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

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

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* 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

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* 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

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

The 16-5 UT-Arlington Mavericks are at Coastal Carolina to take on the 9-12 Chanticleers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Mavericks are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after their big 83-67 road win over Appalachian State, while the Chanticleers come in hungry, looking to take out their frustrations after a 52-50 home loss to Texas State.

Texas-Arlington is poised for a letdown here after four straight wins, playing nearly flawless basketball and averaging 87.8 PPG and conceding 69 PPG during the win skein. 

The Mavericks are 6-2 in Sun Belt action, but note that they’ve averaged just 72.2 PPG and conceded 71.4 PPG in true road games overall this year.

Despite its 9-12 overall record, Coastal Carolina is still 4-4 in league action. The Chanticleers looked great defensively last week, holding the Bobcats to just 33.9 percent. Unfortunately though, they were also held ot just 33.9 percent shooting themselves. Elijah Wilson was a bright spot with 16 points. Note that five players have averaged at least 8.7 PPG. 

So far Coastal Carolina has averaged 68.2 PPG and conceded 70.4 in league play. 

I’ll point out though that Texas Arlington is already just 1-2 ATS this year as a road fav in the 3.5 to six points range, while Coastal Carolina is a perfect 2-0 ATS this after allowing 60 points or less.

The Chanticleers are the “hungrier” team, they’ve lost three straight and still have a shot to make some noise in the conference. I think this one comes down to the wire, so grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-7 Texas State Bobcats are at Appalachian State to take on the 6-13 Mountaineers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Texas State comes to town off a 52-50 road win at Coastal Carolina, while the Mountaineers enter off an 83-67 home setback to UT-Arlington.

The Bobcats squeaked by the Chanticleers, but have now won three of their last four and are 5-3 overall in league play. In the win over Coastal Carolina, they’d hold the Chanticleers to just 38 percent shooting. They also forced 18 turnovers. 

Texas State averages 66.5 PPG and concedes 65.0 PPG in conference play thus far. 

Appalachian State has averaged 70.6 PPG and allowed 78.4 so far in league action. It’s just 1-7 in Sun Belt play to this point and it’s lost four in a row overall. 

I’ll point out that Texas State is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 against the conference, while App State is just 2-5-1 ATS in its last eight against the Sun Belt and only 3-9-2 ATS in its last 14 against teams with a winning SU record.

Also note that the dog is 5-1 ATS the last six in this series.

The Bobcats have a huge advantage on the defensive end of the floor and I think that fact will prove to be the difference. Play on Texas State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TV GAME OF THE MONTH is on Michigan State.

The 14-7 Michigan Wolverine are at Michigan State to take on the 12-9 Spartans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I simply feel that MSU is going to be the “hungrier” team today as it looks to stop the bleeding of a three-game losing skid. Most recently the Spartans fell 84-70 to Purdue.

The Wolverines though look poised for a letdown after their 90-60 win over Indiana, their second in a row. Derrick Walton Jr. had 21 points. 

So far Michigan averages 75 PPG and concedes 65.6. 

Michigan State averages 72.2 PPG and concedes 68.5. The Spartans are on a three-game losing streak, but still sit 4-4 in league plays, so have the potential to still make some noise down the stretch. Keep your eyes on Mile Bridges, who had 33 points in the setback to the Boilermakers. 

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after conceding 60 points or less, while Michigan State is 2-1 ATS in its last three following a three game or longer losing streak. 

I like the desperate home side to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night, play on Michigan State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Oakland (1:00 EST).

The 8-14 Wisconsin Milwaukee Panthers are in Rochester, Michigan to take on the 15-7 Oakland Golden Grizzlies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Milwaukee is poised for a letdown here in my opinion after three straight wins. Conversely, the Golden Grizzlies will be risking life and limb today as they look to avoid a three-game slide. 

The Panthers have averaged 70.7 PPG in conference play, but conceded 71.7. Note that only two players score in double figures, Cody Wichmann and Brock Stull. 

Oakland has averaged 73.8 PPG in conference action, while allowing 73. Three players score at least 12 points in Jalen Hayes, Dorse-Walker and Martez Walker. 

I’ll point out that Wisconsin Milwaukee is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine versus good offensive teams which average over 77-plus points per game, while Oakland is a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four as a home fav in the 9.5 to 14 points range.

As stated off the the top, the Panthers are set up for a classic letdown here, while the desperate home side puts the foot on the gas from start to finish. I think this line should be a lot higher, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on Iowa (8:00 EST).

The 13-8 Ohio State Buckeyes are at Iowa to take on the 11-10 Hawkeyes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Ohio State averages 73.5 PPG and allows 67.5. The Buckeyes are led by Jae’Sean Tate with 13.9 points and 1.7 assists per game. 

Ohio State may have the better overall record, but the team has consistently struggled on the road this year and comes in having lost four of its last five away from friendly confines.

Iowa averages 80.4 points and concedes 78.2. Peter Jok leads the nightly charge with 21 points and 2.3 assists. The Hawkeyes have also struggled on the road, but are a “different” team at home, going 7-1 thus far.

I’ll point out that Ohio State has struggled in this spot for bettors, going 2-4 ATS on the road and only 6-7 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Iowa has excelled by going 3-1 ATS in its last four at home and 4-2 ATS in its last six after three or more consecutive SU losses.

All signs point to a comfortable cover, play on Iowa.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PAC-12 GAME OF THE MONTH is on Oregon State (7:00 EST).

The 4-17 Oregon State Beavers are in Utah to takeon the 14-6 Utes and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the lowly visitors can keep this one a little more competitive than what the bookmakers are leading us to believe. 

Oregon State has dropped eight straight after a hard-fought 85-78 setback at Colorado on Thursday. The Utes come in having had their two game win streak stopped with a 73-67 home loss to No. 10 Oregon on Thursday. 

Not surprisingly, this does indeed set up as a revenge game for Oregon State, as Utah has taken four of the last five in the series, including a tight 71-69 home win in the most recent (Feb 4th, 2016).

The Beavers shot 54.9 percent from the floor and were 12 of 22 from beyond the arc in the loss to the Buffs. Drew Eubanks was a bright spot with 27 points and 13 boards.

Utah got 18 points and nine boards from Kyle Kuzma in the loss to Oregon. Clearly the Utes are the better team all around, but I think this sets up as a “trap” for the home side. With a game at Cal next week, I think Utah gets caught looking ahead to that one, as the Utes are currently tied with the Golden Bears (also 14-6) in the standings.

The Beavers looked a lot more competitive last time out and note that Oregon State is 6-3 ATS in its last nine when playing with one or less days rest, while Utah is already 2-3 ATS this season as a home fav of 12.5 points or more. 

This is a few too many points to be giving up in this situation, play on Oregon State.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 13-6 Iowa State Cyclones are at Vanderbilt to take on the 9-11 Commodores and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cyclones enter off a deflating 70-65 home loss to Kansas State, while the Commodores come off a tough 71-70 home loss to Arkansas. 

Iowa State averages 78.4 PPG in true road games this year, while conceding 80.0 PPG. 

Vanderbilt averages 78.2 PPG and has allowed just 69.5 at home so far this year. 

I’ll point out though that Iowa State is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 65 points or less, while Vanderbilt is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 70 points or more.

The Commodores are a “different” team at home and after losing on a last second bucket last time out, I think they use that as fuel for the fire today. Play on Vanderbilt.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 18-2 Maryland Terrapins are in Minnesota to take on the 15-6 Golden Gophers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Maryland is poised for a letdown here after five straight wins and going 6-1 in conference action. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for Minnesota today as it’s now lost four straight after winning three straight. 

The last time these team’s played, the Gophers shocked Maryland 68-63 from Minneapolis last year and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat this afternoon.

Maryland is led by Melo Trimble, who had 17 points, six boards and four assists in his team’s most recent win over Rutgers. The Terps though would commit 18 turnovers and shot 44.2 percent from the floor. 

Note that Maryland averages 75.2 PPG and concedes 65.2.

Nate Mason leads the nightly charge for Minnesota with 14.0 points and 5.5 assists per contest. Minnesota averages 74.3 PPG and concedes 66.9. 

I’ll point out though that Maryland is just 1-3 ATS in its last four off an upset win as an underdog, while Minnesota is 3-1 ATS in its last four after a three game or longer unbeaten streak. 

I think the desperation level in which the home side plays with today turns out to be the difference. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on Notre Dame (12:00 EST).

The 17-4 Notre Dame Fighting Irish are at Georgia Tech to take on the 11-8 Yellow Jackets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Irish are going to be hungry today after a listless 71-54 home loss to Virginia. Conversely, I think this sets up as a letdown spot for Georgia Tech after its big 78-56 home win over FSU on Wednesday.

Despite the setback to Virginia, the Irish are still sitting well in the ACC standings, just a half game back of UNC for first place with a 6-2 record.

Note that the Irish average 79.9 PPG and concede just 67.6. Bonzie Colson leads the nightly charge with 15.6 PPG.

The Yellow Jackets average just 67.4 PPG and concede only 66.8. Josh Okogie had 35 points and 14 boards in the upet win over the Seminoles.

A great situational play in my opinion. I have a hard time seeing the Yellow Jackets’ offense keeping matching what they did last time out, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* IVY LEAGUE GAME OF THE MONTH is on Yale (8:00 EST).

The 10-9 Brown Bears are at Yale to take on the 10-6 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

This is the second game of a home and home set between the schools, Yale barely scraping by Brown 75-74 last Friday in the first meeting. Suffice it to say, after that wake up call, I’m fully expecting the home side to take nothing for granted tonight and to keep the foot on the gas from the opening tip until the final horn.

Brown averages 77.2 PPG, but allows 76.9. Steven Spieth had a career-high 33 points last time out. 

Yale averages 74.6 PPG and concedes just 67.8. Sam Downey came up big in the win over Brown, finishing with a season-high 26 points and 13 boards. 

I’ll point out that Brown is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after giving up 75 points or more, while Yale is 35-16 ATS in its last 51 following an ATS loss. 

The Bulldogs are 6-0 on their home floor. Yale has also been downright dominant on the defensive end of late, giving up an average of just 59.5 points over its past four games. The Bears got close last time out, but I’m expecting a rout this time around. Note that Brown is one of the worst rebounding teams in the nation and Yale outrebounded it 47-31 last week. 

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 18-27 Sacramento Kings are in Indiana to take on the 23-22 Pacers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

I had a play on Indiana last night, a 4-point dog which would win outright on the road over the Wolves. 

I now think this sets up a natural letdown spot for Indiana. Sacramento comes to town with plenty of momentum as well after winning two straight, most recently a confidence building 116-112 OT victory over the Cavs on Wednesday. 

Note that this also sets up as a “revenge” game for the visitors, who fell 106-100 to the Pacers at home back on January 18th.

With the win over the defending champs, the Kings are now just 1.5 games out of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Sacramento is in the middle of the pack on both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor, but does catch a break here in facing the now contented Pacers.

Indiana is an average offensive team with 105.4 PPG and a sub-par defensive one in conceding 106.8 per night. 

And I’ll point out that Sacramento is 4-1 ATS in its last five on the road, while Indiana is only 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Western Conference.

These are two teams desperate for victories, but I think Sacramento catches the Pacers at a good time. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by the outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing the points. Play on the Kings.

Good luck…Larry

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

San Francisco is 14-7 overall and 4-4 in league play, while Saint Mary’s is 17-2 overall and 7-1 in the WCC.

Note that this is a “revenge” game for the visitors, which lost 63-52 at home back on January 7th. 

In that game, the Dons actually held a two-point lead at half time. 

San Fran opened conference play by going 1-4, but has since won three straight WCC games. Most recently the Dons beat San Diego by 17.

Saint Mary’s was able to shut down the Dons in the first game, holding them to 37 percent from the floor, but clearly San Francisco has turned the corner and looks like an entirely different team now than at the start of the month. I think its momentum gets carried over here.

Not as well that San Francisco is 5-3 ATS as an underdog this year and 3-1 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Saint Mary’s is just 2-4 ATS this season off a win against a division rival and only 1-5 ATS as a home fav of 12.5 points or more.

While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitely feel this is a few too many points to be giving up to the ever improving Dons.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Indiana Pacers (8:05 EST).

The 22-22 Indiana Pacers are in Minnesota to take on the 17-28 Timberwolves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Pacers are going to be the “hungrier” team tonight in my estimation, they enter off a third straight loss, this time 109-103 at home to the Knicks. 

Conversely, I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the suddenly over-achieving Timberwolves who come in off their third straight victory, most recently a 112-111 win on the road over Phoenix. 

So far Indiana averages 105.4 PPG, while conceding 106.8. Paul George leads the way with an average of 22.2 PPG. 

Minnesota averages 103.5 PPG and allows 104.5. Karl-Anthony Towns leads the way with 22.4 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Indiana is 18-6 ATS in its last 24 when playing on two days rest, while Minnesota is interestingly just 19-41-1 ATS in its last 61 home games against teams with a losing road record.

A desperate Indiana team. A contented Minnesota side. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 15-4 Virginia Tech Hokies are in North Carolina to take on the 18-3 Tar Heels and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright SU upset, I do definitely think that the visitors can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to beileve.

The Hokies come in off a big 82-81 win over Clemson, while the Tar Heels enter off a 90-82 road victory over Boston College.

Note that this not surprisingly does indeed set up as a “revenge” game for VT, which lost 75-70 at UNC in the lone meeting last year. 

VT shot 54.7 percent from the floor in the win over Clemson and was led by Seth Allen who would go on to finish with 17 points. The Hokies have won two straight in the tough ACC and are now averaging 81.5 PPG, while conceding 72.2. 

UNC shot 47 percent from the floor in the win over BC, but also allowed the Eagles to shoot 47 percent and hit 12 of 27 from range. Justin Jackson was a bright spot with 22 points. So far the Tar Heels average 89.4 PPG and concede 70.8. 

I’ll point out though that VT is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games, while UNC is interestingly just 1-5 ATS in its last six at home in this series.

The Tar Heels just gave up 82 points to a much weaker Boston College team, so I think that the Hokies high-octane offense will give the home side some issues as well. Note that UNC has not been as sharp defensively since conference play started, allowing an average of 76.7 points. 

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-5 Xavier Musketeers are in Cincinnati to take on the 17-2 Bearcats and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Xavier enters off an 86-75 home win over Georgetown, while Cincinnati smashed Tulane 78-61 last time out. 

Note that this does set up as a “revenge” game as well for the home side after the Musketeers beat the Bearcats 65-55 at home in the lone meeting last year.

The Musketeers looked pretty shaky in losing three straight before the win over the Hoyas. Xavier averages 76.6 PPG and concedes 68.7 and is led by Trevon Bluiett, who averages 17.2 PPG. 

The Bearcats average 77.3 PPG and concede just 61.4 (tenth in the nation). Keep your eyes on Jacob Evans, who leads the team with 14.2 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Xavier is just 1-4 ATS in its last five road games, while Cincinnati is 6-1 ATS the last seven in this series.

The Bearcats are a perfect 11-0 at home this year, while the Musketeers have just a single road win. And note that Xavier has struggled defensively of late, allowing 78 PPG over its last six.  

Cincinnati though has dialed up the pressure as the season has worn on, allowing just 58 PPG over its last seven since conference play began.

I’m laying the points on the red hot home side.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-5 Florida Gators are at LSU to take on the 9-9 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Gators are out for revenge today as the Tigers have taken three of the last four in the series, including last year’s 96-91 victory in front of the home town crowd.

So far Florida is 5-2 in SEC play. The Gators remained ranked No. 25 in the country, despite coming into this one off two straight losses. It’s going to be all hands on deck for Florida today as it looks to “right the ship.” 

The Tigers league losses have all come by double digits, except a four-point setback at Auburn. Note that LSU has lost three conference home games by an average of 13 points. Defense has been a mjaor issue, in the latest loss to the Razorbacks the Tigers would allow the Hogs to shoot 53.2 percent and make eight of 16 from range. 

I’ll point out that Florida is 9-4 ATS this year when playing the role of favorite and 5-1 ATS in its last six versus poor defensive teams which allow 77-plus points per contest, while LSU is just 2-3 ATS after scoring 80 points or more and only 3-6 ATS in front of the home town crowd.

I think the Gators finally play a full two halves and bury the floundering Tigers once it’s all said and done. Play on Florida.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* PERFECT STORM on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST).

The 15-30 Miami Heat are in Brooklyn to take on the 9-35 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I simply feel this sets up as a big time letdown spot for the Heat, who come in off their season-high fourth straight win after upsetting the Warriors 105-102 on Monday night.

Brooklyn will be the much “hungrier” side tonight, it comes in having dropped two straight, most recently a 112-86 setback at home to the Spurs on Monday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be an understatement, as Miami has won seven of the last eight in the series, including a 110-99 home victory in the most recent matchup back on March 28th, 2016.

Despite the win over the Warriors, Miami still only averages 98.9 PPG. Brooklyn averages 105.8. 

The Heat are much better defensively, but as i mentioned off the top, it’s impossible not to think that Miami won’t have some sort of letdown here after their shocking defeat of mighty Golden State last time out.

Combined with the revenge factor, it’s a perfect set of situational circumstances to take advantage of. 

Also note that Miami is just 1-3 ATS in its last four off an upset win as an underdog, while Brooklyn is 10-7 ATS in its last 17 against teams with losing records. 

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

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Georgetown (7:00 EST0.

The 18-2 Creighton Bluejays are at Georgetown to take on the 10-10 Hoyas and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the home side.

This is a great situational play to take advantage of, as I think Creighton is poised for a bit of a mental lapse here after suffering a 102-94 loss to Marquette at home on Saturday, falling to 5-2 in Big East play. It was the first game that the team played without point guard Maurice Watson Jr, who was averaging 12.9 points and 8.4 assists (led the country).

The Hoyas though come in “hungry,” they’re off an 86-75 loss at Xavier on Sunday and now just 1-6 in league play.

Creighton averages 87.1 PPG and allows 72.2. Georgetown averages 76.2 PPG and concedes 72.1. 

Ultimately I think the loss of Watson is significant for the Blue Jays, who missed his defensive play more than anything. 

I’ll also point out that Creighton is just 1-3 ATS in its last four off an upset loss as a favorite at home, while Georgetown is 10-6 ATS in its last 16 after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games.

For all the reasons listed above, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Hoyas won this one outright, but in the end I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 17-4 SMU Mustangs are at Central Florida to take on the 14-5 Knights and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

SMU most recently rolled over Houston 85-64, while UCF enters off a 70-65 setback to Memphis on the weekend. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Knights, who fell 88-73 in the lone meeting last year.

The Mustangs are led by Semi Ojeleye with 17.8 PPG. SMU averages 73.2 PPG and concedes just 59.4.

Note that the Knights are not too far behind in either category though, averaging 69.4 PPG and coneding just 59.2, good for third in the entire country.

I’ll point out that SMU is already 0-1 ATS this year as a road fav in the 3.5 to six points range, while UCF is 5-3 ATS against teams with winning records and 4-2 ATS when playing the role of underdog.

SMU’s offense relies on the three-ball, but the Knights are holding opponents to just 29 percent from beyond the arc. UCF also holds a major rebounding advantage today, ranked second overall in the nation, led by 10.5 RPG from Tacko Fall.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 8-11 Miami Ohio Redhawks are at Buffalo to take on the 9-10 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Miami Ohio is coming off a 101-92 road loss to Central Michigan, while Buffalo beat Western Michigan 66-54 on the weekend. 

The Bulls looked stout defensively in their win over WMU, holding it to just 32 percent from the floor. Note though that Buffalo shot just 34 percent itself. Nick Perkins had 21 points and ten boards.

Note that Buffalo averages 74.8 PPG and concedes 73.6.

The Redhawks will be the “hungrier” team in my opinion, in its latest setback to CMU they’d actually hold a ten point halftime lead. Michael Weathers was a bright spot with 24 points. He now leads the team in scoring with 18.2 per night. 

So far Miami Ohio averages 74 points and concedes 75.5. 

I’ll point out though that Buffalo is already 0-3 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less, while the Redhawks are 6-2 ATS at home this season and 3-0 ATS against teams with losing records. 

I think this one comes down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 16-3 Akron Zips are at Western Michigan to take on the 6-12 Broncos and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Akron has won nine straight, most recently a 70-63 win at home over Eastern Michigan.

WMU enters off the 66-54 road loss to Buffalo, its fourth setback in its last six.

The Zips are 6-0 in league play, winning both conference road games thus far. Akron has turned it up a notch since conference action began, averaging 78.5 PPG and allowing 71.5. Overall Akron averages 78.7 PPG and concedes 68.5. Isaiah Johnson leads the nightly charge with 15.8 PPG.

WMU has averaged 72.2 PPG and conceded 78.2 in league play this year. Overall the Broncos average 74.2 PPG while allowing 78.2.

I’ll point out that the road team is 4-0 ATS the last four in this series, while the favorite is 15-6 ATS in its last 21 this series.

I think the surging Zips can smell the blood in the water and look for the deeper team to pull away down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 16-5 Louisville Cardinals are in Pittsburgh to take on the 12-7 Panthers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Pittsburgh will be the “hungrier” team today as it looks to snap a four-game slide. The Panther lost to Syracuse, Louisville, Miami and NC State, making this an immediate “revenge” scenario for the home side as well.

I think this sets up as a letdown spot for Louisville as well, which had its four game win streak snapped at Florida State this past weekend.

Tony Hicks was a abright spot in the setback, finishing with a season-high 16 points. 

Pittsburgh looks to snap out of its funk and get back on track after four straight league losses. Note though that the Panthers have performed well in this spot for bettors already this year, going 5-3 ATS as an underdog and 2-1 ATS against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for Pitt would be an understatement obviously, as Louisville has won nine straight in this series, including three in a row at Pittsburgh. 

I like the focused home side to at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (9:05 EST).

OKC sits 3.5 games behind the Jazz in the Western Conference standings, making this a very meaningful mid-season game. He may have been snubbed at the All Star Game, but I think Russell Westbrook brings his “A” game tonight and at the very least, helps his team take this one down to the wire.

The Thunder enter off a 121-100 loss to the Warriors, a game which was tied at halftime. Westbrook would go on to finish with 27 points, 15 boards, 13 assists, two steals and two blocks in the loss. It was his 21st triple-double of the season. OKC can score with the best of them, but lacks on the defensive end in conceding 105.6 PPG.

Utah is coming off a 109-100 win over Indiana, led by 30 points from George Hill. Utah isn’t a high-scoring team, but gets the job done with tough defenisve play, the No. 1 ranked unit in allowing only 98.9 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that the Thunder are already a perfect 2-0 ATS this year as a road dog in the 3.5 to 6.5 points range and 7-3 ATS after a loss by ten points or more, while Utah is just 8-11 ATS against teams with winning records and only 15-16 ATS against good offensive teams which average 99-plus points per contest.

This is a tough matchup. For both teams. I’m expecting a highly competitive affair, one which will be decided in the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* MAAC SIDE OF THE MONTH is on Rider (7:00 EST).

The 12-9 Rider Broncos are at Saint Peter’s to take on the 10-9 Peacocks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Peacocks enter off a home loss to Niagara, a setback which snapped a four-game win streak. Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, is even more difficult to get back. 

So far St. Peter’s averages 64.8 PPG, while allowing 63.4. 

The Broncs enter off a win against Marist which snapped a three-game slide. 

Rider averages 73.6 PPG and allows 73.2. Keep your eyes on Kahlil Thomas, who leads the way with 13.8 points and 9.5 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that Rider is already 3-1 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while St. Peter’s is just 9-11 ATS in its last 20 off a loss against a conference rival and just 3-4 ATS at home this season.

I think Riders offense will finally test the Peacocks today and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Rider.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on Saint Louis (2:00 EST).

The 5-13 St. Louis Billikens are at Dayton to take on the 14-4 Flyers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Saint Louis will be out to atone for a listless 75-52 loss to St. Bonaventure in its latest action.

Dayton enters off a 75-59 beatdown of Ricmond. 

St. Louis is a bad team, it averages 60.6 PPG and concedes 71.7. One bright spot though has been Davell Roby, who has scored 13 or more points in six out of his last eight games. 

Dayton is a good team, it averages 75.4 PPG and concedes 64.5. Charles Cooke averages 17.9 PPG.

But note, this is definitely a spot in which the Billikens have excelled in for bettors, going 4-1 ATS in their last five after scoring 55 points or less, while Dayton is just 1-3 ATS in its last four against a team with a road winning percentage below .400.

I think the high-flying Flyers come in a bit complacent today and the hungry Billikens keep this one a little more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Play on Saint Louis.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Orlando Magic (12:05 EST).

The 37-6 Golden State Warriors are in Orlando on Sunday afternoon to take on the 18-27 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I simply feel this sets up as a bit of a letdown spot for the No. 1 ranked Warriors, who come in off their sixth straight win, most recently a satisfying 125-108 road victory over Houston on Friday. 

Orlando is going to be the “hungrier” team today in my opinion. The Magic do come in with some postitive momentum, after losing three straight and seven of eight, Orlando got back into the win column with a solid 112-96 win over the Bucks on Friday. 

The Warriors have the No. 1 offense, but the defense ranks middle of the pack in conceding 105 points a night. 

Orlando averages only 100 points per night, while conceding 104.7. 

I’ll point out though that the Warriors are just 1-3 ATS in their last four following a five-game unbeaten streak, while Orlando is 3-1 ATS in their last four after scoring 112 points or more.

Golden State may be 17-3 SU on the road, but it’s only 8-11 ATS. With a game tomorrow night in Miami, I think the visitors come into this one a bit distracted and the focused home side keeps it competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on LSU (8:30 EST).

The 9-8 LSU Tigers are at Arkansas to take on the 14-4 Razorbacks and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely feel that the visitors can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to beileve. 

LSU enters off a tight 78-74 setback to Auburn on Wednesday. The Tigers actually held a lead through most of the first half, but they were unable to hold on in the end. 

LSU is going to be the much “hungrier” team today as it’s lost four straight and has just one league victory thus far.

Keep your eyes on Tigers’ forward Aaron Epps, who had 15 points and 13 boards in the setback to Auburn. Leading scorer Antonio Blakeney added 13 points and seven boards.

Arkansas narrowly edged Texas A&M 62-60 last time out. Daryl Macon saved the day with 16 points and four rebounds. 

I’ll point out that LSU is 13-7 ATS in its last 20 off a loss against a conference rival and is 2-0 ATS in its last two after playing to three consecutive SU losses, while Arkansas is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 after allowing 60 points or less and only 5-6 ATS in front of the home town crowd this season.

I think the hungry Tigers do more than enough to come away with the comfortable cover once it’s all said and done. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* REVENGE GAME OF THE MONTH on the Miami Heat (7:30 EST).

The 20-22 Milwaukee Bucks are in Miami to take on the 13-30 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Milwaukee comes in off a 112-96 road loss in Orlando just last night. Miami on the other hand has shown some life in winning two straight, most recently a 99-95 victory over Dallas on Thursday.

The last time these teams played, the Bucks took a 116-108 home win, which of course sets up the revenge scenario for Miami tonight.

Milwaukee averages 104.8 PPG and concedes 103.8.

The Heat average just 98.6 PPG and allow 102.6. As mentioned above though, Miami has looked a lot better over its last two games 

And note that Miami is 8-6 ATS this year against clubs with losing records and 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Milwaukee is only 7-12 ATS on the road and just 8-13 ATS against teams with losing records.

The Bucks are in a free-fall and they won’t have an easy time tonight in the second game of the back-to-back. I think the home side continues to build momentum and finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Miami.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Appalachian State (5:00 EST).

The 6-10 Appalachian State Mountaineers are at Georgia Southern to take on the 12-6 Eagles and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Mountaineers will be the “hungrier” team today as they’ve opened Sun Belt action with just a 1-4 record following an 85-73 setback at Coastal Carolina. Ronshad Shabazz was a bright spot with 17 points in the loss. 

Conversely, I think this sets up as a letdown spot for the Eagles, who come in having won six straight and who are 5-0 in conference action. Most recently they’re coming off a close 62-60 win over Louisiana-Monroe, needing a late furious rally to secure the victory. Tookie Brown had 19 points and eight boards for Georgia Southern. 

I’ll point out though that App State is 4-2 ATS in its last six after allowing 80 points or more, while Georgia Southern is just 1-2 ATS at home this season and only 1-3 ATS off a win against a conference rival. 

For all of the reasons listed above, I think Appalachian State keeps this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Daytime Dominator is on Rutgers (12:00 EST).

The 9-9 Nebraska Cornhuskers are at Rutgers to take on the 11-8 Scarlet Knights on Saturday afternoon and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Plain and simple, Rutgers is going to be the “hungrier” team today as it risks life and limb in trying to snap its three game losing streak. 

And here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against as Nebraska comes to town deflated after its 67-66 home loss to Ohio State. 

This is also a revenge game for the home side after the Huskers took all three meetings last season.

Nebraska actually comes in having lost three straight. In the setback to the Buckeyes it shot only 41 percent on the night, including just 5 of 21 from behind the arc. Tai Webster was a bright spot with 18 points and eight boards. 

Note that the Cornhuskers average just 71.9 PPG and concede 71.2.

Rutgers was outplayed badly in its last outing against Indiana, falling 76-57 on the road. Corey Sanders though was decent, going 7 of 14 for 17 points. 

Note that the Scarlet Knights score just 68.3 PPG, but concede just 65.3. 

I’ll point out that Nebraska is 3-10 SU in its last 13 on the road, while Rutgers is 3-1-1 ATS in its last five home games against a team with a road winning percentage below .400.

The Scarlet Knights are 8-2 their last ten at home and feature the superior defense in this matchup. I think the home side is definitely the correct call in this one. 

Good luck…Larry

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

A couple of cellar dwellers face off on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The visiting Cleveland State Vikings are 6-13 this year and 2-4 in the Horizon League thus far, while the Panthers are 5-14 on the season and 1-5 in conference play. 

I simply feel this sets up as a letdown spot for Cleveland State, which snapped a four-game losing streak with a 76-65 win over Oakland as a 14-point underdog on Monday. Rob Edwards poured in a career-high 32 points. 

The Vikings would go on to hit 37 percent from behind the arc, which is completely out of character as the team ranks dead-last in three point field goal percentage in the conference.

Milwaukee enters as the “hungrier” team in my estimation, most recently falling 71-57 to the UIC Flames in Chicago on Tuesday. Bryce Nze was a bright spot with 22 points on 83 percent shooting. 

I’ll also point though that Cleveland State is just 2-8 ATS on the road this year, while Milwaukee is already 5-3 ATS this season after scoring 60 points or less.

This is a revenge game for the Panthers as well, as they’d fall 62-53 on New Year’s day to the Vikings. 

I’m backing the home side in this one.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Youngstown State (8:00 EST).

While I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the “hungry” Penguins can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

Youngstown State has lost five of six including a 16 point setback at Detroit last time out. 

Green Bay though seems poised for a bit of a mental letdown in my estimation as it gets set to face the lowly Penguins, the Phoenix are 5-1 in conference play, tied with Valpo for top spot in the Horizon League.

Green Bay comes in off a humbling 80-56 loss to Valparaiso last time out though, losing the rebound battle 51-39. 

I’ll point out that Youngstown State has done well in this spot for bettors all year, going 2-1 ATS as a road dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range and 2-0 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Green Bay has struggled in this position by going 0-2 ATS this season after scoring 60 points or less and 0-1 ATS as a home fav of 9.5 to 12 points.

Everything points to the visitors comfortably sneaking 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 Oakland (7:00 EST).

The 14-5 Oakland Golden Grizzlies are at Northern Kentucky to take on the 12-7 Norse and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Golden Grizzlies are just one spot back of first-place Valaparaiso in the Horizon League, but come into this one having dropped two straight. 

The Norse have also dropped two in a row and sit two games behind the conference leader. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then the visitors have to be loving their chances to get back on track today as when these teams met at Oakland earlier in the season, the Golden Grizzlies pulled away for the convincing 76-65 victory.

Oakland averages 80 PPG and hits 32.1 percent from behind the arc. Note that the Grizzlies are already 4-1 in true road games this year.

The Norse are lea by Drew McDonald, who has eight double-doubles this season. So far Northern Kentucky is just 3-3 in league action though. 

I’ll point out that Oakland is 19-6-1 ATS in its last 26 road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while Northern Kentucky is is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight as a home underdog.

If the Golden Grizzlies had come into this game on a big win streak, then I’d likely be playing the Norse tonight instead. But I think the revenge factor gets thrown out the window today because Oakland does in fact come in focused and motivated after the two-game slide. The Grizzlies domianted the first game of the year and I think nothing will change tonight. Play on Oakland.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 16-2 Arizona Wildcats are at USC to take on the 16-3 Trojans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think Arizona is complacent after winning ten straight, most recently crushing rival Arizona State 91-75. USC enters off a quality 71-68 road win over Coloardo. 

These teams split last years series, each winning on its home floor.

The Wildcats average 75.2 PPG and concede 61.6. Lauri Markkanen leads the way with 16.7 PPG.

USC averages 78.6 PPG and concedes 70.7. Chimezie Metu leads the nightly charge with an average of 14.1 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Arizona is just 3-4 ATS in its last seven when playing with five or six days rest and only 2-3 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while USC is 6-4 ATS at home this season and 4-2 ATS in its last six when playing the role of underdog.

I think USC is the “hungrier” team today as all three of its losses have come against the PAC 12. 

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the home side to catch the Wildcats a little flat footed. Play on the Trojans.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 11-6 Clemson Tigers are at Louisville to take on the 15-3 Cardinals and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Tigers are used to seeing ranked teams as this marks the fourth such opponent in their last five games. Note that Clemson beat a top-20 Louisville team in Greenville last season. 

According to the KenPom national rating, Clemson has so far faced the nation’s sixth-toughest schedule. 

One player to keep your eyes on for Clemson is Jaron Blossomgame, who enters the contest with four straight 20-point games. 

Louisville looks primed for a letdown here after its big 78-69 win over Duke on Saturday. Center Anas Mahmoud set career-highs with 17 points and 11 rebounds for his first career double-double. 

Note that the Tigers are 3-1 ATS in their last four after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games, while Louisville is just 2-3 ATS against the conference thus far.

Clemson matches up well against Louisville. The Cardinals are the better team, but success does breed complacency. While I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright SU upset, I do definitely feel that the visitors can keep this one more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Play on Clemson.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 16-2 Maryland Terrapins are in Iowa to take on the 11-8 Hawkeyes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Maryland is now ranked No. 25 and comes in on the back of a three-game win streak. Most recently the Terps came back to beat Illinois 62-56 on the road. 

Smells like a letdown spot to me.

Iowa enters as the “hungrier” side in my opinion, it’s just 3-3 in Big Ten play after falling at Northwestern, 89-54. 

Note that the Hawkeyes play with revenge after dropping the lone contest between the teams last year, 74-68 at home.

Maryland averages 75.2 PPG and concedes 65.1. Melo Trimble leads the nightly charge with 17.2 PPG.

Iowa averages 81.5 PPG and concedes 78. Peter Jok paces the team with 21.9 PPG.

I’ll point out that Maryland is just 2-3 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less, while Iowa is already 5-3 ATS at home thus far.

After upsetting Purdue at home, Iowa just suffered perhaps its worst conference loss of all time. It’s going to be all hands on deck for the home side today, play on the Hawkeyes.

Good luck…Larry

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

Washington has struggled this season, going just 8-9 overall, including only 1-4 in conference play. Colorado is only slightly better at 10-9 overall, but the Buffs are 0-5 in conference action. 

In a contest between two teams desperate for a victory, I’m going to grab the points.

Colorado almost scored a huge upset over No. 25 USC last time out, eventually succumbing 71-68. George King led the way with 16 points, nine boards, two assists and a steal. 

The Huskies come in of a 76-69 loss to Stanford. Markelle Fultz was a bright spot with 34 points, seven boards, three assists, two steals and two blocks. 

These teams are very evenly matched, but note that Colorado is 4-1 ATS in its last five after five straight SU losses, while Washington is just 4-6 ATS at home this year and only 1-2 ATS off a loss against a conference rival.

Grab as many points as you can, play on Colorado.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 13-3 Virginia Cavaliers are in Boston College to take on the 9-9 Eagles and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Cavs have won two straight, after two straight setbacks. Most recently Virginia beat Clemson 77-73 on Saturday to improve to 3-2 in the ACC.

The Eagles are coming off a listless 76-53 setback at Syracuse on Saturday and I think they’ll once again have their hands full today with the Nation’s No. 16 team. 

Virginia got 25 points from guard London Perrantes in the victory over the Tigers, he leads the team with an average of 12.1 PPG and 4.1 assists. The Cavs get the job done with suffocating defensive play, leading the nation in conceding just 53.4 points per contest.

Boston College would turn the all over 20 times and shot just 39.6 percent from the floor in the loss to the Orange. Jerome Robinson remains a bright spot this season in averaging 20.2 points, 4.6 boards and 3.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Virginia is 8-5 ATS as a favorite this year and 4-1 ATS on the road, while BC is just 9-11 ATS in its last 20 after scoring 60 points or less.

I think the loss to Syracuse is a clear sign of things to come for the Eagles. Look for the visitors to control the pace from the opening tip and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. 

Good luck…Larry

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

The 18-25 Portland Trailblazers are in Charlotte to take on the 20-21 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams come in struggling. Portland has dropped two straight on the road, most recently a 108-98 setback to Washington, while Charlotte comes in even more desperate after losing five in a row. 

The Blazers average 107.9 PPG, but they’re horrible on the defensive end, conceding 110.7 per night. 

The Hornets average 105 PPG and concede 104. Kemba Walker remains a bright spot for Charlotte, averaging 23 points, while dishing out 5.4 assists. 

I’ll point out that Portland has struggled in this spot all year for bettors, going just 7-13 ATS when playing the role of underdog and only 6-8 ATS in non-conference games, while Charlotte has excelled by going 12-9 ATS at home this year and 8-6 ATS in non-conference contests.

I think the “hungrier” home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Charlotte.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 25-18 Memphis Grizzlies are in Washington to take on the 21-19 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Memphis is the “hungrier” team in my opinion, it comes in having lost two of its last three, most recently a 108-104 home loss to Chicago on Sunday. 

Conversely, I think the Wizards come in a bit complacent, as they’ve won five of their last six, most recently a 120-101 win over the Blazers at home on Monday. 

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Grizzlies have to be loving their chances today as when they faced Washington back on October 30th, they’d pull away for the 112-103 victory at home.

The Grizzlies average just 99.6 PPG, but are third overall on the defensive end in conceding just 99.1. Marc Gasol leads the nightly charge with 19.4 points and six boards per contest. 

The Wizards average 105.8 PPG and concede 105.7. Guard John Wall leads the team with an average of 22.9 points, 10.1 assists and 2.24 steals per contest. 

I’ll point out though that Memphis is already 12-9 ATS this year against clubs with winning records and 9-7 ATS after allowing 105 points or more, while Washington is just 2-3 ATS this season after a win by ten points or more and just 2-3 ATS as a home fav of three points or less.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I expect the gritty visitors to take this one down to the wire. Play on Memphis.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 27-13 Toronto Raptors are in Philadelphia to take on the 13-26 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

I played against the Raptors last night, and Brooklyn would manage a slim 1-point cover with the large 11-point spread it was afforded. Suffice it to say, i think Toronto bounces back with a much bigger effort this evening. 

These teams have already played twice and the Raptors have won both easily, winning 122-95 in the first meeting, before a 123-114 win in Philadelphia last month. 

Toronto has now won three straight and averages 111.3 PPG, while conceding 104.6. DeMar DeRozan is averaging 30.5 PPG this month and is now fifth in the league in scoring at 28.1 PPG.

Philadelphia is playing its best basketball of the season, but I still don’t think it will be enough. Despite winning four of their last five, the 76ers still average just 99.5 PPG, while allowing 105.3

I’ll point out that Toronto is 12-3-1 ATS in its last 16 in the second game of the back-to-back scenario, while Philadelphia is a poor 9-20 in its last 29 divisional contests.

Toronto has kicked it up a notch of late, averaging over 120 PPG over its last five. This is a matchup which the 76ers have struggled with and I don’t see anything changing tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 16-2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish are at 16-2 Florida State on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

After winning 12 straight, FSU got spanked 96-83 at North Carolina on Saturday. Notre Dame has won seven straight, including a gritty 76-71 road win over Virginia Tech on Saturday to improve to 5-0 in the ACC. 

Steve Vasturia had 20 points on 8 of 14 shooting in the victory over the Hokies for the Fighting Irish. Bonzie Colson though leads the team with an average of 15.8 points, 10.9 boards and 1.4 blocks. 

Florida State shot just 12 of 26 from the foul line against the Tar Heels. Dwayne Bacon leads the charge with 17.8 PPG.

I’ll point out that Notre Dame is already 4-0 ATS off a win against a conference rival this year, while FSU is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 versus good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest.

I think the Irish present similar matchup issues for the Seminoles today as what UNC did last time out. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Notre Dame.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Michigan (9:00 EST).

The 12-6 Michigan Wolverines are in Wisconsin tonight to take on the 14-3 Badgers and while I’ll stop short in predicting an outright upset, I do definitely expect the “hungrier” visiting side to keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

Michigan enters off a 91-85 home win over Nebraska on Saturday, while Wisconsin made quick work of Ohio State in its latest 89-66 win last week. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Wolverines after the Badgers took the lone meeting 68-57 last year. 

Michigan averages 75.3 PPG and concedes 66.2. The Wolverines are paced by Zak Irvin, who averages 14.4 PPG and who had 21 points, including going 7 of 7 from the charity stripe in the victory over the Huskers.

The Badgers average 76.8 PPG and concede 60.2. Bronson Koenig had 21 points in the team’s win over the Buckeyes.

I’ll point out though that Michigan is 8-6 ATS in its last 14 after allowing 80 points or more, while Wisconsin is just 1-3 ATS in its last four off a win against a conference rival.

These team’s offensive and defensive averages are very similar. Michigan has struggled on the road this year, but I think it can catch the Badgers a bit complacent this evening. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST).

The 27-13 Toronto Raptors are in Brooklyn to take on the 8-32 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Clearly the Raptors are the better team, but I think they’ll come in a bit complacent in facing the lowly Nets and look for the home side to keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Toronto most recently hammered the Knicks 116-101 at home on Sunday, while Brooklyn lost its tenth straight in a 137-112 home loss to the Rockets. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement, as Toronto has won six straight in the series, including both meetings this year. 

So far Toronto is third in the league in scoring with an average of 111.3 PPG, while ranked 15th on the defensive end in conceding 104.6

The Nets are ranked 14th overall in scoring in posting 105.3 PPG, but are last on the defensive end in conceding 114.9 PPG thus far.

I’ll point out that Toronto is just 23-30 ATS in its last 53 after three or more consecutive SU victories, while Brooklyn is 2-1 ATS in its last three as a home dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range.

Because of all the reasons listed aboved, I think this is a few too many points to be giving up today. Play on the Nets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:00 EST).

The 29-10 Cleveland Cavaliers are at Golden State to take on the 34-6 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Warriors have now lost four straight to the Cavs going back to the Finals when they blew a 3-1 lead. 

Cleveland won 109-108 at home on Christmas day and I think all signs point to another nail-biter tonight as well.

The Cavs snapped a mini two-game slide with a 120-108 OT win in Sacramento on Friday. Newly acquired sharp-shooter Kyle Korver had 18 points off the bench, including 4 of six from range. LeBron James had 16 points and 15 assists. 

So far Cleveland posts 109.4 PPG, which ranks fourth. The Cavs concede 103.5, which is 11th. 

The Warriors have won three in a row and average 117.5 PPG, ranked No. 1. The team doesn’t need to be the best on the defensive end, and it isn’t, conceding 105.4 PPG, ranked 21st. 

I’ll point out though that Cleveland is 4-1-1- ATS in its last six when playing on two days rest and 11-3-1 ATS in its last 15 following a SU win of more than ten points, while Golden State is just 1-5 ATS in its last six at home and only 1-7 ATS following a SU victory.

There’s something about this rivalry that brings out the best in LeBron James. While I won’t be so bold as to call for an outright upset, I think the visitors will at the very least, comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* PERFECT STORM on DePaul (4:30 EST).

The 8-10 DePaul Blue Demons are at Saint John’s to take on the 8-11 Red Storm and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Both teams have been struggling this year, with DePaul just 1-4 in league action, while St. John’s is just 2-4. 

Overall the Red Storm have lost four in a row, while the Blue Demons have dropped five of their last six. 

Note though that this is a definite revenge game for the Blue Demons, who dropped the first game between the teams on January 1st, 79-73. 

Keep your eyes on DePaul’s Billy Garrett Jr. who is averaging 14.9 PPG and Eli Cain, who leads the way with 16.4 per contest. 

The Red Storm opened league play with wins over Butler and DePaul, but have since dropped four in a row. Shamorie Ponds has been a bright spot in averaging 15.7 PPG this season. 

Ill point out that DePaul is already 2-0 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more and 3-1 ATS after scoring 60 points or less, while St. John’s is just 4-5 ATS when playing the role of favorite and only 1-2 ATS when playing with one or less days rest.

The first game was decided by a six point margin and I think all signs point to an even closer affair this time around. Play on DePaul.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Xavier (2:00 EST).

The 17-1 Creighton Bluejays are at Xavier to take on the 13-4 Musketeers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Xavier will be the “hungrier” team today after back-to-back road losses against top ranked opponents in Villanova and Butler. Xavier allows 68.2 PPG and averages 76.6 of its own. Keep your eyes on Trevon Blulett, who leads the team with 16.8 points and 5.2 boards per game. 

While the Musketeers are just 3-2 in Big East action, they come into this one a perfect 9-0 at home this year. 

Creighton has won four straight and averages 86.8 PPG, while allowing 71.5. Marcus Foster leads the way with an average of 18.2 PPG. So far the Blue Jays are a perfect 4-0 in Big East play and 4-1 overall on the road. 

Can anyone say “classic letdown spot?!”

The home team has covered the spread in eight of the last 11 in this series and I think that strong trend continues here. Off two straight losses, I simply can’t see Xavier having another letdown tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (9:05 EST).

Analysis posted at least 3 hours before game time.

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Ohio State (1:30 EST).

The 12-6 Michigan State Spartans are at Ohio State to take on the 10-7 Buckeyes and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the home side. 

Michigan State is 4-1 in Big Ten conference action after a satisfying 65-47 wint at home over Minnesota, while the Buckeyes come into this one desperate after opening league play at 0-4, most recently an 89-66 setback at Wisconsin on Thursday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement, as MSU took all three games against OSU last year.

The Spartans’ defense looked pretty good against the Gophers, but the offense left something to be desired, going just 42.6 percent from the floor and 5 of 14 from beyond the arc. MSU averages 72.3 PPG and concedes 66.7 thus far.

JaQuan Lyle was a bright spot for Ohio State in the loss to the Badgers, finishing with 13 points on 5 of 9 shooting. So far OSU averages 73.8 PPG and allows 66.9.

I’ll point out that MSU is already just 1-3 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less, while Ohio State is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after allowing 80 points or more and 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive SU losses. 

I think the desperation level in which the home side plays with today turns out to be the difference. Play on the Buckeyes.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Ole Miss (6:30 EST).

The 10-6 Ole Miss Runnin’ Rebels are in South Carolina to take on the 13-3 Game Cocks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Mississippi is desperate for a win today after staring out 1-3 in the SEC. Conversely, it’s not too hard to imagine South Carolina coming out a bit flat-footed and content tonight after opening with a 3-0 conference record. 

Most recently Ole Miss fell 69-47 at home to Georgia, while South Carolina comes in off a satisfying 70-60 road win over Tennessee. 

The Runnin’ Rebels are now leaning on Terence Davis to shoulder the load after losing guard DeAndre Burnett to injury last time out.

Sindarius Thornwell had 22 points, five boards, four steals and four assists in the Gamecocks’ win over the Vols on Wednesday. It wasn’t all sunshine and roses though, as note that South Carolina would go on to commit 21 turnovers in the victory.

I’ll point out that Ole Miss is 8-5 ATS in its last 13 against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest, while Memphis is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 as a home fav of 11 points or more.

I think the desperation level in which Ole Miss plays with today will in the end keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 15-2 Maryland Terrapins are in Illinois to take on the 12-5 Fighting Illini and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

It’s revenge time for the Illinis after falling 84-59 to Maryland on December 27th at College Park. Illinois shot just 35.6 percent from the floor.

Since then though the Fighting Illini have gone 2-1, beating Ohio State and Michigan, but losing to Indiana. Maryland enters this one off a close 75-72 win over Indiana on Tuesday and suffice it to say, I think it’s poised for a letdown tonight.

Melo Trimble leads the Terps with an average of 17.5 PPG. Maryland averages 76 PPG and allows 65.6.

I think the Illini carry over the momentum from their last game, destroying Michigan by shooting 64.2 percent from the floor, including 9 of 14 from range. Malcolm Hill has been the most consistent player in averaging 18.6 points and 6.1 boards per game.

Illinois averages 78.6 PPG and concedes 72.5.

I’ll point out that Maryland is just 1-2 ATS in its last three off a win against a conference rival, while Illinois is 16-6 ATS in its last 22 after scoring 80 points or moe.

Illinois is a different team at home, something it proved to Michigan last time out. I think the home side comes in focused and avenges the earlier loss to the Terps. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 6-9 USF Bulls are at Memphis to take on the 12-5 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

South Florida is the “hungrier” team here in my estimation as it comes in having gone 0-4 to open AAC play. Last time out USF lost to Tulane at home 82-67. 

Memphis enters off an 81-71 loss at Tulsa on Wednesday to snap a three-game win streak. Momentum is a difficult thing to gain and once lost, it’s even harder to get back. Suffice it to say, i think this does indeed set up as a natural letdown spot for the Tigers.

These teams split a pair of games last year, each winning on its home floor. 

The Bulls are led by Geno Thorpe, who had 16 points in the setback to the Green Wave. So far USF averages 67.1 PPG.

The Tigers average 79.8 PPG and concede 70.6. Memphis is paced by Dedric Lawson, who had 26 points and six boards in the loss to Tulsa.

I’ll point out though that USF is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a road dog in the 15.5 to 18 points range, while Memphis is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 as a home fav in the 15.5 to 18 points range. 

Am I going to suggest “sprinkling a little on the money line?” Of course not.

I simply feel that the Bulls determination in this spot will keep it a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Play on South Florida.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (10:30 EST).

The 28-10 Cleveland Cavaliers are in Sacramento to take on the 16-22 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

It’s going to be all hands on deck for the Cavs tonight as they look to snap a two-game slide. The Kings enter off a win which snapped a three-game skid by beating Detroit on Tuesday.

After wins over the Nets and Suns, the Cavs lost 100-92 at Utah on Tuesday and then 102-86 at Portland on Wednesday. LeBron James had just 20 points and Kyrie Irving had just 11. Is it time to hit the “panic button” if you’re a Cleveland fan?

Of course not. These types of games/stretches happen to even the best of them. For championship teams like the Cavs, it serves as a “wake up call.” 

DeMarcus Cousins had 24 points, 13 boards and six assists in his teams 100-94 victory over the Pistons. Note though in the three previous losses, he averaged just 18.3 PPG on 17-of-45 shooting. 

I’m expecting James to lead the drive tonight. Cleveland is too deep and talented and a three-game losing streak would clearly not be acceptable. I’m expecting a rout, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Ivy League SIDE OF THE MONTH is on Yale (8:00 EST).

The 8-5 Yale Bulldogs are in Pennsylvania to take on the 6-6 Quakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

This is a big game for Yale, as it’s its first Ivy League contest of the year and the first of three straight road contests to commence league play. Pennsylvania enters off a 61-52 setback at Princenton in its conference opener. 

Yale though has won six of seven, most recently annihilating D-III Mitchell College 102-46. And if recent history is any precedence, then the visitors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve taken eight straight in this series. So far the Bulldogs average 76.4 PPG and concede just 68. Six players average over nine points, led by Alex Copeland with 13.3. The team also averages 17.8 assists per game, which ranks it 15th in the nation.

The Quackers had won three straight before losing to a shorthanded Princeton team. AJ Brodeur is a bright spot on the team in averaging 14.8 points and 6.6 boards per contest. Penn averages just 66.9 PPG, but makes up for it on the defensive end in allowing only 65.6.

I’ll point out though that the Bulldogs are 4-1 ATS in their last five after allowing 50 points or less in their previous outing and 9-3-1 ATS against the conference, while Pennsylvania is just 1-4 ATS in its last five home games and only 1-4 ATS against the conference.

Yale has won eight straight in this series by an average of 15.1 PPG and all signs point to similar final outcome here as I simply can’t see the offensively challenged Quakers keeping pacing down the stretch. Play on the Bulldogs.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 18-22 Detroit Pistons are at Golden State to take on the 33-6 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Detroit comes in off a 110-94 loss to the Sacramento Kings. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 21 points. The Pistsons would go on to allow the Kings to shoot 13 of 24 from behind the arc. Reggie Jackson leads the team with 16.9 points. 

So far on the season Detroit ranks 24th in the NBA in scoring at 100.1 PPG, while ranked fourth on the defensive end in conceding 100.3.

Kevin Durant had 28 points and eight boards in a home win over Miami last time out. Guard Klay Thompson was given the night off in that one. The Warriors shot 45.3 percent from the floor and are now 17-3 in front of the home town crowd this season. 

Note that Golden State leads the league in scoring at 117.3 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Detroit is just 8-11 ATS as an underdog this year and just 8-13 ATS on the road, while Golden State is 12-8 ATS this year following a win by ten points or more.

The Warriors have gone 5-1 SU in their last six, but are 0-6 ATS in that span. I think that trend finally gets broken today as I simply can’t see the offensively challenged and now road weary Pistons matching pace down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on Wiconsin Green Bay (8:00 EST).

The 11-6 Wright State Raiders are at Wisconsin Green Bay to take on the 10-6 Phoenix and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Phoenix are 4-0 in league play, while the Raiders are 2-2.

Wright State enters off an 80-75 loss to Youngstown State. In three of four league games, the Raiders have conceded at least 72 points (and at least 80 in two of those). 

On the year the Raiders have four players that have averaged at least 7.6 PPG. Note that Wright State averages 74.5 PPG, while it concedes 69.8.

The Phoenix like to push the pace from start to finish and so far not many have been able to keep up to them. Note that Wisconsin Green Bay has posted 81.5 PPG, while allowing 74.3. Seven players average at least 7.6 PPG, led by Charles Cooper at 13.9 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Wright State is just 1-3 ATS against the conference this season and only 1-3 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while Wisconsin Green Bay is 3-1 ATS this year when playing with one days rest and 2-1 ATS off a win against a conference rival.

Wright State’s defense isn’t very good and I have a hard time seeing the visitors slowing down the surging Phoenix. Lay the points as I expect the home side to comfortably pull away down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the New York Knicks (7:05 EST). 

The 17-21 New York Knicks are in Philadelphia to take on the 10-25 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Knicks are the “hungrier” team in my estimation. The Knicks have lost two in a row and eight of their last nine after falling 110-96 at home to New Orleans on Monday. 

Conversely, this sets up as a classic letdown spot for the suddenly surging 76ers who have won three of their last four, most recently a 105-95 victory in Brooklyn on Sunday. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then the Knicks have to be loving their chances to get untracked as they’ve taken five straight and nine of the last ten in the series. 

New York averages 105.5 PPG and is actually tied for third in the league in rebounding with 45.7 boards per contest. Where the Knicks lack on most nights is on the defensive end of the floor in allowing 108.9 PPG. Carmello Anthony leads the way with 21.9 points and 6.1 boards per game.

Philadelphia is 26th in the league in scoring with an average of just 99.2 PPG. It’s 20th in rebounding and ranked 21st on the defensive end in conceding 105.9 PPG. Joel Embiid leads the way for the 76ers with 19.4 points, plus 7.3 boards per game.

I’ll point out that New York is 9-4 ATS as a favorite this year and 3-0 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite, while Philadelphia is just 5-6 ATS after scoring 105 points or more and only 1-4 ATS after a divisional contest.

I think desperation breeds motivation and success leads to complacency. Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 3-12 Tulane Green Wave are in South Florida to take on the 6-8 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Both teams are struggling. Tulane enters off an 80-59 setback to Memphis, while USF comes in off an 84-65 road loss to SMU.

Whenever these teams meet, it’s been a battle as last year saw them split the two-game series.

The Green Wave are led by Cameron Reynolds, who averages 15.5 points and 6.2 boards per game. 

South Florida lost leading scorer Jahmal McMurray to a transfer after three games played and head coach Orlando Antigua was fired last week. 

I’ll point out that Tulane is 3-2 ATS in its last five after allowing 80 points or more, while South Florida is just 4-5 ATS in its last nine after allowing 80 points or more.

I think Tulane is going to have its chances today as these teams do in fact match up pretty evenly on the offensive end. USF is dealing with adversity off the court and I think is ripe for the picking. That said, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Tennessee (6:30 EST).

The 12-3 South Carolina Gamecocks are in Tennessee to take on the 8-7 Volunteers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Vols are anxious to break a two-game slide and take advantage of what could potentially be a contented Game Cocks team which comes in having won two straight. 

South Carolina is led by guard Sindarius Thornwell, who averages 18.4 points, 7.2 boards, 3.6 assists and 2.4 steals per game. 

Tennessee will have its hands full today against the Gamecock’s smothering defense, but note that South Carolina has struggled in this spot mightily for bettors, going just 1-3-1 ATS in its last five following a victory and just 2-5 ATS in its last seven following an ATS win.

Conversely, this is a position in wihch the Volunteers have excelled, going 5-3 ATS this year after teams with winning records and 5-2 ATS when playing the role of underdog. 

I think Tennessee’s up-tempo offense will do just enough to secure the victory today. Play on the Vols.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 9-7 George Washington Colonials are at VCU to take on the 13-3 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

I think the Rams come in a bit complacent after winning seven straight. Conversely, the Colonials will be the more desperate side after dropping three of their last four.

Most recently George Washington would cut a 23-point second-half deficit to just four, ultimately falling to Richmond 77-70 on Sunday though. Tyler Cavanaugh was a standout with a game-high 22 points. 

VCU is coming off an 81-64 win over Massachusetts, winning the rebounding battle 45 to 32: “We’ve got to keep playing the way we’re playing,” new head coach Will Wade explained. “It’s nothing sexy. It’s nothing out of the ordinary. But it’s tried and true, good basketball. We’re a mid-tempo team. We push it in transition. If we don’t have anything, we pull it out and get that thing in the paint, either off the bounce or off a post feed. We guard and we crash the glass. We’re nothing special. We’ve got to understand why we’re having success.”

I’ll point out though that George Washington is 3-1 ATS on the road this year, while VCU is just 2-3 ATS at home and just 5-6 ATS when playing the role of favorite.

While I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I do think that the Rams’ recent success will lead to a bit of complacency and that the hungry Colonials will keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on SDSU (11:00 EST).

The 8-6 San Jose State Spartans are at San Diego State to take on the 8-7 Aztecs on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

SDSU is struggling through its worst start to a season in a very long time and will be desperate to score a conference victory, so far 0-3 in Mountain West action. 

Conversely, this sets up as a bit of a letdown spot for the Spartans in my estimation after they notched their first conference win in a 69-62 effort over Fresno State on Saturday. 

SJSU only had 25 rebounds total in its last game and still somehow managed to beat the Bulldogs. 

SDSU’s 0-3 conference record draws some concern, but note that it did come against three of the best in New Mexico, Nevada and Boise State. 

I’ll point out though that San Jose State is 0-4 ATS in its last four following a SU victory and just 3-7 ATS in its last ten against the conference, while SDSU is 13-4-2 ATS in its last 19 following an ATS loss. 

I’m banking on the “hungrier” team finding a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST).

The 21-16 Atlanta Hawks are in Brooklyn to take on the 8-28 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Hawks are poised for a bit of a mental letdown in my opinion after winning six straight, most recently a 97-82 victory in Dallas on Saturday. 

Conversely, the lowly Nets will be desperate to break a six-game slide, most recently falling 105-95 at home to the 76ers. 

Brooklyn plays with revenge of course, as it’s lost seven of the last eight in the series, but note that the last time the teams met in New York, the Nets escaped with the 90-88 win on November 17th, 2015. 

Clearly the Hawks are the better team overall. While just 20th in scoring offense at 102.3 PPG, Atlanta makes up for it on the defensive end in allowing just 102.8. Brooklyn is 15th in league scoring at 105.4 PPG, but last on the defensive end in allowing 114 per contest.

I simply feel however that this sets up as a natural letdown/lookahead/trap game for the visitors, who conclude a four game road trip after posting three straight wins, before enjoying three whole nights off and their first game back at home. 

Brooklyn’s level of desperation will at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Georgetown (6:30 EST).

The 8-9 St. John’s Red Storm are in Georgetown to take on the 8-8 Hoyas and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the desperate home side.

The Hoyas are off to an 0-4 start in the Big East and will be particularly anxious to get back on the court and take out their frustrations on someone after falling 85-76 to Butler in OT at home on Saturday. 

The Red Storm are ripe for the picking, they’ve lost two straight, most recently falling 97-82 to Xavier on Saturday. Marcus LoVett was a bright spot with 32 points on 10 of 14 shooting. St. John’s though was sloppy, turning the ball over 16 times and shooting just 40.6 percent from the floor. The Red Storm average 78.4 PPG and concede 73.9. 

Georgetown is led by Rodney Pryor with an average of 18.6 PPG. He was 0 for 8 from the field in the loss to Butler though. So far the Hoyas average 77.4 PPG and allow 72.4.

I’ll point out though that the Red Storm are already just 1-2 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more and only 2-3 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while Georgetown is 4-2 ATS in its last six after three or more consecutive SU losses.

The Hoyas domianted St. John’s in two games last year and after the recent shoddy play, I expect them to duplicate those performances with another rout in this one. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 10-5 California Golden Bears are at USC to take on the 15-1 Trojans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Cal has lost three of four, most recently coming off an 81-71 setback at UCLA on Thursday. 7-2, 260 lb. center Kameron Rooks is questionable for this one. 

After losing their first game of the year at Oregon on December 30th, the Trojans would easily bounce back in a 72-56 destruction of Stanford at home on Thursday. 

Cal struggled from the field in the loss to UCLA, shooting just 39.1 percent, while also going only 10 of 18 from the foul line and turning it over 13 times. The Golden Bears average 70.9 PPG and concede 61.7. 

The Trojans average 80.3 PPG and concede just 69.7 USC would go on to hold the Cardinal to just 36.5 percent fro the field and 4 of 15 from the 3-point line.

I’ll point out that Cal is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 following a SU loss, while USC is 4-1 ATS in its last five following an ATS victory. 

USC is 25-2 in its last 27 at home and I think it’s high-powered offense will prove to be just too much for Cal tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Sacramento Kings (9:00 EST).

The 31-6 Golden State Warriors are in Sacramento to take on the 15-21 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Warriors look vulnerable in this spot in my estimation after having their four game win streak snapped in a brutal 128-119 OT loss to Memphis on Friday. 

The Kings on the other hand will be risking life and limb today as they try to break a four-game slide, most recently a 106-98 setback at home to the Clippers on Friday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement, as Golden State has taken 12 straight in the series.

The Warriors own the No. 1 offense in the league, but clearly the team has major issues on the defensive end. 

The slumping Kings will look to reverse their fortunes and take advantage. Sacramento averages 102.2 PPG and is middle of the pack on the defensive end, allowing 104.6, ranked 16th (the Warriors are ranked 20th). 

I’ll point out that Golden State is in fact 0-4 ATS in its last four against teams with a losing straight up record, while Sacramento is 12-4 ATS in its last 16 following a straight up loss.

Sacramento has Rudy Gay back in the line-up, which is a good boost for a team in need of postive momentum. While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do think the Kings can take advantage of this still reeling Warriors team and keep it competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Colorado (9:30 EST).

The 10-5 Colorado Buffaloes are in Arizona to take on the 14-2 Wildcats and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

I think Colorado is the “hungrier” team tonight, it’s lost two straight after falling 78-77 at Arizona State on Thursday. Arizona on the other hands looks poised for a bit of a letdown here after eight straight victories, most recently a 66-56 win at home over Utah.

Note that the Buffs play with revenge today as the Wildcats have won eight of the last ten meetings. That said, the teams did split a pair of meetings last year. In fact, the last matchup was a nail-biter, but Arizona would end up holding on for the 82-78 victory in the Pac-12 Tournament on March 10th, 2016. 

Colorado enters averaging 74.3 PPG, while conceding 68.1. Keep your eyes on White, who leads the team with 16.3 points, plus 4.1 assists per game. 

Arizona enters averaging 73.8 PPG, while conceding 60.1. Lauri Markkanen leads the way with 15.5 points and 7.2 boards per contest. 

I’ll point out that Colorado is 2-0 ATS in its last two as a road dog of 12 points or more, while Arizona is just 1-3 ATS in its last four when playing on one or less days rest.

I think Arizona comes in a bit complacent here and the determined Buffaloes keep this one closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

I think this one favors the home side. 

The Blue Hens are looking to bounce back after getting hammered 90-54 to Northeastern on Thursday, the setback dropped them to 7-9 and 0-3 in the CAA. 

UNC Wilmington comes in complacent after its 18 point win over Drexel on Thursday. The Seahawks are now a comfortable 3-0 in the Colonial Athletic Association. 

UNC Wilmington is now 14-2, with its only two losses coming to MTSU and a 14 point road loss to Clemson. The Seahawks are a good team, but I simply feel this is a bad spot for it.

Delaware on the other hand comes in desperate and will be risking life and limb in front of the home town crowd today. Note that the Blue Hens would in fact outscore the Huskies by four in the second half of their last game and suffice it to say, I think the team carries that postiive momentum and tenacity into this one.

While I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely expect the hungry home side to keep this one competitive. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Indiana (5:00 EST).

The 11-4 Illinois Fighting Illini are in Indiana to take on the 10-5 Hoosiers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

It’ll be all hands on deck for the Hoosiers today, after rising to No. 3 in the Top 25 poll, they’ve now lost three straight and are in danger of falling out of the rankings. 

Conversely, I think this sets up as a letdown spot for the Illini after winning seven of their last eight. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the home side has to be liking its chances today, as it would go on to take both games last year by wide margin, a 103-69 victory at home and a 74-47 effort on the road. 

The Illini may have won seven of eight, but they did lose their conference opener at Maryland 84-59, before then bouncing back with a 75-70 win over Ohio State. 

League play began for Indiana with an 87-83 loss to Nebraska at home before losing by 15 to the ACC’s Louisville, then followed by a five point loss to Wisconsin. But as mentioned above, the Hoosiers won both meetings last year by a combined 61 points. 

I’ll point out that Illinois is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven on the road and just 1-4 ATS in its last five as an underdog in the seven to 12.5 points range, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a home fav in the seven to 12.5 points range and 7-2 ATS in its last nine following an ATS loss. 

Is Indiana as bad as its recent record would indicate? Are the Illini as good as their current win skein would indicate? I think the answer is a resounding “no” to both of those questions.

I like the hungry home side to put the foot on the gas and to comfortably pull away down the stretch. Play on the Hoosiers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Ohio (9:00 EST).

The Kent State Golden Flashes are in Ohio to take on the Bobcats. Kent State is 9-5, while Ohio is 9-3. Both teams won their respective conference openers, but for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Golden Flashes most recently topped the Ball State Cardinals 100-90, led by Jaylin Walker’s 21 points. Note though that the Flashes have the third lowest three-point percentage in the conference and Kent State is at the very bottom of the conference when it comes to field-goal percentage. 

The Bobcats demolished WMU in their opener 89-58. Antonio Campbell led the way with 22 points. Ohio would go on to shoot 50 percent from the floor and almost 52 percent from behind the arc. The Bobcats have dominated from range, ranked as the No. 1 team in the conference in connecting on 40 percent of their attempts. 

I’ll point out that Kent State is just 3-8-1 ATS in its last 12 against teams with a winning straight up record and only 2-9-1 in its last 12 on the road, while Ohio is 5-2 ATS in its last seven following a SU win of more than 20 points.

Ohio is 8-0 at home with an average margin of victory of 17 points. Kent State is just 1-2 in its last three road games and is overclassed in every department tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 6-9 Pacific Tigers are in San Diego to take on the 7-7 Toreros and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Tigers are the much “hungrier” team in my opinion after losing six of nine, including an 81-61 setback to Gonzaga in their last outing. Jacob Lamping was a bright spot with 18 points on 9 of 11 shooting. So far Pacific averages 71.2 PPG.

The Toreros are regressing as the season has progressed, a five-game win streak has now been followed by back-to-back losses, most recently a 72-60 defeat to St. Mary’s. Brett Bailey led the way in the setback with 18 points. So far San Diego averages 73 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Pacific is 8-6 ATS in its last 14 after allowing 80 points or more, while San Diego is just 1-2 ATS this year after scoring 60 points or more.

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing the poitns as I think the visitors matchup extremely well in this one. Play on Pacific.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 9-5 Portland Pilots are in Santa Clara to take on the 7-8 Broncos and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Pilots look poised for a ledown here in my opinion after two straight wins, most recently a 73-60 victory at home over Pepperdine on December 31st. The Broncos are 1-1 in conference play after hammering San Francisco 72-58 on Saturday. 

Alec Wintering had 23 points for Portland in the win over the Waves on Saturday. So far the Pilots average 77.6 PPG, while conceding 72.6. 

KJ Feain had 22 points, while Jared Brownridge added 20 in the Broncos win over the Dons on Saturday. Note that Santa Clara went 13 of 26 from beyond the arc. The Broncos average just 67.9 PPG, but allow just 66.6 per contest.

I’ll point out that Portland is just 2-4 ATS this year when playing the role of underdog and only 1-2 ATS after allowing 60 points or less, while Santa Clara is 2-1 ATS after allowing 60 points or less and 4-2 ATS against teams with winning records.

I think the Pilots come into this one on “cruise control” and the home side takes advantage. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONF SIDE OF THE MONTH is the Utah Jazz (7:35 EST).

The 22-14 Utah Jazz are in Toronto to take on the 23-11 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Toronto returns home after an extended road-trip, there’s no question that this one does indeed set up as a classic “letdown” spot for the Raptors. They lost 110-82 at San Antonio most recently on Tuesday. 

Utah continues its Eastern road swing and enters off a 115-104 road loss to Boston. 

Note that the Jazz play with revenge here after falling 104-98 to the Raptors back on December 21st.

It was a rare weak defensive effort for Utah in the setback to the Celtics. Overall the Jazz shot a solid 46 percent. The setback snapped a four-game win streak, but Utah still sits in first place in the Northwest division standings. 

Note that the Jazz average only 99 PPG, while conceding just 94.5, which ranks No. 1 in the league.

The Raptors average 110.3 PPG, while conceding 103.4.

I’ll point out that Utah is 7-2 ATS this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 3-1 ATS after a loss by ten points or more, while Toronto is a deplorable 0-9 ATS after scoring 85 points or less.

As mentioned off the top, I think this one sets up as a natural “letdown” spot for the Raptors after returning home from a lengthy road trip. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 4-11 James Madison Dukes are at Hofstra to take on the 9-6 Pride and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I think the Dukes are primed for a letdown here after three straight vivctories. Conversely, the Pride will be anxious to take out their frustrations on someone after falling 95-93 in OT to William and Mary.

Oh ya, James Madison also won both meetings against Hofstra last season. Both in overtime.

It’s payback time for the Pride!

James Madison got out to a slow start, losing 11 of its first 12 games, but it has to be feeling pretty content after the three straight victories and two conference wins. The Dukes are poor on the offensive end though, averaging 66.4 PPG. They do however own a tough defense which concedes 69.9, ranked 134th overall. 

The Pride had a three-game win skein snapped in the OT setback to William and Mary. Hofstra did shoot a solid 50 percent in the loss. Note that the Pride average 80.1 PPG, ranked 60th overall, while conceding 76.5.

I’ll point out that James Madison is 2-7 ATS as an underdog this year and 1-5 ATS on the road, while Hofstra is 9-5 ATS in its last 14 off a loss against a conference rival.

The Dukes have been playing over their heads of late. Expect the home side to push the pace and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 11-4 Wyoming Cowboys are at Fresno State to take on the 9-5 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

I think Wyoming is the “hungrier” team today as it’s lost two of its last three, most recently to USC and UNLV. 

The Bulldogs enter this one after snapping a two-game slide with a 77-76 win over Nevada on New Year’s Eve. 

Wyoming held the Rebels to just 39.1 percent from the field, but UNLV still topped 80 points. Justin James was a bright spot, scoring a game-high 17 points. In all, four players average double figures.

Fresno State has gotten inconsistent play from its starters of late. Since opening the season with a double-double in a win over Texas-San Antonio, starter Cullen Russo has yet to duplicate that feat since.

I’ll point out that Wyoming is 2-0 ATS already this year after allowing 80 points or more, while Fresno State is just 14-15 ATS in its last 29 when playing the role of favorite.

I think Wyoming bounces back after two straight losses and expect Fresno State to continue to struggle with consistency. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-2 Louisville Cardinals are in Notre Dame to take on the 12-2 Fighting Irish and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cardinals look primed for a letdown here in my opinion after downing Indiana 76-62 on the road last time out. Notre Dame enters off a 78-77 OT road win over Pittsburgh and will look to keep the momentum rolling in front of the home town crowd.

And if recent history is any precedence, then the Irish have to be loving their chances today as they’d take last year’s meeting 71-66. 

Donavan Mitchell scored a career-high 25 points in the win over the Hoosiers for Louisville. He leads the team with 12.1 PPG. So far the Cardinals average 76.1 PPG, while conceding 60.4.

The Irish held Pittsburgh to just 37.5 percent shooting from the field in their big win. Steve Vasturia had 15 points and is now third in team scoring with 14.9 PPG. The Irish feature a high-powered scoring attack with averages 83.2 PPG and also a strong defense which concedes just 66.2.

I’ll point out that Louisville is just 3-10 ATS in its last 13 on the road, while Notre Dame is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 in front of the home town crowd.

Four players average 13 or more points for the Irish and I think this incredible depth will prove to be the difference tonight. Play on Notre Dame.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Michigan State (6:30 EST0.

Rutgers has just three conference wins since joining the Big Ten in 2014 and it hasn’t won a road game yet. 

Unfortunately for the Scarlet Knights, I don’t foresee anything changing this evening as MSU continues to get better as the season wears on.

Rutgers enters off a 60-47 home loss to Penn State. Mike Williams was a bright spot with his third career double-double, finishing with 16 points and ten boards. It wasn’t enough though as the Scarlet Knights would go on to commit 17 turnovers. In all Rutgers would make a season-low 28.6 percent of their field goal attempts and go just 3 of 20 from behind the arc.

The Spartans finished a tough non-conference schedule with a 7-5 record and most recently downed Northwestern 61-52 on Friday. Alvin Ellis III led the way with 16 points in that one. Note that MSU is expected to welcome back Miles Bridges to the lineup tonight, he’s missed the last seven games with an ankle injury. Bridges is averaging 16.6 points and 8.8 boards. 

I’ll point out that Rutgers is 3-10 ATS in its last 13 road games against a team with a winning home record and just 7-25 ATS in its last 32 following a SU loss, while MSU is 14-4 ATS in its last 18 following an ATS win.

Last year the Spartans won 96-62 at home in this game, while shooting 53.1 percent from behind the arc, en route to tying the school record with 17 three-pointers. I’m expecting a similar final outcome this evening. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry