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

The 9-38 Brooklyn Nets are in Miami to take on the 18-30 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

This is a revenge game for the Nets after they fell 109-106 to Miami on January 25th. 

I feel this sets up as natural letdown spot for the over-acheiving Heat, who have won seven straight. 

Conversely, the Nets will be risking life and limb today in trying to get back into the winners circle, as they come into this one having lost five in a row.

Most recently Brooklyn fell 129-109 to Minnesota on Saturday. Brook Lopez was a bright spot with 25 points and seven boards. 

The Heat most recently beat Detroit 116-103 on Saturday. Goran Dragic had 23 points. Despite the recent better overall play of late, note that Miami is still just 10-13 SU at home this year.

And note that Brooklyn is already 9-4 ATS this season in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Miami is just 2-3 ATS in its last five as a home fav in the 9.5 to 12 points range. 

I like the Nets to keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE SUPER TOTAL is the under Thunder/Cavaliers (3:35 EST).

The 28-19 Oklahoma City Thunder are at Cleveland to take on the 31-14 Cavaliers on Saturday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one sets up as a defensive affair.

OKC comes in having won three straight, while the Cavs broke a three-game slide with an uninspiring win over last place Brooklyn last time out. 

The Thunder are led by Russell Westbrookw with 31 points, 10.6 boards and 10.2 assists per game, while LeBron James leads the Cavs with 25.7 points, 8.5 assists and 7.9 boards per contest. 

OKC just beat the Mavs 109-96 on Thursday. The victory came at a cost though, as Enis Kanter fractured his arm punching a chair in frustration.

The Cavs looked shaky defensively in their 124-116 victory over the Nets. The victory though improved them to 20-5 at home this year. 

Note that OKC has seen the total go under the number in both games that it’s played this season when playing with two days of rest and in eight of nine after three or more consecutive SU wins, while Cleveland has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of eight as a home fav in the 6.5 to nine points range thus far.

I’m expecting more of a war than a wide open run and gun shootout, this number is just a little high. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the over Clippers/Warriors (8:35 EST).

The 30-17 LA Clippers are in Golden State to take on the 39-7 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

LA comes in off its third loss in its last four games after falling 121-110 on the road to the surging 76ers on Tuesday.

The Warriors enter off their eighth win in their last nine games after dumping Charlotte 113-103 on Wednesday. 

These teams played to a lower-scoring affair in the first matchup this year, with the Warriors winning 115-98 back on December 7th.

LA is tied for sixth in the league in scoring offense with 108 PPG. The Clippers are decent defensively as well in conceding 103 per night. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with an average of 20.9 points and 8.9 boards per game. 

The Warriors are No. 1 in the league in scoring with 117.5 PPG. Their defense is a weak point, as it allows 104.8 PPG. Kevin Durant averages 26.1 points and 8.4 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that LA has already seen the total go over the number in four of five this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Golden State has seen the total eclipse the posted number in seven of eight this season when playing with two days of rest.

I’m expecting each team to push the pace from the opening tip until the final horn and for this one to blast past the number as it comes down the stretch. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 27-20 Memphis Grizzlies are in Portland to take on the 20-27 Trailblazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

Portland had lost four in a row before back-to-back victories over the Celtics and Lakers. 

Memphis also comes in with plenty of momentum after winning two of its last three after getting the better of Toronto on Wednesday. 

One player to keep your eyes on for the Grizzlies is center Marc Gasol, who has reached the 20-point mark in five straight games. In the most recent victory over the Raptors he had a career-best 42 points and five three-pointers. 

And for Portland, make sure to track shooting guard CJ McCollum, who is averaging 29.5 points during the two-game win streak. He’s also scored 20 or more points in 12 of the past 15 games. To say everyone is focused on the task at hand tonight for the home side would be an understatement: “I think it’s a great opportunity for us,” Blazers’ star point guard Damian Lillard commented. “I just asked somebody in the locker room, ‘When was the last time we won three games in a row?’ We had to look at the schedule to see.”

I’ll point out that Memphis has seen the total go over the number in 14 of 22 on the road this year, while Portland has seen the total sail above the posted number in ten of 17 this season in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.

I think this number is just a little low, as I am expecting each side to push the pace from start to finish. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 25-20 Washington Wizards are in Atlanta to take on the 27-19 Hawks on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive affair written all over it. 

Note that Washington is just 6-14 on the road this year, while Atlanta is 13-9 at home. 

The Hawks most recently got the better of the Bulls. Big man Dwight Howard continues his solid season, he’s averaged 12 points and ten boards over his last five games. Note the that Hawks average just 103 PPG and concede 103 on the other end.

Washington has gone 8-2 its last ten, but note that it’s seen the total go under the number in three of its last four following a two game unbeaten streak.

This is also a spot in which the Hawks have seen the total dip below the number plenty of times already this year, including in all four games they’ve played after playig to three or more consecutive “overs,” and in all six home games where the total in the contest is greater than or equal to 210. 

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

The 22-23 Chicago Bulls are in Orlando to take on the 18-28 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

These teams are battling it out for one of the final playoff spots. The Bulls enter off a 102-99 win over the Kings at home on Saturday night, snapping two-game slide, while the Magic lost for an eighth time in their last ten games in a 118-98 setback at home to Golden State on Sunday. Note that these teams met on November 7th and Chicago would come away with the 112-80 victory.

Chicago can move back to .500 with a win today. Note that the Bulls average 101.2 PPG and concede 101.4 Keep your eyes on Dwayne Wade, he had 30 points in the win over the Kings on the weekend.

Orlando was tied with Golden State at half time, but predictably fell apart down the stretch and allowed the Warriors to shoot 47.2 percent overall and 19 of 42 from beyond the arc. 

So far the Magic average just 99.9 PPG, while conceding 105 per contest. 

I’ll point out though that Chicago has seen the total go over the number in two of its last three against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while Orlando has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 15 of 26 this year after allowing 105 points or more. 

Both teams need to string some wins together quickly if they have any shot at the postseason. I’m expecting each to push the pace from start to finish and for this one to fly over as it comes down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is the under Spurs/Nets (7:35 EST).

The 34-9 San Antonio Spurs are in Brooklyn to take on the 9-34 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one sets up as more of a defensive affair and will look for this one to stay under the number once it’s all said and done.

I simply feel this sets up as a natural letdown/look ahead spot for the Spurs, who come in off a 118-115 OT win over the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday and who then travel to Toronto to take on the No. 2 team in the East tomorrow night.

San Antonio ranks seventh overall on the offensive end in averaging 107.6 PPG, but most nights gets the job done on the defensive end in conceding just 98.9 PPG. Kawhi Leonard leads the team with 25.5 points, 5.7 boards and 1.83 steals per game. 

Brooklyn averages 106.2 PPG, but is last on the defensive side in conceding 114.9 per game. 

The Nets blew out the Pelicans, but then immediately returned to Earth with a dud against the Hornets last time out. Things won’t get any easier in facing San Antonio’s smothering defense.

I’ll point out that San Antonio has seen the total go under the number in eight off road games where the total is greater than or equal to 210, while Brooklyn has seen the total dip below the posted number in 13 of 24 this year after scoring 105 points or more.

With a tough game tomorrow night in Toronto, I think the visitors slow this one down and control the tempo from the outset. This number is just a little bit high, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

Milwaukee averages 104.8 PPG and concedes 103.8.

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the under Bucks/Magic (7:05 EST).

The 20-21 Milwaukee Bucks are in Orlando to take on the 17-27 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

These are a couple of struggling teams that are eager to get back on track and stay relevant in the playoff picture. 

The Bucks have lost three straight, most recently a 111-92 setback at Houston on Wednesday. The Magic can empathize, as they would go on to drop the last three on a six-game road trip, including a 118-98 loss in New Orleans on Wednesday. 

Milwaukee has won four of the last five in this series, including both games this year. The latest was a 104-96 win in Orlando back on November 27th. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score once it’s all said and done tonight as well.

The Bucks are ranked 17th in the league with an average of 104.8 PPG and ranked 11th in scoring defense in conceding 103.8.

The Magic are ranked 25th in the NBA in scoring at 99.7 PPG and 17th in scoring defense in conceding 104.9. 

I’ll point out that Milwaukee has already seen the total go under the number in both games that it’s played this year following a three game losing streak, while Orlando has seen the total dip below the posted number in eight of 13 this season in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent.

This number is just a bit high in my opinion, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE YEAR is the under Nuggets/Spurs (8:35 EST).

The time has come for my NBA “PLAY OF THE YEAR.” 

So far the Nuggets have seen the Over/Under go 29-10-1 this season, while the Spurs have seen it go 25-16. 

Denver comes into this one having seen the total go over the number in eight straight games, while San Antonio has seen the total sail above the posted number in four straight.

When these teams met on January 5th, San Antonio won 127-99, the total sailing well above the posted number. 

In fact, the total has eclipsed the number in six of these team’s last eight in the series.

I now finally think though that the value has swung the other way as far as the total is concerned.

The Nuggets are just 17-23 SU on the year and come into this one clearly over-achieving after notching their third straight victory in Tuesday’s 127-121 road win over the Lakers. 

I also feel that San Antonio comes in a bit complacent, it most recently won for the fifth time in seven games by besting the Wolves 122-114 on Tuesday. The Spurs have had their way with the Nuggets over the last few years, taking 11 of the last 12 meetings. If ever they were to take an opponent for granted, it’s Denver.

Hammering the Lakers is one thing, but clearly it’s quite another to dominate the Spurs on their home floor. Denver beat LA despite 17 turnovers. Also note that the Spurs own the second ranked defense in the league, conceding just 98.4 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Denver has seen the total go under the number in seven of its last 12 as a road dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range, while San Antonio has seen the total stay below the number in 15 of its last 22 games when the total is greater than or equal to 210.

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

Analysis posted at least 3 hours before game time.

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the under Spurs/Suns (6:05 EST).

The 31-8 San Antonio Spurs are in Phoenix to take on the 12-27 Suns and for a number of different reasons, I think this one sets up as a lower-scoring defensive battle. 

Phoenix is eager to break a two game slide and will look to score an upset today against San Antonio at Mexico City Arena tonight. 

The Spurs bounced back from a home loss to beat the Lakers 134-94 on Thursday.

These teams have played twice already this year, with the Spurs winning 107-92 in Phoenix on December 15th and then again at home in a 119-98 victory. 

Phoenix likes to get out and push the pace, but the Suns have been unable to do that against the Spurs’ clamp down defense. Note that the Suns rank third in the league in possessions per 48 minutes at more than 102, but they’d not even reach 100 in either outing against San Antonio.

We can expect a similar game plan from the Spurs tonight as well obviously as they look to combat the altitude, as the arena is 7,350 feet above sea level.

I’ll point out that San Antonio has seen the total go under the number in 15 of its last 25 after plaing three consecutive home games, while Phoenix has seen the total dip below the posted number in two of its last three as an underdog.

