogs and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. 

WVU looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after notching its third straight win, most recently a relatively simple 77-62 home victory over Texas.

TCU enters off an 87-68 setback to Kansas earlier in the week. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for the home side as well after it fell 82-70 at West Virginia earlier in the year.

WVU remains in second in the Big 12 after Jevon Carter posted 24 points in the win over the Longhorns. So far WVU averages 85.3 PG and concedes 66.6.

TCU averages 74.3 PPG and concedes just 69.7. Alex Robinson had 15 points in the loss to the Jayhawks. 

I’ll point out though that West Virginia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 62 points or less in its previous contest, while TCU is 2-1 ATS in its last three in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent of 11 points or more. 

With a date at Baylor on Sunday, the team sitting directly ahead of it in the standings, I believe that WVU gets caught “looking ahead” to that more “important” contest.

Grab the points, play on the Horned Frogs.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Clemson Tigers (12:00 EST).

The 22-6 Florida State Seminoles are at Clemson to take on the 14-13 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Seminoles enter off a 104-72 beatdown of Boston College, while the Tigers will be looking to get back on track and take out their frustrations after a tough 72-71 loss to Virginia Tech ealirer in the week.

Clemson is also out to atone for an atrocious 109-61 loss to FSU on the road earlier in the month.

Dwayne Bacon led the charge for FSU in its lastest win, finishing with 16 points. The victory snapped a two game skid. Note that the Seminoles average 84.4 PPG and concede 71.5.

Clemson averages 74.7 PPG and concedes 71.4. Marcus Reed had 18 points in the nail-biting setback to the Hokies.

I’ll point out though that FSU is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after scoring 103 points or more, while Clemson is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a blowout loss of 30 points or more to an opponent.

With a game at Duke on Monday, the team currently tied with it in the standings, I believe Floriday State gets caught “looking past” the hungry Tigers today. Play on Clemson.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* REVENGE BLOWOUT is on the Atlanta Hawks (8:05 EST).

Miami was one of the hotttest teams in the league heading into the All Star break, winning 14 out of its final 16 games, including big victories over Houston, Golden State and these very Atlanta Hawks. 

Wiill “rest lead to rust” though for the Heat? I think the answer is yes. And now the Hawks look to take advantage and to avenge the earlier setback. 

Atlanta is just 2.5 games out of third place and will be eager to return after dropping three of its final five leading up to the break. 

Goran Dragic leads the way for Miami with 20.3 points and 6.2 assists per game, while Dwight Howard is the leader in Atlanta with 13.5 points and 13 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that Miami is just 13-14 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 11-12 ATS after a non-conference game, while Atlanta is 8-6 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more and 2-1 ATS in its last three against clubs with losing records.

Divisional contests are always the toughest and they almost always mean more to the home side. After losing the first matchup of the year between the clubs, the Hawks will be out to make a statement tonight. And note, with a game tomorrow at home against the Pacers, it’s not too difficult to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

A couple of cellar dwellers go head-to-head on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Bears have lost five in a row, most recently a 66-51 setback at home to conference leading Princeton.

But Brown plays with revenge tonight after falling 77-74 to the Big Green at home less than two weeks ago.

Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and one which I think will prove to be the difference once it’s all said and done. 

Dartmouth is poised for a letdown here after winning three of its last five. 

The Bears actually had a four point lead at half time in the first meeting between the teams, but they were unable to hold it together down the stretch.

Evan Boudreaux had 21 points and 13 boards for Dartmouth, while Steven Speith had 31 points, eight boards, a block, two assists and three steals in the loss for Brown.

I’ll point out though that Brown has been solid in this spot for bettors, going 5-2 ATS in its last seven after scoring 60 points or less and 9-5 ATS in its last 14 after three or more consecutive SU losses, while Dartmouth is already 0-2 ATS this year when playing the role of favorite and just 5-8 ATS in its last 13 off a win against a conference rival. 

I think the home side comes in complacent and the hungry Bears take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Ohio State (9:00 EST).

The 22-5 Wisconsin Badgers are at Ohio State to take on the 15-13 Buckeyes on Thursday night and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the hungry home side to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Ohio State has clearly not had a great season, but it would love nothing more than to get the upset at home over the conference’s No. 1 team. 

UW ended a two-game slide with a 71-60 home win over No. 23 Maryland on Sunday. Nigel Hayes had 21 points, while Ethan Happ added 20. The 60 points given up was its fewest in Big Ten action this year as well. But note, the Badgers haven’t been perfect this season, especially from the free throw line as they shoot just 66.5 percent, ranking them 12th in the conference and 286th in the nation overall.

Thad Matta could very well be on his way out at Ohio State, but his team tried its best last time out, coming up just short in the 58-57 setback to Nebraska last Saturday. Jae’Sean Tate had 14 points and ten boards. 

Note that the Buckeyes have had eight contests decided by two or less points on the season and OSU is just 1-2 in games decided by one point. 

I’ll point out though that Wisconsin is just 3-7 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and only 3-5 ATS on the road, while Ohio State is 2-1 ATS this season after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games and 3-2 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent.

I think the home side catches the Badgers a little flat-footed. Grab the points, play on Ohio State.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New York Knicks (8:00 EST).

The 23-24 New York Knicks are in Cleveland to take on the 39-16 Cavaliers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

New York is at a cross roads right now, as it’s still in the playoff picture, but clearly needing some better play and some type of surge to stay in the conversation.

The Cavs are in first in the East and look forward to a favorable part of their schedule with three straight games at home over inferior opponents. After the extended All Star break, could the defending champs come out a bit flat in the opener? Possibly.

The Knicks however absolutely can not take anything for granted and need to start stringing some victories together immeidately. Obviously an outright upset win on the road against the Cavs would be a monumental step in the right direction for the club.

And while I’m not going to predict an outright upset, I do think from a motivational stand point that this one sets up great for the visitors tonight. 

Remember, Kevin Love is still out for Cleveland as well.

And note that the Knicks have in fact done well in this spot for bettors, going 15-8 ATS after a non-conference game, 1-0 ATS when playing with one more days rest and 11-6 ATS after allowing 115 points or more, while the Cavaliers have struggled in this position, going just 5-11 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 10-16 ATS against teams with losing records.

I think the home side comes out a bit flat and the desperate Knicks take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 11-16 UTSA Roadrunners are at FIU to take on the 6-21 Golden Panthers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Neither team will be playing in any postseason tournaments. The Roadrunners come into this one having lost three straight, while the Panthers enter having dropped six of their last seven. 

So where does the motivation come from in a game like this? For me, I think the Panthers have the advantage as they play with revenge after a narrow 68-63 setback at UTSA back on January 12th. 

FIU has been “oh-so-close” as well of late, most recently falling 69-66 to Southern Miss in OT last Thursday. However, the Panthers will be looking to atone for a lacklustre 77-61 setback to Louisiana Tech in their last one. Donte McGill was a bright spot though with 20 points. 

I’ll point out that UTSA is just 2-7 ATS this year against teams with losing records and only 1-2 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while FIU is 2-1 ATS in its last three off a loss against a conference rival.

Florida Atlantic has four players with average double figures. I think the home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-14 Northeastern Huskies are at Elon to take on the 17-12 Phoenix and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

It’s an important end of the season matchup for both teams, as Northeastern is looking to hold onto sixth spot in the CAA at 7-9. Elon is tied with William & Mary for fourth place at 9-7. 

But I think the Huskies are going to be the “hungrier” team today after three straight losses and dropping five of their last six, including an 85-71 home loss to Charleston on Saturday. 

These teams played against each other on January 26th and the Phoenix managed the 51-49 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another tightly contested affair this time around as well as the revenge-minded Huskies look for a little payback on the road.

Northeastern averages 71.8 PPG and allows 70.4. TJ Wiliams leads the nightly charge with 21.4 points and 5.1 assists per game.

Elon averages 74.2 PPG and allows 70.9. Tyler Seibring averages 14.1 PPG to lead the team.

I’ll point out though that Northeastern is already 2-1 ATS this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 6-4 ATS against teams with winning records, while Elon is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven as a home fav of 3.5 to six points and only 10-12 ATS in its last 22 games played in the month of February. 

Northeastern has talent, it beat Michigan State and UConn earlier in the year and it also plays with revenge. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on California (9:00 EST).

The 24-4 Oregon Ducks are in California to take on the 18-8 Golden Bears and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think Oregon has a bit of a letdown here after winning three straight, most recently pounding Colorado 101-73 at home.

Conversely, the Bears will be risking life and limb today as they’ve lost two in a row, most recently a 73-68 setback at Stanford as the favorites. 

Note that this one does indeed set up as a “revenge” game for the home side after it fell 86-63 in the first matchup in Oregon.

If the Ducks have had one weakness this year though, it has in fact been their play on the road where they’ve averaged just 73.6 PPG, while conceding 69.4. Dillon Brooks averages 15.4 PPG and had 23 in the win over the Buffs.

The Bears average 72.2 PPG at home, while conceding just 60.3. Jabari Bird had 23 points in the latest setback to the Cardinal.

I’ll point out though that Oregon is just 2-3 ATS this year against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest, while Cal is 4-2 ATS as an underdog and 2-1 ATS off a loss against a conference rival. 

The Bears are a tough defensive team and they’ll be risking life and limb today to score the upset. I’m expecting this to be a highly competitive affair and look for it to come down to the final possession. Grab as many points as you can, play on Cal.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Louisville (9:00 EST).

The 22-5 Louisville Cardinals are in North Carolina to take on the 23-5 Tar Heels and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

UNC has won two straight, including an impressive 65-41 victory over No. 18 Virginia last time out. 

The Cardinals have won three straight and six of seven, most recently a 94-90 victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Cardinals have to be liking their chances for the upset today as when these teams met in their lone matchup a year ago, Louisville came out on top 71-65. 

Donovan Mitchell had 19 points for the Cardinals in the win over the Hokies. Note that Louisville averages 77.8 PPG and concedes just 64.1 

UNC averages 86.9 PPG and concedes 71. Justin Jackson leads the team with an average of 18.6 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Louisville is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six road games and 6-1 ATS in its last seven following an ATS loss, while UNC is just 2-3 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less.

The Cardinals have the size to compete with UNC on the boards. This one is coming down to the wire, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the under Minnesota/Maryland (8:30 EST).

The 20-7 Minnesota Golden Gophers are in Maryland to take on the 22-5 Terrapins and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

Minnesota is 8-6 in Big 10 action, tied for fifth with Michigan State.

Maryland is 10-4 in conference play after losing at Wisconsin on Sunday. The Terps suffered an additional setback after losing backup center Michal Cekovsky for the season due to a fractured ankle.

When these teams met on January 28th, Maryland prevailed 85-78. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much more defensive affair this time around.

The Gophers will be out to avenge that setback today and they come to town red hot, having won five straight, including a thrilling 83-73 OT win over Michigan on Sunday. Minnesota averages just 75.4 PPG, but concedes only 68.6 (the Gophers also only allow 30.2 percent 3-point shooting, which ranks them 13th in the nation). Guard Nate Mason leads the nightly charge with 15 points and 5.3 assists per game.

Maryland averges only 74.9 PPG, but concedes just 66.9. Melo Trimble leads the Terps with 17.6 PPG.

I’ll point out that Minnesota has seen the total go under the number in five of eight this year on the road and in five of eight after scoring 80 points or more, while Maryland has seen the total dip below the posted number in ten of 13 at home this season and in eight of 13 when playing the role of favorite.

I’m expecting an all out war, where every possession is contested early. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on South Carolina (7:00 EST).

Florida is currently tied for first in the SEC with No. 11 Kentucky with a 12-2 league record.

But I think the Gators have a letdown here after winning eight straight. Conversely, the Gamecocks come in ultra focused and hungry after dropping three of their last four. 

Keep your eyes on Sindarious Thornwell for South Carolina, he’s averaging 20.2 PPG. The Gamecocks average 73 PPG and give up just 64.1. The Gators average 79.5 PPG and allow 65.9. 

These teams met earlier in the year and South Carolina came out on top of a very defenisve affair 57-53. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a very similar battle this evening. 

I’ll point out that South Carolina is already 4-2 ATS as an underdog this year, while Florida is 0-3 ATS this season as a home fav in the 9.5 to 12 points range.

I think Thornwell has another big game and the desperate visitors take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Rhode Island (6:00 EST).

The 17-9 Rhode Island Rams are at La Salle to take on the 14-11 Explorers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Rams look to continue to build momentum after they broke a two-game slide with a 77-74 road win over George Mason on Saturday. 

La Salle also broke a two-game skid with an 83-68 home victory over Saint Joseph’s on Saturday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Rhode Island after it lost 87-75 at home in the first meeting back on January 12th. 

Stanford Robinson was a stand out for the Rams in their last victory, scoring a career-high 21 points off the bench. So far Rhode Island averages 73.7 PPG and concedes just 66.2.

La Salle averages 77.8 PPG and concedes 77.6. The Explorers shoot a solid 46.6 percent from the floor. 

I’ll point out that Rhode Island is already 5-3 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and 2-1 ATS after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games, while La Salle is just 2-5 ATS as an underdog this season and only 3-4 ATS off a win against a conference rival. 

I think this is a great spot for the Rams and believe their tough defensive play will prove to be the difference. Play on Rhode Island.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Penn State (6:00 EST).

The 22-5 Purdue Boilermakers are at Penn State to take on the 14-13 Nittany Lions and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the home side to keep this one competitive until the final moments.

I think Purdue comes in a bit complacent here after winning its fifth straight, hammering Michigan State 80-63 at home on Saturday. 

Conversely, the Nittany Lions will be looking to get back into the winners circle after they had their two-game win streak snapped in an 82-66 road loss to Nebraska on Tuesday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for Penn State would be a bit of an understatement I think as well as the Boilermakers have taken eight of the last ten meetings, including four straight (that includes a 77-52 home win in the first matchup this year back on January 21st).

Purdue averages 81.3 PPG and concedes 66. Caleby Swanigan leads the nightly charge with 18.9 points and 13 boards per contest. 

The Nittany Lions average 72.2 PPG and concede 71.8. Tony Carr leads the way with 12.6 points and 4.7 boards per game (he had 15 points and seven boards in the loss to Nebraska). 

I’ll point out though that Purdue is just 2-4 ATS this year on the road, while Penn State is 7-4 ATS home and 5-3 ATS in its last eight when trying to revenge a blowout loss to opponent of 20 points or more (it’s also 4-2 ATS this year in revenging a road loss against an opponent). 

I think Penn State is the “hungrier” team today and look for it to give the Boilermakers everything they can handle. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Texas (9:00 EST).

The 10-17 Texas Longhorns are in West Virginia to take on the 21-6 Mountaineers and while I won’t be sold bold as to predict an outright upset, for a number of different reasons I believe the visitors can keep this one closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

I simply feel that the Longhorns will be the much “hungrier” team tonight as they come in having lost three straight, most recently a tough 64-61 home setback to K-State on Saturday.

Conversely, No. 9 WVU comes in complacent in my opinion, it’s won three of its last four, including a very satisfying 83-74 double OT victory over Texas Tech on Saturday. 

These teams played on January 14th and it was WVU that scored the narrow 74-72 road win. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar competitive affair this evening. 

The Longhorns average only 68.6 PPG, but concede just 69. Kendal Yancy was a bright spot in the loss to Kansas State with 13 points.

WVU averages 85.6 PPG and concedes 66.8. Jevon Carter leads a balanced attack with an average of 12.2 PPG. 

Clearly the Mountaineers are the better team, but they struggled against the Longhorns already this year and I’m expecting another difficult war this evening. 

Texas won’t simply be rolling over and note, the Longhorns are in fact 6-3 ATS on the road this year, 9-6 ATS as an underdog and 3-1 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses, while WVU is just 5-6 ATS at home and only 3-5 ATS off a win against a conference rival. 

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on UNLV (4:00 EST).

The 10-16 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels are in San Diego to take on the 15-10 Aztecs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors ths visitors.

The Runnin’ Rebels are desperate to stop a six-game slide and they came very close in their last game, eventually falling 76-74 to San Jose State on Saturday. 

Clearly SDSU is the better all around team and it’ll feel comfortable on its own floor tonight. The Aztecs though are going to come in complacent in my opinion after going 4-1 in their last five, most recently a victory over Utah State on Wednesday. 

This is a “revenge” game for the Runnin’ Rebels after falling 64-51 in the first regular season meeting at home last month. 

San Diego State has endured and up and down season compared to other years and was in last place in the Mountain West Conference as recently as of January 11th, before winning two in a row and four of its last five.

So am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money line?” Of course not. I simply feel this one sets up well for a UNLV team which is going to be pushing the pace from start to finsh and facing a now contented Aztec side which I think won’t be able to help itself in looking past their lowly opponent today, to their much more important game against Fresno State in the middle of the week (the team that currently sits just one position ahead of them in the standings). 

While I’m not calling for the outright upset, I do definitely think this one will be a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. Play on UNLV.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Temple (4:00 EST).

The 13-12 Conncecticut Huskies are at Temple to take on the 14-13 Owls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Huskies get caught a little flat-footed and content this afternoon after three straight victories. UConn most recently picked up a hard-fought 65-62 road win over Memphis.

Meanwhile the Owls will be hungry to get back into the winners circle after their 78-64 road loss to East Carolina on Wednesday.

Note that this also sets up as a “revenge” game for Temple, as it fell 73-59 at Connecticut earlier in the year. 

I think the Owls are going to be the much “hungrier” team overall today. Temple comes in off the loss and is out to avenge the earlier setback. 

The Huskies are ripe for the picking in my estimation. There’s no question that they’ve looked a lot better of late, but I think they’re now out of gas after three straight wins, including having to come back from a 14 point half-time deficit against the Tigers in their last one. 

Note that UConn averages only 67.8 PPG, while conceding just 65.5.

The Owls average 70.7 PPG and concede 71.3. 

The numbers favor the Huskies, but the overall situation definitely favors the home side in my opinion. 

The trends also favor the Owls, as note that UConn is just 4-7 ATS as underdog this year, while Temple is 2-1 ATS in its last three at home and 2-1 ATS in its last three as the favorite.

I’m laying the points and expecting the home side to risk life and limb for the victory today. Play on Temple.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Virginia (8:15 EST).

The 18-7 Virginia Cavaliers are in North Carolina to take on the 22-5 Tar Heels and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I believe for a number of different reasons that the visitors can at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

UNC enters off a 24 point win on the road over NC State, bouncing back from an eight-point loss to Duke on Feb. 9th. 

I simply feel that the Cavs will be the “hungrier” side tonight, as they come into this one having lost two straight, including an 80-78 OT road loss at Virginia Tech on Sunday, before a 65-55 setback at home to Duke on Wednesday. 

These teams split their series last year, with UNC winning in the NCAA Tournament and Virginia winning at home.

The Cavs had their shot against the Blue Devils, going into the break with a 25-21 lead, but clearly blew it in the second half. Point guard London Perrantes was a bright spot with 14 points. 

Virginia averages just 68.8 PPG, but makes up for it on the defensive end, conceding just 55.5 PPG, ranked No. 1 overall in the nation.

The Cavs have an opportunity to finally get untracked offensively, as UNC has allowed an average of 78 PPG over its last five. The Tar Heels have averaged 80 PPG over that span, but now face their stiffest test of the season. Joel Berry II led the way for UNC in the latest victory with 18 points and six assists. 

I’ll point out though that North Caroilna is just 4-5 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while Virginia is a perfect 3-0 ATS as an underdog and 3-1 ATS after scoring 60 points or less.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 24-3 Arizona Wildcats are in Washington to take on the 9-17 Huskies and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that that home side will keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

If ever Arizona was ever going to come into a contest a tiny bit “complacent,” then this would be it. The No. 5 Wildcats have won three straight and are No. 1 in the Pac 12 with a 13-1 record. 

Washington on the other hand is just 2-12 in league play. The Huskies have lost eight straight, but are still fighting, most recently falling 83-81 at home against Arizona State on Thursday.

Not surprisingly, this does indeed also set up as a “revenge” spot for the home side, as the Huskies would fall 77-55 at Arizona on January 29th. 

The Wildcats were killed by 27 on the road in Oregon on Feb. 4th, but have since bounced back to win three straight. On the year Arizona averages 74.9 PPG and concedes 63.3. Parker Jackson-Cartwright had 20 points in the latest win over Washington State.

Washington has a great offense, but the defense has been the major issue, conceding an average of 81.1 PPG. But the Huskies are still clearly competing, keep your eyes on Markelle Fultz, who had 19 points and four assists in their most recent setback to ASU. 

I’ll point out that Arizona is just 2-3 ATS this year when playing with one or less days rest and interestingly, only 1-2 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 77-plus points per contest, while Washington is 2-1 ATS against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest.

With a game at home against third ranked USC early next week, I think the visitors get caught looking ahead. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 8-20 James Madison Dukes are at Towson to take on the 18-10 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Towson sits in third in the CAA after beating Elon at home on Thursday. Towson is now 10-5 in confernece action and this is its final home game of the season. 

James Madison is just 6-9 in league play, putting it in seventh. 

I think JMU is poised for a letdown here though after its big 95-92 win over William and Mary on Thursday. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for the home side as well after it fell 64-44 in the first meeting from Harrisonburg.

I’m not reading too much into the Dukes latest victory, as they came into that one having lost seven of their previous eight. All five JMU starters scored in double figures in the iwn over the Tribe. 

Note that James Madison averages 66.1 PPG and concedes 69.7.

Towson averages 74.1 PPG and concedes 69. Mike Morsell had 32 points in the win over Elon. 

I’ll point out that JMU is 4-8 ATS on the road this year, 7-10 ATS as an underdog, 1-7 ATS when playing with one or less days rest and just 1-4 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while Towson is 6-3 ATS off a win against a conference rival and 4-1 ATS in revenging a road loss against an opponent. 

I like Towson to avenge the earlier loss and to comfortably pull away down the stretch for the win and cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on NC State (12:00 EST).

The 20-7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish are at NC State to take on the 14-13 Wolfpack 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 do indeed believe this one favors the home side.

Notre Dame looks poised for a letdown after winning three in a row, most recently an 84-76 victory at Boston College.

Conversely, NC State comes in with nothing to lose, except another game of course as the Wolfpack have now dropped six straight. 

The Fighting Irish could be running out of gas, they actually were down by ten points at half time to the Eagles, but somehow managed to battle back for the win. Bonzie Colson had 20 points in the victory.

Note that the Irish average 75.5 PPG and allow 73.4 PPG in league play thus far. 

NC State averages 75 PPG, while conceding 87.4 in conference action. However, take note that at home the Wolfpack have averaged 85.4 PPG and allowed 76.7. Keep your eyes on Dennis Smith Jr, who averages 19 PPG.

I’ll point out that Notre Dame is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after a three game or more unbeaten streak, while NC State is 2-1 ATS in its last three after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive contests.

I think the Irish come in a bit complacent in the early afternoon matchup and the hungry home side at the very least, takes this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Miami Florida (12:00 EST).

The 14-11 Clemson Tigers are in Miami to take on the 17-8 Hurricanes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Tigers come to town off a 95-83 home win over Wake Forest. Clemson though is just 4-9 in conference action.

The Hurricanes are off a 70-61 home win over Georgia Tech to move to 7-6 in ACC play.

I’m not reading too much into Clemson’s latest victory, despite the win the Tigers have still conceded an average of 84.5 PPG over their last four. 

Note that in true road games this year Clemson has averaged just 68.4 PPG and allowed 75.4. 

The Hurricanes have won five of their last seven and are now 12-2 at home so far this season.

Miami has been particularly tough on everyone in front of the home town crowd, averaging 74.7 PPG and conceding just 62.3. Davon Reed had 21 points and seven boards in the victory over Georgia Tech.

I’ll point out that Clemson is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine against teams with a winning percentage above .600, while Miami is 3-1-1 ATS the last five in this series when at home.

I simply can’t see the inconsistent Tiger offense mustering any sort of attack against the Hurricanes smothering defense. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Northern Iowa (12:00 EST).

The 14-12 Northern Iowa Panthers are in Wichita State to take on the 24-4 Shockers and while I won’t be so bold as to call for an outright upset, I do definitely think the visitors can keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. 

This sets up as a revenge game for the Panthers after they fell 80-66 at home to Wichita State back on January 8th. 

Note though, the Panthers have recent history on their side still as they took two of three last year, including a 53-50 victory at Witchita State which snapped the Shockers 43-game home-court win streak.

UNI comes in with plenty of momentum as it’s won four in a row and nine of its last ten. The Panthers sit a 9-6 in MVC play. Keep your eyes on Bennett Koch, who is averaging a team-best 15.2 points and 5.9 boards over his last ten games.

The Shockers are 14-1 in conference action, but note that they’re just 1-4 ATS in their last five after a six game or more SU unbeaten streak.

And note that UNI has in fact excelled in this spot, going 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which it was held to 66 points or less.

Grab as many points as you can, play on Northern Iowa.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 6-17 Cornell Big Red are at Dartmouth to take on the 5-16 Big Green and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Cornell enters off an 82-63 road loss to Pennsylvania, while Dartmouth comes in off a rare 77-74 road win over Brown last weekend. 

The Big Red scored the 75-62 home win over the Big Green earlier in the year and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance tonight. In that contest, Cornell’s Matt Morgan scored 22 points.

So far Cornell averages 71.7 PPG, while conceding 77.1.

Dartmouth is even worse, averaing just 65.8 PPG, while conceding 73. 

I’ll point out that Cornell is already 3-2 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival and a near-perfect 3-1 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while Dartmouth is just 2-3 ATS at home and only 2-3 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. 

I think Cornell can duplicate its winning effort over Dartmouth from earlier in the year. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 17-8 Utah Utes are in Oregon to take on the 22-4, No. 7 Ducks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Utes come in with momentum, having won two straight after losing three of four, most recently scoring the 85-61 home effort over Washington on Saturday. 

Oregon bounced back from a rare loss to UCLA in an 81-70 road victory over USC on Saturday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for Utah though would be a bit of an understatement I think, as Oregon has taken nine of the last ten in the series, including a closely contested 73-67 road win on January 26th. 

So far Utah is 8-5 in conference play. Devon Daniels and Parker Van Dyke each had 16 points in the latest win over Washington. Note that the Utes average 80.5 PPG and concede just 67.9.

Oregon averages 79 PPG and concedes 64.4. After the win over the Trojans, the Ducks stand at 11-1 in Pac-12 action. Dillon Brooks had 21 points in the win over USC.

I’ll point out though that Utah is 6-2 ATS on the road this year, 5-2 ATS off a win against a conference rival and 8-5 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while Oregon is just 1-2 ATS in its last three playing against a team in a revenge scenario after holding that opponent to 67 points or less in the first contest.

I won’t be so bold to predict an outright upset, but I do think that the visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 18-9 San Francisco Dons are in Gonzaga to take on the 26-0 Bulldogs and while I won’t be going out on a limb tonight and predicting an outright upset, I do think that the visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

Gonzaga smashed Saint Mary’s last weekend, while San Francisco had its four game win streak snapped in a loss to BYU last Saturday. 

Despite the loss to the Cougars, the Dons are off to their best 27-game start since 1999. San Francisco has gotten better as the season has worn on and it’s been especially stout on the defensive end, holding its last nine opponents to fewer than 70 points. 

San Francisco also ranks No. 1 in the WCC (27th nationally) in three-pointers made per game (9.3). Keep your eyes on Charles Minlend, who averages 10.2 PPG (I’ll point out that the Dons are already 4-1 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival and 6-4 ATS when playing the role of underdog).

So far the Bulldogs have yet to be challenged this season. They steam rolled their way through the non-conference portion of their schedule and are 14-0 so far in league play. Nigel Williams-Goss leads the nightly charge with 15.7 PPG. 

Gonzaga averages 85.1 PPG and concedes 61.7. 

San Francisco’s offensive and defensive numbers aren’t that far off from the Bulldogs though. Clearly Gonzaga is the better team, but I think the stage is set for a small mental letdown tonight, leaving the back door open just enough for the talented visitors to sneak in through down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Wisconsin (7:00 EST).

This is an important game. Wisconsin is desperate to hold its lead atop the conference, while Michigan is still fighting to cement its spot in the Big Dance. 

The Badgers are 21-4 and will have something to prove to everyone today after a listless 66-59 setback at home to Northwestern. Wisconsin entered that contest on an eight-game win streak, but was flat from the opening tip. 

Note that over the last four seasons, the Badgers are 54-19 (.740) in road/neutral games, owning the fourth-best winning percentage in the country. Also over that span, UW is 33-9 (.786) in February/March regular season contests. Keep your eyes on Ethan Happ, who leads the team in points (15.7), rebounds (8.8), assists (2.8), blocks (1.5) and steals (2.5) per game. 

Also note that the Badgers are fourth in the nation in scoring defense, conceding just 60.4 PPG.

Michigan has now won four of its last six. After beating rival Michigan State and then Indiana 75-63 on Sunday though, I think the Wolverines have a letdown here. Derrick Walton Jr. had 25 points in the victory over the Hoosiers.

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 5-7 ATS against conference opponents this season, just 5-8 ATS at home and only 7-12 ATS against teams with winning records, while Wisconsin is 8-5 ATS in its last 13 after scoring 60 points or less.

If history is any precedence, then the Badgers are loving their chances today as they’ve won five in a row in Ann Arbor. Wisconsin won 68-65 in Madison in the first matchup this season and I think a similar final outcome is in the cards tonight. Play on the Badgers.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-11 William & Mary Tribe are at James Madison to take on the 7-20 Dukes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Tribe come in off a satisfying 89-79 home win over Charleston, while the Dukes come off a heart-breaking 58-57 home loss to Delaware.

These teams played last month and William & Mary edged JMU 73-72. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another battle down to the wire tonight.

Omar Prewitt was a stand out for the Tribe in their latest victory, finishing with 30 points. So far William & Mary averages 81.1 PPG and concedes 76.2. 

The Dukes average just 65 PPG, but concede just 68.9. Jackson Kent had 17 points in the loss to the Blue Hens.

I’ll point out that the Tribe are just 4-8 ATS on the road this year and only 1-3 ATS in their last four after scoring 80 points or more, while JMU is already 3-1 ATS this season as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range.

James Madison was oh so close to a victory last time out and will be risking life and limb to try and score the upset today. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright win, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, play on James Madison.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 32-23 Atlanta Hawks are in LA to take on the 34-21 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the visitors.

I believe that LA has a letdown after winning three straight and in the final game before the All Star break. 

The Hawks come to town off a confidence building 109-104 OT victory in Portland on Monday. 

Note that this sets up as a “revenge” game as well for the visitors after LA beat the Hawks by ten in Atlanta earlier in the year. 

Keep your eyes on the Hawks’ Paul Millsap tonight, he had 21 points, nine rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots in the victory over Portland. 

Atlanta averages 104.1 PPG and concedes 104.3.

LA averages 108.1 PPG and concedes 104.5. Blake Griffin has stepped up his play of late, averaging 26 points, 7.5 assists and 10.3 boards over his last four games.

I’ll point out though that that Clippers are just 8-12 ATS in non-conference games this year, just 9-10 ATS after a win by ten points or more and only 7-8 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while the Hawks are 3-1 ATS in their last four in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent and 5-3 ATS as a road dog of three points or less.

I think the home side comes out a bit flat and the Hawks, at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 23-32 Portland Trailblazers are in Utah to take on the 34-22 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams come in on losing streaks, as the Jazz have lost three straight, while the Blazers have gone just 1-4 in their last five following a deflating OT loss to ATL on Monday.

It’s been Utah’s offense which has let it down of late, amassing a season-low in its latest setback to the Clippers. The Jazz are still the best defensive club in the league though and I think they get back to form tonight.

The Jazz offense also catches a break in facing the Blazers’ vanilla defense, ranked in the lower-third in most categories.

I’ll also point out that Portland is just 10-18 ATS on the road this season, just 10-15 ATS against clubs with winning records, only 14-24 ATS after allowing 105 points or more and just 3-7 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite. 

And note that Utah is 4-1 ATS in its last five after scoring 73 points or less in its previous outing.

I think the Jazz are the deeper team and expect their smothering defense to be just too much for the inconsistent Blazers to handle tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 42-13 San Antonio Spurs are in Orlando to take on the 21-36 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

This is the final game of the first half before the All Star break. The Spurs come to town off a 110-106 win over Indiana on Monday, while the Magic enter off a rare victory, picking up a 116-107 road win over the Heat on Monday. 

Note that this does in fact set up as a “revenge” spot for the Spurs, as Orlando took the first matchup of the season, 95-83, back on November 29th. Suffice it to say, I think Gregg Popovich and company haven’t forgotten that embarrassing performance and will be out to atone with a big beatdown performance this evening.

San Antonio averages 106.7 PPG and concedes just 98.7. Kawhi Leonard leads the nightly charge with 25.9, 5.9 boards and 1.8 steals a night. Big man Lamarcus Aldridge contributes 17.4 points and 7.4 boards.

Let’s not read too much into the Magic’s latest victory, they’d lost four straight and six of seven prevoius to downing the Heat. Note that Orlando averages just 99.9 PPG and concedes 106.1. 

I’ll point out that the Spurs are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 after allowing 100 points or more in their prevoius outing, while the Magic are just 1-5 ATS in their last six against the Western Conference.

The Magic just dealt Serge Ibaka and will once again have to make adjustments on the fly. That doesn’t bode well facing a Spurs team that’s firing on all cylinders and out for revenge. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 23-4 Wichita State Shockers are at Southern Illinois to take on the 14-13 Salukis and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Not surprisingly this sets up as a revenge game for the Salukis who were crushed 87-45 at Wichita State earlier in the year. 

The Shockers are an awesome team. The Salukis are an extremely average team. 

Wichita State averages 81.6 PPG and concedes 62.6.

Southern Illinois averages 70.2 PPG and concedes 70.4. The Salukis are led by Mike Rodriguez with 12.9 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Wichita State is already 0-2 ATS this year as a road fav of 12 points or more, while Southern Illinois is 12-8 ATS in its last 20 in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent and 3-1 ATS in its last four at home this season (also 4-1 ATS this year against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest).

I’m not predicting an outright upset or anything ere, but do think that the stage is set for the Shockers to have a minor mental letdown tonight. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 13-10 La Salle Explorers are at St. Bonaventure to take on the 15-9 Bonnies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

La Salle enters off a listless 64-52 home loss to Richmond, while the Bonnies come in off a 76-70 setback at George Washington.

The Explorers looked feeble on the offensive end against the Spiders, shooting just 40.4 percent from the floor, including only 20 percent from range. So far La Salle averages 76.3 PPG and gives up 80.2 in true road games this year.

St. Bonaventure has lost two of its last three, but it has to be feeling pretty confident that it can bounce back tonight as it’s averaged 81.6 PPG and conceded 77.2 at home for the year. Jaylen Adams leads the nightly charge with an average of 21.3 PPG.

I’ll point out that La Salle ist just 3-5 ATS on the road this year, just 2-4 ATS as an underdog and only 5-7 ATS against teams with winning records, while St. Bonaventure is 2-1 ATS off a loss against a conference rival.

The Bonnies have allowed just 59.8 PPG in their last four home games in regulation, which doesn’t bode well for an Explorers team suddenly struggling with offensive consistency. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Davidson (7:00 EST).

Not much to play for for either team tonight, as neither will likely be playing in any postseason tournaments.

I simply feel that home court advantage can’t be overlooked in this particular matchup and am expecting the Wildcats to make the most of it.

George Washington ended a three-game losing streak on Saturday in a 76-70 home win over St. Bonaventure. Tyler Cavanaugh was a standout with a career-high 33 points to go along with ten boards. 

Davidson will be the much “hungrier” side tonight as it looks to break a three-game slide, most recently falling 74-60 at VCU. The Wildcats are led by Jack Gibbs, who ranks among the conference scoring leaders with an average of 21.2 PPG. 

I’ll point out that the Colonials are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten following a SU victory and just 1-5 ATS in their last six road games, while Davidson is 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 60 points or less.

This is also a revenge game for Davidson after falling 73-69 to the Colonials on Janaury 5th. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE BLOWOUT SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the LA Lakers.

The 23-32 Sacramento Kings are in LA to take on the 19-37 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Kings are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after going 4-1 on a five-game homestand, including downing the Pelicans 105-99 at home on Sunday. 

LA returns home off a 2-3 road trip, most recently beating the Bucks 122-114 on Friday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for the Lakers would be a bit of an understatement as the Kings have won eight of the last nine in the series, including 116-92 in the lone matchup this season back on December 12th. 

It’s a classic letdown spot for Sacramento though, which also beat Golden State, Boston and Atlanta during the home surge. And note that despite the recent up-tick in play, the Kings are still tied for just 21st in the league in scoring with an average of 103.4 PPG. Unfortunately, the defense hasn’t been much better, ranked 18th in conceding an average of 105.8 per contest. DeMarcus Cousins averages 27.8 points and 10.7 boards per game this year. 

The Lakers posted 47 first quarter points against the Bucks on Friday. Overall LA is ranked 18th in the league in scoring with an average of 104.7 PPG, while ranked 29th on the defensive end in conceding 110.5 per night. Keep your eyes on Lou Williams, who leads the team with 18.4 points and 3.1 assists per night.

I’ll point out that Sacramento is already just 9-13 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more and 0-2 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while LA is 7-5 ATS after playing three consecutive road games and 7-2 ATS in its last nine against good offensive teams which average 99-plus points per contest. 

The stage is set for the Lakers to grab another victory. Play on LA.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on St. Joseph’s (6:00 EST).

The 10-14 St. Joseph’s Hawks are at VCU to take on the 20-5 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

St. Joseph’s beat VCU in the A-10 Championship game last season, but they would split a pair of games overall. This will be the only meeting this season, as the Hawks are clearly not the same team that they were a year ago.

But because of that, I think the stage is set for the high-powered Rams to come into this one a bit complacent in facing their lowly visitor tonight.

St. Joseph’s will be the “hungrier” team in my opinion as it looks to break a four-game losing streak, most recently an 87-76 setback at home to Massachusetts on Saturday. Charlie Brown was a bright spot with 15 points and eight boards. 

The Hawks average 70.6 PPG and concede 72.9. 

The Rams average 75 PPG and concede 65.6. Most recently VCU pulled away for a 74-60 home win over Davidson on Saturday. 

I’ll point out though that St. Joseph’s is already 5-3 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival and 3-1 ATS in its last four on the road, while VCU is only 9-10 ATS as a favorite this year (including 0-2 ATS as a home fav of 12.5 points or more) and 0-2 ATS against teams with losing records.

Is a date against third place Richmond on Friday a reason to “look ahead?” Probably not. But regardless, after six straight victories, I think the Rams do indeed come out a bit flat tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

The 33-21 LA Clippers are in Utah to take on the 34-21 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I think the Clippers are poised for a letdown here after two straight wins. Conversely, after a 112-104 setback to the C’s on Saturday, I expect the home side to come out fired up tonight.

Also note that Utah plays with revenge after dropping the first game of the season to the Clippers 88-75 on the road back in October. 

The Clippers average 108.5 PPG and concede 105.1. 

The Jazz average just 100.5 PPG, but are ranked No. 1 in the league on the defensive end in conceding a mere 96 PPG.

And I’ll point out that LA is just 1-2 ATS this season as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Utah is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 105 points or more. 

I think Utah comes in focused, eager to break the string of shoddy play and to avenge the earlier loss to the Clippers. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Kansas (9:00 EST).

The 20-15 West Virginia Mountaineers are in Kansas to take on the 22-3 Jayhawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

WVU is poised for a letdown after winning five of its last six. Kansas has won four of its last five, but does play with revenge here after falling 85-69 at West Virgina earlier in the year.

These teams are pretty evenly matched on both sides of the ball, but the situation and the trends all point to the home side as the correct call tonight.

As I’ll point out that Mountaineers are in fact already 0-1 ATS this year when playing on one days rest, while Kansas is 2-0 ATS in its last two as a home fav in the 3.5 to six points range.

Kansas has scored at least 80 points in two of its last three games and I look for it to put the foot on the gas from start to finish tonight as well. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-12 South Alabama Jaguars are in Louisiana to take on the 14-11 Ragin Cajuns and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Jags are poised for a letdown here after winning three of their last four, most recently a 66-63 win over Louisiana-Monroe last time out. Ken Williams led the way in that one with 21 points. Note that South Alabama averages 71.9 PPG.

The Ragin Cajuns on the other hand will be risking life and limb today as they look to stop their recently slide, dropping four straight and five of their last six, most recently a 100-88 seback to Troy last time out. Frank Bartley IV had 17 points in the setback. 

Note that Louisiana-Lafayette averages 81.8 PPG thus far.

I’ll point out that South Alabama is just 7-8 ATS this year against teams with winning records and only 1-2 ATS when playing the role of underdog, while Louisiana Lafayette is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive losses.

I like the “hungrier” team to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Orlando Magic (7:35 EST).

The 20-36 Orlando Magic are in Miami to take on the 24-31 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Magic come in as the “hungrier” team tonight after dropping four straight, most recently a 112-80 aetback at Dallas on Saturday.

The Heat had their 13 game win strek snapped in a 117-109 road loss to the lowly 76ers on Saturday night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting another letdown here.

The first game back after an extended trip is always a tough one for a team, many consider it a classic “trap” scenario.

Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, it can be even more difficult to get back. And that’s the case here in my opinion. 

I’ll point out that Orlando is 3-1 ATS this year after scoring 85 points or less and 7-3 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses, while Miami is already just 4-5 ATS after playing three consecutive road games. 

I like the desperate visitors to keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 20-34 Philadelphia 76ers are in Charlotte to take on the 24-30 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I simply feel that Charlotte is going to be the much “hungrier” team tonight. It’s lost nine of ten, most recently a 107-102 home setback to the Clippers on Saturday. 

Conversely, the over-achieving 76ers are poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after winning their second straight, most recently a 117-109 home victory over Miami.

Despite the recent surge, Philadelphia remains one of the worst teams in the league on paper, averaging just 101 PPG and conceding 106.8.

Compare that to a Hornets club which averages 104.9 PPG and concedes 104.5. 

And I’ll point out that Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Charlotte is 2-1 ATS in its last three at home. 

I expect the Hornets to risk life and limb tonight to try and secure the victory and their immense effort will translate into a lop-sided blowout once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 22-3 Baylor Bears are at Texas Tech to take on the 16-9 Red Raiders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Baylor looks poised for a bit of a mental letdown here in my opinion after two straight wins, most recently a 70-52 victory over TCU on Saturday. 

Conversely, the Red Raiders will be risking life and limb today as they look to stop a recent slide which has seen them drop five of their last seven, most recently a tight 80-79 home loss to Kansas on Saturday.

Note that this is also a “revenge” game for the Red Raiders as they fell 65-61 at Baylor back on January 25th. 

The Bears average 73.8 PPG and allow just 61.4. Jonathan Motley leads the nightly charge with 16.9 points and 9.7 boards per game.

The Red Raiders average 75.1 PPG and allow only 65.8. Keenan Evans posts a team high 14.9 points, plus three assists per contest. 

I’ll point out that the Bears are just 4-7 ATS this year following a conference game and only 2-6 ATS off a win against a conference rival, while Texas Tech is already 2-0 ATS this year when playing with one or less days rest, 3-2 ATS in revenging a road loss against an opponent and 3-1 ATS after allowing 80 points or more.

Texas Tech is even tougher at home and I think an upset is in the cards. That said, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is the under Pelicans/Kings (9:05 EST).

The 21-33 New Orleans Pelicans are in Sacramento to take on the 22-32 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

These teams are still in the playoff mix and as such, I’m expecting a battle tonight between two clubs which are centered around their big men.

The Pelicans won for just the second time in their last seven games with a 122-106 road victory over the Wolves on Friday

The Kings have looked better of late, winning for the third time in four games by besting Atlanta 108-107 at home on Friday. 

Note, that when these teams met on November 28th, the Kings won 102-94 at home. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score once it’s all said and done tonight as well.

And note, despite the big offensive outburst against Minnesota, New Orleans still ranks 21st in the league in scoring with 103.5 PPG (the defense concedes 106.8).

Sacramento has beaten the Warriors, Celtics and Hawks during its win streak, but is still rankd just 22nd in the league in scoring with 103.4 PPG. The defense concedes 105.9.

I’ll point out that the Pelicans have seen the total go under the number in six of ten this year off an upset win as an underdog, while Sacramento has seen the total dip below the posted number in three of four as a home fav in the 3.5 to six points range this year and in eight of 14 when playing the role of favorite.

In my opinion, everything points to a lower-scoring affair, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TV BLOWOUT is on Indiana (1:00 EST).

The 15-9 Michigan Wolverines are in Indiana to take on the 15-10 Hoosiers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Hoosiers are the much “hungrier” team today as they’ve lost four of their last five. Conversely, I think the Wolverines are primed for an immediate return to mediocrity after they avenged an earlier loss to rival Michigan State in their last game.

Derrick Walton Jr. remains a consistent bright spot for Michigan, he averages 14.3 points, 4.7 boards and 3.8 assists per game. The Hoosiers will clearly be looking to slow him down this afternoon.

Indiana lost 69-64 at home to No. 18 ranked Purdue on Thursday. The Hoosiers have defeated No. 3 Kansas and No. 7 UNC during their non-conference schedule, but was then hit hard by the injury bug. 

The good news though was that leading scorer James Blackmon Jr. returned to action last week after missing three games. He posted just 11 points, but his presence is greatly need with a couple others still out.

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road and only 4-12 ATS in its last 16 against teams with winning records, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five at home, 4-0 ATS in its last four home games against teams with losing road records and 10-3 ATS in its last 13 following an ATS loss.

The Wolverines have been widly inconsistent this year and they’ve consistently been at their worst away from friendly confines, going 0-6 SU in true road games thus far. 

I look for Michigan’s inconsistencies to continue here and expect the desperate home side to finally get off the schneid behind a big performance from Blackmon Jr. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is the under Magic/Mavericks (9:05 EST).

The 20-35 Orlando Magic are in Dallas to take on the 21-32 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defenisve battle written all over it.

Orlando comes in with zero momentum, having lost three straight, most recently a heart-breaker at home to the lowly 76ers. 21 turnovers was the difference. Nikola Vucevic was a bright spot with 21 points:

“This is what happens when you have big leads all throughout the game and you don’t control the game,” Vucevic lamented afterwards. “When you let teams back in, a lot of times you are going to lose those games–especially after the way we start playing like we’re up 40. It’s unacceptable, especially in the position we’re in where we can’t even get a win right now.”

The Mavs on the other hand come in having won five of their last seven, most recently an OT thriller over the Jazz on Thursday. Harrison Barnes led the way with 31 points. 

I’ll point out though that Orlando has seen the total go under the number in all five games it’s played this year off an upset loss as a favorite, while Dallas has seen the total dip below the posted number in eight of 12 this year off an upset win as an underdog.

Orlando is in the bottom third in almost every single offensive category, while the Mavs rank in the top third in almost every defensive category. 

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Saint Mary’s.

The 25-0 Gonzaga Bulldogs are at Saint Mary’s to take on the 22-2 Gaels and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Gonzaga is 17-4 ATS so far, while Saint Mary’s is 11-9 ATS overall.

It’s a revenge game for the No. 2 team in the conference, as the Gaels fell 79-56 in Spokane in the first meeting this season. The Zags are 13-0 in conference action, while Saint Mary’s sits at 12-1. 

Gonzaga is an awesome team and hasn’t been challenged in league play so far, but I think that changes tonight. 

ESPN will be at the game tonight and the Gaels will be gunning for the outright upset and a share of the conference lead. 

These are a couple of the best teams in the country and they’re also a couple of the best when looking at “Against The Spread” statistics. One very important one sees Saint Mary’s alreaday 1-0 ATS this season in revenging a road loss against an opponent.

Gonzaga has covered five straight at Moraga, but that trend ends tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on South Carolina (8:00 EST).

The 19-5 South Carolina Gamecocks are at Mississippi State to take on the 14-9 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

I simply feel that the Gamecocks are going to come out fired up here after their 90-86 four-OT home loss to Alabama on Tuesday. Sindarius Thornwell was a bright spot with 44 points and 21 boards. Thornwell became the first Gamecock to record two games with a least 30 points in a season since 2009. 

Here’s the perfect opponent to get back on track against as the Bulldogs have lost five of seven, most recently a 98-92 setback in Auburn on Tuesday. Quindndary Weatherspoon led the way with 25 points. 

I’ll point out that South Carolina has dominated in this spot for bettors, going 5-0 ATS in its last five following a SU loss, 6-1-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS loss and 6-2-2 ATS in its last ten on the road overall, while Mississippi State is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after giving up 98 points or more.

The Gamecocks are now tied in the SEC for top spot, but have a big opportunity today in facing the inconsistent Bulldogs. I think South Carolina finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-10 Fresno State Bulldogs are at Colorado State to take on the 16-9 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the visitors have to be loving their chances today, because when these teams met back on Janaury 18th, the Bulldogs thrashed the Rams 78-57. 

Deshon Taylor led the way in that one for Fresno State with 19 points.

The Bulldogs will be coming in hungry today as well as they’ve lost three of their last four. Taylor had 32 points and nine boards in his teams 102-10 four-overtime loss to Wyoming on Wednesay. 

Conversely, I think the Rams come in a tiny bit complacent after winning five of their last six.

Colorado State is led by Gian Clavell, who averages 18.6 PPG and 6.4 boards. The Rams come in off a 67-52 win over the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday. 

I often look at “revenge” as a motivating factor, but in this case I don’t think it’s going to matter. Fresno State is desperate for a win as it sits at .500 in league play.

The Bulldogs dominated the first matchup and I think they’ll at the very least, take this one down to the wire as well. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Appalachian State (3:30 EST).

The 16-7 Georgia State Panthers are at Appalachian State to take on the 6-16 Mountaineers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I simply feel that Georgia State comes in complacent here after eight straight wins, most recently a 69-55 win over ULM Monroe on Monday. Jimmy Hollowell led the way with 19 points and six boards.

I won’t try to convince you that the Mountaineers are a decent team which has just had some back luck this season, as that’s not the truth. Applachian State State scores and allows 75 PPG, so there is no margin for error most nights. 

App State has lost seven straight and I think will come out hungry here. Most recently the Mountaineers fell 69-62 at Arkansas Little Rock on Monday. Ronshad Shabazz and Tyrell Johnson each scored 15 points in the setback.

I’ll point out though that Georgia State is already 0-1 ATS this year as a road fav of 3.5 to six points and just 15-25 ATS in its last 40 on the road, while Appalachian State is already 1-0 ATS this year as a home dog of 3.5 to six points and 5-3 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end as I look for the home side to catch Georgia State a little flat-footed tonight. Play on Appalachian State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on La Salle (2:00 EST).

The 14-9 Richmond Spiders are at La Salle to take on the 13-9 Explorers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams come into this one hot, as Richmond has won three of its last four, while La Salle has won two of its last three.

The Explorers would beat Fordham 67-52 last time out. Note that the Rams were held to just 33.9 percent from the floor overall. 

Keep your eyes on La Salle’s BJ Johnson, who finished with 26 points, eight boards, three assists and three steals in the decisive victory. 

The Spiders come in off an 84-75 win over George Washington, Khwan Fore had a career-high 24 points in the victory. 

I’ll point out though that Richmond is just 1-2 ATS in its last three against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest, while La Salle is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a favorite and 3-1 its last four in front of the home town crowd.

The Explorers are the top three-point shooting team in the Atlantic 10 and they also lead the confernece in almost every single offensive category. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is the under Pelicans/Wolves (8:05 EST).

The 20-33 New Orleans Pelicans are in Minnesota to take on the 20-33 Timberwolves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

The Pelicans come in with zero momentum, having lost five of their last six, most recently getting destroyed 127-94 at home by Utah on Wednesday. 

The Wolves got off the schneid and broke a four-game slide in their last outing with a 112-109 win over the Raptors on Wednesday. 

Note that New Orleans has won eight of the last ten in the series, including a 117-96 victory at home in the first matchup this year back on November 23rd. 

The Pelicans average 103.1 PPG and concede 106.8. Anthony Davis averages 27.6 PPG to go along with 12.1 boards, 1.31 steals and 2.51 blocks per contest. Unfortunately for Davis, his supporting cast is pretty thin, E-Twaun Moore is next in line with just 9.8 PPG.

Minnesota averages 104.3 PPG and concedes 105.6. Big man Karl-Anthony Towns will have his hands full with Davis, he leads the nightly charge for the Wolves with 23.5 PPG and 11.9 boards. 

I’ll point out that New Orleans has already seen the total go under the number in 17 of 28 this year after allowing 105 points or more, while Minnesota has seen the total dip below the posted number in three of its last four when playing the role of favorite.

Both teams are dealing with injuries to key players, so I’m expecting the spot light to be thrown onto the big men tonight. With each looking to establish, we can expect some half court sets to be run, meaning a slower pace at times. I think this number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* (((CA$H BOMB!))) is on Pennsylvania (7:00 EST).

The 10-9 Columbia Lions are in Pennsylvania to take on the 7-12 Quakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Lions are 4-2 in league play, while Penn is 0-6.

Columbia comes in off an 83-78 victory over Brown and was led by Luke Petrasek’s 18 points, seven boards, four assists, three steals and block. So far the Lions average 74.4 PPG.

The Quakers come in off a poor 64-49 loss to Princeton. Darnell Foreman was a bright spot with 11 points. So far Pennsylvania averages 66.3 PPG. 

I won’t try to convince you that the Quakers are a decent team which has just caught some bad breaks this year, as that’s not the case. Pennsylvania is not a very good team.

Columbia hasn’t been a “World beater’ this year either though and with a game at conference leading Princeton tomorrow night, I think this does indeed set up as a classic “trap” situation for the visitors. 

And I’ll point out that the Lions are just 1-2 ATS off a win against a conference rival this season and only 1-2 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while the Quakers are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 after three or more consecutive Straight-Up losses.

Pennsylvania a favorite here for a reason and I think it should in fact be a larger one. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on BYU (11:00 EST).

The 17-8 BYU Cougars are at Pepperdine to take on the 7-17 Waves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

BYU comes in off a 73-62 win over Portland on Saturday, while Pepperdine enters off an 82-72 win over Pacific. 

These teams played on January 19th and the Cougars pounded the Waves 99-70, led by 22 points and ten boards from Erik Mika. Suffice it to say, I think we’ll see a repeat performance here. 

BYU shot just 38.9 percent from the floor in its win over Portland, so will clearly be looking to get off to a better start tonight. Mika contributed 23 points, three blocks and 12 boards. 

Despite the “off” shooting night, BYU still averages 81.9 PPG, while conceding 72.7. 

Lamond Murray Jr. averages 20.7 PPG for the Waves and he had 26 in his team’s rare win over lowly Pacific on Saturday. 

Pepperdine averages just 69.2 PPG and allows 79.8.

I’ll point out that BYU is 4-1 ATS in its last five against poor defensive teams which allow 77-plus points per contest, while Pepperdine is already 0-2 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and 0-2 ATS after scoring 80 points or more.

I have a hard time seeing Pepperdine keeping up with BYU today, I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST).

The 34-19 Utah Jazz are in Dallas to take on the 20-32 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

No need to overthink this one too much in my opinion, as Utah comes in off a big 127-94 win over New Orleans just last night. I unfortunately had a play on the Pelicans in that one. The Jazz are poised for a letdown now after four straight wins and the revenge minded and much improved Mavericks will be looking to take advantage.

Dallas comes in as the “hungrier” team as it’s now dropped two in a row, most recently a 114-113 setback at home to Portland on Tuesday. 

Note that Dallas does in fact play with “triple revenge” tonight, after dropping all three previous games to the Jazz this season.

This is a great situational play, as Utah comes in tired and content. The Mavs are eager to return to the winners circle, have home court advantage and big motivation after already dropping three games to the Jazz this year.

And I’ll point out that Utah is just 10-14 ATS on the road this year and interestingly, only 18-22 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while Dallas is 8-2 ATS in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 12-6 ATS after allowing 105 points or more.

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

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on St. Peter’s (8:00 EST).

Both teams are hungry for a win in this one. So far St. Peter’s is 12-12 overall and 8-6 in the MAAC, while Quinnipiac is 10-14 overall and 7-7 in league play.

These teams played earlier in the year and the Peacocks got the better of the Bobcats 58-54. Since losing to St. Peter’s, the Bobcats have gone 4-4. 

It’s an interesting contrast in styles today, as St. Peter’s averages just 65.6 PPG, but concedes only 63.9, while Quinnipiac averages 76.7 points and concedes 80.7.

The Peacocks are 5-4 since beating the Bobcats. They’ve lost their last three games, but the biggest margin of defeat was just three points.

And note that St. Peter’s is 6-0 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while Quinnipiac is already 0-2 ATS this year as a home dog of three points or less or pick. 

I like St. Peter’s to get back into the winners circle with another big defensive effort.

Good luck…Larry

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

FIU is just 8-13 this year and that includes a 1-9 mark in C-USA action. 

Rice comes in at the other end of the spectrum with a 15-8 overall record. The Owls though will be looking to improve upon their 5-5 record in league play. 

Rice enters in off a relatively simple 95-80 win over North Texas. Marcus Evans and Marcus Jackson combined to put up 35 points. 

FIU enters off a 95-80 loss to Charlotte on Saturday. Donte McGill was a bright spot with 27 points. The Golden Panthers looked brutal defensively, allowing the 49ers to make 60 percent of their shots from the floor. 

I’ll point out that Rice is 4-1 ATS in its last five against teams with a losing SU record, while FIU is just 1-5 ATS in its last six as a home underdog.

The Owls are looking a lot better of late, winning three of their last four, including two straight on the road. Rice beat FIU by 16 last year and I think it’ll fly away with tonight’s game as well. Play on the Owls.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:05 EST).

The 22-30 Miami Heat are in Milwaukee to take on the 22-28 Bucks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Miami comes in on the back of an 11-game win streak, but I think it will finally have a letdown here. The Heat most recently got by Minnesota 115-113 on the road on Monday.

Conversely, the Bucks are looking to build momentum, they finally got off the schneid and broke a five-game slide with a resounding 137-112 beatdown of the Suns on Saturday. 

Note that this does indeed also set up as a “revenge” game for Milwaukee, as Miami has taken two of three meetings this year, including a 109-97 home win on January 21st in the most recent.

Note that despite the big win streak, the Heat still rank 25th in the league in scoring at 100.7 PPG. Miami is strong defenisvely though, conceding just 102.2 PPG. Goran Dragic usually leads the nightly charge, he’s averaging a team-leading 20.1 PPG.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 30 points, 12 boards, six assists and four blocks in his team’s win over the Suns last time out. 

Milwaukee averages 105.3 PPG and concedes 105.1. Keep your eyes on big man Greg Monroe, who averages 11.1 points and 6.7 boards in a sixth man role. 

I’ll point out that Miami is just 10-12 ATS this year after a non-conference game, while Milwaukee is a perfect 3-0 ATS this season after playing three consecutive road games and 5-3 ATS as a home fav of three points or less.

Milwaukee comes in rested and focused after four days off. Too many factors working against Miami tonight, I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* UNDERDOG OF THE MONTH is on the New Orleans Pelicans (8:05 EST).

The 33-19 Utah Jazz are in New Orleans to take on the 20-32 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I believe the Jazz will finally have a letdown here after winning three straight. 

New Orleans though will be looking to build some momentum after getting off the schneid and breaking a four-game losing streak in a win over the Suns on Monday.

Utah played over its head in its 120-95 win over Atlanta on Monday, shooting a season-high 61.3 percent from the floor. Suffice it to say, I am not expecting a repeat performance here. In fact, there’s only one way that shooting percentage can go (and that’s down!). 

Anthony Davis had 34 points, nine boards and five blocks in his team’s 111-106 win over Phoenix on Monday. Point guard Jrue Holiday had 30 points, nine boards, seven assists and three steals. 

I’ll point out that Utah is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight on the road, while New Orleans is 4-0 ATS in its last four home against against teams with winng road records and 5-2 ATS in its last seven following an ATS loss.

The Jazz have a hard time with Davis, who averaged 25.3 points and 9.8 boards in four games against them last year. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Pelicans.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 8-15 St. Louis Billikens are at St. Bonaventure to take on the 14-8 Bonnies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

St. Louis has won three of its last four, but is still just 3-7 in conference action. 

The Bonnies are looking to bounce back after dropping two of their last three. Despite the recent slip, St. Bonaventure is still 6-4 in league play. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the home side has to be liking its chances today as when these teams met in mid January at St. Louis, the Bonnies would go on to win 71-52. 

The Billikens average just 54.9 PPG, while conceding 68.4 PPG in true road games this year. 

The Bonnies came up short against the VCU Rams last time out, one of the best teams in the conference. Note that St. Bonaventure averages 82.6 PPG and allows 79.2 at home so far this year. Keep your eyes on Matt Mobley, who scored 34 points in the setback to VCU. 

I’ll point out that St. Louis is already just 2-3 ATS this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 0-2 ATS after allowing 60 points or less, while St. Bonaventure is 4-2 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more and 2-0 ATS off a loss against a conference rival.

I think the Bonnies come in focused after scuffling of late. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-10 NC State Wolfpack are in Florida to take on the 20-4 Seminoles on Wednesday night and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that the hungry visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

I think the Seminoles come in a bit complacent here after they smacked Clemson 109-61 in their latest action.

NC State comes in focused after losing 84-79 to Miami in its last outing.

Note that this is a “double revenge” scenario for the visitors as well after FSU took both games last year.

There were a couple of silver linings in the Wolfpack’s latest loss though, as despite allowing Miami to shoot 50 percent from the floor, they’d go on to hit an outstanding 56 percent themselves. It’s a positive that the team will look to build off of here. Dennis Smith Jr. had 31 points. 

Note that NC State averages 81.2 PPG, but concedes 78.9.

FSU averages 84.4 PPG and concedes 70.6. But after posting the whopping lop-sided victory over the Tigers this past weekend, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here. If the Wolfpack have any hopes at actually pulling off an outright upset, they’ll have to blanket Dwayne Bacon, who leads the team with 17.6 PPG.

I’ll point out though that NC State is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive losses, while Florida State is just 1-2 ATS this season against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest.

With an important game at Notre Dame on Saturday, it’s not too hard to imagine the Seminoles in some small way getting caught “looking past” their lesser opponent this evening.

I like the Wolfpack to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on NC State.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 8-15 DePaul Blue Demons are at Xavier to take on the 17-6 Musketeers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

DePaul comes in off a 92-79 loss to Marquette, while Xavier would hold on for a big 82-80 road win over Creighton last weekend. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the visitors as the Musketeers took both meetings last year.

Tre-Darius McCallum was a bright spot for the Blue Demons in the loss to the Golden Eagles, finishing with a season-high 21 points. 

DePaul has lost six in a row and 11 of 12 and sits in last place in the Big East at 1-9. Clearly the Blue Demons are a bad team, so I won’t try to convince you otherwise.

I simply feel this is a great “situation” for the visitors and think they can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Vegas is trying to lead us to believe.

Note that the Blue Demons average 70.4 PPG, but allow an average of 73.6

Xavier is primed for a letdown here though in my opinion after its epic come-from-behind victory over then No. 23 ranked Creighton on Saturday. Trevon Bluelett led the way in the upset with 16 points. The Musketeers are 7-3 in conference play so far. 

Note that Xavier averages 76.9 points and concedes 70.4.

I’ll point out though that DePaul is a perfect 3-0 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more, while Xavier is just 2-3 ATS in the same position. 

With a game against conference leading Villanova on Friday and after the epic upset in its last outing, I think that Xavier gets caught looking past its lowly opponent this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Michigan (9:00 EST).

These two teams are on the bubble as far as making the NCAA Tournament is concerned, so each will be pressing for a victory today. But Michigan plays with revenge after falling at Michigan State just last week.

The Spartans come in on a two-game win streak, most recently beating Nebraska 72-61 on Thursday. Miles Bridges had 16 points. 

Michigan comes in as the “hungrier” team though as it’s lost two straight, most recently a 70-66 setback to Ohio State on Saturday (I had the Buckeyes in that one). Derrick Walton had 25 points and ten boards in the setback. Walton averages 19.7 points, 6.8 boards and 3.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Michigan State is just 3-5 ATS as an underdog this year, while Michigan is 4-2 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. 

It’s essentially do-or-die for the Wolverines, who will be looking to defend home court and avenge the 70-62 loss to the Spartans on January 29th. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

 My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Houston Rockets (8:00 EST).

The 20-33 Orlando Magic are in Houston to take on the 37-17 Houston Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Magic come in with zero momentum, they lost for the seventh time in their last ten games with a 113-86 loss at Atlanta on Saturday.

The Rockets can empathize, they’ve also hit a bit of a rough patch, but do come in off a 121-117 OT win at home over the Bulls to win for just the third time in their last eight overall. 

These team’s met in Orlando on January 8th and Houston scored the 100-93 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger blowout this evening.

The Magic average 99.6 PPG and allow 105.4 per night. Evan Fournier leads the nightly charge with 16.6 PPG. 

The Rockets average 114.1 PG and allow 108.3. Houston is led by James Harden with 28.9 points, 8.2 boards and 11.4 assists per night. 

I’ll point out that Orlando is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 when its opponent allows 100 points or more in its previous game, while the Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last five home games against a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400.

Houston is tough at home. I think it builds off its latest victory and keeps the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 18-5 Florida Gators are in Georgia to take on the 13-10 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I believe the Gators come in a bit complacent here, they’ve won four straight, most recently a hugely satisfying 88-66 spanking of Kentucky (the largest margin of victory in school history over the Wildcats). 

Conversely, the Bulldogs come in hyper-focused after two straight losses and four of their last five. 

Florida has in fact won 11 of its last 13. 

Georgia has some tough losses this year, falling by six at home to league-leading South Carolina and losting to Florida in Gainesville in OT. The Bulldogs had a 13 point second half lead and fell 63-63 in that one. That loss was followed by a 20-point home defeat to Alabama, followed by an OT loss to Kentucky and most recently, another loss to the Gamecocks, this time by just two points on the road. 

Keep your eyes on Yante Maten, who is averaging 19.7 PPG for Georgia, good for second in the conference. 

I’ll point out that Florida is just 10-15 ATS in its last 15 off a win against a conference rival, while Georgia is 7-1 ATS as an underdog this season and 3-0 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. 

Enough is enough for the Bulldogs, they’ve gotten “oh so close” too many times this year. And while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, in the end I’ll recommend that you grab as many points as you can. 

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Penn State (6:00 EST).

The 20-3 Maryland Terrapins are at Penn State to take on the 12-12 Nittany Lions and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, is even harder to get back. The Terps lost their second conference game on Saturday and now sitsbehind Wisconsin for the top spot in the conference. It was a brutal loss too, falling 73-72 after blowing a 12-point second-half lead. Mayrland allowed Purdue to hit 9 of 22 from range and the Boilermakers also went 16 of 19 from the charity stripe to score the big upset. Melo Trimble leads the Terrapins with 17.2 PPG.

Note that the Terps average 75.6 PPG and allow 66.3

Penn State is just 4-7 in Big Ten play and comes in off a 70-68 home loss to Rutgers on Saturday.

The Nittany Lions average 72.1 PPG and allow 71.8. Clearly Penn State will be out to atone after losing to the Scarlet Knights (note that Rutgers was 0-23 on the road in conference play since joining the Big Ten in 2014). Shep Garner was a bright spot in the setback with 24 points. 

I’ll point out though that Maryland is just 5-6 ATS this year when playing the role of favorite (also just 5-8 ATS in its last 13 games played in the month of February), while Penn State is 6-4 ATS at home this season and 8-6 ATS as the underdog.

I think the Terps come in unfocused, still dwelling on their latest setback. The Nittany Lions clearly have nothing to lose and will look to take advantage. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by the outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Play on Penn State.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the under Mavericks/Nuggets (9:05 EST).

The 20-30 Dallas Mavericks are in Denver to take on the 22-28 Nuggets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “defensive battle” written all over it as well.

Dallas is rolling and will be gunning for a fifth straight win, most recently a 108-104 road victory in Portland. Denver enters off a 121-97 beatdown at the hands of the Spurs on Saturday. 

These teams have played twice already this year and each has won on its home court, the Nuggets taking the latest meeting 117-107.

Dallas was a bit “lucky” to hold on for the win over the Blazers though, as it had a 19 point lead at one point. Yogi Ferrell scored 32 points, including going 9 of 11 from range. He immediately signed a two-year contract after the performance. 

The Mavs have a looked a lot better offensively of late, but note that the team still does only average 97.6 PPG, ranked dead last in the league. Dallas though features a strong defense which concedes just 100.4 PPG, ranked fourth overall. 

The Nuggets ran out of gas against San Antonio, as it was their fourth game in five nights. Denver averages 110.2 PPG and concedes 111.8. 

Note though that Denver has seen the total go under the number in two of its last three against teams with losing records.

Also note that Dallas has seen the total dip below the posted number in ten of 13 this year after scoring 105 points or more.

The Mavs won’t want to turn this one into a “track meet,” so expect the visitors to try and control the pace a bit. In my opinion, this number is just a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 21-30 Miami Heat are in Minnesota to take on the 19-32 Timberwolves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “defensive battle” written all over it.

Is Miami poised for a letdown here after winning its tenth in a row, most recently a 125-102 beatdown of the 76ers at home on Saturday?

The Heat have been rolling for a while now, but after five straight wins at home, they now finally embark on an extended road trip. There’s no doubt that this sets up as a potential “trap” game for Miami. 

The Wolves on the other hand come in ultra motivated and focused as they’ve lost three straight, most recently a 107-99 setback to Memphis on Saturday. 

Despite the recent surge, note that the Heat still only averages 100.4 PPG this year. Most nights Miami gets the job done with smothering defensive play as it’s ranked fifth overall in conceding just 101.9 per night. Hassan Whiteside has been playing well of late, he had 30 points, 20 boards and three boocks in the win over Philadelphia.

Minnesota averages 104 PPG and concedes 105.4. Karl-Anthony Towns leads the team with 23.1 points and 12 boards per contest. Minnesota’s offense took a hit though when swingman Zach LaVine went down with a torn ACL.

I’ll point out that Miami has seen the total go under the number in 14 of 22 non-conference games this year, while Minnesota has seen the total go under the posted number in five of eight this season after three or more consecutive losses.

Six of the last seven in this series in Minnesota have fallen below the number and all signs point to these trends continuing. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Arkansas State (8:00 EST).

The 11-12 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers are at Arkansas State to take on the 17-6 Red Wolves and after losing to the Chanticleers earlier in the season, I think this one favors the home side.

The Red Wolves are 7-2 ATS at home, while Coastal Carolina is just 2-5-1 ATS on the road thus far.

The Chanticleers most recently got the better of Arkansas Little Rock, 82-75. Jaylen Shaw had 21 points. 

The Red Wolves had to hold on for a tight 79-78 win over Appalachian State on Saturday. Arkansas State is now 8-2 in league play. Devin Carter had 25 points in the latest win. 

I’ll point out that Coastal Carolina is just 6-7 ATS as an underdog this year and only 4-5 ATS on the road, while Arkansas State is 6-1-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS loss. 

Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and one which I think the oddsmakers have a hard time properly quantifying into a line at times. I expect a motivated Red Wolves team to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 32-19 Utah Jazz are in Atlanta to take on the 30-21 Hawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

Utah has won two straight, most recently a 105-98 effort at home over the Hornets, while Atlanta enters off two straight wins as well, routing Orlando 113-86 at home on Saturday. 

It’s interesting to note that Atlanta has won nine of the last 11 in this series, but Utah took the first meeting 95-68 in the first matchup this year back on November 25th in front of the home town crowd.

Atlanta was struggling with offensive consistency at that point of the season, but has turned things around of late.

Utah averages just 99.5 PPG and concedes only 94.5. The Jazz offense was firing on all cylinders against the Hornets though and I’m expecting that momentum to get carried over into this one, as Utah would go on to shoot 47 percent from the floor and hit 13 of 33 three-pointers. Gordon Hayward exploded for 33 points and eight boards in the win.

The Hawks so far average 103.9 PPG and concede 103.9 as well. Paul Milsap leads the team with 17.9 points, eight boards and 3.8 assists per game. In the win over the Magic, ATL shot 52.6 percent from the floor and was 10 of 28 from range.

I’ll point out that Utah has already seen the total go over the number in 12 of 16 this year after scoring 105 points or more, while Atlanta has seen the total sail above the posted number in three of its last four in the same position.

I think the home side pushes the pace as it looks to avenge the earlier dud in Utah and as a result, expect this total to eclipse the posted number as it comes down the stretch. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* CASH BOMB is on the LA Clippers (2:05 EST).

The 31-19 LA Clippers are in Boston to take on the 32-18 Boston Celtics and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Clippers are the “hungrier” team in my estimation as they come in having lost three of their last four, most recently a 133-120 setback at home to Golden State on Thursday. 

Conversely, the surging Celtics look poised for a letdown here after winning their sixth straight, most recently a 113-107 win at home over the Lakers on Friday night. 

Note that LA averages 108.4 PPG and concedes just 104.7. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 21.4 points, 8.7 boards and 4.6 assists per game.

Boston averages 108.3 PPG and concedes 105.7. Isaiah Thomas leads the way with 29.9 points and 6.3 assists per game.

These are two good teams, but they’re moving in opposite directions right now. But I think that trend starts to move the other way tonight. Boston is likely playing its best ball of the season, but after six straight wins, including three straight at home, and with two nights off before a long Western Conference road swing, I think it finally has a letdown here. 

It’s the perfect situation for the Clippers (and us!), to take advantage of. Grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Villanova (8:00 EST).

The 11-13 St. John’s Red Storm are at No. 4 Villanova to take on the 21-2 Wildcats and for a number of different reasons, I think the home side puts the foot on the gas from the opening tip until the final horn sounds.

When these teams met on January 14th, Villanova beat St. John’s 70-57. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger beatdown in front of the home town crowd.

The Wildcats enter off a 66-57 road win over Providence, while the Red Storm handled Marquette 86-72 at home on February 1st.

I feel the Red Storm are primed for a letdown here after their upset win over Marquette. Bashir Ahmed had 23 points and six boards. 

So far St. John’s allows 75.2 PPG and and averages 77.1.

Villanova won its second straight, but it wasn’t a pretty effort, as it would go on to turn the ball over 15 times. The defense though continues to shine as it would hold the Friars to just 39.6 percent shooting. Keep your eyes on Josh Hart, who had 17 points in the victory over Providence. 

So far the Wildcats allow just 62.2 PPG and average 77.

The over-achieving Red Storm come in a bit complacent and a sloppy Wildcats side finally cleans up its act and pulls away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Arkansas Little Rock (7:00 EST).

Sometimes common sense is the best way to approach a situation and that’s the case here. I think the Arkansas Little Rock Trojans are the “hungrier” team today.

The Trojans are looking to bounce back after three straight losses, most recently falling at ULM on Monday night. Arkansas Little Rock actually led by two a halftime, but scored just 22 points in the second half.

Marius Hill had ten points, posting his ninth double-figure scoring game of the season. 

Coastal Carolina is just 10-12 overall, but 5-4 in Sun Belt action. I think the Chanticleers make an immediate return to mediocrity after they broke a three-game slide with a win over UT Arlington at home last time out. 

This is also a revenge game for Arkansas Little Rock, as Coastal Carolina managed a 66-63 win in the season’s first meeting. The Trojans trailed by 16 with 12 minutes remaining, but managed to make it a three-point game, only to then come up short on the tying shot with time running out. 

I think the stage is now set for the home side to avenge the earlier loss though. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the New Orleans Pelicans (7:00 EST).

The 19-31 New Orleans Pelicans are in Washington to take on the 29-20 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

New Orleans will be hungry here, it’s coming off its third straight loss, this time a 118-98 setback on the road in Detroit on Wednesday. 

Conversely, the Wizards could hardly be faulted if they came in a tiny bit complacent as they are off their sixth straight victory, most recently a 116-108 home win over the Lakers on Thursday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be an understatement as well as Washington has taken nine of the last ten in the series, including a 107-94 road victory in the first matchup of the year just last week. 

New Orleans averages 103.4 PPG and concedes 106.5. Big man Anthony Davis averages 27.9 points, 12.3 boards, 1.3 steals and 2.39 blocks per game. Davis is going to need a few more pieces around him before the Pelicans can ever make any serious noise at a playoff run, note that E’Twaun Moore contributes 9.8 points a night, while Tim Frazier chips in 9.1.

Washington averages 107.1 PPG and concedes 105. Guard John Wall leads the way with 23 points, 10.3 assists and 2.15 steals per game. 

I’ll point out though that New Orleans is already 20-15 ATS this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent and 4-2 ATS as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Washington is just 1-3 ATS in its last four non-conference games.

With the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers coming to town on Monday night, it’s also not too hard to imagine the home side getting caught looking ahead to that much more “important” game.

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

Good luck…Larry

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

The 13-10 Ohio State Buckeyes are in Michigan to take on the 14-8 Wolverines and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Buckeyes are the “hungrier” team in my estimation, as they enter off a second straight loss, this time a 77-71 setback to No. 17 Maryland at home on Tuesday.

Michigan enters off a 70-62 loss at Michigan State on Sunday and it could still very likely be thinking about the setback to its in-state rival as we head into tonight’s contest. 

The Buckeyes are now just 3-7 in league play. Jae’Sean Tate was a bright spot in the loss to Maryland with 20 points. Note that Ohio State averages 73.3 PPG and concedes just 68.7. 

The Wolverines average 74.4 PPG and concede 65.8. Michigan looked horrible against the Spartans, shooting only 33.9 percent from the floor and going just 7 of 26 from range. Derrick Walton Jr. had 24 points, nine boards and five assists in the setback.

I’ll point out that Ohio State is 14-8 ATS in its last 22 off a loss against a conference rival, while Michigan is just 1-3 ATS in its last four when playing with five or six days of rest. 

These teams’ offensive and defensive numbers are almost identical. Ohio State won’t be rolling over today, so I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on Missouri (6:00 EST).

The 17-5 Arkansas Razorbacks are at Missouri to take on the 5-16 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

This looks like a classic letdown spot for the surging Razorbacks, they’ve won five of their last six and are now 6-4 in league play. Most recently Arkansas smashed Alabama 87-68 at home.

Missouri enters off an embarrassing 93-54 loss on the road in Florida. 

Clearly the Razorbacks are the better team, but if ever they were to “look past” an opponent, it’s the lowly Tigers. 

This does indeed set up as a “trap” for the visitors in my opinion. 

I’ll point out that Arkansas is just 1-2 ATS in its last three following a three game or longer unbeaten streak, while Missouri is 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 55 points or less.

The Tigers’ offense has been horrible so far, but their defense has been decent. While I won’t call for the outright upset, I do definitely think that the hungry home side can catch their superior opponent a bit disinterested and look for it to keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 10-13 Arizona State Sun Devils are at Oregon State to take on the 4-19 Beavers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Beavers are winless in league play at 0-10, but the Sun Devils aren’t too far behind at 3-7. 

Arizona State enters off a loss against Oregon, a heart-breaking 71-70 setback. Shannon Evans was a bright spot with 28 points. 

Stephen Thompson had 16 points, four boards, one assist and five steals for the Beavers in their 71-54 loss to Arizona. 

I’ll point out though that Arizona State is just 7-18-1 ATS in its last 26 following an ATS victory, while Oregon State is 7-1 ATS in its last eight following a double-digit home loss.

Oregon State looked decent against the No. 5 team in the nation and I think it can give the inconsistent Sun Devils everything they can handle today. Arizona State has in fact lost six of its last seven overall and five straight on the road.

Look for the desperate home side to at the very least, take this one down to the wire and comfortably sneak in through the back door. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* MAC TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the under Buffalo/Ball State (2:00 EST).

The 10-12 Buffalo Bulls are at Ball State to take on the 15-7-1 Cardinals and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will be more of a defensive affair.

Buffalo comes in off a wild 101-91 home win over CMU, while Ball State held on for a nail-biting 81-80 victory at home over Toledo.

I’m not reading too much into the Bulls big win over the Chippewas, as Central Michigan is one of the worst defensive teams in the conference. So far Buffalo puts up 76.7 PPG, while conceding 75.2. Blake Hamilton had 27 points and 11 boards in the win over the Chips.

Ball State averages 80.0 PPG and concedes 73.7. The Cardinals have won three straight and six of their last seven. Note though that the team is already starting to show some signs of slowing down, after barely nipping Toledo and hitting just 43.7 percent of its shots, overall, including only 37.5 percent from range. 

I’ll point out that Buffalo has seen the total go under the number in 16 of its last 24 when the total in the contest is set between 150 and 159.5, while Ball State has seen the total dip below the posted number in 17 of its last 28 as a home fav of three points or less.

Both teams come in off victories and each will be fighting for another one today. This can still be a higher-scoring game and stay below what I feel to be a very lofty number. Play the under.

Good luck….Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:05 EST).

The 30-21 Memphis Grizzlies are in Oklahoma City to take on the 28-22 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

This is a big mid-season game as the Thunder sit just 1.5 games behind No. 6 Memphis in the playoff standings. They’ve already played twice this year, each winning on its home floor. 

I simply feel this sets up as a letdown spot for Memphis though, which has played well of late, winning three straight on the road. 

The Thunder on other hand have lost three straight, most recently a humbling 128-100 setback at home to the Bulls on Wednesday.

The Grizzlies average 100.6 PPG and concede 99.5. 

Despite struggling some on the offensive end of late, OKC still comes into this one averaging 105.7 PPG. The problem most nights for the Thunder is on the defensive end as they concede an average of 105.7 as well. 

I’ll point out though that Memphis is just 8-10 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more, while OKC is 8-5 ATS after a loss by ten points or more.

Both teams are dealing with injury issues, but I think this one simply means more to Russell Westbrook and the Thunder. Good value on the “hungry” home side, play on Oklahoma City.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH is on the under Wolves/Pistons (7:35 EST).

The 19-30 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Detroit to take on the 22-27 Pistons and for a number of different reasons, I’m expecting a lower-scoring defensive battle.

The Wolves were in Cleveland on Wednesday and they had a two game win streak going before falling 125-97. 

The Pistons broke a three-game slide in their last outing by smashing the Pelicans 118-98 at home on Wednesday. 

Note that Detroit has won the last three in this series, including a 117-90 victory on the road this year back on December 9th.

Minnesota is ranked 18th overall in scoring with an average of 104 PPG, while ranked 16th in scoring defense in conceding 105.1 PPG. Karl-Anthony Towns had 26 points and 12 boards in the loss to the Cavs.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope exploded for 38 points in the Pistons win over New Orleans. Those types of offensive outbursts though have been few and far between for Detroit this year, which ranks 24th in scoring at 101.1 PPG. The Pistons get the job done with their suffocating defensive play, ranked sixth in conceding 101.8 per night. Detroit gets balanced scoring, keep your eyes on big man Andre Drummond, who puts up 14.6 points and grabs 13.6 boards per night. 

It’s interesting to note that Minnesota has seen the total go under the number in nine of 15 this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Detroit has seen the total dip below the posted number in 12 of 20 non-conference games to this point.

These are two teams jockeying for a playoff spot and hungry for a win. Each will look to establish its big men, so we’re likely to see a lot of half court sets on offense. I think this number is just a little bit high. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on BYU (11:00 EST).

The 22-0 Gonzaga Bulldogs are at BYU to take on the 16-7 Cougars and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that the determined home side can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

Note that this sets up as a revenge game for BYU, as when these teams last faced each other, the Zags scored the 88-84 win in the West Coast Conference Tournament semifinals last year in Vegas.

Gonzaga continues to roll along, winning by an average margin of 23.8 PPG. 

BYU has lost three games in league play, all of which came on the road. The Cougars though are undefeated at home in conference action this year. Looking back sees BYU 12-1 at home and riding an overall nine-game win streak in Provo. 

So far Gonzaga has not been challenged this year, but I think that changes tonight. The Cougars are undefeated at home and I don’t think they’re getting nearly enough respect from the oddsmaker’s tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Pacific (11:00 EST).

The 19-2 Saint Mary’s Gaels are at Pacific to take on the 8-15 Tigers and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the hungry home side can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

Note that this is an immediate revenge game, as the Gaels won 62-50 over the Tigers just two weeks ago.

Since its blowout loss to Gonzaga, Saint Mary’s has won four straight by 12 points or more. Jock Landale averages 16.8 points, 9.5 boards and shoots over 60 percent to lead the team.

But I think the Gaels come in a bit complacent here and get caught “looking past” the lowly Tigers, who have lost five in a row. 

And I’ll point out that Saint Mary’s has struggled in this spot for bettors already this year, going just 4-5 ATS after a conference game and only 4-5 ATS after allowing 60 points or less. 

And note that Pacific is 10-7 ATS in its last 17 after allowing 80 points or more and 2-0 ATS this season against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest. 

Pacific lost to Saint Mary’s by 12 on the road, but now has the home court advantage. This spread is a little large, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Arizona State (11:00 EST).

The 10-12 Arizona State Sun Devils are are in Oregon to take on the 19-3 Ducks and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the visitors have enough factors working in their favor to be able to keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

I simply feel this sets up as a natural “letdown” spot for the home side after it had its 17 game win streak snapped in a 74-65 setback on the road to Colorado.

Arizona State will be the “hungrier” team today as it comes in having lost five of its last six.

The loss to Colorado has to be considered “shocking” for the Ducks though and suffice it to say, I’m expecting that “shock and awe” to get carried over against the lowly Sun Devils, who will look to take advantage of this distracted home side.

One player to keep your eyes on for the Sun Devils is Tra Holder, who had 27 points in his team’s most recenty loss to Washington State. 

And I’ll point out that Arizona State is 5-0-1 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while Oregon is already 0-2 ATS this year as a home fav in the 15.5 to 19 points range.

The Ducks just lost to a team with a worst conference record than ASU, so asking them to cover such a big spread after such a deflating setback is asking just too much in my professional opinion. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Lakers/Wizards (7:05 EST).

The 17-34 LA Lakers are in Washington to take on the 28-20 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, i think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

LA enters off a rare win, taking out Denver 120-116 at home on Tuesday. The Wizards come in off their 15th straight home victory in a 117-101 effort over the Knicks on Tuesday. 

The Lakers have been a disappointment this year, but looked pretty good against Denver in hitting 15 of 27 from range. Nick Young had 23 points.

So far LA averages 104 PPG. The Lakers though have been terrible on the defensive end in conceding 110.2 PPG thus far. 

Washington averages 106.9 PPG, which ranks it tenth overall. The Wizards are just 15th on the defensive end though in conceding 105 PPG. John Wall continues to lead the nightly charge wih 22.7 points, 10.3 assists and 2.13 steals per game. 

I’ll point out that LA has seen the total go over the number in 15 of 26 this year against teams with winning records, while Washington has seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of seven this year after three or more consecutive SU victories.

Washington will be pushing the pace of this one from the outset at it looks to take advantage of this weak Lakers’ defense. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST).

The 18-29 Philadelphia 76ers are in Dallas to take on the 18-30 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The 76ers most recently beat the Kings 122-119 to stop a two-game slide, while the Mavericks won for the fourth time in their last five games with an upset 104-97 victory over the Cavaliers at home on Monday. 

Philadelphia won despite big man Joel Embiid sidelined last time out. Robert Covington had 23 points and ten boards against Sacramento. 

The 76ers average just 100.9 PPG and concede 106.

The Mavs are last in the league in scoring at 97.1 PPG. Dallas though is pretty good on the defensive side, conceding just 100.1 points per night.

But there’s no question that Dallas has looked a lot better of late. And that’s mainly because it’s been getting healthier. Harrison Barnes leads the nightly charge with 20.4 points and 5.3 boards per night. 

Embiid is not expected to play today and that doesn’t bode well for the visitors in my opinion. Even if he does play, I don’t expect him to be at 100% capacity.

The Mavs are getting big contributions up and down the line-up right now and note that Dallas is already 5-1 ATS as a favorite this year. 

I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG EAST GAME OF THE WEEK is on Villanova (7:00 EST).

The 20-2 Villanova Wildcats are at Providence to take on the 14-9 Friars and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the visitors. 

Villanova enters off a close 61-59 home win over Virginia, while Providence got the better of Marquette 79-78. 

These teams played just last month and Villnova won 78-68. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting an even bigger beatdown this time around.

The Wildcats were down ten points with eight minutes remaining, but nailed some clutch shots from range to take down the Cavaliers. Keep your eyes on Josh Hart, who is avearing 18.7 PPG and 6.5 boards. Last week against Providence he had 25 points. 

Villanova averages 77.5 PPG and concedes just 62.5.

Providence averages 70.3 PPG and concedes 66.2. Kyron Cartwright had 18 points in the win over Marquette. 

I’ll point out though that Villanova is 44-25 ATS in its last 69 against teams with winning records, while Providence is just 1-2 ATS after scoring 78 points or more.

I think Providence has a predictable letdown here after its big road win. Villanova plays stifiling defense and is the much deeper team. The Friars have been playing better lately, but all signs point to the experienced Wildcats coming up with another big win in this series. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Charlotte Hornets (10:05 EST).

The 23-25 Charlotte Hornets are in Portland to take on the 21-28 Blazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

These are two teams desperate for some wins. Charlotte dropped its fourth straight and ninth in its last 12 with a 109-106 setback to Sacramento on Saturday.

Portland had its three game win streak snapped with a disheartening 113-111 home loss to Golden State on Sunday. Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, it’s even more difficult to get back. I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for the Blazers after their extended streak of excellence was finally cut short in an emotional setback to the conference’s heavyweight. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the Hornets have to be loving their chances today as when they faced the Blazers on January 18th, they’d pull away for the convincing 107-85 victory back on January 18th.

So far Charlotte averages 105.2 PPG and concedes 103.6. Kemba Walker leads the nightly charge with 23.3 PPG. Note that the Hornets are tied for tenth with 9.7 threes per game. 

Portland averages 107.6 PPG and allows 110.2 (the fourth worst). Damian Lillard averages 26.2 points and 5.9 assists per contest.

I’ll point out that Charlotte is 2-1 ATS in its last three when playing with two days of rest, while Portland is just 13-20 ATS in its last 33 after allowing 105 points or more and only 8-15 ATS against teams with losing records.

I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on DePaul (9:00 EST).

The 12-10 Georgetown Hoyas are at DePaul to take on the 8-13 Blue Demons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Hoyas are primed for a letdown here. Georgetown has won four of its last six and is coming off back-to-back victories over ranked opponents. 

Now the Hoyas face a trap game here in facing last placd DePaul, which is just 1-7 in league action. 

Note that the Blue Demons play with triple revenge after dropping all three to Georgetown last season.

There’s no denying that the Hoyas have been playing well of late, as the trio of JJ Peak, Rodney Pryor and Jessie Govan is a formidable one.

I simply feel this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the visitors. After playing such high-level competition, facing the conference “door mat” can lead to complacency.

DePaul will need a big game from Billy Garrett if it has any shot at the outright upset today, he’s second on the team in scoring and is the 11th best free-throw shooter in the country at 91.3 percent. 

I’ll point out that Georgetown is just 2-3 ATS on the road this year, just 3-6 ATS when playing the role of favorite and only 1-3 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while DePaul is already 2-0 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more and 3-1 ATS in its last four as a home dog in the 6.5 to nine points range.

I think the Blue Demons are the much “hungrier” team today. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 19-2 Maryland Terrapins are at Ohio State to take on the 13-9 Buckeyes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Maryland is rolling obviously, so far sitting tied with Wisconsin at the top of the Big Ten at 7-1. The Terps most recently upset Minnesota 85-78 on the road on Saturday. 

OSU enters off an 85-72 loss at Iowa to fall to 2-5 on the road. Note that this is a double revenge game for the Buckeyes, as they’d lose both games to Maryland last year.

This is Maryland’s best start since 1989. Justin Jackson had a career-high 28 points and had ten boards in the win over Minnesota last time out. The Terps though were outrebouned by eight.

Jae’Sean Tate had 17 points and seven boards for OSU in the loss to Iowa. The Buckeyes average 73.4 PPG and concede 68.3.

Both teams have done well in this spot for bettors, but I simply feel that this one means a lot more to Buckeyes. OSU is almost assuredly heading to the NIT, but I think the Terps are finally poised for a letdown tonight. OSU is already 2-0 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more. Expect that trend to continue, play on Ohio State.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-9 Pitt Panthers are at No. 9 UNC to take on the 19-4 Tar Heels and while I’ll stop short in calling for the epic outright upset, I do definitely think this is a few too many points to be giving up.

Pittsburgh comes in with nothing to lose, other than trying to snap a six-game losing streak, most recently a 67-60 home setback to Clemson on Saturday. 

The Panthers will take their best shot at a Tar Heels team which just had its seven-game win streak snapped in a humbling 77-62 road loss to Miami on Saturday. 

Pittsburgh actually held a five point lead at half time against the Tigers, but would be unable to maintain in the second. The Panthers average 76.8 PPG and allow 77.3. Jamel Artis and Cameron Johnson each had 16 points in the loss to Clemson.

The Tar Heels shot 35 percent against the Hurricanes, including just 7 of 24 from frange. They also committed 25 fouls, which led to 30 Miami free throws. 

UNC averages 88.3 PPG and concedes 71.1. Justin Jackson leads the team with 18.7 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Pittsburgh is 7-3 ATS in its last ten against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest, while UNC is just 2-3 ATS in its last five as a home fav in the 18.5 to 24 points range.

I expect the Panthers to hang around late against a Tar Heels team still dwelling on its last performance. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Oklahoma (9:00 EST).

The 13-8 Oklahoma State Cowboys are at rival Oklahoma to take on the 8-12 Sooners and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cowboys are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after three straight victories by double digit margins. And note that despite the recent turnaround in play, OKS is still just 2-6 in Big 12 action.

Conversely, Oklahoma has lost three straight and will be desperate for a win here. Most recently the Sooners come off a humbling 84-52 home loss to Florida. 

Oklahoma is just 5-5 SU at home, but OKS is only 3-4 on the road.  

From strictly a trend based stand point, this one sets up very well for the home side, as note that the Cowboys are already 0-2 ATS this year as a road fav of three points or less and just 8-9 ATS in their last 17 after scoring 80 points or more, while the Sooners are already 2-0 ATS this year after scoring 60 points or less and 4-1 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses.

Home court advantage can’t be overlooked in this rivalry and coupled with the high desperation level in which I predict the home side to play with today, the correct call in this one is indeed on Oklahoma.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Detroit Pistons (8:05 EST).

The 21-26 Detroit Pistons are in Boston to take on the 29-18 Celtics and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the visitors.

The Pistons come in as the “hungrier” team in my opinion. Detroit has lost two straight, most recently a 116-103 road loss in Miami on Saturday. 

Conversely, I think Boston could be caught a tiny bit complacent after three straight wins, most recently a hard-fought 112-108 OT win in Mliwaukee on Saturday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Detroit has to be liking its chances today, as it would take the first matchup of the year in a 121-114 home victory back on November 30th.

Detroit averages just 100.6 PPG, but gets balanced scoring. The Pistons are an above average defensive team, conceding just 101.6 PPG. Reggie Jackson averages 17.2 points and 5.5 assists per contest.

Is Boston about to take the foot off the gas after capturing first place in the Atlantic after Toronto lost to Orlando on Sunday? Maybe. The team blew a 15 point lead after the first quarter and let an eight point lead entering the fourth slip away against the Bucks before then managing to gut out the OT victory. Note that the C’s shot just 41.6 percent from the floor, including a poor 14 of 40 from beyond the arc.

I think the Celtics are running out of gas. And note that Boston is already just 2-4 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU wins, while Detroit is 2-1 ATS in its last three after a loss by ten points or more. 

The stage is set for the outright upset, but in the end I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Detroit.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST).

The 9-38 Brooklyn Nets are in Miami to take on the 18-30 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

This is a revenge game for the Nets after they fell 109-106 to Miami on January 25th. 

I feel this sets up as natural letdown spot for the over-acheiving Heat, who have won seven straight. 

Conversely, the Nets will be risking life and limb today in trying to get back into the winners circle, as they come into this one having lost five in a row.

Most recently Brooklyn fell 129-109 to Minnesota on Saturday. Brook Lopez was a bright spot with 25 points and seven boards. 

The Heat most recently beat Detroit 116-103 on Saturday. Goran Dragic had 23 points. Despite the recent better overall play of late, note that Miami is still just 10-13 SU at home this year.

And note that Brooklyn is already 9-4 ATS this season in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Miami is just 2-3 ATS in its last five as a home fav in the 9.5 to 12 points range. 

I like the Nets to keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry