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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

(additional ATS supporting stats added shortly)

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grab the points, play on Milwaukee.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

But I don’t see that happening. 

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

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

For all the reasons listed above play on the Warriors.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Play on the Pistons.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the under Mavs/76ers (1:05 EST).

Dallas comes in off a second straight loss, most recently falling 113-106 in OT at Detroit on Friday. Philadelphia has won 13 straight after holding on for a 132-130 OT home win over the Cavaliers on Friday. 

Both teams come in tired and I’m expecting this total to stay well below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

The Mavericks average 102.4 PPG and they concede 105.1. Harrison Barnes leads the nightly charge with 18.8 points and 6.1 boards per game, while rookie Dennis Smith Jr. adds 15.1 points and 5.1 assists per night. Johnathan Motley led the way in the most recent loss though with 26 points and 13 boards. 

The 76ers average 109.4 PPG and they concede 105.4. Big man Joel Embiid will be sitting this one out, meaning that Ben Simmons will be asked to carry the load, he is averaging 16 points, 8.2 boards, 8.2 assists and 1.72 steals per game. 

I’ll point out that Dallas has seen the total go under the number in four of six already this year after playing to three or more consecutive OVERs, while Philadelphia has seen the total dip below the posted number in nine of 13 after allowing 115 points or more this season.

Fatigue is a very real factor at this time of year. The Mavs look poised for another letdown here after their latest collapse, while the 76ers could also be caught “flat footed” after their most recent victory over their most heated rival.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WEST-CONF GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Golden State Warriors (8:30 EST).

New Orleans is in a dog fight in the Western Conference right now, tied for the fifth spot with three other teams. The Pelicans snapped a four-game slide with a 123-95 win at home over Memphis, but I think they’ll struggle here against a Warriors team that comes in with a chip on its shoulder.

The Warriors’ three-game win streak was snapped in a 126-106 road loss at Indiana and the vultures are already circling with star Steph Curry out with injury until the postseason.

If recent history is any precedence though, then the home side has to be liking its chances in this one, as it’s already taken three straight in the series this year, including a 125-11 road win in the most recent matchup all the way back on December 4th.

The Pelicans average 111.3 PPG and they concede 110.7. Anthony Davis leads the nightly charge with 28.1 points, 11.1 boards and 2.49 blocks per game. 

The Warriors average 113.8 PPG and they concede 107.2. Kevin Durant averages 26.5 points, 6.9 boards and 5.4 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that New Orleans is just 17-18 ATS this year as the underdog, while Golden State is 7-4 ATS this season following a loss by ten points or more.

The Warriors are “injured,” but clearly they’re a very deep team. Head coach Steve Kerr challenged his players after the loss to the Pacers and with Curry sidelined until at least the first round, the rest of the team will be expected to pick up the slack. And here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against.

I’m expecting a beatdown from start to finish, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

Indiana looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after thrashing the Pacers 126-106 last night, while I believe Toronto builds off its 96-78 win over the Celtics. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Toronto has to be loving its chances today, as it’s already taken two of three in the season series, including a 106-99 victory on the road in the latest matchup on March 15th. 

Indiana averages 105.7 PPG and it concedes 104. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 23.4 points, plus 5.3 boards and 2.33 steals per game, but it was Bojan Bogdanovic who led the Pacers with 28 points in the win over Golden State.

Toronto averages 112 PPG and it concedes 104.2. DeMar DeRozan leads the way with 23.3 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.3 points, 5.6 boards and 6.8 assists per night. DeRozan led the way in the defensive victory over Boston with 16 points.

I’ll point out that Indiana is still just 18-26 ATS the last two seasons in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Toronto is 17-12 ATS this year following a win by ten points or more

Indiana hasn’t been the best road team this year and it comes in off an epic win at home over the defending champs just last night. Can anyone say letdown spot? 

The Raptors on the other hand are looking to make up some ground after recent shoddy play and they won’t be taking anything for granted here.

Fatigue is a very real factor at this time of year and the second game of a back to back North of the border spells doom for the Pacers in my opinion.

Lay the points, play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* PERFECT STORM on the UNDER between the LA Clippers and the Utah Jazz.

The Clippers are in Utah on Thursday night and in my opinion, everything points to more of a defensive battle than a high-scoring shootout.

LA has won five of its last eight and it needs to continue to win if it has any hopes of making the playoffs. So far the Clippers average 109.3 PPG and they concede 108.4. Lou Williams averages 22.7 points and 5.3 assists per game, while DeAndre Jordan adds 12.4 points and 15.4 boards a game. 

Utah is equally as hungry here though as it looks to improve its playoff positioning. It also comes in on top form having won 12 of its last 15. 

The Jazz average only 103.8 PPG, but they make up for it on the defensive end by conceding just 100.2. Donovan Mitchell has been a standout all year by averaging 20.4 points and 3.6 assists per night. 

I’ll point out as well that LA has already seen the total go under the number in nine of 13 this year off an upset win as an underdog, while Utah has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of nine already this season after playing to three or more consecutive “overs.” 

This one should have a playoff like atmosphere. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the under Celtics/Raptors (8:00 EST).

Both teams were in action last night and as such, I absolutely believe they’ll each come in with “heavy legs” here.

Boston enters off a 106-102 loss at Milwaukee, while Toronto fell 112-106 in Cleveland. 

These teams played on Saturday night and Boston scored the 110-99 victory at home and suffice it to say, I think we’re going to witness a much more defensive battle this evening between these two Eastern Conference powerhouses.

The Celtics average 104.2 PPG and they concede 100.1. Kyrie Irving is out of the line-up until the playoffs now after a minor surgery, so it’s Al Horford shouldering the nightly load with 12.8 points, 7.4 boards and 4.8 assists per night. 

The Raptors average 112.3 points and they concede 104.5. DeMar DeRozan leads the way with 23.4 points and 5.2 assists per night, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.5 points, 5.6 boards and 6.9 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Boston has seen the total go under the number in nine of 14 against the division already this year, while Toronto has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven against divisional opponents. 

Fatigue is a major factor at this time of year. The last thing the undermanned Celtics can do is turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to “hang” with the high-flying Raptors.

Everything points to a defensive affair, play on the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:00 EST).

The 56-21 Golden State Warriors are in Oklahoma City to take on the 45-33 Thunder on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

After losing three straight, the Warriors have bounced back to win two in a row. Over lowly Sacramento and Phoenix. 

Kevin Durant led the way for the Warriors in their most recent victory, posting 28 points, 10.5 boards and 6.5 assists. Golden State is pretty much healthy now, however star Stephen Curry remains sidelined likely until the playoffs start with a knee issue.

OKC is just 2-4 in its last six but did bounce back to take out New Orleans most recently, pushing the Thunder to the cusp of clinching a playoff spot. A second win over the defending champs this season would go a long way to re-energize the team for the stretch run.

The Thunder are still a half game behind the Spurs for fourth spot and home court advantage to open the playoffs. The victory over New Orleans was significant to Paul George:

“This is a huge win,” George said afterwards. “This is a great win, playing against an opponent who is in the same position for us. A must win for both teams. It was a step in the right direction for us to pick up a game like this on an opponent’s floor.”

Note that Golden State is just 4-10 ATS in its last 14 road games, while the Thunder are 4-1 ATS in their last five against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest.

The Warriors have issues right now and confidence is one of them. OKC is the “hungrier” team tonight and I think that’ll prove to be the difference.

Lay the points, play on the Thunder.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Denver Nuggets (8:00 EST).

Analysis posted at least six hours before game time.

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Orlando Magic (6:00 EST).

A couple of bottom feeders go head-to-head in this one, but for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visiting side. 

Orlando has lost two in a row and has just two victories out of its last ten, while Atlanta has dropped five straight and nine of ten. 

So where does the advantage lie between two teams which are almost trying to lose at this point so as to better their position in the draft lottery? 

Orlando is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after scoring 84 points or less in its previous contest (fell 90-82 to the lowly Bulls), while Atlanta is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after four or more SU losses.

Both teams are injured, but the continued absence of dynamic guard Dennis Schroeder is clearly weighing heavily on the undermanned Hawks.

Someone has to win this game and I clearly believe that everything points to the Magic coming out on top in this matchup.

While the outright win is obviously not out of the question, I’m going to recommend grabbing the points in the end.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (8:00 EST).

Miami comes in having won two straight, including a 103-92 victory over the lowly Bulls on Thursday. 

Brooklyn enters the final stages of the 2017/18 season in familiar territory, as it looks to prepare for the upcoming draft. However, for a number of different reasons I think the Nets are going to be able to keep this one competitive. 

Spencer Dinwiddie has been a bright spot for Brooklyn of late, averaging 12.7 points, 6.5 assists and 3.3 boards per game. The Nets have been fighting hard, winning four out of their last ten. 

The Heat beat Cleveland 98-79 and then carried that momentum over into the victory over Chicago, but I think they’re poised for a letdown here.

And the numbers/trends support that, as note that Miami is a poor 16-18 ATS as the favorite this year and a horrible 2-10 ATS following a win by ten points or more.

Brooklyn on the other hand has been money in the bank for bettors in this spot by going 24-12 ATS on the road this season and 26-16 ATS against teams with winning records. 

I like the visitors to battle though and to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with what I feel to be a very healthy spread that they’ve been afforded.

Play on Brooklyn.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST).

Dallas comes in off a 103-93 loss to the Lakers on Wednesday, while Minnesota comes in sitting in seventh in the Western Conference, only 1.5 games out of the No. 4 seed (also just 1.5 games out of ninth place in the log-jammed Western Conference.) 

The pressure is on Minnesota and while Dallas won’t be playing in the postseason, I do definitely feel that the thought of playing “spoiler” in some small way will help in keeping this one extremely competitive. 

The Wolves enter off a highly-satisfying 126-114 win over Atlanta, getting a monster game from Karl Anthony Towns with 56 points and 15 boards. 

Harrison Barnes was a bright spot for the Mavs in their latest loss to LA with 17 points, while veteran Dirk Nowitzki would add 13. 

I’ll point out as well that Minnesota has really struggled in this spot for bettors all season by going a poor 9-14 ATS after scoring 115 points or more, while Dallas has performed unbelievably well in this position by going 12-4 ATS this year after a loss by ten points or more. 

Minnesota enjoys a night off before a divisional matchup with equally as hungry Utah at home on Sunday, meaning that a potential “look ahead” to that one is definitely not out of the question either for the visitors.

While I’m going to stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything definitely points to this one coming down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is on the over Suns/Rockets (8:05 EST).

The Suns are playing for a top lottery ball this coming summer, but after ten straight losses, including a 111-99 setback at home to the Clippers on Wednesday, I expect the team to come out fired up tonight as it looks to break the string of futility. 

Houston has won ten straight, most recently smashing the lowly Bulls 118-86 at home on Tuesday. When these teams met on January 28th, it was a rather lower-scoring affair in the Rockets’ 113-102 home win, but I think we’re going to see a more wide-open pace this evening.

Phoenix averages 103.8 PPG and it concedes 113.7. Devin Booker averages a team high 24.9 points and 4.7 assists per game, while Elfrid Payton adds 12.7 points and 6.2 assists. Tyler Ulis led the way in a losing cause last time out though with 23. 

Houston averages 113.6 PPG and it concedes 104.2. James Harden leads the nightly charge with 30.7 points, 5.4 boards and 8.7 assists per game and he didn’t even play in the latest victory, given the night off for rest. Houston easily smashed the Bulls, led by 31 points from Eric Gordon. 

I’ll point out that Houston has seen the total go over the number in (not surprisingly), 20 of 35 this year against good offensive teams which score 106 plus points per contest, while Houston has seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of its last seven after scoring 115 points or more. 

The Rockets’ totals have been sky-high all season and for the year Houston has seen the O/U go 33-41 overall. 

But I’m expecting Phoenix to push the pace tonight and with the expected return of Harden as well, I believe this one flies over the posted number comfortably as the game comes down the stretch.

Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

Indiana comes in on top form, most recently posting its third straight win in a 92-81 victory at Golden State on Tuesday. 

Sacramento has lost two straight, most recently getting upended by Dallas at home 103-97 on Tuesday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Indiana has to be loving its chances today as well as it’s taken three straight in the series, including a 101-83 home victory in the first matchup of the season back on October 31st.

The Pacers enter averaging 105.6 PPG, while conceding 103.9. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 23.2 points, 5.3 boards and 2.25 steals per game average and it was Oladipo who would go on to score 24 points, grab six boards and dish out six assists in the victory over the defending champs.

The Kings average 99.4 PPG and they concede 106.7. De’Aaron Fox averages 11.3 points, 2.6 boards and 4.3 assists per game, while Buddy Hield contributes 13.2 points. Skal Labissiere was a bright spot in the latest setback with 19 points and 18 boards.

I’ll point out that Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five when playing on one days rest, while Sacramento is just 17-21 ATS at home this year.

Sacramento is dealing with injuries (Randolph questionable) and has absolutely nothing to play for at this point. Indiana on the other hand still has a legitimate shot at running down Cleveland for the division lead and as mentioned off the top, the visitors are playing at any extremely high level right now anyways.

Everything screams “blowout” here. Lay the points, play on the Pacers.

Good luck…Larry

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

I don’t normally play underdogs of this size, but for this one I’m going to bend my “rule.” And while I’m definitely not calling for the outright upset, for a number of different reasons I feel that this one will be a lot more competitive in the end than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

New York won’t be in the postseason, but it comes into this one playing competitively overall right now, most recently falling 137-128 in OT to Charlotte on the road on Monday. 

The 76ers come in complacent though in my opinion after seven straight victories, most recently a 123-104 home win over Denver on Monday. 

Note as well that this is an in-season triple-revenge scenario for the Knicks, as the 76ers have taken all three previous meetings this year, including a 118-110 road victory in the most recent on March 15th. 

New York averages 104.5 PPG and it concedes 107.9. Trey Burke had 42 points and 12 assists in the loss to Charlotte. 

Philadelphia averages 108.7 PPG and it concedes 105.5. The 76ers won the rebounding battle 54-37 in their win over the Nuggets, helping offset 17 turnovers. Big man Joel Embiid led the way with 20 points in the victory. 

I’ll point out though that Philadelphia is just 5-9 ATS against the division this year, while New York is 12-5 ATS in its last 17 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent. 

New York may be tired here, but Philadelphia becomes a victim of complacency in my opinion.

Look for the Knicks to battle tough and to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the ample spread they’ve been afforded in this one.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on the Miami Heat (8:00 EST).

Cleveland comes to South Beach off a 121-114 road win over the Nets on Sunday, while Miami enters off a 113-107 OT loss to Indiana in its latest action. 

Note that this is an in-season double revenge scenario for the home side as Cleveland has taken both earlier meetings this year. 

Cleveland averages 111.1 PPG and it concedes 110.3. LeBron James leads the nightly charge with 27.5 points per game, while Kevin Love adds 18 points and 9.4 boards per game. 

Miami averages 103.3 PPG and it concedes 103.1. Hassan Whiteside remains out with injury, but I still think the Heat show up in a big way here as they try to avenge the two earlier losses to the Cavs. Tyler Johnson was a standout in the losing cause to the Pacers most recently with 19 points. 

From a trend based stand point though, there’s no question that this one highly favors the home side, as note that Cleveland is just 11-18 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Miami is 70-48 ATS in its last 118 when trying to revenge a loss against an opponent and 22-15 ATS this year when playing the role of underdog.

I think the Cavs get caught a little complacent here after their five-game win streak and while the outright isn’t out of the question obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Heat.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Denver Nuggets (7:00 EST).

Denver comes to town having won two straight, most recently getting the better of Washington 108-100 on the road on Friday, while Philadelphia has won six straight, most recently a 120-108 home victory over the Wolves on Saturday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the visitors, as Philadelphia snagged the 107-102 road win in the first matchup this year back on December 30th.

Denver comes in averaging 109.8 PPG and it concedes 108.3. Paul Millsap puts up 13.8 points and 6.1 boards per game, while Gary Harris contributes a team high 17.7 points. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray each had 25 points in the most recent victory.

Philadelphia averages 108.5 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Joel Embiid averages 23.3 points, 11 boards and 1.79 blocks per night, while Ben Simmons adds 16 points, 7.9 boards, eight assists and 1.75 steals per night. Embiid led the way in the most recent victory with 19 points.

I’ll point out though that Denver’s done extremely well in this spot for bettors all year, going 7-3 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss.

Conversely, this is a position in which Philadelphia has struggled in, going just 1-4 ATS in its last five after three or more consecutive SU victories.

Philadelphia has hit a vanilla part of its schedule, with its non-conference opponent tonight, followed by the Knicks, Hawks, Hornets and Nets. 

While I do think the outright upset isn’t out of the question, I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end as I believe Philadelphia gets caught complacent and looking ahead and I expect the talented Nuggets to take advantage.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Oddsmakers Error is the over Heat/Pacers (5:05 EST).

Miami’s three-game win streak was snapped with a 105-99 setback at Oklahoma City on Friday, while Indiana enters off a 109-104 home win over the Clippers on Friday. 

So far Miami has taken two of three in this season series, including a 114-106 victory in the most recent matchup here on January 10th. 

The Heat average 103.3 PPG and they concede 103. Goran Dragic averages 17.7 points, four boards and 4.8 assists per game, while James Johnson adds 10.7 points, 4.8 boards and 3.9 assists per game. Johnson led the way in the losing cause last time out with 23 points. 

After losing three of four, the Pacers finally got untracked in their last game against LA and I believe the team carries that momentum over here. Indiana averages 105.7 PPG and it concedes 104.2. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 23.2 points, 5.3 boards and 2.24 steals per game, while Myles Turner adds 13.6 points, 6.8 boards and 1.94 blocks a night. It was Bojan Bogdanovic which led the way in the victory over the Clippers though with 28 points.

I’ll point out as well that Miami has seen the total go over the number in nine of its last 15 against teams with winning records and in 14 of 21 overall since the All Star Game, while Indiana has seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of its last seven after scoring 108 points or more in its previous contest.

These are two Eastern Conference teams hungry for a win and everything points to a high-scoring shootout. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:30 EST).

I base my picks on many different things. I think this one sets up nicely for the Mavericks for a number of different reasons.

The Hornets come off back-to-back wins, including a 140-79 victory over the Grizzlies in their last outing. Not only do I believe that Charlotte will come in complacent here after their epic blowout win, but I also expect it to get caught “looking ahead” to upcoming home games against the Knicks and Cavs. 

The Mavericks won’t be playing in the postseason, but they’ll be eager to break a four-game slide. Dallas has for the most part been a complete disappointment this year, but note that is has in fact done decently in this spot for bettors by going 12-7 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses and 10-6 ATS in its last 16 against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest.

Charlotte on the other hand is a poor 8-11 ATS this season after a win by ten points or more and only 13-20 ATS on the road.

I’m banking on the home side doing just enough to secure the victory, play on the Mavericks.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Miami Heat (8:00 EST).

OKC comes in off disheartening 100-99 loss to Boston and I think it’s going to get caught flat footed here as well against another tough Eastern Conference opponent. 

The Heat come in with momentum as well after smashing the Knicks 119-98 in their most recent outing (their third straight victory.) Kelly Olynyk led the way with 22 points and 10 assists, while Wayne Ellington added 16 points. 

After its six game win streak came to a halt in such dramatic fashion last time out (the Thunder would lose to the Celtics on a late three by Marcus Morris), all signs point to a classic letdown for OKC in this spot as well. Russell Westbrook led the way in the losing cause with 27 points, eight boards and seven assists. 

The Heat don’t have big man Hassan Whiteside in the line-up, but Miami is shooting the ball well right now and I think they’ll keep this one competitive. Also note that the Heat are 22-13 ATS on the road this year and 19-11 ATS against clubs with winning records.

And as good as the Thunder have looked at times this year, this is in fact a position in which they’ve struggled in for bettors by going a horrible 8-16 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite and a brutal 15-20 ATS in front of the home town crowd.

I’m not calling for the outright upset, but everything points to a “nail biter.” Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

LA broke a four-game slide with a 127-120 road win in Milwaukee on Wednesday, while Indiana fell 96-92 in New Orleans on Wednesday. 

The Clippers come into this one averaging 109.5 PPG and they concede 108.7. Tobias Harris averages 18.5 points and 5.6 boards, while Avery Bradley adds 14.3. DeAndre Jordan is the big man in the middle and he provides 12.3 points and 15.4 boards a night and he had 25 points and 25 boards in the victory over the Bucks.

The Pacers average 105.6 PPG and they concede 104.2. Victor Oladipo posted 21points and eight boards in the loss to the Pelicans. 

From a trend based stand point, this one definitely favors the home side though, as note that LA has struggled in this spot for bettors by going 1-4 ATS in its last five when playing on one days rest and just 1-5 ATS in its last six following a SU victory, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five following a loss in which it scored 93 points or less in. 

The Pacers still have a shot at home court advantage through the playoffs and they catch a Clippers team looking ahead to their road trip finale in Toronto. 

I like Indiana to defend home its home floor, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The Nuggets snapped a two game slide with a 135-102 win at Chicago on Wednesday, while the Wizards’ two game win streak came to an end in Wednesday’s 98-90 loss in San Antonio. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then Washington has to be liking its chances tonight as it’s taken three straight in this series, including the first one this year 109-104 back on October 23rd.

Denver comes into this one averaging 109.8 PPG and it concedes 108.4. Nikola Jokic leads the nightly charge with 17.5 points, 10.5 boards and six assists per game, while Garry Harris adds a team high 17.7 points. Paul Millsap led the way with 22 points, eight boards and five steals in the victory over the Bulls.

Washington averages 107.3 PPG and it concedes 106. Bradley Beal is the leader with John Wall sidelined with injury and he averages 23.2 PPG, while Otto Porter Jr. adds 14.8 points, 6.5 boards and 1.6 steals per contest. 

I’ll point out that the Nuggets are already just 1-4 ATS in their last five when playing on one days rest and 0-4 ATS in their last four following a straight up victory of more than ten points, while the Wizards are 6-2 ATS in their last eight after scoring 90 points or less in their previous outing.

The Nuggets lost to Memphis and Miami before the win over the Bulls. Washington struggled against the red hot Spurs, but a little home cooking is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked.

Lay the points, play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Detroit Pistons (8:05 EST).

I don’t normally play underdogs of this size, but I think this is a great spot to pull the trigger on hungry Detroit.

The Rockets are arguably the best team in the league this year. After a tough loss in Toronto Houston has reeled off six straight victories, including a tight 115-111 win at Portland last time out. 

This is the opener of an extended home stretch for the Rockets, with upcoming games against Detroit tonight, followed by lightweights New Orleans, Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. 

After three straight road wins, I do absolutely feel that this sets up as a letdown spot for the Rockets vs. their non-conference opponent this evening. 

The Pistons on the other hand are in a dog-fight right now for a playoff spot in the East, but they do come into this one with momentum after back-to-back road victories, most recently downing the Suns 115-88 on Tuesday. 

Note that Detroit is 5-2 ATS already this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Houston is just 10-15 ATS in non-conference contests this season.

Sure the Pistons’ recent victories have been over the bottom feeders in the West, but I still think they’re going to keep this one competitive. 

The Rockets should still win this one straight up, but the conditions are definitely right for a much closer battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Washington Wizards (9:30 EST).

Washington comes to town with momentum after two straight wins. Bradley Beal had 19 points and big man Marcin Gortat added 18 in the Wizards most recent 109-102 victory at home over the Pacers. 

This game means a lot to the Wizards still, as they’re in a battle for home court advantage in the Eastern Conference at 40-30 and sitting just a half-game back of the Pacers for the No. 4 seed.

San Antonio has been playing a lot better, winner of four straight and coming off an impressive 89-75 win at home over the Warriors. LaMarcus Aldridge led the way in that one with 33 points and 12 boards. The Spurs sit just one game back of OKC for home court advantage in the playoffs, but with a tough game at home against Utah on Friday, followed by an extended Eastern road swing, it’s definitely not too hard to imagine the home side finally having a letdown here against its non-conference opponent.

And that’s exactly what I’m banking on happening. 

Note as well that Washington is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 when playing with three or more days rest, while San Antonio is just 14-19 ATS this season against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest.

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

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (7:00 EST).

Toronto comes in off a much-harder than expected 93-86 win at Orlando just last night and suffice it to say, I’m definitely expecting a classic “letdown” from the visitors here.

The Raptors annihilated the Cavaliers 133-99 in mid January and now it’s payback time for LeBron James and company. 

The Cavs come in with some momentum as well as they’ve won two straight, most recently a 124-117 home victory against Milwaukee on Monday. 

The Raptors average 112.5 PPG and they concede 103.9. DeMar DeRozan averages 23.7 points and 5.1 assists per night, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.4 points, 5.6 boards and 6.7 assists per game. 

The Cavaliers average 110.5 PPG and they concede 110.2. James averages 27.3 points, 8.7 boards and nine assists per game, while Kevin Love adds 17.9 points and 9.3 boards a night. 

With a game at home against the lowly Nets on Friday, I think the Raptors finally have a letdown here.

This is a big game for Cleveland and I expect James to rally the troops and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Play on the Cavaliers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is on the under Clippers/Wolves (8:00 EST).

These two Western Conference teams are banged up and injured and each is playing for a spot in the postseason. When the smoke clears at the end of this one, I expect this total to stay well below the posted number.

The Clippers will be desperate here after three straight losses, most recently a 122-109 setback at home to Portland on Sunday.

The Wolves can empathize as they’ve lost two straight, most recently a 129-120 setback at home to the Rockets.

LA plays with revenge here as Minnesota has taken five straight in the series, including all three so far this year (including a high-scoring 126-118 road win in the latest matchup back on January 22nd.)

The Clippers average 109.3 PPG and they concede 108.3. DeAndre Jordan puts up 12 points and 15.4 boards per game, while Lou Williams adds 23 points and 5.3 assists per night. Williams was a bright spot in LA’s latest loss with 30 points off the bench.

The Wolves average 109.8 PPG and they concede 107.6. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.7 points and 12.2 boards per game, but it was Jeff Teague that led the way in a losing cause against Houston with 23 points and 11 assists. 

These teams are similar in that neither plays a lick of defense and each is always looking to push the pace. That’s why it’s important to note that LA has in fact seen the total go under the number in 13 of its last 21 after three or more consecutive losses, while Minnesota has seen the total dip below the posted number in 17 of its last 27 when the total in the contest is greater than or equal to 220.

I’m expecting an all out war from start to finish and for this total to sneak below the posted number once the final horn blares.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Oddsmakers Errors is on the under Bulls/Knicks (7:35 EST).

Neither team has anything to play for and I don’t believe they’ll be particularly motivated either. In a contest like that, I believe the under offers great value.

Chicago has alternated wins and losses over its last eight games, most recently falling 114-109 at home to Cleveland, while New York broke a nine-game slide with a 124-101 win at home over Charlotte on Saturday. 

Chicago has taken all three meetings between the clubs this year, including a high-scoring 122-119 double OT victory here in the last matchup on January 10th. 

Chicago comes in averaging 103.7 PPG and it concedes 109.5. Lauri Markkanen averages 14.9 points and 7.6 boards per game, while Robin Lopez adds 12 points and 4.5 boards a night. It was Denzel Valentine who shone in a losing cause to the Cavs though with 34 points, seven boards and six assists (Markkanen sat that game out though and he’s questionable for tonight as well. Same for Zach LaVine.)

New York averages 104.3 PPG and it concedes 107.7. Tim Hardaway Jr. had 25 points in the win over Charlotte. With big man Kristaps Porzingis sidelined with injury for the rest of the year, the Knicks are simply playing out the rest of their season at this point.

I’ll point out that Chicago has seen the total go under the number in 17 of 28 already this year against clubs with losing records, while New York has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of five already this season after playing three connective home games.

Both teams are dealing with significant injuries right now and each has more questions than answers. This number is a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

Denver is stumbling down the stretch as it enters off a poor 101-94 road defeat at Memphis on Saturday to kick off its seven game road trip. Miami returns home off a 1-2 road trip, salvaging a victory in the final game 92-91 over the Lakers on Friday. Note that this is a double revenge game for the Heat, including losing the first matchup 95-94 this season in Denver back on November 3rd.

The Nuggets average 109 PPG and they concede 107.9. Big man Nikola Jokic had 17 points and 12 boards in a losing cause last time out. 

Miami averages 102.5 PPG and it concedes 102.5 as well. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.3 points and 11.8 boards per night, while Goran Dragic adds 17.6 points and 4.8 boards a game. 

I’ll point out as well that Denver has struggled in this position for bettors of late, going just 1-4 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss and just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road, while Miami has done well in this position by going 4-0 ATS in its last four at home and 6-1-2 ATS in its last nine following an ATS victory.

Denver is just 11-22 on the road and I think the Heat take advantage here and avenge the earlier setback. Lay the points, play on Miami.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U ODDSMAKERS ERROR is on the under OKC/TO (1:05 EST).

OKC won its fifth in a row with a 121-113 effort at home over the Clippers on Friday and suffice it to say, I think the Thunder are in store for a bit of a letdown here. 

Toronto has won 11 straight and 18 of 19 after a much tougher than expected 122-115 OT victory at home over the lowly Mavericks in its most recent action. And now another Western Conference opponent comes to town, but this time a much more dangerous one.

OKC averages 107.1 PPG and it concedes just 103.8. Russell Westbrook leads the nightly charge with 25.2 points, 9.7 boards, 10.2 assists and 1.78 steals per game, while Paul George adds 21.8 points, 5.6 boards and 2.04 steals per game. It was Corey Brewer though who came off the bench to lead everyone in the Thunders’ most recent victory with 22 points. 

Toronto averages 112.3 PPG and it concedes 103.5. DeMar DeRozan leads the team with 23.7 points and 5.1 assiss per night and he had 29 points and six assists in the win over Dallas.

I’ll point out though that OKC has seen the total go under the number in four of its last six after scoring 120 points or more in its previous contest, while Toronto has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven after winning in OT in its previous game in which its opponent scored 115 points or more. 

I’m expecting a slower-paced defensive affair. This number is a little high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (10:05 EST).

Portland looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after 11 straight victories. Detroit sits 5.5 games back in the Eastern conference playoff race after losing six of its last seven.

Most recently the Pistons fell 120-113 at Denver on Thursday. Detroit has games at Sacramento and Phoenix upcoming, but clearly the team can leave nothing to chance as it desperately tries to run down the final playoff spot. Blake Griffin was a bright spot in the most recent setback with 26 points.

Portland comes in off a 113-105 win over Cleveland and it’s now scored 114.4 points over its last five games on average. CJ McCollum led the way offensively against the Cavs with 29 points. 

With a game tomorrow night at the Clippers, there’s no doubt though that this one sets up as not only a “letdown” spot for the over achieving home side, but also a “look ahead” position as well. 

Detroit is hungry and desperate and I look for it to at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:05 EST).

Brooklyn comes to town off two straight losses, most recently a 116-102 home loss to Toronto on Tuesday. The Nets won’t be playing in the postseason, but I think they’ll at the very least keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch against this highly contented 76ers side which comes in off a come-from behind 118-110 win in New York just last night.

Brooklyn averages 105.8 PPG and it concedes 110.2. D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 16.1 points and 4.8 assists per night. Note that Russell had 32 points in a losing cause to Toronto last time out. 

Philadelphia averages 107.8 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Note that the 76ers are just 5-7 against the division though. Joel Embiid leads the nightly charge with 23.5 points, 11 boards and 1.76 blocks per night. 

I’ll point out as well that Brooklyn has in fact excelled in this spot for bettors by going 19-11 ATS this year against good offensive teams which score 106 plus points per contest, while Philadelphia has struggled in this position by going 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 115 points or more in its previous outing.

This is the 76ers third game in four nights, while the Nets come to town having had two whole days of rest. While I’m not going to call for the outright upset, everything points to a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Grab the points, play on Brooklyn.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (9:00 EST).

The desperate 30-37 Detroit Pistons are in Denver to take on the 37-31 Nuggets on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Detroit won five straight when it brought over Blake Griffin from LA, but the team has since lost 11 of its last 14 to fall 5.5 games behind Miami for the final spot in the East. 

The Pistons started their road trip off with a terrible 110-79 loss at Utah, as Grffin had 13 points in the losing cause. 

Denver had its two game win streak snapped with a 112-103 setback to the Lakers on the road on Tuesday. Like Detroit, the Nuggets are fighting for a playoff spot. Wilson Chandler had 26 points and ten boards in the most recent setback to the Lakers. 

I’ll point out as well that Detroit has in fact bounced back well in this spot for bettors already this year, going 3-1 ATS after scoring 85 points or less in its previous contest and 4-2 ATS in its last six after a loss by ten points or more.

Denver on the other hand has struggled in this position by going just 9-12 ATS in all non-conference games and just 15-18 ATS against teams with losing records.

Desperation breeds motivation. I’m going to stop short in calling for the outright upset, but everything points to this one being more competitive than what the oddsmakers are trying to make us think. 

Grab the points, play on the Pistons.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Miami Heat (10:05 EST).

Miami is fighting for a playoff spot, while Sacramento is fighting for ping pong balls in the upcoming offseason NBA draft. 

The Heat had won two in a row and four of five before falling 115-99 on the road to Portland on Monday, while the Kings come in off a second straight loss, dropping a 106-101 road decision to the Thunder on Monday. 

Note that this is also an “in season revenge game” for the visitors after the Kings scored the 89-88 road upset back on January 25th.

Miami averages 102.4 PPG and it concedes 102.3. Goran Dragic averages 17.2 points, 4.1 boards and 4.9 assists per night and he had 23 in a losing cause to the Blazers. 

Sacramento averages 99.3 PPG and it concedes 107.2. De’Aaron Fox has been impressive in his rookie year with 11.4 points, 2.6 boards and 4.4 assists per night, while Buddy Hield averages 12.5 points. It was Bogdan Bogdanovic who led the way in a losing cause against OKC though with 19 points.

I’ll point out that Miami has done very well in this spot for bettors of late by going 4-0 ATS in its last four following a SU loss of more than ten points and 6-1-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS loss. 

The Kings have been somewhat competitive of late and the Heat are dealing with injuries, but I still think the visitors have enough weaponry left on the bench to get the job done this evening. 

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is the under Nuggets/Lakers (10:35 EST).

The 37-30 Denver Nuggets are in LA to take on the 30-36 Lakers on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

LA is 7-2 in its last nine, most recently getting the better of Cleveland in a high-scoring affair on Sunday. Can anyone say “letdown spot?” 

Denver comes to town hot off back-to-back wins, including over these very Lakers and against the Kings last time out. 

The Nuggets got 20 points, 11 boards and ten assists out of big man Nikola Jokic in the victory over the Kings.

The Lakers will be out to atone for their 125-116 setback at Denver last Friday. Note that Julius Randle exploded for 36 points in the victory over the Cavaliers.

I’ll point out though that Denver has seen the total go under the number in six of ten this year after playing three consecutive home games, while LA has seen the total dip below the posted number in 30 of its last 53 off an upset win as an underdog. 

Let’s face it, these two teams clearly don’t put a lot of stock on the defensive side of things, but I think each comes out with a more determined effort on that side of the floor after their high-scoring game together just last week.

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (9:05 EST).

Detroit got off the schneid, breaking a four-game losing streak with a 99-83 win over the Bulls on Friday, led by 25 points from Blake Griffin and 21 from Reggie Bullock. 

The Pistons are still trying to adjust since making the Griffin trade, but the power forward comes in on fire this year, especially from range where he’s connecting on 33.5 percent of his shots. Also note that big man Andre Drummond is shooting a career-high 61.6 percent from the free throw line this season and he contributes 14.9 points and 15.8 boards per game. 

Detroit won’t be taking anything for granted here though after losing 13 of its last 20 and at the start of this tough Western swing. 

The Jazz have won eight of ten, including six straight, which leads me to believe they’re going to have a letdown here facing this non-conference opponent. And with upcoming games against lightweights Phoenix, Sacramento and Atlanta at home up next, Utah could easily be caught looking ahead here as well. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Detroit has done well in this spot for bettors all year by going 12-8 ATS in all non-conference contests, while Utah is a poor 5-6 ATS this season after playing three consecutive road games. 

Both teams are hungry for wins, but the conditions point to a much tighter affair than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Pistons.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Miami Heat (10:35 EST).

Miami comes in with momentum after smashing the Wizards 129-102 at home on Saturday. Portland has bee playing unbelievably of late, but I think this sets up as a classic letdown spot after nine straight victories, most recently getting the better of Golden State 125-108 on Friday night. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be an understatement as well, as Portland has won four straight in the series, including a 102-95 road victory in the first meeting between the clubs this year in Miami back on December 13th. 

Miami averages 102.4 PPG and it concedes 102.1. James Johnson had 20 points and five assists to lead eight players in double figures in his team’s most recent victory.

Portland averages 105.6 PPG and it concedes 103.2. CJ McCollum was a standout with 30 points in the victory over the defending champs.

However, not only do I think this sets up as a “trap/letdown” spot for the Blazers, but I also think it’s a classic “look ahead” spot as well, with two nights off before facing the Cavaliers at home on Thursday. 

While I wouldn’t be shocked by the outright upset, all signs point to a “nail-biter.” Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL Oddsmakers Error is on the under Cavs/Lakers (8:00 EST).

The 38-27 Cavaliers are in LA to play the 29-36 Lakers on Sunday night and everything points to a defensive battle in my opinion. 

Maybe it won’t be the best overall defensive game we’ve ever seen, but I still think this number is much too high. 

Cleveland comes in off a 116-112 loss to the Clippers on Friday and it would also lose the services of Rodney Hood and Cedi Osman to injury in the setback. 

LA is 6-2 in its last eight, but its win streak was de-railed last time out in Denver, falling 125-116. The Lakers have a rematch with the Nuggets on Tuesday, so there’s no question in my mind that this young team could be caught looking ahead to that more important contest. 

I’ll point out as well that Cleveland has in fact seen the total go under the number in six of its last nine against good offensive clubs which average 106 plus points per contest and 16 of 22 this season following a non-conference game, while LA has seen the total dip below the posted number in interestingly five of its last seven against poor defensive clubs which concede 106-plus points per night.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is the over Spurs/Thunder (8:35 EST).

These were two teams with big expectations entering the season, but each finds itself needing to string together some victories just to ensure that it’ll have a playoff spot.

Each is dealing with injuries and other issues, but I believe the conditions lend themselves to a higher-scoring affair between these extremely hungry opponents.

The Spurs enter off a 110-107 road loss to Golden State in their most recent action, while OKC smashed Phoenix 115-87 at home on Thursday to break a two-game slide. 

San Antonio has lost seven of its last nine and it averages just 102.2 PPG, while conceding 99.6. Big man LaMarcus Aldridge averages 22.4 points and 8.4 boards per night (note that he had 30 points and 17 boards in the loss to the Warriors.)

OKC averages 106.8 PPG and it concedes 103.8. Russell Westbrook averages 25.4 points, 9.6 boards, 10.1 assists and 1.86 steals per game and he had 25 points, eight boards and nine assists in his team’s most recent victory. 

The Spurs may be the stingiest team in the NBA overall this season, but head coach Greg Popovich has been changing up the pace of late, as note that San Antonio has seen the total go over the number in eight of 12 so far in the second half of the season.

OKC is another top defensive club, which makes it important to note that it’s seen the total eclipse the posted number in four of its last five against teams with winning records.

For all the reasons listed above, play the OVER.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Oddsmakers Error is on the over Knicks/Bucks (8:05 EST).

New York is struggling down the stretch, but I think it’ll put up enough of a fight against the Bucks to make the home side sweat a little. 

The Knicks most recently dropped their fifth straight, a poor 111-87 setback on the road in Portland on Tuesday. 

The Bucks won’t be taking anything for granted here though, as they come in having lost two straight, most recently a 110-99 setback at home to Houston on Wednesday. Note that so far the Bucks have taken both meetings against New York this year.

New York averages 103.8 PPG and it concedes 107.1. Enes Kanter averages 14.3 points and 10.8 boards per game, while Tim Hardaway Jr. adds 17 points a night. Hardaway had 19 points in a losing cause to the Blazers last time out.

Milwaukee averages 104.6 PPG and it concedes 105.2. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 27.2 points, 10.2 boards, 4.8 assists, 1.46 blocks and 1.46 steals per game, while Khris Middleton adds 19.7 points and 5.2 boards per night. 

I’ll point out that New York has in fact seen the total go over the number in five of eight already this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Milwaukee has seen the total eclipse the posted number in not surprisingly five of its last seven against poor defensive clubs which concede 106-plus points per night.

Milwaukee is desperate for a victory and I look for it to get out and run tonight. Everything points to a faster-paced, higher-scoring over in my opinion.

Good luck…Larry

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

Chicago looks poised for a predictable letdown here in my opinion after winning its second straight, most recently a 119-110 win over Memphis on Friday. 

It’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the Pistons though, who have lost four straight, most recently a tight 121-119 OT setback at home to the Raptors on Wednesday. 

Note that this also sets up as an “in season revenge game” for the home side after the Bulls took the first meeting 107-105 in Chicago back on January 13th.

The Bulls enter averaging 103.4 PPG and conceding 109.4. Zach LaVine averages 17.1 points, while rookie Lauri Markkanen adds 14.9 points and 7.6 boards per night and he had 22 in his team’s most recent victory.

Detroit needs to stop the bleeding now, as it sits five games back of the Bucks for the final playoff spot with 17 games remaining. The Pistons had a 14 point half time lead against Toronto, but couldn’t hold it together against the East leading Raptors down the stretch. 

The Pistons average 103.1 PPG and they concede 104.4. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 21.7 points, 7.5 boards and 5.5 assists per night and he had 31 in a losing cause against Toronto.

I’ll point out though that Chicago is 0-4 ATS in its last four following an ATS victory, while Detroit is still a competitive 7-5 ATS against the division this season. 

The Bulls two recent victories came over Dallas and Memphis, but they now face a desperate and hungry team that’s going to be risking life and limb today in trying to secure a victory.

This line could easily be a lot larger in my opinion. Lay the points, play on the Pistons.

Good luck…Larry

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

Boston lost to Houston, but then bounced back with a 105-89 win in Chicago on Monday. This is the final game of the C’s road trip and I think they suffer a letdown here against the hungry Wolves, who enter off two straight losses, most recently a 116-108 setback at Utah on Friday. 

This is a revenge game for Minnesota as well, which has dropped three straight in the series, including a 91-84 setback at Boston on January 5th. 

Boston comes into this one averaging 104.4 PPG and it concedes 100.1. Kyrie Irving leads the nightly charge with 24.8 points and 5.1 assists per game, while Al Horford adds 12.8 points, 7.5 boards and 4.9 assists per night. Jaylen Brown led all scorers though with 21 in Boston’s win over the Bulls.

Minnesota averages 109.7 PPG and it concedes 107. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.4 points and 12.2 boards per game, while Anthony Wiggins adds 17.9 and 4.1 a night. Wiggins was a bright spot with 27 points in the losing cause to the Jazz.

With two nights off before a game at home against Indiana, I think Boston gets caught looking ahead here.

The Wolves are injured, but they’re rested and determined. I’m banking on the home side taking advantage and rallying, play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (8:05 EST).

The Raptors are an awesome team, but I think they come in “gassed” here in the second game of the back to back. Toronto was in action just last night, pulling away for a relatively simple 106-90 win over Atlanta.

Detroit plays with in-season double revenge, most recently falling to the Raptors 123-94 in late February. The Pistons also play with desperation after three straight losses, most recently a humbling 112-90 setback on the road in Cleveland on Monday. 

Toronto averages 111.9 PPG and it concedes 103.3. DeMar DeRozan averages 23.7 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.5 points, 5.8 boards and 6.5 assists per game. At this point clinching a playoff spot is not a a matter of if, but when for Toronto, as the Raptors sit 17 games ahead of the Pistons, who are hungry to snap their slide and get out of the ninth place spot in the East. 

Detroit averages 102.9 PPG and it concedes 104.1. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 21.5 points, 7.6 boards and 5.5 assists per night. Griffin had 25 points, eight boards and five assists in his team’s most recent setback to Cleveland.

With a night off before welcoming the league-leading Rockets to town on Friday night, I also think this sets up as a potential “look ahead” spot for the visitors.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, everything points to this one coming right down to the wire.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Oddsmaker’s Error is on the under Pelicans/Clippers (10:35 EST).

LA sits just a game back of Denver for the final playoff spot in the West, while New Orleans will be looking to improve its playoff positioning. 

Then Pelicans enter off a 126-109 win over Dallas on Sunday, getting 30 points from Jrue Holiday. Big man Anthony Davis had 23 points, 13 boards, three steals and three blocks. 

LA is 9-3 in its last 12 after holding on for a 123-120 win over Brooklyn, overcoming a 15-point third quarter deficit. Austin Rivers had a team-high 27 points, while Lou Williams added 21. 

The first thing that comes to mind when you think about these two teams is high-scoring offense and very little defense.

And that’s why it’s important to note that the Pelicans have in fact seen the total go under the number in three of their last four following a win by ten points or more, while LA has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven home games when the total in the contest is greater than or equal to 220. 

This can still be a high-scoring affair and stay below this sky-high number and that’s exactly what I expect to happen. This number is indeed just a tad high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST).

The 35-28 Denver Nuggets are in Dallas to take on the 19-45 Mavericks and while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Denver looks poised for a classic letdown here in my opinion after beating the Cavs 126-117 in Cleveland on Saturday night. 

In fact, it’s impossible not to think that the Nuggets won’t also be caught “looking ahead” here to their game at home against Cleveland in the re-match tomorrow night. 

Dallas on the other hand is looking to atone for a 126-109 setback to New Orleans on Sunday. 

Denver averages 108.7 PPG and it concedes 107.5. Dallas averages 102.2 PPG and it concedes 105.1. 

Note though that the Nuggets have had a hell of a time whenever they’ve played in Dallas of late, as evidenced by their 1-5-1 ATS record in their last seven played there. 

Dallas is a prime candidate for a top pick in the NBA draft in the offseason, but I think it puts up a fight tonight. I’ll also point out that the Mavs are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last four following a double-digit home loss.

The Nuggets are quite possibly the biggest “Jekyll and Hyde” team in the league with a poor 11-19 road record and I expect the Mavericks to take advantage of that. 

Grab the points, play on Dallas.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Wizards (7:05 EST).

Miami comes in off a very satisfying 125-103 win over the Suns just last night and suffice it to say, I think the team will be “gassed” here in the second game of the back to back.

Washington on the other hand won’t be leaving anything to chance this evening as it’s lost three straight, most recently a 98-95 setback to Indiana on Sunday. 

Miami comes into this one averaging just 101.4 PPG, while conceding 102. Hassan Whiteside averages 13.9 points and 12 boards per game, while Goran Dragic contributes 17.4 points, 4.1 boards and 4.9 assists per night. 

Washington averages 107 PPG and it concedes 105.4. Bradley Beal is the main man right now and he averages 23.4 PPG, while big man Marcin Gortat adds 8.6 points and 7.8 boards per night.

I’ll point out as well that Miami is a horrible 2-8 ATS this year following a win by ten points or more, while Washington is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 when playing on one days rest.

The Wizards need a win desperately and they simply couldn’t have asked for a better overall situation with this one. Everything points to a home side rout in my opinion, so lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Detroit Pistons (7:00 EST).

Detroit won’t be rolling over as it comes in having lost two straight, most recently a 105-96 road setback in Miami on Saturday. Cleveland can empathize, as it comes in having lost two straight as well, most recently a 126-117 home setback to Denver on Saturday. 

Note that so far the Cavs have taken two of three meetings between the clubs this season.

Detroit averages 103.1 PPG and it concedes 104. Blake Griffin averages 21.5 points, 7.6 boards and 5.5 assists per night, while Andre Drummond adds 15.2 points, 15.8 boards and 1.64 steals per game. Griffin did everything he could in his team’s latest loss with 31 points and six assists.

The Cavaliers average 110 PPG and they concede 110.1. LeBron James averages 26.7 points, 8.4 boards and 9.1 assists per game, while Kevin Love adds 17.9 points and 9.4 boards. The problem for Cleveland right now though is that Love remains injured.

Cleveland’s new pieces have looked good at times and pretty pedestrian in others. It’s a night to night balancing act for James until Love returns.

No excuses for the Pistons though, who have had well over a month to work Griffin into the fold. 

I’ll point out that Detroit is 7-4 ATS against the division this year, while Cleveland is just 5-7 ATS against divisional opponents.

Both teams have more questions than answers right now, but the overall situation points to a very competitive affair in my opinion. As such, I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Oddsmakers Error is on the Brooklyn Nets (9:05 EST).

Brooklyn remains competitive, although it comes in off a second straight loss, this time falling 116-111 in OT to Sacramento on Thursday. LA comes in complacent though in my opinion after smashing the Knicks 128-105 at home on Friday. 

Not surprisingly, this sets up as a revenge game for the visitors after the Clippers won 114-101 on the road in the first matchup in mid February.

Brooklyn enters averaging 105.6 PPG and it concedes 109.7. D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 15.8 points and five assists per night, while DeMarre Carroll adds 13.4 points and 6.6 boards.

LA averages 108.9 PPG and it concedes 107.8. DeAndre Jordan averages 11.8 points and 15 boards per game, while Lou Williams adds 23.2 points and 5.4 assists per night. Williams had 21 points and eight assists in the Clippers most recent victory over the hapless Knicks.

I’ll point out though that Brooklyn has performed well in this spot for bettors by going 22-13 ATS against clubs with winning records this year.

The Nets are also 16-9 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest.

The Clippers have been playing extremely well, but note that they’re still only 22-30 ATS in their last 52 after scoring 115 points or more in their previous contest.

With New Orleans and Cleveland coming to town next, I think the home side gets caught looking past its lowly non-conference opponent this evening.

Grab the points, play on the Nets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Charlotte Hornets (6:05 EST).

The Hornets will be hungry and focused here after dropping their second straight in a 110-99 setback at Philadelphia on Friday. 

Conversely, I think this sets up as a bit of a letdown spot for the Raptors after they won their third straight in a 102-95 road effort in Washington on Friday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as Toronto has so far won all three meetings this year, including a 123-103 road victory on February 11th in the most recent.

The Hornets average 106.7 PPG and they concede 106.7 as well. Kemba Walker leads the nightly charge with 23.1 points and 5.8 assists per night, while Dwight Howard adds 15.9 points and 12.4 boards per game. 

The Raptors average 112.1 PPG and they concede 103.4. DeMar DeRozan leads the way with 23.7 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry chips in 16.5 points, 5.7 boards and 6.5 assists.

With bottom feeder Atlanta up next, it’s not too hard to imagine the red hot Raptors finally having a bit of mental letdown here. 

Clearly the revenge-minded Hornets don’t have the same luxury as the team tries to desperately stay in the playoff picture.

While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to a very competitive battle in my opinion. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is on the under Lakers/Spurs (9:05 EST).

I think the Lakers have a bit of a mental letdown here after winning four straight, most recently smashing the Heat 131-113 on the road on Thursday. The Spurs clearly won’t be taking anything for granted here after falling 121-116 at home to New Orleans in their most recent action.

Note that the Lakers posted the lower-scoring 93-81 home win in the first meeting between the clubs this season and in my opinion, all signs point to a similar final combined outcome here as well.

LA averages 108.3 PPG and it concedes 110. Isaiah Thomas had 29 points off the bench in his teams most recent victory. 

San Antonio averages only 102.2 PPG, but it makes up for it on the defensive side by conceding a league best 99.2 PPG. Rudy Gay came off the bench to score 19 points in the loss to the Pelicans.

Despite its recent success, I’ll point out that LA has still seen the total go under the number in three of its last four after scoring 130 points or more in its previous contest, while San Antonio has seen the total dip below the posted number in ten of 13 already this season when playing with two days of rest.

In my opinion, everything points to the under as the correct call in this one.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Chicago Bulls (8:05 EST).

Dallas beat Indiana 109-103 and then promptly fell 111-110 in OT to the Thunder in its next outing. Suffice it to say, I think the visitors have a predictable letdown here after that “close miss.” 

Chicago won’t be playing in the postseason, it’s just 20-41 overall. Injuries to its starting line-up is one of the main reasons for the overall poor record, but the team continues to get healthier as the season comes to a close. 

The Bulls will be hungry here as they’ve lost five straight. They knocked off Dallas 127-124 in early January and I believe they’re going to do it again here at home as well. 

Dallas averages 102.1 PPG and it concedes 104.7. Harrison Barnes was a bright spot in the losing cause to OKC with 26 points and he leads the nightly charge with 18.3 points, plus 6.4 boards per night. 

Chicago averages 103.3 PPG and it concedes 109.6. Zach LaVine has put up 17.7 points per night since returning to the line-up, while Lauri Markkanen adds 14.8 points, plus 7.6 boards per game. 

I’ll point out as well that Dallas is just 6-11 ATS as the favorite this year, while Chicago is 4-2 ATS after playing three consecutive road games.

With a night off before an extended home stand, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors coming in complacent here against their lowly non-conference opponent. But the Bulls clearly don’t have the same luxury as they desperately try to break the skid.

This one sets up beautifully for Chicago in my opinion.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Sacramento Kings (10:05 EST).

The Nets lost for the ninth time in their last ten games in a “close but not cigar” 129-123 setback at Cleveland on Tuesday, while the Kings enter having lost five in a row, most recently a 116-99 setback at Portland on Tuesday. 

Brooklyn averages 105.5 PPG and it concedes 109.6. D’Angelo Russell leads the way with 15.8 points and 4.8 assist per game, while DeMarre Carroll adds 13.3 points and 6.6 boards per night. Note that Russell led the way in the loss to the Cavs with 25 points and six assists.

Sacramento averages 99 PPG and it concedes 107.2. De’Aaron Fox averages 11.4 points, 2.6 boards and 4.4 assists per night, while Buddy Hield averages 12.7. Veteran Zach Randolph had 20 points in a losing cause to the Blazers last time out.

I’ll point out though that Brooklyn is interestingly just 3-7 ATS in its last ten against poor defensive clubs which allow 106 plus points per night, while Sacramento is 26-19 ATS the last two years after three or more consecutive SU losses.

With upcoming games at the Clippers and Golden State to end their Western swing, I think the Nets come out complacent here against the lowly, albeit extremely “hungry” Kings.

A great spot for Sacramento to get back into the winners circle. Play on the Kings.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the under between the Pelicans and Spurs (8:35 EST).

The 34-26 New Orleans Pelicans are in San Antonio to take on the 36-25 Spurs on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it. 

New Orleans has won six straight behind some amazing play from big man Anthony Davis, but I think he and the surging Pelicans will get slowed down tonight against the Spurs tough defense and their big LaMarcus Aldridge. 

The Pelicans currently sit 1.5 games behind San Antonio for fourth place in the West. Davis most recently posted 53 points, 18 boards and five blocks in a 125-116 win over the Suns on Monday. 

San Antonio snapped a four-game slide with a 110-94 win over Cleveland on Sunday and suffice it to say, I expect the team to carry that momentum over here. The Spurs got some very encouraging news as well recently, as Kawhi Leonard is expected to return to the line-up within the next week or so. 

I’ll point out that New Orleans has seen the total go under the number in 25 of its last 42 against the division, while San Antonio has seen the total dip below the posted number in seven of ten already this year after playing three consecutive road games and in ten of 12 when playing with two days of rest.

The Pelicans beat the Spurs 107-90 at home on November 22nd and in my opinion, everything points to a similar final combined score here as well.

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

Good luck…Larry

My 8* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Detroit Pistons (7:05 EST).

Milwaukee has lost three of its last four, most recently falling 107-104 at home to Washington just last night, while Detroit enters having lost three straight, most recently a 123-94 setback in Toronto on Monday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Pistons, as Milwaukee has taken two of three in the season series already this year, including a 104-100 victory in the most recent matchup back on December 6th. 

Milwaukee comes into this one averaging 105.2 PPG and it concedes 105.2 as well. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 27.6 points, 10.3 boards, 4.9 assists, 1.31 blocks and 1.44 steals per game. Note that the Bucks are just 14-15 on the road this year.

Detroit averages 103.1 PPG and it concedes 104.1. Blake Griffin averages 21.8 points, 7.8 boards and 5.4 assists per night, while Andre Drummond adds 15.1 points, 15.7 boards and 1.6 steals per game. 

I’ll point out though that Milwaukee is just 3-6 ATS against the division this year, while Detroit is 7-4 ATS in the same position.

The Bucks come in tired and dejected after last night’s setback. The Pistons have been playing terribly of late, but they’re not out of the playoff picture yet. Here’s the perfect opponent and opportunity to get untracked against. 

In my opinion, the stage is set for a lop-sided blowout. Play on Detroit.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT is on the Miami Heat (7:30 EST).

Philadelphia had its seven game win streak snapped in a 109-94 road loss to Washington on Sunday, while Miami broke a three-game slide with a convincing 115-89 home win over Memphis on Saturday. 

Note that this is an in-season double-revenge scenario for Miami, as Philadelphia has already taken both previous meetings, including a 104-102 victory at home in the most recent on February 14th.

Philadelphia comes in averaging 107.6 PPG and it concedes 105.7. Big man Joel Embiid had 25 points and ten boards in the setback to the Wizards and he’s leading the team with 23.9 points, 11.2 boards and 1.83 blocks per night.

Miami averages 101.1 PPG and it concedes 101.6. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.2 points and 11.9 boards per night, while guard Goran Dragic adds 17.4 points, 4.1 boards and 4.9 assists per game.

I’ll point out as well that Philadelphia is just 13-16 ATS on the road this year and only 2-4 ATS in its last six following a loss by ten points or more, while Miami is 16-9 ATS in its last 25 against teams with winning records and 3-1 ATS after scoring 115 points or more.

Miami is in a dog fight right now for the final playoff spot and after small stretch of poor play, the team looks to build off its latest victory. A date vs. the 76ers is just what the doctor ordered to keep the motivation levels high, because as mentioned above, this does indeed set up as a double revenge spot for the home side tonight. 

Philadelphia has been playing extremely well, but I think the loss to the Wizards gets carried over here.

In my opinion, this one has blowout written all over it. Play on Miami.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE REVENGE GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

I think the Rockets finally stumble here after 12 straight victories, most recently beating the Nuggets last night. But not to be outdone, the Jazz have also been on top form of late. Utah lost to Portland on Friday, but that was its first setback since January 22nd. 

’ll point out that the Rockets’ Eric Gordon, who missed last night’s very satisfying 119-114 win at Denver with an illness, is also questionable for this one.

After 11 straight victories, the Jazz were outdone by a Damian Lillard buzzer beater in their latest setback. Donovan Mitchell has now posted 21 or more points in six straight games. Note that guard Ricky Rubio is back in the line-up for this one after sitting out the Portland setback.

It’s interesting to note though that Houston is just 56-61 ATS in it last 117 against teams with winning records, while Utah is already 7-3 ATS this season after allowing 90 points or less in its previous contest and a near-perfect 5-1 ATS in its last six against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per night. 

The Jazz play with revenge and they catch a complacent and dog-tired Rockets team flat footed on Monday night. Grab the points, play on Utah.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Orland Magic (8:05 EST).

Orlando comes in hungry after five straight losses. The Magic won’t be in the postseason, but they’re not going to be going down without a fight this evening in my estimation. 

Most recently the Magic fell 116-105 to Philadelphia, getting 20 points, seven boards and seven assists from Aaron Gordon. Mario Hezonjia was also a bright spot with 13 points off the bench. Some claim that Orlando is now in “tank” mode, but I’m not completely buying it, as the Magic possess just the fifth spot in the “ping pong ball pecking order” for the Draft.

Oklahoma comes in shocked and stunned after its 112-80 loss at Golden State. Paul George had an “off night,” going just 1of 14 for a season-low five points. Russell Westbrook though was a bright spot with 15 points, 12 boards and seven assists. 

I’ll point out though that Orlando has in fact done well in this spot all year for bettors, going 16-14 ATS on the road and it’s also 7-2 ATS in its last nine against good offensive teams which score 106-plus points per night.

OKC on the other hand has struggled mightily in this position all season by going just 12-17 ATS at home, only 3-6 ATS following a loss by ten point sir more and interestingly, a horrible 10-18 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per night.

I think the home side gets caught “looking past” its lowly non-conference opponent today to the start of its three game Western road trip in Dallas on Wednesday night.

While I’m not going to call for the outright upset, all signs point to a very competitive battle. So grab the points!

Good luck…Larry

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

I had a play on the Orlando Magic yesterday and they fell 116-105 at Philadelphia, failing to cover the spread by a single bucket. Suffice it to say, I believe the 76ers have a letdown here in the second game of the back to back. 

Conversely it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the home side after falling 122-105 at home to Charlotte on Friday. 

Also note that this is a “revenge” game for the Wizards, as Philadelphia has taken two of the last three meetings this year, including a 115-112 victory at home in the most recent matchup on February 6th. 

The 76ers average 107.6 PPG and they concede 105.7 per night. Big man Joel Embiid leads the nightly charge with 23.8 points, 11.2 boards and 1.87 assists per night, while rookie Ben Simmons averages 16.7 points, 7.8 boards, 7.4 assists and 1.87 steals per night. 

The Wizards average 107.4 PPG and they concede 105.8. Bradley Beal currently leads the nightly charge with 23.7 points, while Otto Porter Jr. adds 14.5 points, 6.4 boards and 1.55 steals per night. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Philadelphia is 0-5 ATS in its last five on the road, while Washington is 6-1 ATS in its last seven when playing on one days rest. 

Philadelphia was fortunate to win in Chicago on Thursday and I believe its road issues continue here.

The Wizards are a deep and dangerous team at home and I like them to take advantage here. Play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Orlando Magic (5:05 EST).

Orlando comes in desperate here after dropping four straight, most recently a 120-113 upset at home to the Knicks on Thursday.

Conversely Philadelphia looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning six straight, most recently holding on for a 116-115 victory on the road in Chicago on Thursday. 

Note that this is an in-season revenge game for the Magic as well after they fell 130-111 at home to Philadelphia in late November. 

Orlando averages 105.7 PPG and it concedes 109.9. Nikola Vucevic returned from injury in the loss to the Knicks and he should be much more acclimated for this one. Vucevic leads the team with 17.4 points and 9.2 boards per game, while Evan Fournier adds 18. Aaron Gordon leads the scoring charge with 18.2 points and 8.3 boards per night.

Philadelphia averages 107.6 PPG and it concedes 105.7. Ben Simmons led the way in the latest victory with 32 points, seven boards and 11 assists. 

I’ll point out though that Orlando is still 16-13 ATS on the road this year and 13-11 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest, while Philadelphia is just 4-6 ATS already this season after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 9-10 ATS against clubs with losing records.

With a game tomorrow night in the nation’s capital, it’s definitely not too hard to imagine the home side also getting caught “looking ahead” here.

While I’m not calling for the outright upset, everything points to a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

LA won five of its final six before the All Star Break, but I think it comes out flat here after falling 134-127 at Golden State just last night. Avery Bradley sat out last night’s game with a groin injury 

Phoenix on the other hand will be risking life and limb in my opinion in trying to secure a victory today as it went into the break on a seven-game losing streak. 

The Suns lost 107-97 to the Jazz in their final game before the break. Devin Booker returned from a minor hip injury in that one to post 28 points. Booker would then of course go on to win the three-point competition over All Star weekend. 

The Clippers have defied the odds and looked pretty good despite trading All Star Blake Griffin to the Pistons, but after last night’s exhausting setback, I think the visitors come in “gassed” here.

The Suns will look to take advantage (note that Phoenix is 4-2 ATS in its last six after three or more consecutive losses this year) and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Phoenix.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the Milwaukee Bucks (7:35 EST).

Milwaukee had its two game win streak snapped in a 134-123 home loss to Denver on Wednesday. Toronto crushed Chicago 122-98 in its final game before the All Star Break, its seventh consecutive victory. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as well I think as Toronto has won nine of the last ten in the series, including both this year. And that includes a 129-110 decision on the road back on January 5th in the most recent.

Milwaukee averages 104.6 PPG and it concedes 104.6 as well. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 27.8 points, 10.4 boards, 4.8 assists, 1.34 blocks and 1.42 steals per game (he had 36 points, 11 boards and 13 assists in the losing cause to the Nuggets.)

Toronto averages 111.9 PPG and it concedes 103.4. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 23.7 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.6 points, 5.7 boards and 5.7 assists per night. 

I’ll point out though that Milwaukee is 6-2 ATS this year off an upset loss as a favorite and 7-3 ATS after allowing 115 points or more, while Toronto is just 11-15 ATS this season against clubs with winning records. 

I think the home side comes out a little “flat,” and while I’m going to stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitely feel that the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Grab the points, play on the revenge-minded Bucks.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER on the New York Knicks (7:05 EST).

The Knicks come out of the All Star break hungry as they’ve lost eight in a row, most recently a 118-113 home setback to Miami just before the All Star Game.

But here’s the perfect opponent to get back on track against, as the lowly Magic come in having lost three straight, most recently a 104-102 setback to Charlotte at home last Wednesday. 

Note that this is an “in-season, double-revenge” scenario, as Orlando has already taken both earlier meetings between the clubs, including a 105-100 road victory on December 3rd in the most recent.

The Knicks average 103.7 PPG and they concede 106.1. Enes Kanter averages 14.4 points and 10.7 boards per night, while Tim Hardaway Jr. adds 16.7. 

The Magic average 105.5 PPG and they concede 109.8. Evan Fournier averages 17.9 points, while Aaron Gordon adds 18.4 points and 8.3 boards a night. 

Orlando has a tough two-game road trip starting on Saturday night in Philadelphia and ending on Monday in Oklahoma City. Everything points to look-ahead for the home side and I fully expect the desperate visiting Knicks to take advantage.

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:05 EST).

The Lakers come in off a 139-117 setback in New Orleans just last night and suffice it to say, with the All Star break up next, all signs point to a classic letdown for LA this evening as well.

Minnesota on the other hand will not be taking a night off because it comes in having lost three of its last four, most recently a 126-108 home defeat to Houston. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then the Wolves have to be loving their chances tonight as they’ve already taken both meetings between the clubs so far this year, including a convincing 114-96 victory on New Year’s Day.

The Lakers come in averaging 107 PPG, while conceding 109.5. Brook Lopez averages 12 points and 13.9 boards per game, while the newly acquired Isaiah Thomas averages 15.2 points a night thus far. 

The Wolves average 109.6 PPG and they concede 106.7. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.4 pints and 12.1 boards per game, while Jimmy Butler adds 22.4 points and 5.5 boards per night. 

From a trend based stand point, there’s no question who this one favors, as note that the Lakers are a brutal 0-5 ATS in their last five in the second game of a back-to-back scenario, while the Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games against a team with a losing road record.

LA is dealing with some new faces, injuries and a tired starting unit. Minnesota has had a night off and can’t be too happy with the way that it’s played of late. When you add it all up, a big time blowout is imminent.

Lay the points, play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

(MLB REMINDER: After more than 30 years as a professional handicapper, Larry has finished among the “World’s best” in every major North American sport several times. Major League Baseball has been no exception. In fact, over the last three years Ness is ranked as the No. 1 MLB handicapper in the entire World! Note that Larry has banked $35,083 in profits over the last three regular seasons combined (know anyone that’s done better?!) 2017 saw Larry post over +$10,000 units in the regular season and then he’d also go on to go a spectacular 18-8-1 +$8,530 in the playoffs, for a total of $18,538! And now 2018 has the potential to be the BIGGEST season of them all!)

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the New York Knicks (7:35 EST).

The Wizards snapped a two-game slide with a 101-90 victory over the Bulls on the road on Saturday, while the Knicks come in having lost seven straight, most recently a listless 108-92 setback to Philadelphia on Monday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think though, as the Wizards have taken seven straight in the series (and 14 of the last 15), including a 121-103 home victory in the first matchup this year back on January 3rd. 

The Wizards average 107.2 PPG and they concede 105.4. Tomas Satoransky had 25 points and six assists in the victory over Chicago. 

The Knicks average 103.5 PPG and they concede 105.9. Kristaps Porzingis is out for the year with a torn ACL, meaning that the home side will be relying on committee to get the job done tonight. Note that Enes Kanter chips in 14.2 points and 10.6 boards per night, while Tim Hardaway Jr. adds 16.2 per outing.

I’ll point out as well that Washington is just 1-3 ATS already this year after allowing 90 points or less in its previous outing (also 0-1 ATS when playing with three or more days of rest), while New York is 16-11 ATS at home and 25-16 ATS in its last 41 after three or more consecutive losses. 

I think the Wizards get caught a little flat footed after the extra time off and I believe they’re also going to be caught “looking ahead” to the All Star break and past their lowly opponent tonight.

The Knicks though clearly can’t afford the same luxury, as this is a team desperate for something positive to end the first half.

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

Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST).

I think the Pacers have a bit of a letdown here in their final game before the break. Indiana has won two straight, most recently a 121-113 victory at home over the Knicks on Sunday.

Conversely, it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the Nets, who enter having lost six straight, most recently a 114-101 setback to the Clippers on Monday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as the Pacers have taken six straight in the series, including a 123-119 OT victory in the most recent back on December 23rd.

Indiana averages 106.8 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 24.4 points, 5.4 boards and 2.08 steals per game, while Myles Turner adds 13.6 points and 6.5 boards per night.

Brooklyn averages 105.4 PPG and it concedes 109.7. D’Angelo Russell averages 15.6 points and 4.4 assists per night. Russell had 16 points in a losing cause to the Clippers.

I’ll point out though that Indiana is just 6-8 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Brooklyn is 8-5 ATS this season after three or more consecutive SU losses and 21-16 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.

I look for Indiana to get caught “looking ahead” to its time off after its extended stretch of excellence and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the hungry Nets to step up and take advantage of this favorable situation.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Oddsmakers Error is on the under Spurs/Nuggets (10:35 EST).

San Antonio enters off a crushing 101-99 loss in Utah just last night and the team just announced yesterday that big man LaMarcus Aldridge would be out until after the All Star Game to give his injured leg some extra time off. 

Denver was crushed in Houston, but then bounced back with a 123-113 road victory over the lowly Suns on Saturday in its latest action. 

San Antonio averages 101.5 PPG and it concedes just 98.1. Pau Gasol remains the top point getter right now with 10.6 points and 8.3 boards per game. 

Denver averages 107.2 PPG and it concedes 106.5. Nikola Jokic averages 16.6 points, 10.4 boards and 5.6 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that San Antonio has seen the total go under the number in 17 of 23 this year against poor defensive clubs with allow 106 plus points per contest, while Denver has seen the total go under the number in seven of eight already this season when playing with two days of rest.

Injured players and the All Star break on the horizon. The last thing the depleted Spurs can do is turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to hang with the high-flying Nuggets. With the visitors putting a concerted effort into trying to slow this one down whenever possible, all signs do indeed point to the under as the correct call here.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:05 EST).

Cleveland comes in having won three straight, most recently a 121-99 destruction of Boston on the road on Sunday. OKC on the other hand is stumbling towards the half-way mark, coming in having won for just the second time in seven games after smashing the Grizzlies 110-92 on Sunday. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for James and company, as OKC has taken two straight in the series, including a 148-124 victory in the first matchup in Cleveland back on January 20th this year. 

The Cavaliers come into this one averaging 110 PPG and they concede 109.9. LeBron James averages 26.3 points, 8.1 boards and 8.9 assists per game. James’ team looks a lot better after dumping a lot of the older players, as Rodney Hood, George Hill and Jordan Clarkson look poised to help the Cavs make another serious push for a spot in the Finals.

OKC averages 106.2 PPG and it concedes 102.7. Russell Westbrook averages 25.5 points, 9.3 boards, 10.3 assists and 1.96 steals per game, while Paul George contributes 22.4 points, 5.4 boards and 2.24 steals per night. 

Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and I believe James and his “new” team find a way to avenge the earlier and humbling beatdown that they endured at the hands of the Thunder earlier in the season. It’s a perfect storm of situational factors working in favor of the visitors.

Play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOP TOTAL is the under Suns/Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 18-39 Phoenix Suns are in Golden State to take on the 43-13 Warriors on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will sneak below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

Phoenix comes in off a 123-113 home loss to Denver, while Golden State pulled away for a 122-105 home win over the Spurs on Saturday. 

The Suns are scoring an average of 104.4 PPG and conceding 112.6. Elfrid Peyton played decently for his new team in the most recent setback, finishing with 19 points and nine assists. 

The Warriors average a league-leading 115.9 PPG and they concede 107.9. Klay Thompson was a standout in his team’s most recent victory with 25 points.

Phoenix can’t play defense and Golden State is the highest scoring team in the league. I’ll point out though that the Suns have in fact interestingly seen the total go under the number in 15 of 22 this year against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest, while the Warriors have seen the total dip below the posted number in their last four in the same position.

Golden State head coach Steve Kerr recently admitted that his team is “limping towards the finish line” as the season nears the half-way point and the All Star Game. Kerr is likely to rest some of his starters tonight.

I think the conditions are now finally right for a bit of a lower-scoring defensive battle. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (3:35 EST).

Cleveland comes to town off its second straight win, beating Atlanta 123-107 on Friday. Boston enters off a 97-81 loss at home to Indiana in the second game of a back-to-back on Friday. So far these teams have split a pair of meetings this season.

The Cavaliers average 109.8 PPG and they concede 110.1. LeBron James averages 26.4 points, 8.1 boards and 8.9 assists per night and he had 22 points, 12 boards and 19 assists in the win over the Hawks. Note that the Cavs were led by Kyle Korver, who exploded for 30 points off the bench against his former team. 

The Celtics average 102.9 PPG and they concede 98.7. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 24.7 points and five assists per night, while Al Horford adds 13.2 points, 7.8 boards and 5.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out as well that the Cavs are 7-3 ATS in their last ten when playing the role of underdog, while Boston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest. 

Cleveland looked good in its last game and I think its new pieces will be able to work themselves into the mix seamlessly alongside the normal rotation. 

Boston comes in tired and I think it struggles against this re-focused Cavaliers side. And while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, all signs do indeed point to this one being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. Grab the points, play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* Situational Stunner on the Phoenix Suns (9:05 EST).

The 29-25 Denver Nuggets are in Phoenix to take on the 19-38 Suns and for a number of different reasons, I think this favors the home side. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Phoenix has to be liking its chances today, because when these teams met earlier this year, it was the Suns that scored the 108-100 victory. 

Devin Booker had 30 points, five boards and five assists in that one for Phoenix, while Jamal Murray had 30 points and five boards to lead the Nuggets in the losing cause.

Denver looks poised for a letdown here after three straight wins. The Nuggets average 107 PPG and they concede 105.9. 

Phoenix averages 104.2 PPG and it concedes 112.4. The Suns will be especially motivated here to return to the winners circle after their most recent pathetic effort, falling 129-81 at home to the Spurs. Big man Alex Len had 14 points and five boards. 

I’ll point out though that Denver has consistently “played down” to the level of its competition, going just 12-15 ATS this year against clubs with losing records. Phoenix though has excelled in this spot for bettors this season, going 8-3 ATS when playing with two days rest, 13-9 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 8-5 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses. 

While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything in my opinion definitely points to a much closer than expected battle.

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Chicago Bulls (8:05 EST).

The 34-23 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Chicago to take on the 18-35 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Minnesota comes in off an exhausting 140-138 OT loss in Cleveland on Wednesday, while the Bulls have had three nights off after a 104-98 loss to Sacramento. Note that this is a double revenge game for Chicago aver the Wolves took both meetings last year.

Minnesota averages 109.5 PPG and it concedes 106.3. Jimmy Butler had 35 points in the loss to Cleveland, while Karl Anthony Towns contributed 30 points and ten boards. 

Chicago averages 103.5 PPG and it concedes 109.2. Zach LaVine was a bright spot in his team’s latest loss, posting 27 points, while Justin Holiday was also decent with 20 points of his own. 

I think it’s important to note that Minnesota has struggled in this spot for bettors all year though, going just 13-14 ATS on the road and only 5-6 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite.

Chicago has for the most part been a train wreck this season, but it comes in rested and very determined. Also note that it’s a solid 13-10 ATS at home already this year and 7-2 ATS in its last nine when playing with three or more days of rest.

With a night off before a home game against bottom feeder Sacramento, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors in some small way “looking past” their lowly non-conference opponent tonight.

Off seven straight losses, clearly the Bulls don’t have the same luxury.

While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitely believe that the stage is set for a “nail-biter” this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* O/U Situational Stunner is on the under Nuggets/Rockets (8:05 EST).

The 29-25 Denver Nuggets are in Houston to take on the 40-13 Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this total will sneak below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

Houston has won six in a row and ten of its last 11, most recently getting the better of the Heat on Wednesday. 

Denver has won three in a row, most recently over OKC, Golden State and Charlotte.

The Nuggets are clearly playing their best basketball of the season, but I’m going to caution in reading too much into their performance. All three victories came at home. Denver has been a classic “Jekyll and Hyde” team this year, as it’s dropped six straight on the road dating back to December 27th. 

Houston has looked fantastic of late too, but after going a perfect 4-0 on its road trip, there’s no doubt that this first game back in front of the home town crowd also sets up as a “letdown” spot. James Harden had 41 points in his teams 109-101 win at Miami on Wednesday. 

From an overall situational stand point, I think this one sets up more as a defensive affair. But I’ll also point out that Denver has in fact seen the total go under the number in five of eight already this year after playing three consecutive home games and in 16 of 25 in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Houston has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of its last eight against clubs with winning records.

For all the reasons listed above, I think this number is a little high. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WESTERN-CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the over Mavs/Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 17-37 Dallas Mavericks are in Golden State to take on the 41-13 Warriors on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

Golden State will be particularly motivated here (regardless of who is actually on the court once tip off occurs) as it comes in having lost two straight and three of its last four. Most recently the defending champs fell to Denver and OKC.

The Mavs can empathize, as they’re just 1-6 in their last seven following a setback against the Clippers on Monday.

Dallas had its chances against the Clippers, but it was outscored 13-0 down the stretch in the eventual 104-101 setback. Veteran Dirk Nowitzki was a bright spot with 12 points in 25 minutes.

Kevin Durant is expected in the lineup for the Warriors tonight and he’s been consistent of late, averaging 32.3 points on 68.1 percent shooting over his last three games. 

These teams come into this one struggling, but I’ll point out that Dallas has seen the total go over the number in 10 of 17 already this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Golden State has seen the total eclipse the posted number in eight of 12 this season off an upset loss as a favorite.

I believe the stage is set for a faster paced affair. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Miami Heat (7:35 EST).

The Rockets come in off a very satisfying 123-113 win at Brooklyn just last night and I think they’ll be “gassed” here.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for Miami as it comes into this one having lost four straight, most recently a 111-109 home loss to Orlando on Monday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Heat as well after they fell 99-90 in Houston back on January 22nd.

This the final game of a four-game trip for the Rockets, who come in averaging 114 PPG and conceding 105.7. James Harden leads the nightly charge with 31.2 points, five boards and 9.1 assists per night. 

Miami comes in averaging 100.4 PPG and conceding 101.3. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.2 points and 11.8 boards per game, while Goran Dragic contributes 17.1 points, 4.1 boards and 4.6 assists per night.

I’ll point out though that Houston is just 11-14 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Miami is 6-1 ATS this season off an upset loss as a favorite (also 12-10 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.)

I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night and while I clearly wouldn’t be shocked by the straight up outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can, as I believe this one will be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. 

Play on the Heat.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* O/U Oddsmakers Error is the over Thunder/Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 30-24 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Golden State to take on the 41-12 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

The Thunder need to muster up some energy tonight as they get ready to play their seventh game in 11 days. OKC won’t be lacking for motivation though obviously in facing the defending champs, but also because it comes in having lost four straight, most recently a listless 108-104 setback to the Lakers. Russell Westbrook had 36 points and nine assists, while Paul George added 26. 

OKC has for the most part this season been one of the best defensive clubs in the league, but the Thunder come in allowing a whopping 112.8 points during their losing skid. 

Oklahoma City comes in off a 115-108 loss at Denver on Saturday. Kevin Durant had 31 points and Stephen Curry added 24. GS was outscored 38-25 in the fourth quarter as it ran out of gas down the stretch after playing the second game of a back-to-back. 

Note that OKC has seen the total go over the number in ten of its last 16 after playing to three or more consecutive SU losses, while GS has seen the total eclipse the posted number in eight of 11 already this season off an upset loss as a favorite.

The Warriors play with revenge here after falling 118-101 to the Thunder back in mid November. Oklahoma City won’t be rolling over tonight though, as it desperately tries to break its string of shoddy play.

When you add it all up, I do indeed feel that this number is a little low. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* REVENGE GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Toronto Raptors (7:35 EST).

Boston comes in a tiny bit complacent here in my opinion after winning four in a row, most recently a narrow 97-96 win at home over Portland on Sunday. 

Toronto comes in having won two straight and four of its last five after smashing Memphis 101-86 on Sunday. 

Note that this is indeed a “revenge” game for the Raptors after they fell 95-94 in the first meeting in Boston back on November 12th. 

Boston comes in averaging 103.2 PPG and it concedes 98.4. The Celtics needed to overcome a 16 point halftime deficit to beat the Blazers, led by Al Horford with 22 points, ten boards and five assists. 

Toronto averages 111.4 PPG and it concedes 103.8. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.4 points and 5.1 assists per game. The Raptors held the Grizzlies to just 35.8 percent shooting and forced 19 turnovers in their latest victory. Deion Wright led the way off the bench with 15 points (six players scored in double figures for TO in that one.) 

I’ll point out that this is one area in which the Celtics have consistently struggled in for bettors for quite some time though, going just 9-15 ATS in their last 24 after playing three consecutive home games (including only 3-4 ATS this season), while Toronto has excelled in this spot by going 28-13 ATS in its last 41 against the division.

Boston is dealing with some injury issues, which is the main reason why there was a delay in the sports books posting this line. Regardless though, I think there are enough situational factors working in favor of Toronto tonight to pull the trigger on the home side.

In my opinion, everything points to a lop-sided blowout. Play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

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

I think the Wizards four-game win streak comes to an end here against this determined home side. Indiana is going to be the “hungrier” team in my opinion, sitting just one game behind Washington for fifth place in the Eastern Conference. 

The Wizards average 107.4 PPG and they concede 105.5. Thomas Satoransky had 19 points and six assists in his teams 115-98 win over the Magic on Saturday. Washington is finding ways to win without star guard John Wall in the line-up, but I have a hard time seeing the team continuing to carry that momentum.

Indiana comes in off a 100-92 win over the 76ers on Saturday, as Victor Oladipo poured in 19 points. The Pacers looked particularly sharp on the defensive end of the floor, holding Philadelphia to just 37.9 percent shooting. 

I’ll point out as well that Washington has done poorly in this spot of late for bettors, going just 5-11 ATS in its last 16 following a straight-up victory, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per night.

After their extended stretch of excellent play, all signs do indeed finally point to the Wizards having a letdown here.

This is the first time these teams have played this season, but last year Washington took two of three. It’s payback time. Play on the Pacers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is on the under Grizzlies/Raptors (12:05 EST).

The Grizzlies come to town hungry after losing their second straight, most recently a 104-102 setback at Detroit on Thursday. 

Toronto enters off a blowout win over the Blazers, 130-105 on Friday. 

Memphis comes in averaging only 99.8 PPG, while conceding 102.5. Big man Marc Gasol leads the nightly charge with 18 points, 8.6 boards and 3.9 assists per game, while Tyreke Evans contributes a team high 19.5 points, five boards and five assists per game (note though that Evans is out for this one.)

Toronto averages 111.6 PPG and it concedes 104.2 DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.6 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.6 points, 5.9 boards and 6.6 assists per game.

Memphis has lost four of its last five and it clearly doesn’t have the luxury to “look past” the Raptors today. Toronto though could easily be caught looking ahead to its game at home against the East leading Celtics on Tuesday.

I believe the situation points to a lower-scoring defensive battle between these non-conference opponents. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:00 EST).

I don’t think there’s any need to overanalyze this one.

Utah comes in off a very satisfying 129-97 win at Phoenix just last night and suffice it to say, I think the visitors come in “gassed” here.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Spurs as they come in off a 102-91 loss at home to the Rockets. Also note that this is a “double revenge” scenario for San Antonio, as Utah has taken the last two in the series, including the first meeting this year 100-89 back on December 21st in front of the home town crowd.

Utah averages 102 PPG and it concedes 102.1. Ricky Rubio averages 11.4 points, five assists and 1.57 steals per game, while Rodney Hood adds 16.7 points.

San Antonio averages 100.7 PPG and it concedes 97.6. LaMarcus Aldridge averages 22.3 points and 8.5 boards per game, while Pau Gasol contributes 10.8 points and 8.3 boards per night.

I think it’s worth noting though that the Jazz are still only 11-15 ATS on the road this season, while San Antonio is 17-9 ATS at home.

The Spurs are also 7-3 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more.

Utah is playing the second game of a back to back and like the Spurs, it is also dealing with injuries. In my opinion, this number could easily be a lot larger. Lay the points, play on San Antonio.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST).

Golden State looks to get back on track after getting crushed 129-99 in Utah on Tuesday. Klay Thompson was a bright spot with 27 points, while KD had an “off” night with 17. 

So while the Warriors will be eager to atone for their latest listless effort, Sacramento looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after closing its six game road trip with a 114-103 win over New Orleans on Tuesday, led by 26 points and 12 boards from Zach Rudolph. 

I’ll point out though that the Kings are just 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 following a SU win of more than ten points.

The Warriors on the other hand have excelled in this position by already going 4-1 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more. 

Golden State is also 5-3 ATS this season in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, and it does indeed play with revenge after falling 110-106 to Sacramento on December 27th.

The Warriors have a “tougher” game in Denver tomorrow night and won’t want to leave anything to chance this evening. 

The Kings on the other hand find themselves in a classic “letdown/look-ahead” spot, having gone 3-1 in their last four on a road trip, only to now return home for their first game in two weeks in Sacramento, followed by a much more “winnable” contest against the visiting Mavericks tomorrow night.

When you add it all up, it makes this larger spread completely manageable for the rested, determined and revenge-minded defending champs to cover. Lay the points, play on Golden State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WEST-CONF GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Denver Nuggets (10:35 EST).

The Thunder come in off a 102-96 road loss at Washington on Tuesday, snapping an eight-game win streak. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here as well. 

Conversely, it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the home side after it dropped its second straight, most recently a hard-fought 106-104 road setback at San Antonio on Tuesday. 

Note that these teams have already split a pair of games this year, with each side winning on its home floor. 

OKC averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 102. Russell Westbrook averages 25.5 points, 9.4 boards and 10.1 assists per game, while Paul George adds 21.3 points, 5.5 boards and 2.17 steals per night. 

In the loss to the Wizards the Thunder averaged just 37.5 percent from the floor and went just 9 of 32 from range. George was a bright spot with 28 points in the losing cause.

Denver averages 106.2 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Nikola Jokic averages 16.2 points, 10.4 boards and 5.3 assist per game. In the setback to the Spurs the Nuggets would shoot 46.5 percent from the floor and go 10 of 23 from 3-point land.

I’ll point out as well that the Thunder have struggled mightily in this spot for bettors all year, going just 2-10 ATS against the division and only 6-13 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite, while the Nuggets have done decently in this position by going 6-4 ATS against the division and 4-1 ATS in their last five against clubs with winning records.

OKC is dealing with injuries and fatigue right now, which doesn’t bode well in Denver’s thin air. I’m banking on the home side defending its court. Play on the Nuggets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is in the Chicago Bulls (10:05 EST).

The 18-32 Chicago Bulls are in Portland to take on the 27-22 Blazers on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Portland comes in off a highly satisfying 104-96 win at the Clippers just last night, while we won’t have to question the overall intensity levels of the Bulls this evening as they enter off four straight losses, most recently to the Bucks. 

Lauri Markkanen, the Bulls leading scorer, won’t be in the line-up tonight. Note that the Bulls are 3-0 without Markkanen in the lineup though this season.

Damian Lillard and the Blazers have looked a lot better of late, but with one night off before a three-game Eastern swing, I do indeed believe this one sets up not only as a “letdown” spot (after last night’s victory), but that it’s also a “look ahead” position. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Chicago is 15-9 ATS on the road this year, while Portland is just 9-12 ATS at home.

The Bulls are dealing with some injury issues, but the situation and the numbers both support the visitors tonight. While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything does point to a very tight battle. Grab the points, play on Chicago.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the over Magic/Rockets (8:00 EST).

The 14-34 Orlando Magic are in Houston to take on the 35-13 Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

Orlando comes in off a hard-fought 114-112 setback in Indiana in its latest action, allowing the Pacers to hit 54 percent from the floor, including 27 percent from range.

Aaron Gordon led the way for the Magic in the setback with 22 points, 11 boards and four assists, while Evan Fournier added 21 points. In all five players would reach double figures for Orlando as the team collectively shot 54 percent from the floor, including 32 percent from range.

Houston has won five of its last six, most recently downing the Suns 113-102 in its latest outing. The Rockets would go on to shoot 44 percent from the floor, including 30 percent from three point land. 

James Harden led Houston with 27 points, ten boards, eight assists and two steals, while Chris Paul added 17 points and five assists, as six players in total would finish in double figures. 

I’ll point out that Orlando has already seen the total go over the number in six of nine this year when the total is greater than or equal to 220, while Houston has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 13 of its last 16 as a home fav of 12.5 points or more.

These are two teams which love to get out and push the pace and that’s exactly what I expect to see happen. This number is just a little low, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

Boston came up just short in a 109-105 setback at Golden State on Saturday, while Denver comes in on top form having won three straight, most recently a 91-89 victory at home over Dallas. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Nuggets after they fell 124-118 in Boston back on December 13th.

Boston averages 102.9 PPG and it concedes 98.5. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 24.8 points and five assists per game, while Al Horford averages 13.4 points, 7.9 boards and 5.2 assists per outing.

Denver averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Nikola Jokic averages 16.1points, 10.5 boards and 5.3 assists per game, while Garry Harris leads the nightly charge with 17.3 points. Harris had 24 points, while Jokic had a triple-double with 11 points, 16 boards and 11 assists in the teams most recent win over the Mavs.

I think the Celtics come in flat here on the tail end of their five game Western swing and I look for the surging Nuggets to take full advantage and to put the foot on the gas from start to finish.

A great situational play on Denver.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:30 EST).

The Heat had dropped four of six before getting the better of the Hornets 95-91 at home on Saturday. 

The Mavs come in desperate as they’ve lost three straight and six of their last seven, most recently dropping a tight 91-89 decision in Denver on Saturday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Dallas after it fell 113-101 in Miami back on December 22nd. 

The Heat average 100.6 PPG and they concede 101.3. Josh Richardson led Miami with 19 points and five assists in the win over Washington.

Dallas averages 102 PPG and it concedes 103.9. Harrison Barnes leads the nightly charge with 18.4 points and 6.8 boards per game, while rookie Dennis Smith Jr. adds 14.7 points and 4.7 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that Miami is just 8-13 ATS as the favorite this season, while Dallas is 21-15 ATS as the dog. 

Miami comes in off the win, while the Mavs lay everything on the line, desperate to break their slide. I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

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

The Wolves broke a two-game slide with a 111-97 home win over the Nets on Saturday, while the Hawks come into this one having lost three straight, most recently a listless 129-104 setback at home to Washington on Saturday. 

The Wolves averages 109.1 PPG and they concede 105.9. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.1 points and 12.2 PPG, while Andrew Wiggins adds 18.2 points and 4.2 boards per night.

Jimmy Butler and Wiggins each had 21 points in the team’s win over Brooklyn.

The Hawks average 103.5 PPG and they concede 108.2. Dennis Schroeder leads the nightly charge with 19.6 points and 6.4 assists per game, while Marco Belinelli adds 11.2 points and 2.1 assists. In the latest loss to Washington ATL allowed the Wizards to shoot 57.6 percent from the floor, including 18 of 32 from range. 

With a tough game North of the border tomorrow night, the Wolves can leave nothing to chance this evening. And that’s the difference maker for me in this one.

I look for a focused and much deeper Minnesota side to comfortably pull away down the stretch as it looks to secure the victory tonight, before the tough matchup tomorrow. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Toronto Raptors (6:05 EST).

LA comes in complacent here in my opinion after winning its fourth straight with a 108-103 road victory over the Bulls on Friday.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Raptors, who have lost four of seven, including a listless 97-93 setback to Utah at home on Friday. The revenge factor does come into play for the Lakers after they fell to Toronto 101-92 at home back on October 27th, but because of the Raptors’ overall current form, it’s one of those instances in which it’s negated.

LA averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 109.7. Brandon Ingram averages 15.7 points, while Jordan Clarkson added 14.5 points. Ingram had 25 points, nine boards and five assists in the win over Chicago.

Toronto averages 110.9 PPG and it concedes 103.7. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.6 points and 6.1 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.5 points, 5.9 boards and 6.7 assists per game. 

I’ll point out as well that the Lakers are just 2-4 ATS in their last six trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Toronto is 13-9 ATS against losing clubs this year and 13-9 ATS as well against poor defensive teams which allow 106-plus points per contest.

As mentioned off the top, I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for the Lakers, while I expect the Raptors to risk life and limb as they try and secure a convincing victory after their sub-par play of late.

Lay the points, play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

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

Washington is just 1-3 on its current road trip, most recently falling 121-112 at OKC on Thursday. 

The Hawks come in off a hard-fought battle in Charlotte just last night and suffice it to say, I expect a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

So far these teams have split a pair of games.

Washington averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 105.6. John Wall leads the nightly charge with 19.4 points and 9.3 assists per game, while Bradley Beal averages 24 points. Beal was a standout in the latest loss to the Thunder with 41 points, 12 boards and seven assists. 

Atlanta averages 103.3 PPG and it concedes 107.5. Dennis Schroeder leads with 20 points and 6.5 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that Washington is already 6-4 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Atlanta is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the second game of a back-to-back.

I think the “hungrier” and fresher team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the Orlando Magic (7:00 EST).

Orlando had won two of three, but it came up flat in a 105-99 loss at home to Sacramento on Tuesday. 

The Magic have a golden opportunity to get back on track here though against a Pacers team which laid everything it had on the line in its game in Cleveland last night. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement too, as Indiana has taken six straight in the series, including a 121-109 victory in the first meeting this year on November 27th.

Orlando averages 105.1 PPG and it concedes 110.3. Evan Fournier is currently leading the nightly charge with 18.1 points along with Aaron Gordon with 18.3 points and 8.3 boards per game. 

The Pacers average 106.4 PPG and concede 105.2. Victor Oladipo leads the way with 24.1 points, 5.2 boards and 1.98 steals per game. 

I’ll point out though that Orlando is 3-0 ATS in its last three against teams with winning records, while Indiana is just 1-2 ATS in its last three when playing on back-to-back nights.

The Magic have had three whole nights to prepare for this revenge game and while I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, all signs do indeed point to a much tighter battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Grab the points, play on Orlando.

Good luck…Larry