For all of the reasons listed above, I think this one ends in a lower-scoring under.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Situational Stunner is on the over Mavericks/Timberwolves (8:05 EST).

The 11-26 Dallas Mavericks are in Minnesota to take on the 11-26 Timberwolves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it. 

Dallas enters off a second straight loss, this time a listless 97-82 setback at home to the Hawks on Saturday.

Minnesota comes in off its fourth loss in a row, this time a close 94-92 setback to Utah on Saturday. 

The Wolves will be looking to get off the schneid and to say they play with “revenge” would be a bit of an understatement as the Mavs have taken seven straight in the series. 

So far Dallas is last in the league in scoring with an average of 95.2 PPG, while ranked fifth on defense, conceding 100.6. Harrison Barnes is the leader with 20.6 points plus 5.5 boards per night. Note that the Mavericks are tied for seventh in the league for threes made with 10.4 per game. 

Zach LaVine was a standout for the Wolves in the loss to Utah, finishing with 24 points, nine boards and four assists. So far the Wolves average 103.1 PPG, ranked 19th, while conceding 104.9, ranked 17th. 

I’ll point out that Dallas has seen the total go over the number in 12 of its last 20 after playing three consecutive home games, while Minnesota has seen the total fly above the posted number in 40 of its last 68 after playing to three or more consecutive losses. 

A couple of cellar dwellers desperate for a win in this one. I don’t expect to see much offense played as each pushes from start to finish, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is the under Hornets/Spurs (8:35 EST).

The 20-17 Charlotte Hornets are in San Antonio to take on the 29-7 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one also sets up as a defensive affair. 

San Antonio is rolling along, it’s won six of its last seven. Charlotte comes into this one having dropped three of its last four, including a tough one-point loss to Detroit in its last outing.

Charlotte though will look to score the upset today and still owns the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Kemba Walker has averaged 34.3 points in his last three contests. Clearly the team though will be concentrating on the defensive end after giving up an average of 112 points over its last four games. 

San Antonio has lost just twice since mid December and sits just two games back of the Warriors for the best record in the West. Big man LaMarcus Aldridge is averaging 24.3 points and shooting 70.9 percent over his last six. 

I’ll point out that Charlotte has seen the total go under the number in all four games this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while San Antonio has seen the total dip below the posted number in three of its last four againt clubs with winning records. 

I think Charlotte tries to slow this one down. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-22 Denver Nuggets are in Oklahoma City to take on the 21-16 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I’m expecting a lower-scoring defensive battle.

Divisional contests are always the most important ones in sports. The Nuggets will be especially motivated today as they’ve lost four straight, most recently a humbling 127-99 spanking at home by the Spurs on Thursday. 

The Thunder though can empathize, they’d go on to drop all three games of their road trip, most recently a 118-116 setback to the Rockets in Houston on Thursday. 

These two teams battled on November 25th and OKC would prevail 132-129 in OT on the road. 

Denver can score, but isn’ able to defend. The same can pretty much be said about Oklahoma City.

I’ll point out though, this is a spot in which both teams have seen the “under” hit at a considerable rate, as Denver has seen the total dip below the posted number in 20 of its last 32 after playing to three or more consecutive “overs,” while OKC has seen the total go under in 14 of 23 as a favorite this year and three of four against the division.

Both teams are desperate for a win. Everything points to a scrappy war tonight, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 17-19 New York Knicks are in Indiana to take on the 19-18 Pacers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one sets up as more of a defensive affair than a run-and-gun shootout.

The Knicks snapped a six game slide with a 116-111 road win in Milwaukee on Friday night. 

The Pacers enter having won four straight, most recently a 121-109 effort over Brooklyn on Thursday night. 

Carmelo Anthony had 26 points in the win over the Bucks for the Knicks, he leads an offense which is middle of the pack in averaging 105.3 PPG. New York has been poor defensively as well, allowing 108.4 PPG, ranked 25th. 

Indiana is 14-5 at home this year, but also owns a middle of the road offense which averages 105.4 PPG. The Pacers are 22nd in the league in scoring defense, allowing 106.1 PPG. Paul George leads the way with 22.6 points plus 6.3 boards a night. 

I’ll point out though that New York has seen the total go under the number in 73 of its last 120 against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while Indiana has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of six already this year after playing to three consecutive “overs.” 

These are two teams which have underperformed and which are desperate for victories. I’m banking on a slower-paced, more methodical contest, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Situational Stunner is on the under Grizzlies/Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 22-16 Memphis Grizzlies are in Golden State to take on the 31-5 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will turn into a defensive battle. 

The Warriors are looking for fifth straight win and come off a 125-117 home victory over the Trailblazers on Wednesday. Stephen Curry had 35 points and five assists. Golden State has the No. 1 ranked offense, but will face a stiff test today in the Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies have split their last eight games and will be hungry here to avoid a third straight loss following a listless 115-106 setback to the Clippers on Wednesday. Marc Gasol was a bright spot with 23 points and six assists. 

Memphis gets the job done with tough defensive play, ranking in the Top 5 in the league, so it comes as little surprise to learn that it’s seen the total go under the number in three of four already this year after playing to three or more consecutive “overs” and in ten of 17 against teams with winning records.

And note, despite being the highest-scoring team in the league, the Warriors have seen the total dip below the posted number in 13 of 20 this year after three or more consecutive victories and in all five games this season as a home fav in the 12.5 to 15 points range. 

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

Good luck…Larry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Raptors average 110.3 PPG, while conceding 103.4.

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

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

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the over Thunder/Hornets (7:00 EST).

The 21-14 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Charlotte to take on the 19-16 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this has “shootout” written all over it.

OKC comes in having lost two of its last three, most recently a 98-94 setback at Milwaukee on Monday. The Hornets have lost two straight after a 118-111 road loss in Chicago on Monday. 

Note that the Hornets will be eager to break the string of losses to the Thunder, having dropped 11 straight in this series.

OKC is ranked ninth in the league with an average of 106 PPG and 17th in the league in scoring defense in conceding 104.4 PPG. The team is led by Russell Westbrook, who averages 30.9 points, 10.4 boards and 10.5 assists per night. 

Charlotte averages 105.1 PPG, while conceding 103. Kemba Walker is the man, he averages 23 points, 5.4 assists and 1.26 steals per game. 

I’ll point out that the Thunder have seen the total go over the number in three of their last four against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while the Hornets have seen the total sail above the posted number in seven of ten non-conference games and in five of eight off an upset loss as a favorite.

These are two teams hungry for a victory and I’m expecting them to push the pace from start to finish. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Total Situational Stunner is the under Jazz/Celtics (7:35 EST).

The 21-13 Utah Jazz are in Boston to take on the 20-14 Celtics and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

Utah comes in off a 101-89 victory in Brooklyn just last night and I think will be a little “gassed” in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. 

Boston enters off a 117-114 home win over the Heat on Friday, winning for the third time in four games. These teams split a pair of games last year, with Boston coming out on top 100-95 in the last matchup here back on February 29th, 2016. Suffice it to say, I think we’ll see a similar final combined score at the end of this one as well.

It wouldn’t be hard to see the Jazz getting caught “looking ahead,” as after tonight they still have stops in Toronto, Minnesota and Memphis before returning home to face Cleveland to end what will be six games in nine days. Note that Utah has some breathing room in the playoff picture as it’s 6.5 games ahead of ninth-place Denver. 

Utah is ranked 26th in league scoring at 98.9 PPG, while leading the league on the defensive end in conceding only 94.7 PPG. 

Boston is ranked tenth in the league in scoring at 106.1 PPG and 15th on the defensive end in allowing 104.3.

I’ll point out though that the Celtics have seen the total go under the number in three of four as a home favorite of 3.5 to six points this season.

And note that Utah has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of six already this year after three or more consecutive SU wins.

Boston is banged up right, recently recalling some members from D-League. The Jazz are tired and will be looking to slow this one down from the outset. Everything points to this one falling under the number.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is the under Wizards/Rockets (8:00 EST).

The 16-16 Washington Wizards are at Houston to take on the 26-9 Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one sets up as more of a lower-scoring defensive battle. 

Washington is back to .500 after winning its third straight, most recently over the Nets at home on Friday. The Wizards won that game without the services of leading scorer Bradley Beal, who is also questionable for this one. 

Houston won its fourth straight, most recently a 129-122 victory over the Knicks at home. Note that Washington plays with revenge after falling 114-106 at home in the first meeting of the year between the clubs. 

John Wall is leading the charge for Washignton, averaging 23.6 points, 4.5 boards, 2.3 steals and ten assists per contest. 

The Rockets are led by James Harden, who had 52 points in his last outing. So far Harden averags 28.5 points, 8.1 boards and 12 assits per game. 

I’ll point out that Washignton has seen the total go UNDER the number in 12 of its last 20 after playing three consecutive home games, while Houston has seen the total go UNDER in six of ten already this year after playing to three or more consecutive “overs.” 

This can still be a high-scoring affair and fall below this sky-high number and that’s exactly what I’m expecting. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The Mavericks come to Golden State off a confidence building 101-89 road victory over the Lakers last night and I think they can carry that momentum over here.

Am I going to suggest to you to “sprinkle a little” on the money line? 

Of course not. I simply feel that the high-powered Warriors will “look past” the lowly Mavs today, as the team won’t play again until January 2nd.

Golden State averages 117.3 PPG, but is sub-par defensively, ranked in the lower-third in the league on that side of the floor.

The hungry Mavs will have their chances tonight. 

I’ll point out that Dallas is 10-7 ATS in its last 17 against clubs with winning records, while Golden State is interestingly just 1-6 ATS this year against the Southwest divsion and only 6-9 ATS against clubs with losing records.

Not surprisingly, the Mavs play with revenge today after losing by 21 at Oracle earlier in the year. The stage is now set for a much more competitive affair in my opinion though, so grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 19-13 Boston Celtics are in Cleveland to take on the 23-7 Cavaliers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the C’s finally have a letdown here after winning two straight and six of their last seven, most recently a 113-103 home victory over Memphis on Tuesday. 

Conversely, the Cavs are looking to start their new win skein after a five game streak was snapped in a 106-90 setback to Detroit on Monday. Note though that most of the Cavs starters were rested in that second game of the back-to-back after their epic come from behind 109-108 victory over the Warriors on Christmas Day (I had Cleveland in that one, part of my 5-0 Christmas Day sweep of the board).

Boston is 12th in the league in scoring with 105.4 PPG and 14th on the defensive end in conceding 103.3. 

Cleveland is fourth in league scoring with an average of 110.1 PPG and 13th overall defensively by conceding 103 PPG. I think it’s also important to point out that the Cavs rank second in three point shooting with 39.8 percent from behind the arc.

And note the the C’s are just 3-5 ATS this year when playing the role of underdog, while the Cavs are 5-1 ATS this season after a division game and 5-3 ATS when playing with two days of rest.

With a much “easier” game at home tomorrow night against the Heat, I think the visitors get caught looking ahead and the defending champs step up and take full advantage. Play on the Cavaliers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 22-8 Toronto Raptors are in Golden State to take on the 27-5 Warriors tonight and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Toronto has been playing great, but I think is primed for a letdown here after winning four in a row and eight of its last nine. 

The Warriors on the other hand look to bounce back and make a statement after a tough 109-108 Christmas Day loss in Cleveland (I had the Cavs in that one, part of a 3-0 NBA X-Mas day sweep and an overall 5-0 holiday card!). 

The Raptors were rolling right along on a seven game win streak before then falling to the Cavaliers at home a couple of weeks ago and now they face the best team in the West. It’s a very similar situation.

Also note, with a very winnable game tomorrow night in Phoenix, Toronto could even elect to rest some of its starters if this one gets out of reach.

I’ll point out that Toronto is just 2-3 ATS this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Golden State is (not surprisingly), 14-10 ATS this season against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest and also 6-4 ATS after a non-conference game. 

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on the Utah Jazz (10:30 EST).

The 18-13 Utah Jazz are in LA to take on the 12-22 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitor. 

Utah looks to get back on track after dropping three straight, most recently a 104-98 home loss to Toronto on Friday. 

The Lakers though look primed for an immediate return to mediocrity after managing a 111-102 Christmas Day “home” win over the Clippers. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the Jazz have to be loving their chances for a bounce back performance tonight as they’ve won six of the last seven in the series, including the first two meetings this year, the most recent a 107-101 win in LA back on December 5th.

Utah is is ranked 24th in the league in scoring at 99.1 PPG, but is No. 1 in scoring defense in conceding just 95.2. George Hill is one of four players which average double figures with 20 points plus 4.2 assists per contest. I think it’s worthy to note that despite struggling on the offensive end so far this season, the Jazz are eighth in the league in three point shooting at 36.3 percent.

LA is ranked 16th in the league in scoring at 104.5 PPG, but is brutal on the defensive end, conceding 110.6 PPG, ranked 27th overall. Lou Williams leads the way with 18.7 points and 3.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Utah is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six after allowing 100 points or more in its previous game, while LA is just 2-8 ATS in its last ten when playing on one days rest and only 1-5 ATS in its last six following a SU victory.

I think the stage is set for the hungry Jazz to get back on track with a convincing effort against the consistently inconsistent Lakers. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Indiana Pacers (8:00 EST).

The 15-16 Indiana Pacers are in Chicago to take on the 14-15 Chicago Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

I played against the Bulls on Christmas Day and they’d go on to lose badly in San Antonio last night. Suffice it to say, I think the visitors can take advantage of the schedule and at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Pacers have to be loving their chances tonight as they’d beat the Bulls 111-94 at home back on November 5th.

Let’s face it, both teams are really struggling right now. Indiana is paced by Paul George, who averages 21.7 points and seven boards per contest.

Chicago got out to a great start, but has since come crashing back down to Earth. Jimmy Butler leads all scorers with an average of 24.4 PPG. The Bulls do average 101 PPG, but are ranked last in the league in three-point shooting percentage at 30.8. 

I’ll point out that Indiana is a perfect 5-0 ATS in its last five when playing with three or more days rest, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS this year as a home fav in the two to six points range and only 5-9 ATS against teams with losing records. 

The Pacers are the “fresher” team and I think that’ll be the difference maker today. Play on Indiana.

Good luck…Larry

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

If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you know that I base my picks on many different criteria.

For this particular selection though we’re keeping it simple. OKC has been on a big role of late, riding the amazing play of versatile swingman Russell Westbrook and when it faced the Wolves on November 25th, it would come away with a relatively simple 112-92 victory.

Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance here.

Minnesota had won three of its last four before a 109-105 setback to the Kings in its last game and with a home contest against Atlanta tomorrow night, I think the visitors come in flat on Christmas day.

And from a trend based stand point, there’s no question that this one sets up beautifully for the home side as Minnesota is just 7-10 ATS this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent and only 6-9 ATS against teams with winning records, while OKC is 5-1 ATS as a home fav of 3.5 to six points and 9-6 ATS in its last 15 after allowing 105 points or more.

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

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Antonio Spurs (5:00 EST).

The 14-15 Chicago Bulls are in San Antonio on Chistmas Day to take on the 24-6 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Bulls have lost five of their last six, most recently a listless 103-91 setback at Charlotte on Friday. 

The Spurs enter on the other end of the spectrum, coming off their sixth win in their last seven games by stompging the Trailblazers 110-90 on Friday. 

Note that San Antonio plays with revenge today as well after falling 95-91 in Chicago back on December 8th. 

Chicago enters 23rd in the league in scoring at 101 points per game and sixth overall in scoring defense in conceding 99.7 PPG.

I’ll also point out that Bulls are last in the league in three pointers in averaging just six per game.

The Spurs rank 18th overall in scoring offense at 104.1 PPG, while being ranked third in scoring defense in conceding 97.9. And note, San Antonio ranks No. 1 in the league with a solid 40.8 percent shooting from range.

Also note that Chicago is 0-4 ATS in its last four on the road and 0-4 ATS in its last four when playing on one days rest, while San Antonio is 5-1 ATS in its last six after scoring 100 points or more in its previous contest.

With the national spot light in San Antonio on Christmas Day, I’m expecting the deeper and battle tested Spurs to find a way to get the job done once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is the Cleveland Cavaliers (2:30 EST).

The 27-4 Golden State Warriors are in Cleveland to take on the 22-6 Cavaliers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I simply feel that home floor can’t be overlooked in this one. Christmas Day games almost always favor the home side.

Besides, Golden State looks poised for a letdown here after winning seven straight, most recently a 119-113 road victory over Detroit.

Cleveland has won four straight, most recently a 119-89 destruciton of Brooklyn at home on Friday. 

The Cavs will also be extra motivated today to atone for a 132-98 setback to the Warriors in Cleveland on January 18th, 2016.

Golden State has the No. 1 offense at 117.5 PPG, but the defense is poor, conceding an average of 104.1 PPG, ranked 16th overall.

Cleveland is the No. 4 offense at 110.9 PPG, while ranked 1th overall on the defense end in conceding 102.7 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Golden State is just 1-5 ATS in its last six road games and 0-4 ATS after allowing 100 points or more in its previous game, while Cleveland is 8-1 ATS in its last nine after scoring 100 points or more and 7-1 ATS in its last eight following a SU victory.

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 Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Atlanta Hawks (9:05 EST).

Denver is just 12-17 but looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning three of its last four.

Atlanta is 14-15 on the year, but sits just two games back in its division. 

The Hawks are interestingly just 1-6 in their last seven home games, most recently falling 92-84 to the Wolves. So far Atlanta averages 102 points per game. Big man Dwight Howard hasn’t been in the line-up the last two games, but Paul Millsap is still a force to be reckoned with, he had 18 points, seven assists, ten boards and two steals in the humbling setback to Minnesota. 

The Nuggets had their mini three-game win skein snapped in a 119-102 blowout loss at the hands of the Clippers. Will Barton was a bright spot with 22 points. Denver has been decent offensively, but its defense has been atrocious, conceding a whopping 109.7 PPG, which ranks its 27th overall. 

I’ll point out that Atlanta is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 as an underdog, while Denver is just 12-20 ATS in its last 32 when playing with two days of rest and and just 6-8 ATS in its last 14 as a home fav of 3.5 to six points.

I think that the Hawks are the more desperate team tonight. Denver’s little run is over and once momentum is lost, it’s very difficult to flip a switch and get it back. 

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 Atlanta.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 25-4 Golden State Warriors are in Brooklyn to take on the 7-20 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it. 

The Warriors are rolling, having won five straight, most recently a 104-74 victory at home over the Jazz. The Nets enter on the other end of the spectrum, having lost three straight, most recently a 116-104 setback in Toronto on Tuesday. 

After this the Warriors have a game in Cleveland on Christmas Day, a contest where anything can happen. I think the visitors come in focused on the task at hand tonight and push the pace from start to finish. Golden State ranks No. 1 in the league in scoring with 117.4 PPG. The defense hasn’t needed to be as good, it’s currently ranked 15th, allowing 103.9 points per night. 

Brooklyn will try to match pace, it’s offense has actually been pretty good this year, ranked eighth overall in posting 106.6 PPG. The Nets though are terrible on defense, ranked last in conceding 114.4 pointer per game. 

I’ll point out that Golden State has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 14 against clubs with losing records, while Brooklyn has seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of six against the Pacific division this year and in five of six after three or more consecutive losses.

Everything points to a “run-and-gun shootout.” Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 21-7 Houston Rockets are in Phoenix to take on the 8-20 Suns and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Houston enters off a 111-109 OT win over the Wolves on Saturday and then fell 102-100 at home to the Spurs just last night.

It’s the opportunity that the hungry Suns have been waiting for and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for Phoenix to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Houston is an offensive juggernaut in averaging 113.1 PPG, ranked second only to the Warriors. The defense though is poor, conceding 105.8 PPG, which is 20th overall. 

Phoenix can score with the best of them, averaging 106.4 PPG, which ranks it ninth overall. Like the Rockets though, the weak point for the Suns comes on the defensive end where they concede 113.1, ranked 29th in the league.

I’ll point out though that Houston is just 6-8 ATS in its last 14 as a road fav in the 3.5 to six points range, while Phoenix is already 3-1 ATS this season after three or more consecutive SU losses, 6-4 ATS against teams with winning records and 3-1 ATS in its last four as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range.

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

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-15 Washington Wizards are in Chicago to take on the 14-13 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Washington comes in off a 107-105 loss at Indiana on Monday, while Chicago destroyed Detroit 113-82 to halt a three-game slide. I think the Wizards have a letdown here and expect the Bulls to build off their latest victory.

The Wizards are just 2-9 on the road this year. Defense is the weak point for Washington as it concedes an average of 106.4 PPG, ranked 22nd. 

Chicago on the other hand averages 101.6 PPG and concedes just 99.3, which is ranked fifth. 

I’ll point out that the Wizards are just 4-7 ATS on the road this year and only 38-40 ATS in their last 78 after scoring 105 points or more, while the Bulls are 4-2 ATS this year following a divisional contest and 8-6 ATS in their last 14 home games.

For all the reasons listed above, I’m backing the home side. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 18-11 Memphis Grizzlies are in Detroit to take on the 14-16 Pistons and for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the home side. 

No need to overthink this one in my opinion, as Memphis was at home to Boston just last night, falling 112-109. 

I think the hungry home side, which has dropped three straight, including a listless 113-82 road setback at Chicago on Monday, finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game for the home side would be a bit of an understatement, as Memphis has taken 12 of the last 13 meeting, including a 93-92 win in Detroit back on December 9th, 2015. 

Memphis is ranked just 29th in scoring offense, posting 96.4 PPG. The Grizzlies get the job done on the defensive end though, conceding just 96.7 PPG, which is ranked No. 2.

Detroit’s offense is ranked 25th overall, averaging 98.4 PPG. The defense though has also been stout, conceding 97.4 PPG, which is third overall in the league.

I’ll point out though that Memphis is just 2-8 ATS in its last ten as a road dog of 6.5 to nine points, while Detroit is already 3-1 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU losses. 

I like the desperate home side to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Play on Detroit.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over Jazz/Warriors (10:35 EST).

The 18-10 Utah Jazz are in Golden State to take on the 24-4 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it as well.

Utah is coming off an 82-73 road win over Memphis, while Golden State annihilated Portland 135-90 on Saturday. 

These teams played earlier in the month and the Warriors would prevail 106-99.

The Jazz average 100.2 PPG, which ranks them 24th overall. On the defensive end they’re No. 1, conceding only 94.6 PPG.

But clearly Utah’s vaunted defensive unit faces a tough task on the road against the high-powered Warriors offense which is No. 1 in the league in averaging a whopping 117.9 PPG. 

Golden State is very average defensively though, conceding 105 PPG, ranked 18th in the NBA.

I’ll point out that the Jazz have in fact seen the total go over the number in nine of their 13 road games this season, while Golden State has seen the total eclipse the posted number in all five games it’s played this year when playing with two days of rest.

I like the rested home side to push the pace from start to finish, forcing the visitors to match. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over Celtics/Grizzlies.

The 15-12 Boston Celtics are in Memphis to take on the 18-11 Grizzlies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it too.

The Celtics have won two in a row and will be confident here. Isaiah Thomas scored 23 points in 28 minutes in a 105-95 win against the Heat in Florida in the most recent. Al Horford scored 17 with eight boards and a season-high seven assists.

The Grizzlies got star Mike Conley back in the line-up, but have since gone on to lose two straight. Clearly Conley and the home side will be out to reverse that trend tonight. And after osing 83-72 to Utah last time out, we can expect the home side to push the pace from start to finish. 

I’ll point out that Boston has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 13 after scoring 105 points or more, while Memphis has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 15 of its last 20 after playing three consecutive home games.

I expect these teams to push the pace from start to finish and for this one to fly over as it comes down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 11-19 Lakers are in Charlotte to take on the 15-13 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has “shootout” written all over it.

These are two teams hungry for a victory and I’m expecting a wide-open affair. 

The Lakers lost for the ninth time in their last ten games after falling 119-108 on the road in Cleveland on Saturday. 

Charlotte meanwhile snapped a four-game slide by besting the Hawks 107-99 on the road on Saturday. 

So far LA is 13th in the league in scoring with 104.4 PPG. Lou Williams leads the charge with 18.9 PPG. On the defensive end the Lakers are near the bottom of the league, ranked 27th overall in conceding 110.5 PPG. 

The Hornets will look to capatalize, they’re ranked 18th overall in the NBA in putting up 103.9 PPG. Charlotte is also in the middle of the pack on the defensive end, conceding 102.1 PPG. Kemba Walker leads all players with an average of 22.4 points and 5.3 assists per contest.

I’ll point out that LA has seen the total go over the number in four of five this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Charlotte has seen the total sail above the posted number in seven of ten against teams with losing records this season.

LA will need to push the pace of this one from the outset as it looks to get Charlotte out of its comfort zone. As mentioned off the top, I think everything points to a classic shootout. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-15 Detroit Pistons are in Chicago to take on the 13-13 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has all the makings of a higher-scoring shootout. 

Both teams have been floundering of late and each will be looking to push the pace and score the victory. The Pistons lost their second straight and third in their last four in a 105-90 home setback to Indiana on Saturday. 

The Bulls have lost three straight, most recently a 95-69 setback to Milwaukee on Friday. Chicago will be extra motivated as well today, playing with the revenge factor after dropping four of the last five in the series, including a 102-91 setback in the first meeting this year back on December 6th.

Detroit ranks 25th offensively in averaging 98.9 PPG, but is second in scoring defense in conceding just 96.9 PPG. 

Chicago is ranked 23rd in scoring with 101.1 PPG and is fifth in scoring defense, conceding 100 points a night.

These numbers don’t necessarily point to a higher-scoring affair, but I think the situation definitely lends itself to a shootout. 

I’ll point out that Detroit has seen the total go over the number in ten of 17 on the road this season, while Chicago has seen the total sail above the posted number in seven of its last ten after scoring 85 points or less.

Desperation breeds motivation. Both teams are looking to break out of their respective slumps and I think everything points to a faster paced contest. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WEST-CONF TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the over Suns/Wolves (8:05 EST).

The 8-19 Phoenix Suns are in Minnesota to take on the 7-19 Timberwolves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one is screaming “shootout.”

The Suns are looking to bounce back after two straight losses, including a listless 104-91 setback to the Thunder on Saturday. 

The Wolves have lost five of six and will be looking to take out their frustrations on somone after a 111-109 OT loss to Houston on Saturday. 

When these teams first met back on November 25th, Minnesota scored the lower-scoring 98-85 road win. I think we’re going to see a much faster paced game tonight though.

These are two desperate teams, which love nothing more than to get into the open floor and push the tempo. 

So far Phoenix averages 106.2 PPG, ranked ninth overall. The Suns concede 113 points per night, which is ranked 29th.

In the latest setback to the Rockets, Wolves’ big man Karl Anthony Townes had 41 points and 15 boards. Minnesota enters this one ranked 16th overall in scoring at 103.9 PPG, while ranked 23rd defensively in conceding 106.9. Andrew Wiggins is second on the team with 21.9 PPG.

I’ll point out that Phoenix has in fact seen the total go over the number in 11 of 15 road games this year and in 13 of 20 in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Minnesota has seen the total eclipse the posted number in both games that it’s played this year after playing to three or more consecutive “unders.” 

I can’t see a lot of emphasis being put on the defensive end of the floor tonight, I’m banking on an old fashioned shootout. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the under Raptors/Magic (6:05 EST).

The 18-8 Toronto Raptors are in Orlando to take on the 12-16 Magic and for a number of difference reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

The Raptors are looking to get back on track after falling 125-121 at home to Atlanta, a setback which snapped a four-game win streak. 

The Magic broke a six game slide in a 118-111 win over Brooklyn on Friday. 

Toronto has won 12 of the last 13 in the series and that includes a 106-103 OT win i the last matchup in Orlando back on January 14th, 2016. 

Toronto is third in the league in scoring with 112.3 PPG, while ranked 14th on the defensive end in conceding 103.9 per night.

Despite their big offensive output last time out, the Magic are still one of the worst teams offensively, ranked 27th overall in averaging 97.4 PPG. Orlando usually gets the job done with tough defensive plays as it’s ranked ninth overall in conceding 101.6 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Toronto has seen the total go under the number in 17 of its last 27 after playing to three or more consecutive “overs,” while Orlando has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of nine against teams with winning records.

After the debacle at home to the Hawks, we can expect the Raptors to dial up the pressure defensively tonight. And that likely doesn’t bode well for the offensively challenged Magic. This number is just a little hight play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Golden State Warriors (10:30 EST).

The 13-15 Portland Trailblazers are at Golden State to take on the 23-4 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Warriors enter off three straight SU victories. The Blazers are trending the opposite directoin, having lost five of their last six after falling at Denver on Thursday. 

Portland has given up at least 118 points in three of its last four outings. Most recently the Blazers allowed the Nuggets to shoot better than 50 percent, while also letting Denver hit 15 of 31 from range. 

And that doesn’t bode well versus this focused Warriors team which is seemingly getting better with each game. Most recently Golden State assisted on an amazing 41 of their 45 baskets in the 103-90 win over New York. 

I’ll point out that Portland is just 4-8 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 6-10 ATS on the road, while Golden State is 6-4 ATS this season as a home fav of 12.5 points or more and 8-5 ATS in its last 13 following a win by ten points or more.

The Blazers are playing horrible defense right now and I look for that trend to carry over here. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the over Mavs/Jazz (10:35 EST).

The 6-19 Dallas Mavericks are in Utah to take on the 15-10 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will eclipse the posted number as the game comes down the stretch.

Utah has won five of its last six, most recently coming off a win over OKC. Dallas continued its up-and-down season with a 95-85 home loss to Detroit on Wednesday. 

The Mavs had started to turn things around before this latest dud though, winning two of three and posting 111 and 112 points in the two victories. 

Dallas looks to get back on track and will need to match pace with the high-flying Jazz, who destroyed the Thunder 109-89 on Wednesday. Gordon Hayward leads the way for Utah, averaging 25.8 PPG thus far. 

I’ll point out that Dallas has seen the total go over the number in eight of 13 already this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Utah has seen the total sail above the posted number in interestingly five of six against the Southwest division this season and in nine of 14 against teams with losing records.

As mentioned above, I think Utah pushes the pace of this one, which will force the visitors to match. I believe this number is just a little low, play on the over.

Good luck…Larry

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

A couple of cellar dwellers go head-to-head on Friday night and I think the visitors have the advantage in this one.

LA will be desperate, it’s all hands on deck after losing eight straight. Most recently the Lakers fell by ten at Brooklyn on Wednesday. LA held a one-point lead going into the fourth, but would fall apart late.

Lou Williams had 16 points off the bench and six players would go on to score in double digits. But it wasn’t enough, as the defense couldn’t hold up. LA has averaged 107 PPG over its last six. The defense though has given up an average of 111 PPG this season. 

Philadelphia won two straight on the road and then returned home and lost 123-114 to Toronto on Wednesday. Robert Covington had 26 points and 12 boards. 

From a trend based stand point, they don’t get much better than this though, as LA is 6-3 ATS in its last nine off an upset loss as a favorite (including 2-1 ATS this season), while Philadelphia is just 2-4 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more.

The Lakers have actually been getting healthier on this road trip and I think the deeper team finds a way to get the job done once it’s all said and done. Play on LA.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-13 Atlanta Hawks are in Toronto to take on the 18-7 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Hawks had a two-game win streak snapped in a 131-120 setback at home to Orlando on Wednesday, while Toronto won its fourth straight and tenth out of its last 11 with a 123-114 road win at Philadelphia. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for ATL would be a bit of an understatement I think, as TO has won five of the last six in the series, including a blowout 128-84 victory in the first meeting of the season on December 3rd.

In the loss to the Magic, Hawks’ big man Dwight Howard had 20 points and 16 boards. So far Atlanta is ranked 23rd in the league in scoring at 101.6 PPG. It’s better on the defensive end, conceding 103.4 PPG, ranked 14th. Paul Milsap leads the charge with 17 points, 8.3 boards and 3.6 assists per night. 

The Raptors are third overall in scoring at 111.9 PPG and 12th in scoring defense, conceding 103 PPG. DeMar DeRozan leads the Raptors with 28 points and 5.2 boards per contest. 

Simply put, I think Atlanta is the “hungrier” and more motivated team today. It plays with revenge after getting destroyed by Toronto earlier in the month and it’s also out to atone for its lacklustre effort against the Magic. Success breeds complacency. I think the Raptors have a small mental letdown here and leave the back door open just wide enough for Atlanta to sneak in through down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST). 

The 14-11 New York Knicks are in Golden State to take on the 22-4 Warriors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Warriors bounced back from a loss at Memphis to win their last two games, over Minnesota and New Orleans respectively. 

New York had won six of seven before an OT loss in Phoenix on Tuesday and suffice it to say, I’m expecting another letdown here. Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, is even harder to get back.

I’ll point out that New York is just 1-3 ATS in its last four on the road and only 1-4 ATS in its last five as an underdog, while Golden State is 12-8 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more and 6-3 ATS this season as a home fav of 12.5 points or more.

It’s a tough road trip for New York, with a game in Denver on Saturday and it’s not too hard to imagine the team getting caught looking ahead. 

Conversely, after a somewhat difficult five-game road trip behind them, I’m expecting the Warriors to come out fired up in the opener of a three-game home stand. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

Sacramento has won two of its last four, including a 116-92 victory over the Lakers on Monday. Houston enters off a 122-118 win over the Nets on Monday and is poised for a letdown here after posting its seventh win in a row. 

The Kings would hold the Lakers to just 39 percent from the field and were led by DeMarcus Cousins, who had 31 points, 16 boards, five assists, three blocks and two steals. 

Houston looked poor defensively against the Nets, allowing Brooklyn to shoot 52 percent from the field. James Harden was two rebounds away from a triple-double. 

I’ll point out that Sacramento is 4-1 ATS in its last five against teams with a winning percentage above .600 and 3-1-1 ATS in its last five against the Southwest division, while Houston is just 16-23 ATS in its last 39 after three or more consecutive SU victories.

Cousins is a man possessed right now and I think he and the Kings can keep this one competitive in facing the Rockets poor defense. Grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the under Lakers/Nets (7:35 EST0.

The 10-17 LA Lakers are in Brooklyn to take on the 6-17 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will fall below the posted number once it’s all said and done.

After a decent start, the Lakers have predictably fallen on hard times, most recently dropping their seventh straight with a 116-92 setback at Sacramento on Monday.

The Nets can empathize, they’ve struggled with consistency all year and most recently fell 122-118 on the road at Houston on Monday.

When these teams clashed on November 15th, the Lakers came away with a 125-118 home victory, but I think that all signs point to more of a lower-scoring battle tonight.

LA ranks 13th in the league in scoring at 104.7 PPG and is 27th in scoring defense at 111.1. 

Brooklyn is ninth in the league in scoring at 106.5 PPG and is last in scoring defense, conceding 115.2 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that the Lakers have seen the total go under the number in nine of 20 this year when playing the role of underdog, while the Nets have seen the total dip below the posted number in 25 of their last 44 when playing the role of favorite.

These bottom feeders have a lot of players (and coaches!), fighting for a spot next year and have something to prove. I think we’ll see just enough defense to keep this one under the number once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Philadelphia 76ers (7:05 EST).

The 17-7 Toronto Raptors are in Philadelphia to take on the 6-18 76ers and for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the home side.

I believe the high-flying Raptors “look past” the lowly 76ers tonight. Toronto comes in have won three straight and nine of its last ten after besting the Bucks 122-100 at home on Monday. I had the Raptors in that one. The only loss during that stretch came at home to the Cavaliers and I had a play on Cleveland in that particular contest.

Note that Toronto ranks among the best on the offensive end, averaging 111.5 PPG, but defensively it’s middle of the pack, allowing 102.6.

Philadelphia comes in with a ton of momentum after winning back-to-back road games. In their most recent win over the Pistons, the 76ers held a 42-34 edge on the boards. Robert Convington led the way with 16 points to lead six other players in double figures.

I’ll point out that the Raptors are just 4-6 ATS in their last ten as a road fav in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Philadelphia is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a home dog in the same points range.

For all of the reasons mentioned above, I’m backing the home side in this matchup. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (8:00 EST).

The 6-18 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Chicago to take on the 13-10 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

I believe the Wolves will be the “hungrier” team today, they enter off their fourth straight loss, most recently a hard-fought 116-108 home setback to the Warriors on Friday. 

Chicago on the other hand looks poised for a letdown here after winning its second straight, this time a 105-100 victory over Miami on Saturday. 

But if recent history is any precedence, then the visitors have to be loving their chances for an outright victory today as they’d take both meetings last year, including a 112-105 win in the last matchup on February 6th, 2016 in Chicago.

Minnesota will be especially motivated after letting a late lead slip away in the fourth quarter against Golden State. Note that Karl-Anthony Towns, Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine each had 25 points in the setback.

Chicago got 31 points, seven boards, five assists and three steals from Jimmy Butler in the win over Miami. 

I’ll point out that Minnesota is 4-1 ATS this year after three more consecutive SU losses, while Chicago is just 4-6 ATS in its last ten against teams with losing records. 

With two nights off before a home-and-home set with Milwaukee, I think the home side comes in a bit complacent here. Conversely, the hungry Wolves are desperate to break the slide and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Wolves.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 12-13 Portland Trail Blazers are in LA to take on the 17-7 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

I think Portland, which has dropped three straight, will be the “hungrier” team today and am expecting that determination to at the very least, lead to a solid cover for the visitors tonight. 

LA broke a three-game slide with a blowout win over New Orleans on Saturday. 

Portland will be especially motivated here after letting sizeable fourth quarter leads slip away, most recently a disappointing setback to the Pacers: “This wasn’t a normal loss,” Blazers guard C.J. McCollum said after. “We’ve had a lot of these games we should win, games we’re up double digits and they make more plays than us down the stretch, they make more hustle plays. They make aggressive moves toward the basket, they get fouls. They finish the game and we don’t.”

LA blew out the Hornets and Chris Paul led the way with 20 points, 20 assists and zero turnovers. 

But with a three game road trip on the horizon, I think the Clippers get caught “looking ahead.” 

And I’ll point out that Portland is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three consecutive SU losses, while LA is just 6-17 ATS in its last 24 as a home favorite of 9.5 to 12 points.

While I won’t be so bold as to call for an outright upset, I do definitely think this is too many points to be giving up. Play on Portland.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 6-16 Brooklyn Nets are in Houston to take on the 17-7 Rockets and for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the visitors.

The Nets lost for the 11th time in their last 13 in a 130-101 setback at San Antonio on Saturday. The Rockets though looked poised for a letdown here after six straight wins, most recently a 109-87 victory at home over Dallas. 

Brooklyn can score with the best of them, it averages 106 PPG, which is ranked a respectable tenth in the league. Where the team lacks severely is on the defensive end, ranked dead last in conceding an average of 114.9 PPG. Brook Lopez leads the way with 19.8 points a night.

Houston ranks second in the league in scoring with 111.6 PPG and is 18th in scoring defense in allowing 105.7 PPG. James Harden leads the team with 27.8 PPG, 7.6 boards and 11.6 assists per night. 

Note though that Brooklyn is 3-1 ATS in its last four as an underdog, while Houston is just 15-26 ATS in its last 41 following a divisional contest.

I think the Rockets come into this one complacent and the high-scoring Nets keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the backdoor down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 11-11 Milwaukee Bucks are in Toronto to take on the 16-7 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. These teams come in trending in opposite directions, as the Bucks have lost two straight, most recently a 110-105 setback at Washington, while the Raptors won their second straight and eight in their last nine with a 101-94 road victory in Boston on Friday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Toronto has to be liking its chances today as it’s won five straight in the series, including a 105-99 win in the first meeting this year on November 25th. 

Milwaukee is led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, with 21.9 points, nine boards, 5.9 assists, 1.95 steals and 2.14 blocks. The Bucks though are ranked 16th overall offensively with 104.2 PPG. They’re a bit better on the defensive end, ranked 13th overall in conceding 102.7 PPG. 

The only loss in the Raptors current run has come against the Cavaliers last week (I had Cleveland in that one). Note that Toronto is fourth in the league in scoring with a 111 points per game average, while the Raptors clock in at 12th on the defensive end, giving up 102.7 PPG. 

I’ll point out that the Bucks are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games against a team with a winning home record, while Toronto is 4-0 ATS in its last four home games against a team with a road win percentage of less than .400 and a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four when playing on two days of rest. 

Milwaukee is out of gas right now, it blew a 20 point half time lead in losing to Atlanta at home on Friday and then stumbled on the road in Washington. I think the home side takes full advantage and keeps the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the LA Lakers (9:35 EST).

The 13-10 New York Knicks are in Los Angeles to take on the 10-15 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Knicks are poised for a letdown in my opinion after winning five of their last six, most recently a 103-100 victory on the road in Sacramento. 

Conversely, the Lakers will be risking life and limb tonight to get back into the win column after droping five straight, most recently a 119-115 home setback to Phoenix on Friday. 

New York is 15th in the league in scoring (104.2) and tied for 23rd in scoring defense (106.9). 

LA is 11th in the NBA in scoring (104.9) and 27th in scoring defense (110.7). 

I’ll point out though that New York is just 1-3 ATS in its last four on the road, while LA is 2-0 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite.

I think from a situational stand point, they don’t get much better than this. Despite injuries to some key players, I think the “hungrier” team gets the job done ATS tonight. Play on LA.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 6-15 Brooklyn Nets are in San Antonio to take on the 18-5 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Brooklyn enters off a home win over Denver, but has yet to win two games in a row this season. San Antonio’s four-game win skein ended in a loss at Chicago on Thursday, so any sort of a “letdown” in its first game back home has been nullified.

Brooklyn is in a rebuilding mode, so the pressure is off coach Kenny Atkinson, who has been tasked to build the team from the ground up.

San Antonio on the other hand is coming off its first road loss of the year, coming one victory away from matching the league’s best-ever road start. 

I’ll point out that Brooklyn is just 1-3-1 ATS in its last five road games and only 2-9-1 ATS in its last 12 road games against teams with winning home records, while San Antonio is 14-9 ATS in its last 23 after playing three consecutive road games.

Spurs coach Greg Popovich unloaded on his team after the loss to the Bulls: “We haven’t learned as a group that the game is 48 minutes,” Popovich said during his tirade. 

I think San Antonio bounces back here and steamrolls the lowly Nets. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE BLOWOUT SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Dallas Mavericks.

Dallas has been a disaster this year, it’s just 4-17 overall and has lost two in a row. Indiana is 11-11 and has also struggled with consistency on both ends of the court this season. 

Indiana looks poised for a letdown here though after earning a road victory over the lowly Suns on Wednesday. Paul George had 25 points in the win.

Note though that the Pacers are near the bottom of the league in scoring defense, conceding 107.3 PPG, ranked sixth worst overall. 

Dallas enters off an embarrasing 120-89 blowout loss at home to Sacramento. I had the Kings in that one. The Mavs are among the league worst in most offensive and defensive categories and I won’t try to convince you that they’re a decent team which has just caught a few bad breaks, as that’s not the case. Dallas is a poor team.

But Indiana is not a “good” team either. It’s shown flashes every now and then, but overall it’s been consistently inconsistent.

I simply think this sets up as a classic “letdown/look-ahead” spot for the visitors, who play the final game of a five-game road trip, before then heading home for a contest tomorrow night against Portland.

I’ll also point out that Indiana is already just 4-7 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more, while Dallas is interestingly, 4-2 ATS in its last six against the Central division.

A great situational play, grab as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 8-14 Denver Nuggets are in Washington to take on the 7-13 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

No need to overthink this one I don’t think. Washington has lost three of its last four after falling 124-116 at home to the Magic on Tuesday and is clearly hungry for a victory. The home side also plays with double revenge after dropping both games to the Nuggets last year, including a 117-113 setback in Washington on January 28th, 2016.

But if all of those motivational and situational factors weren’t enough, Denver comes into this one having also played just last night in Brooklyn, losing 116-111. Clearly the Nuggets are going to be “gassed.”

I’ll also point out that Denver is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven when playing on back-to-back days, while Washington is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a home fav in the 3.5 to six points range.

This is in fact the Nuggets third road game in the last four nights. The Wizards have had a day off to look at themselves in the mirror and must take advantage of this situation. And that’s exactly what I expect them to do, lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Sacramento Kings (8:30 EST).

The Kings are looking to snap a three-game slide and a date against the lowly, undermanned Mavs is just what the doctor ordered to get off the schneid. 

Sacramento most recently fell 106-98 to New York on Sunday. DeMarcus Cousins had 36 points and 12 boards. 

Dallas fell 109-101 to Charlotte on Monday and lost center Andrew Bogut to a knee injury in the process. Dallas would go on to get outrebounded 55-35. Harrison Barnes was a bright spot, finishing with 29 points. Dirk Nowitzki missed his fifth straight game, while JJ Barea missed his tenth in a row. 

I’ll point out that Sacramento is 4-0 ATS in its last four following an ATS loss and 7-1 ATS in its last eight after a SU loss, while Dallas is 0-4 ATS in its last four after scoring 100 points or more in its previous contest.

The Kings averaged 116.3 points in taking three of four in this series last year and I’m expecting a similar blowout tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 14-5 Cleveland Cavaliers are in New York to take on the 11-9 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Cavs come in with momentum after beating the Raptors 116-112 on the road on Monday, the victory would snap a three-game slide. 

New York on the other hand comes in off a very satisfying 114-103 victory in Miami just last night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Cavs have to be loving their chances today as when these teams met on October 25th, Cleveland would come away with an easy 117-88 victory.

Last time out it was LeBron James that led the way for Cleveland, pouring in 34 points, grabbing eight boards and dishing out seven assists. Note that Cleveland is fourth in the NBA in scoring at 110.3 PPG. The Cavs rank in the middle of the pack defensively, conceding an average of 105.1 PPG. Kyrie Irving leads all players with 24.4 PPG. Also note that Cleveland is second in the league in made threes with 13.4 triples per game.

New York is tied for 15th in scoring at 104.3 PPG and is 22nd in scoring defense, conceding an average of 106.4 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Cleveland is 8-5 ATS in its last 13 off an upset win as an underdog, while New York is just 6-8 ATS as an underdog this season.

I think the Cavs build off their last performance and catch the Knicks a little flat-footed as they come in tired on the second game of the back-to-back. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

While I obviously would not be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing the points as I expect the visitors to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

The Blazers come in having won three in a row. The Bucks have been trading good performances with bad all year and are floating right around .500 right now. 

Last time out Portland scored a 112-110 win on the road in Chicago on Monday night. Guards Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum combined for 54 points. The Blazers average 110.3 PPG, which is tied for fourth most in the league. Note that Portland has put up almost 117 PPG over a six-game stretch. 

Milwaukee on the other hand comes into this one deflated after letting a 48-35 lead at halftime against the Spurs go to waste, eventually succumbing 97-96. Milwaukee ranks as one of the best defensively, giving up an average of just 101.5 PPG, which ranks in the top ten. The Bucks though have struggled with offensive consistency from game to game.

I’ll point out that Portland is 19-9 ATS in its last 28 off an upset win as an underdog, while Milwaukee is just 3-4 ATS as a favorite this year and only 2-4 ATS after a non-conference game. 

I think the visitors build off their latest victory, while Milwaukee takes a step back after its crushing defeat to San Antonio. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Miami Heat (7:35 EST).

The 11-9 New York Knicks are in Miami to take on the 7-13 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the “hungrier” home side.

After winning three straight and six of their last eight after downing the Kings 106-98 at home on Sunday, I think the Knicks have a predictable letdown here.

While New York is 9-3 at home this year, it’s just 2-6 on the road. It isn’t overly spectacular on either end of the floor, ranked 15th in scoring with an average of 104.3 PPG, while ranked 22nd in scoring defense, conceding 106.4 PPG. Carmelo Anthony leads the way with 22.5 points, plus 6.2 boards per game for the Knicks.

The Heat can empathize, they’ve also struggled with consistency on both ends of the court this year. In their latest loss to the Trailblazers, big man Hassan Whiteside had 28 points, 16 boards and five blocks. Miami averages just 97.1 PPG, ranked 28th overall. The defense though has been solid all year, it concedes an average of just 98.8 PPG, ranked sixth. 

I’ll point out that New York is just 3-5 ATS on the road this season, while Miami is 14-8 ATS in its last 22 versus good offensive teams which score 99 plus points per contest.

With a game at home against the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers tomorrow night, I think the visitors get caught looking ahead to that one. A great situational play, I’m backing the Heat.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* CA$H BOMB is on the Toronto Raptors (7:30 EST).

The 13-5 Cleveland Cavaliers are in Toronto to take on the 14-6 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cavs come into this one with zero momentum, most recently dropping their third straight in a 111-105 setback to Chicago on Friday. 

Meanwhile, Toronto enters on absolute fire, it’s won six straight, most recently a 128-84 drubbing of the Hawks on Saturday. 

These teams have played twice this year, and the Cavs have prevailed each time (94-91 in Toronto on October 28th and 121-117 at home on November 15th).

Of course, it was the Cavs that knocked Toronto off in six games of the Eastern Conference Finals a year ago as well. 

The “revenge factor” working in favor of the home side is off the charts tonight.

These teams are trending in opposite directions right now and while the Cavs will clearly get things turned around sooner than later, I don’t think that’s going to happen tonight in this hostile environment. 

Toronto posted its biggest win in franchise history last time out, with eight players scoring in double figures. 

I’ll point out that Cleveland is 0-4 ATS in its last four away from friendly confines, while Toronto is 5-0-1 ATS in its last six North of the border and 5-0 ATS in its last five following a SU victory.

It’s a perfect storm of factors working in favor of the home side tonight and I expect it to take full advantage. Play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Detroit Pistons (6:05 EST).

The 8-12 Orlando Magic are in Detroit to take on the 11-10 PIstons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Magic beat the 76ers 105-88 on Friday, while the Pistons won their third straight on the road and fifth in their last six overall by crushing the Hawks 121-85 on the same night.

If recent history is any precedence, then Detroit has to be loving its chances for a fourth straight win, as it’s taken seven straight in the series, including a convincing 108-82 beatdown in the first matchup this year.

Orlando is the one that looks poised for a letdown here, despite the victory over the lowly 76ers, note that the team still averages only 92.9 PPG, ranked second to last in the league. The Magic get the job done on the defensive end of the court, conceding an average of just 97.3 PPG, which ranks third overall.

Last time out for Detroit, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope led eight other players in double figures with 23 points and eight boards. The Pistons average 100.4 PPG, but conceded just 96.9, ranked second overall. 

Tobia Harris leads Detroit with 17.1 points and 4.9 boards per outing, while Marcus Morris chips in 14 points and four boards.

I’ll point out that Orlando is just 1-4 ATS in its last five when playing on one days rest, just 1-6 ATS in its last seven after scoring 100 points or more and only 1-9 ATS in its last ten following an ATS victory, while Detroit is 5-1 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more, 3-0 ATS after allowing 85 points or less and 3-0 ATS after playing three consecutive home games.

The Magic are just 4-6 SU on the road, while the Pistons are 7-2 at home this season. I think the home side continues its hot run and pulls away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:00 EST).

The 10-11 LA Lakers are in Memphis to take on the 12-8 Grizzlies and for a number of different reasons (despite several injuries to key players), I think this one favors the home side.

LA isn’t surprising anyone anymore, last night it lost its fourth in its last six after getting destroyed 113-80 by the Raptors on the road. I had a play on LA in that one and while I don’t normally ever “flip-flop,” on a team, I always remain flexible with my approach (especially in the regular season) and for the most part analyze contests by a “game by game” basis.

Conversely, Memphis enters this one with momentum after breaking a three game slide with a 95-94 home win over Orlando on Thursday. 

LA averages 106.6 PPG, but allows 109.6. Lou Williams leads the way with 16.7 points plus 3.5 assists a night off the bench. 

The Grizzlies would outscore the Magic 30-26 in the fourth quarter to score the 1-point win. The hungry home side would force 17 turnovers and big man Marc Gasol finished with 25 points and five blocks.

So far Memphis averages just 97.2 PPG. The Grizzlies get the job done with tough defensive play though, allowing just 98.3 PPG, good for fifth in the league. 

I’ll point out that LA is just 1-3 ATS in its last four as a road fav of three points or less, while Memphis is 9-5 ATS in its last 14 as a home dog of three points or less.

LA is dealing with a few injuries as well, so while Memphis may be injured, it’s still very dangerous in this position. LA played just 24 hours previous in Eastern Canada and had to fly half way around the country for this one. 

I’m banking on the Grizzlies to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Washington Wizards (8:30 EST0.

The 6-11 Washington Wizards are in San Antonio to take on the 15-4 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Wizards will be in a particularly foul mood today after letting a 7-point lead slip away late in regulation, eventually falling 126-115 in OT in OKC. They’re also out for revenge after SA beat them 112-110 at home last Saturday night. 

Washington would waste another big effort from guard Bradley Beal, who had 31 points in the loss to the Thunder. Markieff Morris also had a big game, added 19 points and seven boards. So far the Wiz average 102.8 PPG.

After Orlando beat SA by 12 on Tuesday, the Spurs would bounce back with a lacklustre 94-87 win over the Mavericks on the road on Wednesday.

Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard had 21 points and seven boards against the Mavs, but was just 5 of 16 overall. 

I’ll point out that San Antonio is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven at home and only 9-19-1 ATS in its last 29 when playing on one days rest, while Washington is 3-1 ATS in its last four when trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent. 

The Spurs have struggled with game-to-game consistency and I think the hungry visitors will give them everything they can handle tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 10-10 LA Lakers are in Toronto to take on the 12-6 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

LA is coming off a confidence building 96-90 road win in Chicago on Wednesday, while Toronto is coming off its fourth straight victory in a 120-105 effort over the undermanned Grizzlies on Wednesday night. 

LA would hold Chicago to just 35.2 percent shooting, including 4 of 21 from down town. The Lakers also controlled the glass by a dominant 62-46 margin. Jordan Clarkson and Lou Williams led the way with 18 points apiece. 

So for the Lakers average 106.6 PPG, ranked eighth overall. LA struggles defensively, conceding an average of 109.6, but clearly the unit took a big step in the right direction in its latest victory.

Toronto guard Kyle Lowry led the way over Memphis with 29 points and eight assists. Toronto averages 109.7 PPG, while conceding 104.3. DeMar DeRozan leads the team with 28.9 PPG.

I’ll point out that the Lakers are 4-1 ATS in non-conference games this year, while the Raptors are just 4-5 ATS in the same position. 

I think the visitors can “hang” with the home side here and while I’ll stop short in predicting the outright upset, everything does indeed point to a comfortable cover for the Lakers.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Sacramento Kings (7:30 EST).

The 7-11 Sacramento Kings are in Boston to take on the 10-8 Celtics and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Sacramento comes into this one with a little extra time off, as its game against Philadelphia was postponed due to condensation on the floor, the contest will be made up at a later date. This is a great little situational factor which I think will be a big difference maker tonight.

The home side comes in with zero momentum, most recently losing a third straight, this time 121-114 to the Pistons on Wednesday. 

In their most recent game against the Wizards, the Kings would eventually succumb in the overtime period. Big man DeMarcus Cousins led the way with 36 points and 20 boards. So far Sacramento is ranked 17th overall in the league in scoring with 103.2 PPG. The defense is ranked 19th, conceding 105.2. 

I’ll point out though that Sacramento is 6-1 ATS in its last seven against teams with a winning record, while Boston is interestingly, just 1-4 ATS in its last five against the Pacific division.

Boston has struggled with consistency and will have its hands full today with this well rested and re-focused Kings’ team. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to grab the points in the end.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the LA Clippers (8:00 EST).

The 14-5 LA Clippers are in Cleveland to take on the 13-3 Cavaliers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

I think that LA is the much more motivated side tonight after three-straight losses, most recently a 127-122 double OT road setback in Brooklyn on Tuesday. 

And I think that this does in fact set up as a classic “letdown” spot for the Cavs, as they had their four-game win streak snapped with a lacklustre 118-101 setback at Milwaukee on Tuesday. 

And despite this being a non-conference contest, this does set up as a bit of a “revenge” scenario for the visitors, who have lost four straight in the series, including a 114-90 setback in Cleveland on March 14th, 2016. 

It should be noted as well that in the loss to the Nets, star forward Blake Griffin was given the night off for rest and to prepare for this one. LA is a tough, deep team which ranks seventh in scoring defense in allowing just 98.9 PPG. The offense is ranked sixth with an average of 108.6.

The Cavs are second in the league in scoring with 111.3 PPG. They’re 14th in scoring defense by allowing 103.8 PPG. 

I’ll point out that the Clippers are 9-6 ATS in their last 15 as a road dog in the 3.5 to six points range, while Cleveland is just 1-4 ATS against teams with winning records this season. 

With a three game road trip against the best in the East which starts tomorrow night in Chicago, there’s no question that this also sets up as a “look ahead” spot for the home side.

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 the Clippers.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 6-10 Wizards are in Oklahoma City to take on the 11-8 Thunder and for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the visitors.

Washington has started to turn things around of late as it would win for the third time in four games by besting the Kings 101-95 in OT at home on Monday. 

OKC also comes in on a three-game win skein after defeating the Knicks 112-103 on the road on Monday (I had the Thunder in that one).

Despite this being a non-conference game, it still does set up as a “revenge” scenario for the visitors, who have lost four straight in the series, including both matchups last year. 

The Wizards would knock down 10 of 25 three point attempts in their latest win, while holding the Kings to just 3 of 21 shooting. Guard Bradley Beal had 31 points, including a career-high seven three-pointers. 

As Russell Westbrook goes, so go the Thunder. In the win over New York he posted his eighth triple-double of the year with 27 points, 18 boards and 14 assists. 

I’ll point out though that Washington is already 3-1 ATS this season following a non-conference game, while OKC is just 2-6 ATS this year in the same position and only 7-8 ATS when playing the role of favorite. 

With three whole days off before a game at home against the Hornets, I think the Thunder take the foot off the gas and get caught looking ahead to the extra time off. 

Washington has been playing much better in all phases and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to ultimately recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I expect the visitors to at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Memphis Grizzlies (7:35 EST).

The 11-7 Memphis Grizzlies are in Toronto to take on the 11-6 Raptors and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the visitors.

Memphis most recently lost 104-85 to the Hornets on Monday, while Toronto smashed the 76ers 122-95 at home on the same night. The Grizz play with a bit of the revenge factor on their side this evening after dropping both games to the Raptors last season. 

The reason the Grizzlies are getting so many points here is that guard Mike Conley is out. The team is also without the servics of James Ennis and Chandler Parsons. 

I simply feel this is a bad “spot” for Toronto though and expect it to get caught a little complacent. The Raptors have hit a “vanilla” part of their schedule, with the lowly Lakers at home on Saturday up next. 

And note that despite averaging just 96.9 PPG this season, the Grizzlies allow just 97.3 PPG, which ranks third overall.

Toronto averages 109.1 PPG, good for fifth overall. But note that the Raptors concede an average of 104.3 PPG, ranked 16th overall. 

I’ll point out that Memphis is a perfect 3-0 ATS this year after scoring 85 points or less, while Toronto is just 3-4 ATS in all non-conference games.

This one sets up as a bit of a trap for Toronto. I’m banking on the visitors keeping this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe, so grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Houston Rockets (9:00 EST).

The 11-6 Houston Rockets are in Utah to take on the 9-8 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Houston has been surprisingly good on the road this year and I expect that trend of strong play to continue tonight, as note that the Rockets have won three straight away from friendly confines. 

In fact, Houston has won five of its last six, including a convincing 111-102 victory at home over Utah ten days ago. 

The Jazz are the NBA’s leading defensive team, but I think they come out flat and tired after their high-scoring 112-103 win in Minnesota just last night. 

And that’s bad news against a Rockets team which averages 109.8 PPG, ranked third overall. Keep your eyes on James Harden of course, he leads the NBA in assists and is fourth in scoring at 28.9 per game. The Rockets most recently beat the Blazers by 16, posting 130 points in the process.

Utah leads the league in several defensive categories, but as I stated off the top, I simply feel this is a bad spot for the Jazz, as note that they’re already just 1-6 ATS as an underdog this year and 2-6 ATS against teams with winning records.

And note that Houston has excelled in this spot for bettors, going 8-0 ATS this year after allowing 105 points or more and 5-3 ATS against clubs with winning records.

I’m laying the points with confidence and expect a wire-to-wire rout. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE WEEK is on OKC (7:30 EST).

The 10-8 Oklahoma City Thunder are in New York to take on the 8-8 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

OKC comes in with momentum, it’s now won two straight after dispatching the Pistons 106-88 at home on Saturday. The Knicks enter off a 107-102 road loss at Charlotte on Saturday night. 

After dropping seven of their previous nine, the Thunder have seemingly turned the corner once again, perhaps most impressive in the win over the Pistons was that they’d hold them to just 45.1 percent shooting and only 1 of 19 from 3-point range. 

The Knicks have been better at home this year, but they’re still giving up an average of 106.3 PPG, ranked 22nd overall. 

I’ll point out that OKC is 4-2 ATS in its last six after a win by ten points or more, while New York is just 1-2 ATS in its last three against good offensive teams which average 99-plus points per contest.

I like Russell Westbrook and company to do just enough at the end of the night. Play on the Thunder.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONF SUPER SIDE is on the Atlanta Hawks (9:35 EST).

LA has lost four of its last five as it continues to deal with numerous injuries.

D’Angelo Russell has already missed the last three games and forward Julius Randle and guard Nick Young were both out in Friday’s 24 point loss to the Warriors. If Young or Randle do somehow manage to play today, clearly they won’t be at 100% capacity.

The Hawks will look to take advantage and also to avenge a 123-116 loss at home to the Lakers on November 2nd.

Atlanta will look to push the pace as LA is allowing an average of 111.9 PPG, which ranks it 28th in the league (in fact, opponents are shooting 48.7 percent, which ranks the Lakers dead last). 

The Hawks will be especially motivated here, they’re 10-6 and still lead the Southeast Division, but have lost four of their last five, including a humbling 95-68 beatdown loss to the Jazz on Friday. 

I’ll point out though that Atlanta is 19-11 ATS in its last 30 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while LA is just 3-5 ATS against clubs with winning records this season.

I think there are enough situational and motivational factors working in favor of the visitors today to confidently pull the trigger on this top rated 10* selection. Play on Atlanta.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is on the Toronto Raptors (8:05 EST).

Toronto has struggled defensively of late, but has still averaged 113 points over its last five games.

Most recently the Raptors fell 123-115 to the Clippers in LA on Monday night: 

"It seems like everybody we've played the last couple weeks we've turned it into an offensive slugfest," Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. "Until we get defense in the game and maintain in the game (things will remain the same). I think our guys are trying. They're trying defensively but we're not getting it done. We're not getting stops when we need to."

Houston is poised for a letdown here after three straight victories, most recently a 99-96 win at Detroit on Monday night. 

The Rockets’ James Harden is having a tremendous season, but note that he’s shooting just 73.9 percent from the line over the last four games.

The Raptors’ DeMar DeRozan continues to lead the league in scoring, so I’m calling him and Harden a “wash” tonight.

I’ll point out though that Toronto is 4-1 ATS this year when playing the role of underdog, while Houston is a deplorable 13-21 ATS in its last 34 after three or more consecutive victories. 

With a large Western road trip starting on Thursday night, I think that the home side gets caught looking ahead and the hungry Raptors 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* Goin’ Over Total is the over Pelicans/Hawks (7:35 EST).

The 4-10 New Orleans Pelicans are in Atlanta to take on the 8-6 Hawks and for a number of different reasons, I’m expecting a “shootout” between the teams.

The Pelicans enter off their second straight win and third in their last four after beating the Hornets 121-116 in OT on Saturday. 

Atlanta is looking to bounce back after losing its second straight in a listless 104-94 loss to the Knicks on Sunday. Last year the Hawks took both games against the Pelicans.

In New Orleans’ most recent victory, big man Anthony Davis led the way with 38 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks. The Pelicans average 102.5 PG, but are giving up 107.6 thus far. Next in line after Davis is E’Twaun Moore, with 11.7, while Tim Frazier adds 11.3 points and 7.6 assists.

Atlanta looks to shake out of this sluggish patch, note that it’s still 13th in the league in scoring with a respectable 105.8 per game. The defense has been the stretngth, allowing just 98.8 thus far. Paul Millsap leads the way with 17.5 points, plus 7.9 boards and 3.8 assists per game. Note that the Hawks also rank 13th in the league with 8.8 made three pointers a night.

I’ll point out that New Orleans has seen the total go over the number in four of six non-conference games this year, while Atlanta has seen the total sail above the posted number in five of its last eight as a home fav in the 6.5 to nine points range.

The Pelicans have looked a lot better since Jrue Holiday returned to the lineup and the Hawks are going to have to push the pace to match the resurgent visitors. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is the under Suns/Wizards (7:05 EST).

The 4-10 Phoenix Suns are at the 3-9 Washington Wizards on Monday 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.

The Suns have seen the O/U go 11-3 so far this year, while the Wizards have seen it go 8-4.

Each plays a similar style, pushing the pace from start to finish and playing poorly on the defensive end. Both rank in the top 1/3rd on the offensive end and in the bottom 1/3rd on the defensive end.

These are two “hungry” teams though and I think this massive sense of competition will translate into a “tighter” affair this evening. 

It’s interesting to note that Phoenix has seen the total go under the number in 12 of its last 20 against the Southeast division, while Washington has seen the total go under in 12 of its last 20 against the Pacific.

The stage is finally set for more of a defensive affair between these normally high-scoring clubs, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE O/U PERFECT STORM is on the under Blazers/Nets (3:35 EST).

Brooklyn will be hungry here as it looks to snap a three game slide, most recently a 125-104 setback to OKC on Friday, as Thunder guard Russell Westbrook would score 30 points. 

Now the home side has to contend with another top guard in Portland’s Damian Lillard, who is averaging a career-high 28.7 points, most recently pouring in 27 in a 113-101 loss at New Orleans. 

The Blazers enters this one also desperate to stop a three-game losing streak. It’s a solid situational play, as I think these struggling teams put an added emphasis on the defensive end of the court this evening, one department that they’ve each sorely been lacking in of late.

Of injury note for the home side, point guard Jeremy Lin is still out with a strained left hamstring (the Nets have gone 3-4 without him). 

I’ll point out that Portland has seen the total go under the number in nine of its last 13 as a road fav of 3.5 to six points, while Brooklyn has seen the total go under in 12 of its last 20 after playing to three or more consecutive “overs.” 

I think each team’s defense finally shows up and expect this one to fall under the number once the final horn sounds.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Utah Jazz (5:05 EST).

Houston is 7-5 and comes in off a win against the struggling Trailblazers. The Rockets have been all over the map as far as their game-to-game consistency is concerned. 

Utah is 7-6 and has been plagued by the injury bug early. After a successful five-game Eastern road swing, the Jazz come into this one having lost two straight at home. Note that Utah is 5-3 on the road this year though. 

Point guard George Hill is out, but second-year guard Dante Exum has done decently, averaging nine points and two assists. You’ll also want to keep your eyes on Jazz forward Gordon Hayward.

I’ll point out that Utah is already 4-2 ATS this year against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while Houston is just 1-2 ATS following a win by ten points or more.

With another tough game tomorrow night in Denver, I’m expecting the visitors to leave everything on the floor tonight and to at the very least, come away with the comfortable ATS victory. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is on the under Clippers/Kings (10:30 EST).

LA comes to town off two nights rest after seeing a seven-game win streak end in a 111-107 OT loss at home to the Grizzlies. It was the Clippers first loss since Nov. 2nd at Oklahoma City and suffice it to say, I think the team is poised for a letdown here as well.

Momentum is difficult to build and once lost, it’s even harder to regain. 

The Clippers will concentrate on what they do best and perhaps surprisingly this season that mean’s a concerted effort on the defensive end of the floor, as they allow only 94.6 points per 100 possessions, which is the best mark in the NBA (note that LA has held nine of its 12 oopponents to below 100 points). 

Sacramento comes into this one on the other end of the spectrum. LA is 10-2, but the Kings are only 4-8 and have dropped three in a row, including two straight in front of the home town crowd, most recently a 110-105 setback to the Suprs on Wednesday. 

I’ll point out that the Clippers have seen the total go under the number in ten of their last 17 after playing to three or more consecutive “overs,” while Sacramento has seen the total dip below the posted number in 64 of its last 87 against teams with winning records.

Sacramento has struggled guarding the perimeter, but I think that after the back-to-back losses at home, the team makes some major adjustments tonight as it looks to take get off the schneid. LA is still dwelling on its last loss and is caught looking ahead to its game at home against the Bulls tomorrow night. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

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

The Rockets played and lost just last night in OKC, 105-103 and suffice it to say, I think an upset is in the works this evening as well.

Thunder guard Russell Westbrook went off for 30 points, seven boards and nine assists against the Rockets. Now Houston has to try and contain the Blazers’ Damian Lillard, who is ranked fifth in scoring in the NBA (29.8 points) and eighth in usage rate at 32.6 percent. 

The Rockets struggled to score in the fourth period, running out of gas and it obviously isn’t going to get any easier tonight in playing the second game of the back-to-back scenario. Note that Houston posted just 13 points in the final frame last night, missing nine consecutive shots at one point. 

And that’s music to Portland’s ears, as it’s struggled with defensive consistency this season, ranked 29th in scoring defense and 27th in defensive rating: “Our defensive rebounding is a concern," Portland coach Terry Stotts stated yesterday. "It's addressed and we've got to get better and focus on it."

I’ll point out though that Portland is 14-9 ATS in its last 23 after playing three consecutive home games, while Houston is just 19-22 ATS in its last 41 when playing on back-to-back days.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Indiana Pacers (7:00 EST).

I successfully played on the Raptors against the Cavaliers last night and they’d manage to score the cover once it was all said and done.

Cleveland is playing amazing basketball right now, but I think the stage is set for an upset tonight.

Indiana has struggled defensively this year, it came into its contest with Orlando on Monday giving up 108 PPG. But the Pacers took a big step forward in the defensive department and held the Magic to a season-low 69 points in the victory. 

And note, despite the overall losing record Indiana is 5-1 at home this year. Before beating the Pacers in Indianapolis last February, LeBron James’ teams hadn’t won a regular-season game in Indiana since February 2012. 

It’s a prime spot for a letdown for the defending champs. So far Cleveland has risen to almost every challenge to open the season, but last night’s game was a war down to the final bucket and I think the team will be gassed this evening.

I’ll point out that Cleveland is just 7-16 ATS in its last 23 as a road fav of 3.5 to six points and only 14-28 ATS in its last 42 against the division, while Indian is 5-3 ATS in its last eight as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range and 22-12 ATS in its last 34 against the division.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

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

DeMar DeRozan (the Eastern Conference’s Player of the Week after averaging 34.7 points on 54 percent shooting during Toronto’s 3-0 week) and the Raptors come to Cleveland firing on all cylinders and looking for a little revenge after falling to the Cavs on their home floor earlier in the season.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset in this one, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I think the visitors at the very least, take this one down to the wire and cover comfortably with the spread.

DeRozan has now become the first player to score at least 30 poitns in eight of his first nine games to start a season since Michal Jordan did it back in 1986. 

The Cavs have been fantastic this year as well, they’re now on pace to make more 3-pointers than any team in history. But note that Cleveland is just 1-3 ATS this year against teams with winning records and just 7-8 ATS in its last 15 as a home fav of 3.5 to six points.

And note that Toronto is 3-1 ATS in its last four against clubs with winning records and 3-0 ATS on the road this season.

These two Eastern Conference favs are destined for another playoff battle this year, but if Toronto has any hopes of playing for the league title, it’s going to have to find a way to win in Cleveland. The stage is now set for that to happen, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Miami Heat.

Miami plays with revenge today after falling 106-99 at home to the Spurs earlier in the season.

San Antonio comes in off back-to-back wins, most recently a satisfying 106-100 victory in Houston, revenging a home loss to the Rockets a week previous. 

The “aura” surrounding the Spurs’ home court advantage is completely gone now, although they did end a three-game home losing streak with a win over Detroit on Friday.

The Heat are just 2-6 and will be desperate for a victory today. While I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I do think that the intensity level in which the visitors play with tonight will keep this one competitive until the final moments. Most recently Miami fell 102-91 to a streaking Jazz team at home on Saturday. 

Heat big man Hassan Whiteside has been a bright spot, he’s now the only player in league history to start a season grabbing double-digit rebounds over the first eight games. 

It’s hard to imagine San Anontio “looking past” the Heat today, but with a two-game conference road trip starting in Sacraemento on Wednesday and against the resurgent Lakers on Friday, the possibility does definitely exist for that to occur on some small level.

I’ll point out that Miami is 29-20 ATS in its last 49 following a loss by ten points or more, while San Antonio is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 105 points or more. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the under Suns/Warriors (8:05 EST).

These teams played in Phoenix on October 30th and the Warriors came away with a 106-100 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar final combined score here as well. 

Stephen Curry has been on quite a tear of late, scoring 103 points combined over his last three games, but I think the home side comes out a bit complacent this evening against this Suns team which enters off a 122-104 setback at home to the Nets just last night. Note that the Suns guards combined to miss 31 of their 39 shots and the team would go on to post a season-low 37.4 percent shooting from the floor. It’s also important to point out that Phoenix’s 29.4 percent record from beyond the arc this year ranks as the third-lowest in the NBA. And it will be hard to find any rythym tonight either with the continued absence of big man Tyson Chandler, out until at least Wednesday.

I also think the extra couple days off (Golden State hasn’t played since Thursday), will have a small adverse effect on the home side’s chemistry to start this game. 

And I’ll also point out that Phoenix has seen the total go under the number in two of its last three as a road dog in the 14 to 18 points range, while Golden State has seen the total go under the posted number in its first two divisional contests already this year.

With two whole nights off before a lengthy Eastern Conference road trip, this also sets up as a “look ahead” spot for the home side.

The situation and numbers all point to the under as the correct call in this one.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the New Orleans Pelicans (7:05 EST).

The Pelicans got off the schneid with a 112-106 road win over the Bucks last time out and suffice it to say, I think the team carries that confidence over and ultimately finds a way to get the job done in front of the home town crowd tonight.

LA comes in off a 101-91 victory over the Kings on Thursday, but with a game tomorrow night at Minnesota, I think this young team gets caught “looking ahead.”

Keep your eyes on Pelicans’ forward Anthony Davis, who had 32 points and grabbed eight boards in the victory over Milwaukee. And note, it’s true that New Orleans is just 1-8 to start the year, but their margin of defeat in eight of its losses has been by 6.0 points.

I’ll also point out that LA is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 after a win by ten points or more, while New Orleans is 30-17 ATS in its last 47 against the Pacific division. 

The Lakers have been an early surprise, but I think they come back down to Earth tonight. Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on the Philadelphia 76ers (7:00 EST).

Philadelphia is the East’s lone winless team at 0-7, most recently dropping a tough 122-115 OT game to the Pacers on Wednesday in Indiana.

I think the home side comes into this one fired up though as it looks to avenge that frustrating setback and to also finally get off the schneid. 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.

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as the 76ers have lost ten of the last 11 in the series.

Also note, Sixers center Joel Embiid was rested on Wednesday, but is expected to play tonight. Embiid averages a team-leading 17.6 PPG. 

With a date at home against Boston tomorrow night, I think the Pacers get caught “looking ahead” and Philadelphia does just enough to at the very least, sneak in through the backdoor down the stretch.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry