10* ODDSMAKER ERROR on the Hornets.

The Clippers have split their last eight games, but I think they get caught looking past their opponent today. Outright win? Probably not, but I absolutely expect this one to be a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

LA averages 114 PPG, while allowing 107.8. Kawhi Leonard is averaging 25 points and 6.5 boards for the Clippers.

The Hornets are fighting, and they'll be hungry here after losing six of their last nine. Charlotte averages 109.7 PPG, while allowing 111.3. Terry Rozeir leads the nightly charge with 20.6 points and 4.2 assists per contest.

LA has struggled in this spot for bettors as well, going 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road.

The Hornets are healthier than they've been in a long time and this is an important game to them. Look for LA to come in complacent and for the home side to be risking life and limb tonight.

As I said above, probably no big outright upset victory, but I definitely expect a "nail-biter" until the end.

Grab the points, the play is Charlotte.

Good luck...Larry

10* NBA PERFECT STORM on the Hawks.

The Hawks just beat Washington 125-124. Russell Westbrook broke Oscar Robertson's triple-double record and I believe that without Bradley Beal in the line-up, that the visiting side will now struggle to match pace with the Hawks. 

Both teams are playing competitively until the end, but with back-to-back home games vs. Cleveland and Charlotte respectively, this is not only a letdown spot for the Wizards, but also a look-ahead position as well.

The Hawks are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 at home. Also note that Atlanta has won its last fie games by an average of 9.8 points, despite the one point victory last time out.

Nate McMillan has brought a winning attitude to his new team and I expect that drive to continue here.

Lay the points, the play is Atlanta.

Good luck, Larry

10* GAME OF WEEK on Bulls.

The Brooklyn Nets are 44-24, while the Chicago Bulls are 29-39. The Nets are already preparing for the playoffs, as they enter having lost four of their last five. Overall they average 118.6 PPG, while allowing 114.6. Kevin Durant averages 28.2 PPG with 5.2 assists.

The Bulls have split their last ten games, but they enter playing their best basketball of the season. They've won three in a row, beating Charlotte 120-99, Boston 121-99 and at Detroit most recently by a score of 108-96. 

Chicago already beat Brooklyn 115-107 in early April and I think it'll take the Nets down to the wire again here. 

Brooklyn is off the satisfying 125-119 road win at Denver (which was playing the second game of a back-to-back), and with a home game tomorrow night vs. the Spurs, this not only sets up as a letdown, but also a look-ahead in my opinion.

Now throw in the fact that Chicago is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more straight SU/ATS wins/covers in a row, then this one is all wrapped up for me.

The outright is possible, but I'm grabbing the points. The play is the Bulls.

Good luck, Larry

10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER on the Spurs.

After five straight straight-up victories, including a tight 135-134 victory over Washington, before a 141-133 win over Houston two nights ago, the Bucks hit the road to play San Antonio, but they then return home to face the putrid Magic tomorrow night. This is Milwaukee's final non-conference game, with contests at Indiana, at home to Mimai and finishing at Chicago all up next. The Spurs play with revenge after a 120-113 loss to the Bucks on March 20th. I say the Spurs come to play hard tonight, and I expect Milwaukee to get caught looking ahead. Finally, note that San Antonio is in fact 7-1 ATS in its last eight in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent in which it allowed 120 or more points in. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points, the play is San Antonio.

Good luck, Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Mia Heat at 1:05 ET.

The Miami Heat surprised most (all?) by reaching the NBA Finals last season, before falling to the Lakers. The Heat took down the East's No. 1 seed Milwaukee in the second round and Boston (No. 3 seed) in the Eastern Conference Finals. The current season has been a challenge for both the Heat and Celtics, as Miami is currently 36-31 (No. 6 seed) and Boston is 35-32 (No. 7). Boston will play host to Miami on Sunday afternoon (ESPN) and then take on the Heat again Tuesday night (TNT), also in TD Garden. BOTH teams desperately want to avoid the 7-10 "Play-In" tournament and if either team is able to sweep this two-game set, that team would likely avoid the 'play-in." The Heat and Celtics have met only once so far this season, back on Jan 6 in Miami when Boston won 107-105. For the Celtics, splitting this two-game series would give them the tiebreaker advantage (could be a difference-maker).

Miami is coming off a 121-112 home win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, as Jimmy Butler (21.6-7.0-7.2) scored 25 points but it was Tyler Herro (15.1-4.8-3.4) who provided the biggest spark with a game-high 27 points off the bench. Herro had not played since April 23 because of a foot injury. Miami's trade-deadline acquisition Victor Oladipo remains inactive due to right knee soreness. He has played only four games with his new team and hasn't suited up since April 8! Starting along with Butler is forward Ariza (9.2 & 4.7 in 26 games with Miami) and center Adebayo (18.9-9.0-5.4). in the backcourt, it's Nunn (14.3) and Robinson (13.0) with veteran PG Dragic (13.3 & 4.4 APG) coming off the bench.

While the Heat have won EIGHT of 11, the Celtics have lost six of their last 10 after a season-high six-game winning streak (April 7-17). Despite Kemba Walker's (18.9-3.9-4.9) season-high 33 points Friday at Chicago, the Celtics lost 121-99 to the Bulls. Jayson Tatum (26.3-7.3-4.4) and Jaylen Brown (24.7-6.0-3.4) have led the way for Boston all season but Tatum was 3-of-15 from the floor vs the Bulls (0 of 7 on three-pointers) to finish with NINE points! As for Brown, he missed his second straight game against Chicago after he sprained his right ankle late in last Sunday's loss to Portland. Danny Ainge has said that Brown will "probably" return on Sunday against Miami."

Miami is playing MUCH better than Boston right now and a Sunday win would be HUGE, as Atlanta (No. 5 seed) is just a half-game ahead of them and the New York  (No. 4 seed) is juts ONE game ahead of them a STRING finished could allow the Heat to grab the No. 4 seed, giving them the homecourt edge in the first round. Let's NOT get ahead of ourselves, play the Heat of Sunday.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Ultimate Underdog of the Month is on the Den Nuggets at 10:10 ET.

When the Brooklyn Nets acquired James Harden from Houston in mid-January, the NBA's latest "Super team" team featured Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Harden. However, while KD is averaging 28.0-6.9-5.1, he has missed 37 games. Kyrie checks in averaging 27.4-4.9-6.3 but has missed 17 games. As for Harden, he has contributed 25.4-8.7-11.0 in his 34 games with the Nets but he last played April 5. Injuries to these three All Stars have contributed to the uneven play of Brooklyn and the Nets head to Denver for a game with the Nuggets Saturday night on a FIVE-game losing streak. The slide has seen the Nets slip to 43-24 and into a tie with the Bucks. BOTH teams are three games back of the 76ers, who own the East's top record at 46-21. All teams have just FIVE games remaining, so the Nets and Bucks will battle for the No. 2 seed.

The Nuggets are coming off a 127-120 loss at Utah on Friday night and won't be fully healthy for the rest of the year. That said, Denver continues to play through those injuries. The Nuggets are 10-3 since losing PG Jamal Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8) to a torn ACL back on April 12. Denver is also missing Monte Morris (hamstring), Will Barton (hamstring) and P.J. Dozier (adductor strain). Morris (10.3 & 3.2 APG) is closest to returning, followed by Barton (12.7-4.0-3.2), but Dozier (7.7) could miss the rest of the season. Denver is led by MVP candidate Nikola Jokic (26.4-10.9-8.5) plus SF Porter (19.1 & 7.5) is having a career season and the acquisition of Aaron Gordon (10.0 & 4.9) from Orlando has worked great. He's not scoring as much as he did with the Magic but he's been a "great fit," with Denver going 17-5 in his 22 games. 30-year-old rookie PG Facundo Campazzo has averaged 9.2 & 6.0 APG in the 13 games without Murray.

Tough spot for Denver coming from Salt Lake City with no rest but the Nuggets will be playing their FINAL home game of the regular season, as they'll play their final four games on the road. Denver is just ONE game behind the Clippers for the West's No. 3 seed and should bring their "A-game" here vs a slumping Brooklyn team that beat them 122-116 back on Jan 12. Why is Denver an underdog?

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Western Conference Showdown (Den/Utah) is on the Ut Jazz at 9:10 ET.

The Denver Nuggets and Utah Jazz meet tonight in Salt Lake City and both teams have continued to play VERY well despite key injuries. The Jazz won at Denver on Jan 17 (109-105) but the Nuggets won the rematch 128-117 on Jan 31 (again in Denver). The "rubber match" of the season series goes tonight in Utah, which is 48-18, just one game up on the 47-19 Suns for the West's No. 1 seed. Denver comes in at 44-22, just a half-game back of the 45-22 Clippers (No. 3 seed). The West's top-four teams have separated themselves from the rest of the conference.

Denver PG Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8) went down back on April 12 but the Nuggets have won 10 of 12 games since, thanks mainly to MVP candidate Nikola Jokic (26.4-10.9-8.4). Denver's injury woes run deep, with PG Monte Morris and swingman Will Barton out with strained hamstrings plus P.J. Dozier (7.7) suffered an adductor strain Monday night and will "be out for a while. However, 30-year-old rookie PG Facundo Campazzo had 16 points, nine rebounds and five steals against New York in Wednesday's win. He has averaged 9.5 & 5.7 APG in the 12 games without Murray plus recently signed guard Austin Rivers scored 25 points in the win over the Knicks. SF Porter (18.8 & 7.5) is having a career season plus the acquisition of Aaron Gordon (10.0 & 4.8) from Orlando has worked great. He's not scoring as much as he did with the Magic but he's been a "great fit," with Denver going 17-4 in his 21 games.

Utah owns an outstanding guard duo in Mitchell (26.4-4.4-5.2) and Conley (16.4 & 6.0 APG) but Mitchell has missed the last 10 games with a right ankle sprain and could miss his 11th in this one. Conley has missed five straight games with a hamstring injury. However, SF Bogdanovich (16.3) had led Utah in scoring in four straight games, before guard Clarkson (17.5) led the way with 30 points in Utah's Wednesday win over the Spurs. The Jazz are 4-1 in the stretch, with Bogdanovich averaging 25.8 PPG. Center Gobert (14.4 & 13.3) will battle Jokic in the middle plus Ingles (12.3-3.6-4.6) and O'Neale (6.9 & 7.0) have been regular starters and QUALITY players all season.

Injuries galore in this one but don't forget, the Jazz opened the season 0-2 at home and enter this game 29-2 at home since, despite their recent injuries. Let's hope for a 'Donovan Mitchell sighting.' "The Price is Right" and I'm on Utah.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout is on the Mia Heat at 8:10 ET.

The Miami Heat shocked pretty much all with their run to the NBA Finals last season but the team's "encore performance" has been a struggle. Miami is 35-31 and tied with Boston for the 6th-best record in the East, although the Celtics own the No. 6 seed due to a tiebreaker. Time is running out (six games left) and both the Celtics and Heat want to avoid the 'Play-In" tournament plus both still have hopes of moving up, as they are both just ONE game back of the Hawks (No. 5 seed) and TWO back of the Knicks (No. 4 seed). Miami hosts the Timberwolves Friday night, who check in the 3rd-worst record in the NBA (20-46) and its second-worst road record (8-25).

Minnesota put together their longest winning streak of the season, a four-game run from April 24-29, before losing games to the New Orleans Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies by four points each the last two times out. Rookie Anthony Edwards matched a career-high with 42 points on 17-of-22 shooting overall and 8 of 9 from three-point range in the loss to Memphis.  He hasn't missed a game, averaging 18.9 & 4.7 on the season, including 23.1 points over his past 10 games. Missing games has been an issue for Minnesota's other three key players. Center Towns (24.8-10.7-4.6) has missed 22 games, and PG Russell (19.1 & 5.7 APG) has missed 30 games. Both are available now but the team's second-leading scorer (Beasley at 19.6 PPG), has been out with a hamstring since April 2.

Miami's dealing with some injury issues as well, as Victor Oladipo (right knee) has missed 15 consecutive games and shooting guard Tyler Herro (14.9-4.9-3.4) has missed SIX in a row. The current starting-five has looked good. Butler (21.3-7.0-7.2) and Ariza (9.3 & 4.6 in his 25 games with the Heat) start up front with center Adebayo (18.9-9.1-5.4). Nunn (14.3) and Robinson (13.1) are the starting guards, with veteran Dragic (13.1 & 4.5 APG) coming off the bench. The Heat just lost to Dallas (Tuesday), playing without Jimmy Butler due to flu-like symptoms unrelated to COVID-19. There is a good chance he'll play here plus Herro is listed as day-to-day. The Heat can't possibly NOT remember losing to the T-wolves back on April 16. Either way, lay the points with the Heat.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Den Nuggets at 9:10 ET.

The New York Knicks are playing meaningful games in May for the first time in nearly a decade and at 37-28, are closing in on ending the third-longest playoff drought in the NBA (last playoff appearance was back in the 2012-13 season). The Knicks are currently 4th in the East, 1 1/2-games up on the No. 5 seed, 2 1/2-games up on the No. 6 seed and three games up on the No. 7 seed (seeds 7-10 are regulated to the "Play-In" tournament). The Knicks have won 12 of 13 as they visit Pepsi Center Wednesday night to take on the 43-22 Nuggets. Denver (the East's No. 4 seed) has clinched a top-six playoff seed in the West, meaning it will avoid having to take part in the play-in round. The Nuggets finished 13-3 in April, which was the best record in the NBA.

PF Julius Randle (24.2-10.3-5.9) and SF Barrett (17.6 & 5.8) have starred all season for the Knicks. Randle has been spectacular of late, averaging 31 points in the Knicks' last 11 contests. A group of five players (averaging between 10.6-14.3 PPG) are 'flying under the radar.' Both PGs are healthy right now in Rose (14.3 & 4.1 APG) and Payton (11.1 & 3.4 APG). SGs Burks (12.5 & 4.4) and Quickly (11.6) plus SF Bullock (10.6 & 3.4) complete the group.

No Denver Nugget has ever won league MVP honors but center Nikola Jokic just may change that. Jokic (26.3-10.9-8.5) has carried the Nuggets through some key injuries and as noted above, are guaranteed a playoff spot. Denver is just a half-game back of the third-seeded Clippers plus owns the tiebreaker over LA, as well. The Nuggets have continued to play well even after the loss of PG Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8), going 9-2 in his absence. With backup PG Monte Morris (10.1 & 3.2 APG) and now swingman Will Barton (12.7-4.0-3.2) out due to hamstring injuries, Campazzo has taken over the starting PG role and has averaged 8.9 & 5.6 APG in the 11 games without Murray. SF Porter was excellent in last year's bubble and is having a career season, averaging 18.9 & 7.5. He's scoring 20-plus points in 16 of his last 19 games and has averaged 27.3 PPG in his last seven. The acquisition of Aaron Gordon (10.5 & 4.8) from Orlando has worked great, as although he's not scoring as much as he did with the Magic he's been a "great fit," with Denver going 16-4 in his 20 games.

The Nuggets routed the Knicks 114-89 back in January back in January but obviously, the Knicks are a different team now. That said, the Knicks' lone loss in their last 13 games came at home vs the Suns and it's hard to find many "quality" wins during their current surge. I guess wins over Dallas and the Lakers (without LBJ and A.D.) count? Lay the 'cheap' number.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the Mia Heat at 8:10 ET.

The Miami Heat shocked pretty much all with their run to the NBA Finals last season but the team's "encore performance" has been a struggle. The Dallas Mavericks snapped a three-year playoff drought by going 43-32 last season and led by Doncic, had high hopes for the 2020-21 season. As the season is in its final two weeks, both teams will at least qualify for the NBA's new "Play-In" tournament (No. 7-10 seeds) but neither team wants that!

Dallas is currently 36-28 (No. 6 seed) and while it is just a half-game back of the No. 5 seed (LA Lakers), it is also just a half-game up on the No. 7 seed (Portland). ONE of those three teams will be regulated to "play-in" status. Miami is 35-30 (No. 6 seed) but just a half-game up on the No. 7 seed (Boston). Looking at the glass being "half full," Miami is also just two games back of the No. 4 seed (NY Knicks). If the Heat could catch and pass the Knicks, they could secure the home court edge in a first round series.

Doncic (28.6-8.0-8.9) has been great all season but Porzingis (20.2 & 9.1) has missed FIVE of the last six games (he's missed a game on the season) and is listed as doubtful for Tuesday. Guard Tim Hardaway Jr. (16.0) also sat out Sunday with an ankle injury but is expected to play against the Heat. Powell has replaced Porzingis and he' NOT up to the task and while Dallas gets 'teased' every once in a while by Cauley-Stein's play, he's just NOT reliable. "It's eight games left," Dallas head coach Rick Carlisle said. "They're all very meaningful. Hopefully we'll get Tim back. We'll see where KP is and we'll head to Miami and look to play better." That just about sums it up.

Miami's dealing with some injury issues as well, as Victor Oladipo (right knee) will miss his 14th consecutive game and shooting guard Tyler Herro (14.9-4.9-3.4 will miss his sixth in a row with a foot injury. However, Miami's current starting-five looks pretty good. Butler (21.3-7.0-7.2) and Ariza (8.9 & 4.6 in his 24 games with the Heat) start up front with center Adebayo (19.1-9.1-5.3). Nunn (14.3) and Robinson (13.0) are the starting guards, with veteran Dragic (13.0 & 4.5 APG) coming off the bench.

Miami's won SEVEN of its last 10  and note that Tuesday's game is the first meeting between the Mavs and Heat since Dallas ended a SIX-game losing streak in the series back on Jan 1 with a 93-83 win, In that contest, Doncic scored 27 points with 15 rebounds and seven assists, while Butler missed all SIX of his shots and scored just two points. DON'T see that happening here. Miami has regained its defensive 'mojo' (now ranked 4th in points allowed per game) and I'm "all over" the Heat in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the NO Pelicans at 7:40 ET.

The Golden State Warriors had the NBA's worst record last season (15-50) but seem to be in a pretty good position to qualify for the Western Conference "Play-In" tournament (seeds 7-10) at 32-32.  Golden St is currently the No, 9, just a half-game back of the Grizzlies (No. 8 seed) and a half-game up on the Spurs (No. 10 seed). The Warriors are in New Orleans tonight for the first of back-to-back games with the Pelicans, as the teams play again Tuesday (also in New Orleans). The HUGELY disappointing Pelicans are 29-35 (No. 11 seed), 2 1/2-games back of the Spurs and three games back of the Warriors.

Steph Curry scored 23 of his 30 points in the third quarter as the Warriors pulled away from Houston for a 113-87 win on Saturday. Curry (31.1-5.5-5.8) has led the Warriors all season and has scored 30-plus points in 15 of his last 17. SF Wiggins (18.1 & 4,8) and SG Oubre (15.4 & 6.0) have been Curry's best supporting players this season but Oubre has missed the last two games with a wrist injury (questionable for this one). Center James Wiseman, the NBA's No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 Draft, was averaging 11.5 & 5.8 but is out for the season. Complimentary players like PF Paschall (9.5 & 3.2) and SG Lee (6.5) are also out for a while and as for Green (6.6-6.9-8.6), it's very difficult to define his worth to Golden St.

New Orleans has two outstanding forwards in Williamson (27.0 & 7.1) and Ingram (24.0-5.0-4.9) plus two quality guards in Ball (14.4-4.6-5.8) and Bledsoe (11.9-3.4-3.7). The Pelicans are also missing some key players, as guards Alexander-Walker (10.2) and Hart (9.2 & 8.0) are out plus center Adams (7.7 & 8.9) has missed the last two games with a toe sprain.

I've said all season that I don't understand just how the Pelicans are a sub-.500 team but that's EXACTLY what they are. Pretty much a "last chance" situation for New Orleans here at home Monday and Tuesday. The teams meet a third time (May 14) in San Francisco and the winner of two or more of these games will claim the tie-breaker edge. The Pelicans have NO margin for error with eight games remaining. After these back-to-back games against the Warriors, the Pelicans have a FIVE-game road trip before returning home for the regular-season finale against the Lakers on May 16. Put up or shut up time. 

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout is on the LA Lakers at 10:10 ET.

The Toronto Raptors owned the league's second-best regular season record in 2018-19 and went on to win the NBA title behind Kawhi Leonard. Leonard left as a free agent (LA Clippers) prior to last season but the Raptors again owned the NBA's second-best regular season record (Bucks had the NBA's top record both seasons) and their .736 winning percentage (53-19) was even higher than with Kawhi the year before (58-19, .707). However, the current season has seen Toronto 'flop,' as they visit Staples Center to take on the Lakers with a 26-38 mark. Toronto is tied with the Bulls as each team sits THREE games back of the No. 10 seed, the last team with an entry into the NBA's "Play-In" tournament (7-10 seeds play for the final two playoff spots, the 7th and 8th seeds). More in a bit.

All know the Lakers won the NBA title last season and the offseason additions of PG Schroder (15.5 & 5.8 APG) and PF Harrell (13.9 & 6.4) only made this year's edition an even stronger team. The Lakers opened 21-6 but since Valentine's Day (Feb 14), LA is just 15-21 and the Lakers welcome the Raptors to Staples Center tied with the Mavs at 36-27. Dallas owns the No. 5 seed (via tie-breaker), while LA is the No. 6 seed. As most know by now, only the West's top-6 seeds have a guaranteed playoff spot, as the 7-10 seeds enter a "Play-In" tournament. Portland is just ONE game back of Dallas and LA, so for all intents and purposes, ONE of those three teams will find themselves in the "Play-In" tourney. Dr, Jerry Buss is rolling in his grave.

Toronto has the talent in PF Siakam (20.7-7.1-4.6), guards VanVleet (19.2-4.2-6.2) and Lowry (16.8-5.4-7.3) plus SF Anunoby (15.7 & 5.5) but with no home court (Raptors are playing their 'home' games in Tampa Bay) and a 10-22 record on the road, the 'whole' seems LESS that the sum of its parts. Case in point was last night in Salt Lake City, as the Jazz (without guards Mitchell and Conley) limited the Raptors to 6-of-24 shooting in the fourth quarter after Toronto shot 52% from the floor through the first three quarters. Utah held Toronto to just 13 points in the fourth quarter (Raptors went nearly four minutes without a field goal) to win 106-102.

LA's issues have come in the form of injuries to A.D. (he's missed35 games) and LBJ (he's missed 21 games). A look at the Lakers' injury list and it's LONG but most players are listed as probable for this one. I'm NOT about to guess but LBJ returned Friday for the first time since Mar 20 and A.D. returned April 22 and has played in FIVE straight games. He scored just four points in his first game back but has averaged 20.8 PPG his last four. Center Drummond is starting to fit in very well, averaging 13.4 & 12.0 over his last five games.

Coming off a collapse in the fourth quarter last night in Salt Lake City, the Raptors are "in trouble" vs a Lakers team that NEEDS to put some wins together in the season's final weeks. Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Late-Breaker is on the Por Blazers at 7:40 ET.

The 35-28 Portland Trail Blazers and the 34-30 Boston Celtics square off Sunday at TD Garden. The Blazers have made the playoffs SEVEN years in a row but still have work to do to make in EIGHT in a row. Portland was 30-19 but then lost NINE of its next 11 from April 6-25 (including FIVE in a row), before winning THREE in a row. Portland is currently the West's No. 7 but sits just ONE game back of both Dallas and the :LA Lakers. Down the stretch, ONE of these three teams will be regulated to the 7-10 "Play-In" tournament.

The Boston Celtics were expected to be among the East's elite teams this season but after an 8-3 start, Boston found itself just 23-25 thru March 31. Boston did win EIGHT of nine to open April but the Celtics lost FOUR of their next five, before winning 120-11 at home over the Hornets on Wednesday and rallied from a 29-point deficit at halftime to edge the Spurs 143-140 (OT) at home on Friday. Boston is currently the East's No. 6 seed (but only because it owns a tie-breaker over Miami), although the good news is that the Celtics (and Heat) are only 1 1/2-games back of the East's No. 4 seed (last home court edge in Round 1).

The Blazers are led by the dynamic backcourt duo of Lillard (28.3-4.2-7.5) and McCollum (22.9-4.1-4.7) plus Powell has been excellent since coming from Toronto in a trade (has averaged 16.8 PPG in his 19 games as a Blazer. The ageless Anthony (13.6) has been steady off the bench plus with Nurkic back healthy, Portland has two quality centers. Kanter averages 11.7 & 11.4 and Nurkic 10.9 & 8.5. Offseason acquisitions PF Covington (8.7 & 6.8) and SF Jones (7.0 & 3.7) have been solid.

The Boston duo of Tatum (26.4-7.5-4.4) and Brown (24.8-5.9-3.4) has been terrific, with Tatum coming off a 60-point game on Friday (tied Larry Bird for a Boston single-game record). However, PG Kemba Walker (18.2 points per game) has been sidelined the last three games due to an oblique injury, putting  a lot of pressure on Smart (13.6 & 5.6 APG). Getting back to Tatum, he scored 32 points at Portland back on April 13, as the Celtics won 116-115.

That contest came during a stretch in which Portland lost NINE of 11, with FOUR of the losses coming by either one or two points. Portland seeks revenge for that loss, coming in off three straight wins in which the team has averaged 130.3 PPG. Portland is the play. 

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Western Conference game of the Month is on the LA Clippers at 10:10 ET.

The Nuggets overcame a 3-1 deficit against the Jazz in the first round of last year's playoffs and then repeated that feat against the Clippers in the second round. The LA Clippers were headed for a showdown with the Lakers in last year's Western Conference Finals before they blew a 3-1 lead against the Nuggets, putting an end to yet another disappointing playoff performance by a franchise that has NEVER advanced to a Conference Finals appearance.

The Nuggets visit Staples Center 43-21 a half-game back of the 42-21 Clippers, as the teams vie for the West's No. 3 seed. With the Lakers fading (LA is now 36-27), the Nuggets and Clippers come down the stretch hoping to earn that No. 3 seed, as the No. 4 seed will get a first-round matchup with the defending champs, who will likely have both A.D. and LBJ healthy. Both teams are dealing with key injuries heading into this contest, as the Nuggets and Clippers meet for the third time this season. The series is tied at 1-1,  meaning the winner will own the all-important tiebreaker between the two teams (big deal).

Denver center Jokic (26.2-10.8-8.6) is a leading MVP candidate and the Nuggets have continued to play well even after the loss of PG Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8). SF Porter was excellent in last year's bubble and is having a career season, averaging 18.8 & 7.6. He averaged 24.3 PPG in April, scoring 20-plus points in 14 of 16 games (averaged 29.4 his last five). The acquisition of Aaron Gordon (11.0 & 4.9) from Orlando has worked great, as although he's not scoring as much as he did with the Magic he's been a "great fit," with Denver going 15-3 in his 18 games. However, backup PG Monte Morris (10.1 & 3.2 APG) and now swingman Will Barton (12.7-4.0-3.2) both remain out due to hamstring injuries.

The Clippers had won 11 of 12 before losing 120-103 at New Orleans on Monday and then 109-101 at Phoenix on Wednesday. Kawhi (25.7-6.7-5.1) missed a fifth straight game (foot) and has now missed 18 games on the season. His status is questionable again for this one. PG Beverley (fractured hand) and center Serge Ibaka (lower back tightness) remain out. George (23.7-6.5-5.3) has had some ankle soreness but is fine. PG Jackson (10.5 & 3.2 APG) has stepped up in Beverley's absence and Zubac (9.2 & 7.3) has done the same at center for Ibaka. Then there is new signee DeMarcus Cousins (joined team in early April), who has averaged 11.0 & 8.8 his last four games in only 17 minutes per game.

This is a big game for both teams but I believe it's MORE important to the Clippers, who are coming off back-to-back losses. They open a four-game homestand with this contest and then finish the season with four games on the road. Who knows, we may even see Kawhi return. He's played in just one game over the last three weeks because of a sore right foot but the Clippers are 7-3 in Leonard's absence during April.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner Stunner is on the Den Nuggets at 9:10 ET.

The Toronto Raptors owned the league's second-best regular season record in 2018-19 and went on to win the NBA title behind Kawhi Leonard. Leonard left as a free agent (LA Clippers) prior to last season but the Raptors again owned the NBA's second-best regular season record (Bucks had the NBA's top record both seasons) and their .736 winning percentage (53-19) was even higher than with Kawhi the year before (58-19, .707). However, the current season has seen Toronto 'flop,' as they visit Denver to take on the Nuggets with a 26-36 mark. Toronto is tied with the Bulls as each team sits TWO games back of the No. 10 seed, the last team with an entry into the NBA's "Play-In" tournament (7-10 seeds play for the final two playoff spots, the 7th and 8th seeds). 

The Nuggets earned the nickname "The Comeback Kids," as they overcame 3-1 deficits in last season's playoffs with series wins over the Jazz and then the Clippers. Denver pushed the Lakers to six games in the West Finals, before bowing out. Denver was expected to be among the top teams in the West again this season and the Nuggets haven't disappointed. The Nuggets lost 113-108 at New Orleans back on March 21 but on March 26, eked out a home win over the Pelicans. That victory sparked an EIGHT game winning streak. Back-to-back losses April 11 and 12 snapped that streak but the Nuggets will enter this contest having won SEVEN of eight to reach 41-21. The Nuggets are currently the West's No. 4 seed (FIVE games better than the 5th-seed Lakers) and just ONE game back of the Clippers (No. 3 seed).

Toronto' has the talent in PF Siakam (20.9-7.2-4.6), guards VanVleet (19.2-4.2-6.2) and Lowry (16.7-5.5-7.3) plus SF Anunoby (15.6 7 6.6) but with no home court (Raptors are playing their 'home' games in Tampa Bay) and a 10-20 record on the road, the 'whole' seems LESS that the sum of its parts. Denver center Jokic (26.3-10.9-8.7) is a leading MVP candidate and the Nuggets have continued to play well even after the loss of PG Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8). SF Porter was excellent in last year's bubble and is having a career season, averaging 18.7 & 7.6. The acquisition of Aaron Gordon (11.1 & 4.8) from Orlando has worked great, as although he's not scoring as much as he did with the Magic he's been a "great fit," with Denver going 14-3 in his 17 games.

The Nuggets lost Jamal Murray (see above) for the season two weeks ago plus then lost backup PG Monte Morris (10.1 & 3.2 APG) and now swingman Will Barton (12.7-4.0-3.2) to hamstring injuries. Through all this, Denver is 7-1 in its last eight games and 24-6 since Feb 27. Denver would sure like to earn that No. 3 seed, as the No. 4 seed will likely face the Lakers, with LBJ and A.D. both back. Motivation should NOT be lacking, after the Nuggets almost let one slip away last night against the Pelicans (held on for a two-point win), plus they will surely remember getting blown out back on March 24 at Tampa, 135-111! Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

 My 10* "Signature" 37-Club Play is on the Pho Suns at 10:10 ET.

The LA Clippers were headed for a showdown with the Lakers in last year's Western Conference Finals but blew a 3-1 lead against the Nuggets, putting an end to yet another disappointing playoff performance by a franchise that has NEVER advanced to a Conference Finals appearance. Doc Rivers was let go and Ty Lue hired. One wondered if the Suns' 8-0 SU & ATS run in the NBA 'bubble' last season was a window into the future. That question has been emphatically answered, as the Suns will snap their 10-season playoff drought in the 2020-21 season. The two Pacific Division rivals meet for the THIRD time this season with the Clippers having won the first two. The 43-20 Clippers are a game behind the second-place Suns (43-18), as both teams are hoping to catch the 44-17 Utah Jazz (West's current No. 1 seed).standings.

The Clippers had won 11 of 12 before losing 120-103 at New Orleans at New Orleans. Kawhi (25.7-6.7-5.1) missed a fourth straight game (foot) and has now missed 17 games on the season. His status is questionable against the Suns. George (23.7-6.5-5.3) scored only NINE points on 3-of-11 shooting in Monday's loss, as he played through ankle soreness. PG Beverley (fractured hand) and center Serge Ibaka (lower back tightness) remain out. PG Jackson has stepped up in Beverley's absence and Zubac has done the same at center for Ibaka. The there is new signee DeMarcus Cousins (7.3 & 5.2 in nine games), who had 16 points, 11 rebounds and two blocked shots on Monday.

The Suns return home off a 3-2 road trip, coming off a 118-110 win over the New York Knicks in Madison Square Garden on Monday, which snapped the Knicks' nine-game winning streak. PG Chris Paul scored seven points in the final 1:23 of the game, including a fadeaway three-pointer that finally "put away" the Knicks in the closing 15 seconds. Paul (16.1-4.7-8.7) has joined Booker (25.5-4.1-4.5) to form a dynamic backcourt duo, while center Ayton averages 15.0 & 10.7 with 32 double-doubles. SFs Bridges (13.1 & 4.4) and Johnson (9.9 & 3.2) have both had solid seasons. On the injury front, PFs Crowder (9.9 & 4.8) and Saric (9.1 & 4.0) are both questionable.

The race for the top-four seeds in the West (Nuggets are four games back of the Jazz, three back of the Suns and two back of the Clippers) will come down to the final week of the season and after losing BOTH previous games to the Clippers, this marks a HUGE game for the Suns. One NEVER knows for sure about the availability of Kawhi but we DO know about the Suns, "Big 3" of Booker, Paul and Ayton. Suns win this "with room to spare!"

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Den Nuggets at 9:10 ET.

The New Orleans Pelicans are off an impressive 120-103 home win over the LA Clippers on Monday but the team had lost FIVE of its previous six games. The Pelicans are just 27-34 and they have just 11 games remaining in the regular season. New Orleans is currently 3 1/2 games back of the Warriors, who currently own the No. 10 seed, the last spot available in the NBA's new "Play-In" tournament (seeds 7-10). The Nuggets lost 113-108 at New Orleans on March 21 but on March 26, eked out a home win over the Pelicans. That victory sparked an EIGHT game winning streak. Back-to-back losses April 11 and 12 snapped that streak but the Nuggets enter this contest having won SIX of seven to reach 40-21. The Nuggets are currently the West's No. 4 seed, two games back of the Clippers, three games back of the Suns and four games back of the Jazz.

Zion Williamson (26.9 & 7.2) has been as good as advertised and the 'haul' the Pelicans got from LA in the A.D. trade has been impressive. SF Ingram (24.2-5.0-4.9), PG Ball (14.1-4.2-5.7) and SG Hart (9.2 & 8.0 off the bench). Throw in Bledsoe (11.9-3.4-3.7) and one wonders just how this team is SEVEN games under .500. Denver center Jokic (26.2-11.0-8.7) is a leading MVP candidate and the Nuggets have continued to play well even after the loss of PG Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8). SF Porter was excellent in last year's bubble and is having a career season, averaging 18.5 & 6.6. The acquisition of Aaron Gordon (11.2 & 4.8) from Orlando has worked great, as although he's not scoring as much as he did with the Magic he's been a "great fit," with Denver going 13-3.

I continue to be confused by the Pelicans but quoting Bill Parcells, "Yore are what your record says you are!" As for the Nuggets, despite losing Jamal Murray (see above) for the season two weeks ago. Then backup PG Monte Morris (10.1 & 3.2 APG) and now swingman Will Barton (12.7-4.0-3.2), are out due to hamstring injuries. Through all this, Denver is 6-1 in its last seven games and 23-6 since Feb 27. Lay the points!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Por Blazers at 7:10 ET.

The 32-28 Portland Trail Blazers and the 29-21 Indiana Pacers could each be headed for the NBA's new "Play-In" tournament which will feature the 7-10 seeds in each conference. That would be a MAJOR disappointment to the Blazers, who made the playoffs seven years in a row and were 30-19 before losing NINE of their last 11 (including FIVE in a row). Portland has fallen to the West's No. 7 seed and are just 1 1/2-games up on the West's No. 10 seed. The Pacers were the East's No. 4 seed in last season's playoffs but were swept in the opening round by the Heat. Indiana opened 8-4 (season high four games over .500) but a loss at Portland on Feb 26 dropped them to 15-16 and the Pacers have not been over .500 since. The Pacers are currently the East's No. 9 seed and while they are just 2 1/2-games back of the No. 6 seed (last guaranteed playoff spot), they are also just 3 1/2-games clear of missing the play-in tournament altogether.

The Blazers are led by the dynamic backcourt duo of Lillard (28.4-4.2-7.5) and McCollum (23.3-4.2-4.8) plus Powell has been excellent since coming from Toronto in a trade (has averaged 17.3 PPG in his six games as a Blazer. The ageless Anthony (13.5) has been steady off the bench plus with Nurkic back healthy, Portland has two quality centers. Kanter averages 11.9 & 11.4 and Nurkic 10.2 & 8.3. Offseason acquisitions PF Covington (8.7 & 6.7) and SF Jones (7.1 & 3.8) have been solid.

Indiana's top-two players this season have been PG Brogdon (21.6-5.5-6.0) and PF Sabonis (19.9-11.6-6.) but Saboinis hasn't played since April 18 (back strain), Also out since April 18 have been center Myles Turner (12.6-6.5-3.4 BPG) with a foot injury and SG Jeremy Lamb (10.1) with a knee issue. LeVert (finally healthy) has played the last 24 games and averaged 18.8-4.6-4.1), so the Pacers don't miss Oladipo. Sumner, a fourth-year guard out of Xavier, has started the last four games and averaged 15.0 PPG.

The Pacers enter on a three-game winning streak in which Brogdon has averaged 26.3-10.3-6.7 but the team's 'victims' have been OKC (20-41), Det (19-43) and Hou (15-46). A key for Portland will be the return to form of Lillard, as since returning from a three-game absence due to a hamstring issue, he is averaging 24.0 points and 5.0 assists plus shooting only 34.7% from the floor (29.0% on threes). His season marks are 43.4 and 37.4 percent, respectively. Indiana's three-game win streak means little (see above) and the Pacers are a poor 11-17 at home. Throw in a little 'payback" from losing 111-87 at home to the Pacers on Jan 14 and I see the Blazers winning comfortably in this one. Note: Portland was just a 3 1/2-point favorite at home in that one. Here, on a five-game slide (and losers of NINE of 11), they are favored by about the same margin on the road!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Pho Suns at 7:40 ET.

One wondered if the Suns' 8-0 SU & ATS run in the NBA 'bubble' last season was a window into the future. That question has been emphatically answered, as the Suns will snap their 10-season playoff drought in the 2020-21 season. Phoenix is 42-18, the NBA's second-best record. The New York Knicks are playing meaningful games in April for the first time in nearly a decade and at 34-27, are closing in on ending the third-longest playoff drought in the NBA (last playoff appearance was back in the 2012-13 season).

The Suns opened a five-game road swing last Monday in Milwaukee and beat the Bucks in OT. They followed with a three-point win at Philly but have since dropped two in a  row. Phoenix was beaten 99-86 in Boston and then squandered a 13-point lead in the first half of a 128-119 loss at Brooklyn. The Suns wrap up their five-game trip at MSG against a new York team that's won NINE in a row (SEVEN straight at home), the team's longest winning streak since a 13-game run during the 2012-13 season

The 42-18 Suns (.700) are in a virtual tie for second in the West with the Los Angeles Clippers (43-19, .694), two games behind the Utah Jazz and three games up on  Denver (No. 4 seed). The Knicks and Hawks are both 34-27, vying for the No. 4 seed (last team to get the home court edge in Round 1) but both teams are just two games up on Boston and Miami. Neither of those four teams want to finish as the No. 7 seed, putting them into the "Play-In" tournament.

Phoenix is led by the dynamic backcourt of Booker (25.3-4.1-4.5) and Paul (16.0-4.6-8.7) plus center Ayton averages 15.1 & 10.7 with 32 double-doubles. PF Julius Randle (24.0-10.5-6.0) and SF Barrett (17.6 & 5.7) have starred all season for the Knicks but a group of five players (averaging between 10.4-13.8 PPG) are 'flying under the radar.' Both PGs are healthy right now in Rose (13.6 & 4.0 APG) and Payton (11.3 & 3.4 APG). SGs Burks (12.6) and Quickly (11.7) plus SF  Bullock (10.4) complete the group.

The Knicks are the NBA's No. 1 pointspread team (39-21-1) and the Suns are No. 2 (36-23-1) but the Suns are 8 1/2-game better than the Knicks on the season. New York's nine-game winning streak ends in a T-H-U-D!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Den Nuggets at 10:10 ET.

The Denver Nuggets are 38-20 and currently own the West's No. 4 seed (last team to earn home court edge in the first round). The Nuggets are in San Francisco tonight to take on the Warriors who are 29-30. Golden St, which has rebounded form a 15-50 season last year, will need to qualify for this season's playoffs through the "Play-In" tournament (seeds 7-10 play for the 7th and 8th seeds). Golden St is currently three games clear of the Pelicans (11th seed) and just ONE game back of the No. 8 seed. Getting back to Denver, the Nuggets are 3 1/2-games up on the West's No. 5 seed (LA Lakers). 

Tonight's game is a rematch of a 116-107 Golden State home win on April 12, a game in which the Nuggets lost star guard Jamal Murray (21.2-4.0-4.8) for the rest of the season with a knee injury. However, Denver has won FOUR in a row since losing Murray, led by MVP candidate Nikola Jokic. He's averaging 26.4-11.0-8.7 and his 51 double-doubles are an NBA-best. Denver is a very deep team and SF Porter (17.6 & 7.7) is having a career season, swingman Barton (12.9-4.1-3.3) has missed just THREE games all season plus Aaron Gordon has been a HUGE trade deadline acquisition. Gordon's numbers are somewhat modest (10.8 & 4.9) but it's hard to ignore the fact that Denver has gone 11-2 since his first game as a Nugget back on March 28!

Curry (31.1-5.5-5.9) had 53 points in Golden St's April 12th win over Denver but saw his 11-game run of 30-point games come to an end in the Warriors' 118-114 loss at Washington on Wednesday (he scored just 18-points). The Warriors know all about losing injured stars, as Klay Thompson tore his Achilles this past offseason while rehabbing his knee issue. More recently, the team's No. 1 pick of the 2020 Draft, center James Wiseman, was lost for the season (last played on April 10 and was averaging 11.4 & 5.8 for the season). Eric Paschall (9.5 & 2.2), Damion Lee (6.5( and Juan Toscano-Anderson (5.1) are all listed as out for this game.

The Nuggets are determined to hold on to that No. 4 seed (need home court edge to beat the Lakers in the first round) and a little "payback" from their April 12th loss to the Warriors should be the extra-motivation for them to win here by a comfortable margin.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Por Blazers at 10:10 ET.

The Memphis Grizzlies are hoping the return of Jaren Jackson Jr. will be the added boost needed to secure a playoff spot. Jackson (17.4 & 4.6 last season) missed the first 56 games of the season due to August surgery to repair meniscus damage in his left knee but The Grizz were able to go 29-27. Jackson returned on Wednesday when he had 15 points, eight rebounds and four blocked shots in just 18 minutes during a 117-105 road loss against the Los Angeles Clippers. Memphis visits Portland tonight with a 29-29 record, FOUR games clear of the West's No. 11 seed. However, the Grizzlies would sure love to avoid the 7-10 "Play-In" tournament. For them to do that, Memphis needs to catch and pass BOTH the Mavs and Blazers (each are 32-26). 

The Grizzlies have a chance to gain on the Blazers tonight and will get a second chance when the teams meet again on Sunday. Portland badly needs to reverse its fortunes, as the Blazers enter on a three-game slide, as well as having lost EIGHT of their last 11 contests. The last two losses have been 'killers.' The Clippers overcame a five-point deficit with 63 seconds to go to give them a 113-112 victory over Portland on Tuesday and then Norman Powell missed a "floater" as time expired in a 106-105 loss to Denver on Wednesday. The lone "bright spot" in the loss to the Nuggets was that Damian Lillard returned after missing three games with a hamstring injury. He did score 22 points but also shot just 9 of 23, including 2 of 10 on threes.

Both teams have depth, as Jackson joins SEVEN Memphis players averaging in double digits, led by PG Morant (19.1 & 7.3), center Valanciunas (17.0 & 12.6) and SG Brooks (16.6). The not so good news is that Valanciunas has missed the previous two games while going through the league's concussion protocol, and it is unknown if he will suit up Friday. Lillard (28.6-4.2-7.6) is back with McCollum (23.2-4.1-4.8) to form one of the NBA's best backcourts, which has also seen Powell come off the bench to average 17.6 PPG in 14 games since being acquired from Toronto. The ageless Anthony has added 13.6 PPG off the bench plus Portland's 'two-headed' center duo of Kanter (9.3 & 11.6) and Nurkic (9.3 & 7.4) is quite productive.

After two heartbreaking losses, I see this as the "perfect" spit for a Portland breakout win!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Las Vegas Insider is on the Sac Kings at 10:10 ET.

Here's what I wrote in taking the Kings over the T-wolves last night.

The Sacramento Kings were 22-25 entering their final game of March at San Antonio. That put then]m squarely in the 'hunt' for a spot in the West's "Play-In" tournament (seeds 7-10) to determine the West's No. 7 and 8 seeds. However, they were routed by the Spurs that night and that defeat was the first of a NINE-game losing streak. The Kings snapped that slide with a convincing fashion Sunday night in Dallas. The Kings never trailed in a 121-107 over the Mavericks. I'm not sure if the Kings can get back in the "Play-In" race, as they are currently 5 1/2 games back of the current No. 10 seed and only have 15 games remaining in the season.

The Kings welcome the Minnesota Timberwolves to Sacramento for back-to-back home games on Tuesday and Wednesday. Minnesota is 15-43 on the season, tied with the Houston Rockets for the NBA's worst record. The T-wolves 'limp' into Sacramento on a SEVEN-game road losing streak without their second-leading scorer, Malik Beasley. Beasley is averaging 19.6 PPG but has been out since April 2 with a hamstring injury. Center Towns (24.7 & 10.8), PG Russell (19.0 & 4.9 APG) and the 2020 Draft's No. 1 selection, SF Anthony Edwards (18.1), will be on hand. However, as noted, the T-wolves have lost seven straight on the road by an average margin of 10.0 PPG.

Sacramento's surprising win at Dallas was accomplished without center Holmes (14.1 & 8.9), who has missed the last three games because of a hamstring injury. PF Bagley (13.9 & 7.4) has been sidelined since March 15. De'Aaron Fox scored 30 points vs the Mavs and leads the Kings in scoring (25,2) and assists (7.1 APG). Hield (16.5 & 4.5) and rookie Halliburton (12.6 & 5.0 APG) join Fox to give Sacramento an excellent perimeter trio. SF Barnes added 24 points in the win over Dallas and continues to be a significant contributor, averaging 15.7 & 6.6 on the season. Center Hassan Whiteside (8.1 & 6.1) made just his second start of the season on Sunday (finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds). One should take note that in a six-year span (2014-15 thru 2019-20), Hassan averaged 14.3 & 12.2. He's more than capable.

As noted above, the Kings face an uphill climb to get into the "Play-In" tournament but the win at Dallas at least gives them a glimpse of a 'light at the end of the tunnel.' I won't look further than tonight's game but will lay the modest points in this one vs the sad-sack T-wolves, considering the Kings lost 116-106 at Minnesota back on April 5. A little "payback" works here.

The Kings took a four-point lead into the 4th quarter last night and Timberwolves trailed by as many as six points early in the fourth. However, a late 14-0 run led them to outscore the Kings by a 35-17 margin. I talked about the Kings' excellent guard trio of Fox, Hield and Halliburton but they combined to shoot 10 of 38 (26.2%) from the floor. Meanwhile, Minnesota, which shoots 44.3% from the floor on the season (28th of 30 teams), shot 56.7%. I have to come back with the Kings again.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the Phi 76ers at 7:10 ET.

The Phoenix Suns head to Philadelphia off a 128-127 overtime road win Monday over the Bucks, in a game that featured 24 lead changes. The Suns are 41-16 and the only team with a better record is the 43-15 Utah Jazz. However, no team owns a better ATS record than the Suns' 36-21 mark. The 76ers are 38-19 (top record in the East) and own one of the NBA's top home records at 22-6. Both teams are capable of challenging for an NBA championship, although for Philly to do so, the 76ers will have to stay healthy

Phoenix owns one of the NBA's best backcourts in Booker (25.4-4.2-4.5) and Paul (15.7-4.6-8.8) and both were outstanding in the win over Milwaukee. Booker finished with 24 points, while Paul added 22 points and 13 assists. Center Ayton is an unsung hero, averaging 15.2 & 10.8 on the season with 31 double-doubles. SF Bridges (12.9 & 4.5) is a fourth double-digit scorer, while forwards Crowder (9.9 & 4.9), Johnson (9.8 & 3.2) and Saric (9.3 & 4.1) just miss.

Philly played without Ben Simmons (illness) and Tobias Harris (knee) in Monday's 107-96 home loss to the Warriors (Steph ripped them for 49 points!). Both players are questionable for tonight's game but I'm expecting at least one of them to play. Harris (20.5 & 7.2) is having a strong season and Simmons (14.8-7.6-7.1) a typical All Star season Center Joel Embiid (29.9 & 11.2) had 28 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists in the loss to the Warriors and is a legitimate MVP candidate. However, his health is always a concern, as he's missed 18 games this season with a variety of injuries. Curry (12.1) typically starts with Simons in the backcourt plus the 76ers have excellent perimeter depth with guard Milton (13.4), Korkmaz (9.4) and even SF Green (9.7 & 3.8).

All season long we've been dealing with the question, "Who's playing tonight?" and it's getting old. I'm hoping Harris and Simmons will play but I'll go with Philly either way, as the Suns are off a HUGE win in OT at Milwaukee, as they continue a tough five-game road trip. 

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Revenge Rout is on the Sac Kings at 10:10 ET.

The Sacramento Kings were 22-25 entering their final game of March at San Antonio. That put then]m squarely in the 'hunt' for a spot in the West's "Play-In" tournament (seeds 7-10) to determine the West's No. 7 and 8 seeds. However, they were routed by the Spurs that night and that defeat was the first of a NINE-game losing streak. The Kings snapped that slide with a convincing fashion Sunday night in Dallas. The Kings never trailed in a 121-107 over the Mavericks. I'm not sure if the Kings can get back in the "Play-In" race, as they are currently 5 1/2 games back of the current No. 10 seed and only have 15 games remaining in the season.

The Kings welcome the Minnesota Timberwolves to Sacramento for back-to-back home games on Tuesday and Wednesday. Minnesota is 15-43 on the season, tied with the Houston Rockets for the NBA's worst record. The T-wolves 'limp' into Sacramento on a SEVEN-game road losing streak without their second-leading scorer, Malik Beasley. Beasley is averaging 19.6 PPG but has been out since April 2 with a hamstring injury. Center Towns (24.7 & 10.8), PG Russell (19.0 & 4.9 APG) and the 2020 Draft's No. 1 selection, SF Anthony Edwards (18.1), will be on hand. However, as noted, the T-wolves have lost seven straight on the road by an average margin of 10.0 PPG.

Sacramento's surprising win at Dallas was accomplished without center Holmes (14.1 & 8.9), who has missed the last three games because of a hamstring injury. PF Bagley (13.9 & 7.4) has been sidelined since March 15. De'Aaron Fox scored 30 points vs the Mavs and leads the Kings in scoring (25,2) and assists (7.1 APG). Hield (16.5 & 4.5) and rookie Halliburton (12.6 & 5.0 APG) join Fox to give Sacramento an excellent perimeter trio. SF Barnes added 24 points in the win over Dallas and continues to be a significant contributor, averaging 15.7 & 6.6 on the season. Center Hassan Whiteside (8.1 & 6.1) made just his second start of the season on Sunday (finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds). One should take note that in a six-year span (2014-15 thru 2019-20), Hassan averaged 14.3 & 12.2. He's more than capable.

As noted above, the Kings face an uphill climb to get into the "Play-In" tournament but the win at Dallas at least gives them a glimpse of a 'light at the end of the tunnel.' I won't look further than tonight's game but will lay the modest points in this one vs the sad-sack T-wolves, considering the Kings lost 116-106 at Minnesota back on April 5. A little "payback" works here.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Mil Bucks at 8:10 ET.

One wondered if the Suns' 8-0 SU & ATS run in the NBA 'bubble' last season was a window into the future. That question has been emphatically answered, as the Suns will snap their 10-season playoff drought in the 2020-21 season. Phoenix is 40-16, the NBA's second-best record (Utah is 1 1/2 games ahead with the NBA's and West's top record) The Suns open a five-game road swing Monday night when they play the Eastern Conference's third-place team, the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks owned the NBA's best regular season record in each of the last two regular seasons (116-39 combined, for a .748 win percentage) but the current season has been erratic. Milwaukee trails the East's top team (Philly) by four games and is 2 1/2-games back of second-place Brooklyn. The Bucks welcome the Suns (owners of the NBA's best record at 17-7) to Fiserv Forum having lost FOUR consecutive home games!

The Suns have won 11 of their last 13 games, although the Suns had a four-game winning streak snapped Saturday in a 111-85 loss to San Antonio (26-point blowout marks Phoenix's worst loss of the season). Phoenix has leaned on its backcourt duo of Booker (25.5-4.1-4.5) and Paul (15.6-4.6-8.7) all season but since scoring 29 points in an overtime win over NBA-leading Utah on April 7, Paul has not scored more than 13 points in Phoenix's SIX subsequent games. However, center Deandre Ayton has had at least 18 points in SIX of his seven games since April 5, before finishing with just eight against San Antonio. Ayton is averaging 15.1 & 10.8 on the season with 30 double-doubles.

Milwaukee has EIGHT players contributing regularly, SIX averaging in double digits (Forbes just misses at 9.7). Giannis (28.4-112.-6.1) leads the way, followed by SF Middleton (20.1-6.1-5.6) and PG Holiday (17.2-4.5-5.5). The Bucks had scored 120 points or more over a three-game winning streak heading into their 128-115 loss Saturday against Memphis. Despite the defeat, all five Milwaukee starters scored in double figures. Two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo was productive in his second game back from a six-game absence due to a knee injury, getting 28 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists.

Both teams are off losses but the Suns lost by 26. Normally, I'd stay away from going against Phoenix off that blowout loss but this contest HAS to be one the Bucks have 'circled.' Milwaukee NEEDS to get back on the winning track at home (four consecutive home losses are unacceptable!) plus the Bucks can't possibly forget their 125-124 loss in Phoenix back on Feb 10. Booker had 30 points and Chris Paul added 28 points and seven assists in that one, while Antetokounmpo scored 47 points. However, the Bucks' reserves finished with just 22 points. Bucks are the bet in this one!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Mia Heat at 3:40 ET.

The Brooklyn Nets lost 123-117 Wednesday night at Philadelphia, falling ONE game of the 76ers for the East's No. 1 seed. The Nets showed off their depth Friday during a 130-115 win over the Charlotte Hornets. Brooklyn went 21-of-41 from three-point range, led by Joe Harris' 6-for-9 shooting from long distance. Harris scored 26 points while Kevin Durant had 25 points and 11 assists.

The 38-18 Nets remain one game back of the 76ers as they visit Miami on Sunday. The reigning Eastern Conference champions have slipped to seventh place in the East, which would regulate them to the play-in tournament for the final two playoff spots. At 28-28, the Heat are 1 1/2-games back of the Knicks (East's No. 6 seed). The Heat return home having lost THREE in a row, including Friday night at the sad-sack Minnesota (T-wolves are just 15-42).

James Harden (25.4-8.7-11.0 in 34 games with the Nets) has been sidelined since April 5 sidelined with a right-hamstring strain and LaMarcus Aldridge just recently announced his retirement due to a heart issue. Brooklyn also lost PG Chris Chiozza (hand surgery) and has been playing without Tyler Johnson (right-knee soreness). K.D. (28.17.0-5.4) is back (for now) but has 33 missed games this season plus one never quite knows Kyrie's (27.5-4.8-6.1) status day-to-day.

Jimmy Butler (21.4-7.-7.2) had 30 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists at Minnesota in Friday's loss but it wasn't enough. Miami's starting lineup (all healthy here) featured Butler and Ariza (8.3 PPG in 15 games with the Heat and an excellent defender) in the frontcourt with Adebayo (19.0-9.2-5.2). Nunn (13.3) and Robinson (13.0) started at guard position with Herro (14.9 & 4.90 and Dragic (13.1 & 4.4 APG) coming off the bench. That's a VERY good seven-man rotation that is WAAY better than that of a .500 team.

This home dog 'barks' LOUDLY!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Por Blazers at 8:40 ET.

Gregg Popovich's first full season as the Spurs' head coach was in 1997-98 and beginning with that year, he led San Antonio to 22 consecutive postseasons, while winning FIVE championships (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2014). That remarkable streak came to an end in last year's pandemic-shortened season and "Pop" and his Spurs could miss for a second straight year here in the 2020-21 season. The Spurs are currently 26-27, which places them 10th in the West. Seeds 8 through 10 are tightly-bunched (separated by only ONE game) but the underachieving Pelicans (dreaded No. 11 seed) are just two games back of San Antonio. Earning a No. 6 seed (which would avoid the Play-In route), seems like a 'bridge too far' (Spurs are 4 1/2-games back) but San Antonio should qualify for the "Play-In" tourney, giving Pop a chance to "coach'em up" and into a 7 or 8 seed.

That current No. 6 seed is 31-23 Portland. The Blazers have been to SEVEN straight postseasons and need to hold off the 30-24 Mavs, for the last guaranteed spot, or fall into the "Play-In" format. Portland won its final four games of March to reach 29-18 but has opened April 2-5. The Trail Blazers have lost four of their last five games and are just 2-8 since the All-Star break against teams that currently have winning records. However, at 26-27, the Spurs are NOT a winning team.

The Spurs missed an excellent opportunity to pick up a win on Wednesday, when they were outplayed by the Raptors, who were missing four key players on the second game of a back-to-back. The Raptors outrebounded San Antonio 54-42 and had 13 fast-break points and 48 points in the paint to the Spurs' 36. This is not "your father's Spurs" but they have SEVEN double digits scorers, led by DeRozan (21.1-4.3-7.2) plus the 7-1 Poeltl (8.0 & 8.0) has done a credible job replacing Aldridge.

The Blazers are back healthy and Lillard (28.7-4.2-7.7) and McCollum (23.2-4.9-4.7) are now joined in the backcourt by Powell (16.7 PPG in 10 games since the trade). Both centers are now healthy, Kanter (12.1 & 11.9) and Nurkic (9.2 & 7.6), plus Anthony (13.3) has been excellent off the bench all season. Portland needs to get back on the winning track in a hurry, as the Mavs are lurking plus with Murray out for the season, catching the Nuggets (Portland trails Denver by just three games) is NOT of the question. The Blazers will surely remember getting CRUSHED 125-104 at home by the Spurs back in Portland on Jan 18. 

Good luck...Larry

My 10* ESPN Game of the Month is on the Phi 76ers at 7:10 ET.

The Los Angeles Clippers are riding a SEVEN-game winning streak as they visit Philadelphia tonight to take on the 76ers. LA's most recent victory was a gritty 100-98 come-from-behind win on the road over the Detroit Pistons, when Reggie Jackson made the game-winning jumper with 2.3 seconds left. Even more notably, the Clippers played without Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, Serge Ibaka, Patrick Beverley and Marcus Morris. The Clippers' winning streak gives them a 39-18 record, having climbed with two games of the Suns and three games of the top-seed in the West, the Jazz. The Clippers have opened a three-game margin on the Nuggets (now without Murray for the rest of the season), a 4 1/2-game margin over the Lakers (still without LBJ and A.D.) and 6 1/2-game bulge on the Blazers.

Philadelphia (38-17) took over the top of the Eastern Conference with a 123-117 victory over the Brooklyn Nets (37-18) on Wednesday, Joel Embiid finished with 39 points and 13 rebounds and over his last five games has averaged 30.2 points and 9.0 rebounds. The 76ers own a modest three-game winning streak but there is NOTHING modest about the team's 20-7 record since mid-Feb or its 21-5 home record (only the 25-3 Jazz are better).

Here's the rub. Kawhi missed the Detroit game with a sore right foot, while Ibaka continues to deal with a lingering lower-back issue. Beverley is out for the next month with a broken left hand, and the Clippers chose to give George and Morris a day of rest. Attempting to guess what lineup LA head coach Tyronn Lue will use tonight is no better than a crap shoot. What we KNOW is this. Joel Embiid did not play in the first game between the teams due to a knee injury, as the Clippers won 122-122 in Doc Rivers first game against the team he coached the previous SEVEN seasons back on March 27. Embiid will play here and he's looking every bit the part of a league MVP. The ESPN cameras will be watching and expect Rivers and Embiid to deliver a little 'payback' in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the NO Pelicans at 8:10 ET.

Full, detailed analysis Wednesday morning by 10:00 ET.

My 10* Oddsmaker's Error of the Month is on the Por Blazers at 10:10 ET.

The Boston Celtics entered their Sunday game in Denver having won FOUR of five but those four wins had come over Houston and Minnesota (currently tied for the NBA's worst record at 14-4) plus wins over the Hornets and Knicks (two teams that are basically .500 teams). The loss came at home to Philly. The Denver game was a test and I guess the Celtics 'passed.' However, Boston was down 14 points with just over 14 minutes left in that game, before outscoring the Nuggets 40-8. Kudos to Boston but what happened to the Nuggets, who followed Sunday's collapse by allowing Curry to score 53 points last night in a loss at Golden St? Portland is dealing with its own issues after sustaining four losses in the last six games, with those four defeats during the stretch coming by an average of 15.8 points!

Tatum (25.7-7.1-4.2) and Brown (24.3-5.8-3.5) have been terrific all season plus guards Walker (17.6 & 5.0 APG) and Smart (13.4 & 5.6 APG) have put injuries behind them. Theis (9.5 & 5.2) was moved at the trade deadline, so it's Williams (9.5 & 5.2) and Thompson (8.0 & 7.0) sharing center duties. Lillard (28.7-4.2-7.6) is having another All Star season plus fellow guard McCollum (23.5-3.8-4.6) and center Nurkic (9.3 & 7.5) are back after missing significant time with injuries. Antony (13.1) has been solid all season off the bench, center Kanter (12.1 & 11.9) filled in for Nurkic when he was out and continues to play well since his return. PF Covington (9.1 & 6.6) and SF Jones (7.7 & 4.1)) were added prior to the season and have been solid. Tent (15.0) was moved at the trade deadline but in return the Blazers got Powell, who has averaged 16.3 points in his nine games as a Blazers.

Boston's 28-26 (East's No. 7 seed) but is just ONE game back of the East's No. 4 seed (Atlanta). Portland is 31-22 (No. 6 seed), two games up on Dallas and 3 1/2 up on Memphis. Ahead of them are the Lakers (by 1 1/2-games) and the Nuggets (by 2 1/2-games). I think the Blazers are undervalued here and expect a solid win but any kind of a win will "get the cash" with this pointspread.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Ultimate Underdog is on the Dal Mavericks at 7:40 ET.

MVP candidate Joel Embiid recently missed 10 games with a bone bruise on his left knee but the 76ers went 7-3 without him. Embiid (29.4 & 11.1) is back and the 76ers are tied with the Nets  for the East's best record (36-17, three games up on the Bucks. Dallas ended a three-year playoff drought last season, led by another potential MVP contender, Luka Doncic. The Mavs were 43-32 (.573) last season but lost in the first round of the playoffs. Much was expected from Dallas this season but at 29-23 (.558), the Mavs are currently the West's No. 7 seed and have surely not overachieved. They are 5 1/2 games up on the West's No. 11 seed (getting into the "Play-In" round which includes the 7-10 seeds seems assured) but they desperately want to catch the 6th-seeded Blazers, who lead them by 1 1/2 games. 

Joining Embiid in Philly's starting lineup are typically PF Harris (20.6 & 7.3), SF Green (9.8 & 3.7) plus guards Simmons (15.0-7.7-7.0) and Curry (12.3), guard Milton (13.7) has been a consistent scorer off the bench plus veteran center Howard has played all 53 games, averaging 6,8 & 8,3 in only 17 minutes. Guard Korkmaz (9.0) has been a nice surprise and just added 20 points and five steals in Philly's 117-93 win at Oklahoma City on Saturday (Embiid led with 27 points and nine rebounds).

Dallas has been streaky all season and hopes to avoid its third loss in four games when hosting the Sixers tonight. The Mavericks fell 119-117 to the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday, as DeMar DeRozan hit the winning jumper with 0.5 seconds remaining. Kristaps Porzingis (20.7 & 9.4) paced the Mavericks with 31 points and 15 rebounds while Doncic (28.5-8.1-8.7) added 29 points and seven assists. Doncic has 25 or more points in 11 of his last 13 games. Fellow guards Josh Richardson (12.5) had 16 points and Jalen Brunson (12.8-3.5-3.4) had 11 against the Spurs. Swingman Hardaway (16.2) has mostly come off the ne[-bench, with the Mavs' preferred starters at the forward position are Finney-Smith (8.9 & 5.5) and Kleber (7.6 & 5.5).

Here's the rub. The Mavs can play with any team and I view them as a VERY 'live' home dog in this one!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the NY Knicks at 7:40 ET.

The Lakers are coming off their best performance since losing both A.D, and LBJ to injuries, Davis (22.5 & 8.4) has missed 25 straight contests due to a strained right calf and James (25.4-7.9-7.9) has missed 11 straight games with a right ankle sprain. The Lakers are 12-13 since Davis last played on Feb.14 at Denver, while they are 5-6 in the 11 games that LBJ has missed. The 33-20 Lakers (No. 5 seed in the West) will be playing their 12th game without the duo, when they visit MSG against the Knicks. New York is 27-27 on the season (East's No. 8 seed) and the Knicks are playing meaningful games in April for the first time in nearly a decade.

LA shot 50.5% (including 19 of 34 on threes) in a 126-101 rout over the Nets in Brooklyn on Saturday. Kyle Kuzma (12.6 & 6.8) has a left calf strain, Wesley Matthews (right Achilles tendon tightness) and Marc Gasol (left hamstring soreness) all sat out on Saturday, plus Dennis Schroder (15.2-3.5-5.3) ejected early in the third quarter. Somehow, the Lakers placed a season-high eight players into double figures while tying a season best with 19 three-pointers. Recently acquired Andre Drummond led the way with 20 points and 11 rebounds in his second game back from sitting out three games with a toe injury. The other four starters (Schroder, Talen Horton-Tucker, Markieff Morris and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope) all scored at least 14 points. 

The Knicks are back in action about 21 hours after holding on for a 102-96 win over the visiting Toronto Raptors on Sunday night. It was New York's second straight win decided by six points or less, following consecutive two-point road losses to the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets and a stretch of FIVE losses in six games. PF Julius Randle (22.8-10.7-6.0) and SF Barrett (17.6 & 5.8) have starred all season for the Knicks. Randle scored eight of his 26 points in the fourth quarter vs the Raptors, while RJ Barrett finished with 19 points, including a clutch three-pointer with 34.9 seconds left. That came two nights after hitting the tie-breaking three-pointer in overtime to beat the Memphis Grizzlies. The Knicks are 'flying under the radar' with FIVE more players averaging between 9.7 and 13.1 PPG. Both PGs are healthy right now in Rose (13.1 & 4.0 APG) and Payton (11.8 & 3.4) plus three SGs are contributing. Burks adds 12.6 & 4.4, Quickly 12.0 and Bullock 9.7.

Not sure where LA's 25-point win over the Nets came from but it's likely that Kuzma, Matthews and Gasol will all miss on Monday. The Knicks are a scrappy bunch and catch the Lakers in a HUGE 'letdown' situation off the win vs Brooklyn.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Revenge Game of the Month is on the Den Nuggets at 3:10 ET.

The Boston Celtics were expected to be among the East's best teams but despite wins in four of their last five games, the Celtics are just 27-26. They are NINE games back of Philadelphia and Brooklyn (both are 36-17) and 5 1/2-games back of Milwaukee (No. 3 seed). Boston finds itself in a life-and-death struggle to avoid the NBA's new "Play-In" tournament, which will feature the 7-10 seeds. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have won EIGHT straight and 17 of their past 20, including the last three without second-leading scorer Jamal Murray, who is sidelined with right-knee soreness. Denver is currently 34-18 but the top of the Western Conference is loaded with strong teams (Jazz, Suns, Clippers and the Lakers, when they get healthy.

Boston's "Big 3" these days are Tatum (25.7-7.0-4.3), Brown (24.3-5.7-3.5) and Walker (17.7 & 5.0 APG). The Celtics rallied at home to beat Minnesota in overtime on Friday night, led by a career-high 53 points from Jayson Tatum. Team-leader Smart (13.4 & 5.6 APG) missed 19 games but has been back since the All Star break plus PF/C Thompson (8.0 & 6.9) had been out since mid-March, before returning for Boston's last two games. Theis (9.5 & 5.2) was moved at the trade deadline but the good news has been that Robert Williams averaged 11.2 & 9.3 when Thompson was sidelined. Fournier (19.7 PPG while with Orlando) has averaged 11.5 PPG in his four games with Boston.

Denver was just 17-17 on the morning of Feb 26 but has since gone 17-3 to move up in the West to the No. 4 seed. Nikola Jokic (26.7-10.9-8.8) has put himself into strong contention for the MVP Award this year and had his 13th triple-double of the season and 54th of his career in Friday's 121-119 win over the San Antonio Spurs. Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. have benefited from Jokic's court vision. Porter (17.1 & 7.6) had 22 points and 10 rebounds in Friday's win, the fifth time in the past seven games he has recorded a double-double. Gordon (acquired from Orlando before the trade deadline) is averaging 12.3 & 3.7 in his seven games with Denver (all wins). Denver's winning streak has enabled coach Mike Malone to sit Murray (21.3-4.0-4.8). Swingman Barton (12.9-4.2-3.2) has only missed THREE games this season and backup PG Morris (10.6) is back after being out since mid-March, averaging 12.0 PPG in his four games since April 4. Veteran PF Millsap ((9.2 & 4.8) has been solid, while PF Green (8.4 & 5.2) and SG Dozier (6.9 & 3.8) have contributed all season off the bench.

Denver is a complete team and should remember losing 112-99 at Boston back on Feb 16 and Boston's upcoming three-game road trip (at Denver, Portland and the Lakers) will be quite a challenge for a Boston team that has come nowhere its 2020-21 expectations. Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout is on the CS Warriors at 10:10 ET.

The Washington Wizards are on a season-long, six-game road trip and it continues Friday when they visit the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. The Wizards won 131-116 at Orlando on Wednesday, snapping a four-game losing streak to give them an 18-32 record. Washington finds itself FOUR games back of the East's 10th seed, the last team that will get into the NBA's "Play-In" tournament (seeds 7-10). The host Warriors last played on Tuesday, snapping a three-game skid when they outlasted the Milwaukee Bucks 122-121. Golden St is 24-27, giving them a two-game lead over the Pelicans for the West's 10th seed, as well as just ONE game behind the No. 9 seed San Antonio.

Russell Westbrook (21.8-10.5-10.6) finished with 23 points,14 rebounds and 15 assists vs the Magic, his sixth triple-double in the past seven games. He is now only 15 behind Oscar Robertson for most triple-doubles in NBA history. More good news for Washington was that Bradley Beal returned after missing the previous five games with a hip injury. Beal (31.2-4.8-4.8) is the NBA's leading scorer and totaled 26 points on Wednesday. Second-year forward Rui Hachimura (14.1 & 5.9) also returned to the lineup from a brief absence with a shoulder injury, meaning Washington is the closest to full strength it has been all season.

Curry had 41 points against the Bucks, his FOURTH straight game of 30-plus points, He's averaging 29.7-5.5-6.0 on the season and speaking of being healthy, the Warriors had their preferred starting lineup intact vs Milwaukee. Oubre (15.1 & 6.0) joined Curry in the backcourt, rookie Wiseman (11.9 & 5.9) started at center, while Wiggins (18.0 & 4.8) and Green (6.4-6.5-8.5) started at the two forward positions.

The Warriors are off that big win over the Bucks but it came on Tuesday, so the team has had a few days to settle in after that 'high.' This game begins a VERY favorable stretch of games for the Warriors, as after the Wizards, they play the Rockets, Nuggets, Thunder and Cavs. Other than the game vs Denver, note that Washington is 18-32, Houston is 14-37, OKC is 20-32 and Cleveland is 19-32. Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the LA Clippers at 10:10 ET.

The 38-12 Jazz are 38-12 played at the 35-14 Suns last night, with the Suns earning a hard-fought 117-113 overtime victory. Phoenix moved with 1 1/2-games of the Jazz (West's No. 1 seed) and improved their NBA-best ATS record to 33-17. However, there is no rest for the weary, as the Suns visit Staples Center tonight to take on the LA Clippers, who own the West's current No. 3 seed at 34-18. The Clippers trail the Suns by three games but also have to 'look over their shoulders,' as the Nuggets are just a half-game back and the Lakers just 1 1/2 games back. Phoenix has won seven straight entering Thursday's contest and 11 of their last 13, while the Clippers are in midst of a nine-game homestand and enter having won eight of their last 10 games.

The Suns' top-three players, guards Booker (26.1-4.1-4.5) and Paul (16.3-4.7-8.8) plus center Ayton (14.8 7 10.8) starred last night. Booker scored 35, Paul had 29 and nine assists and Ayton served up his 26th double-double of the season (18 & 12). SF Bridges (13.1 & 4.7) is a regular starter, while PF Crowder (10.2 & 5.) has started 32 of his 47 games. PF Saric (9.9 & 4.3) and SF Johnson (9.8 & 3.3) come in just under double digits.

Naturally, the Clippers are led by Kawhi (25.8-6.7-5.0) and George (22.5-6.7-5.4) but this team is very deep. Ibaka (10.9 & 6.7) has been out since mid-March but Zubac has taken over as a starter and averaged 10.6 & 8.7 since March 15. PG Beverley (8.3 & 3.7) went out Mar 12 and just came back on Tuesday but Jackson stepped in to averaged 13.2 PPG in March and 12.0 in three April games. MPF Morris (12.6 & 3.9), swingman Batum (8.3 & 4.9) and SG Kennard (8.1) have been contributing all season.

It was a HUGE win for the Suns last night vs the Jazz (in OT, no less) and it's at Staples vs a Clipper team that's won EIGHT of 10, looking to gain some ground on the Suns. Great situation for the Clipps. Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Month is on the Ut Jazz at 10:10 ET.

The Utah Jazz were the West's No. 6 seed in last season's playoffs in Orlando but after taking a 3-1 lead over the Nuggets (No.  3 seed), lost the final three games of that first-round series. As for the Suns, despite an 8-0 SU & ATS run in the Orlando 'bubble,' the Suns found themselves on the outside-looking-in on the playoffs for the 10th consecutive season. However, as the Jazz and Suns get together in Phoenix on Wednesday, the teams own the two-best records in the Western Conference. The Jazz are 38-12 and the Suns are 35-14, 2 1/2-games back. The teams also own the NBA's two-best ATS records, the Suns checking in at 32-17 and the Jazz at 31-19.

The Jazz opened the season just 4-4 but then 'blitzed' the league by winning 22 of 24 games from Jan 8 through Feb 24. Utah then went 3-5 over an eight-game span, before ripping off NINE straight wins from March 19 through April 3. However, the Jazz enter this contest off a 111-103 loss Monday at Dallas. Utah's starting-five has been strong all season, led by SG Mitchell (25.4-4.4-5.4) and PG Conley (16.6 & 5.5 APG). Center Gobert (14.6 & 13.2) is surrounded by forwards Bogdanovich (14.8 & 3.9) and O'Neale (7.1 & 6.6). Then there is the NBA's favorite for Sixth-Man of the year, Jordan Clarkson, who is averaging 17.3 PPG. SG Ingles (13 starts) adds 11.8-3.7-4.1 plus the 6-9 Favors was brought back to the Jazz in the offseason and is averaging 5.8 & 5.5 in about 15 minutes per game.

The big offseason move by Phoenix was trading for PG Chris Paul and he's delivered, averaging 16.0-4.7-8.8. He joins Booker (25.9-4.1-4.6) to form an outstanding backcourt duo. Center Ayton (14.8 & 10.8) and SF Bridges (13.4 & 4.7) have both started and played in all 50 games, while Crowder (also an offseason pickup) has started 31 of his 46 games while averaging 10.3 & 4.9.Also making significant contributions have been PF Saric (10.1 & 4.1) and SF Johnson (9.8 & 3.2).

After this game, Utah returns home for FIVE straight home games, with only Portland owning a winning record among the five teams visiting Salt Lake City. This is the second meeting between the Jazz and Suns this season, the first being back on New Year's Eve when the Suns won 106-95 win in Salt Lake City. Think Utah will remember? That defeat marked the LAST time the Jazz have lost a home game. Coming off a loss in Dallas, expect Utah to get the "W" in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Mia Heat at 8:05 ET.

The Memphis Grizzlies had lost three of four before winning back-to-back games at home to Minnesota (120-108) and 116-100 at Philadelphia, who played without Embiid. Memphis 24-23 and currently owns the No. 8 seed in the West. However, the Grizzlies are FIVE games back of the No. 6, the last position guaranteed to make the postseason. Seeds 7 through 10 will enter a "Play-In" format. Miami's season has featured both extended winning and losing streaks and the Heat enter this game on a four-game winning streak, which has followed a SIX-game losing streak. 26-24 Miami is currently tied with the Hawks as the teams battle for the No. 4 seed in the East. However, behind the East's top-three seeds, the field is crowded, as Miami is just 1 1/2-games up on the No. 8 seed.

The Grizzlies' impressive win at Philly opened a four-game road trip, as center Jonas Valanciunas (16.2 & 12.5) collected 16 points and 21 rebounds. It was his 10th straight double-double with Valanciunas recording 17 straight games with at least 10 rebounds. Memphis had SEVEN players in double figures on Sunday. Joining Valanciunas in double digits on the season are Morant (19.0 & 7.5 APG), Brooks (16.1), Anderson (12.3-5.8-3.4), Clarke (11.7 & 5.5) and Allen (10.1) Melton has missed 12 games this season but in his 35 games (just one start), also averages 10.1 PPG.

Miami's winning streak began with back-to-back road wins at the Knicks and Pacers, followed by home wins over the Warriors and then Saturday's 115-101 victory over the Cavs. That was a rare double-digit win for the Heat, which shot 53.7 percent and had SEVEN players in double figures. Butler (21.2-7.5-7.3) and Adebayo (19.3-9.6-5.3) are All Stars but with the Heat healthier than they've been all season, their depth is impressive. Guards Herro (13.3), Dragic (13.5 & 4.6 APG) and Robinson (13.1 & 3.8) are now finally joined by Oladipo, who has played back-to-back games, averaging 26.5 MPG while scoring 14 points and handing out 10 assists in his first two contests with the Heat. SF Ariza is also a new addition (9 games / 6 starts) and he's an excellent defender, averaging 7.1 & 4.1

Before Miami's four-game winning streak, it had lost six consecutive games, beginning March 17 at Memphis 89-85. In that meeting, Jimmy Butler led all scorers with 24 but it was not enough for the Heat as Memphis' balanced scoring (Morant, De'Anthony Melton and Kyle Anderson each had 13) was too much for a Miami team playing its fifth game in seven nights. That's NOT the case here, as the Heat haven't played since Saturday. In its four-game winning streak, Miami has regained a key component, its defensive identity. The Heat have held its last four 'victims' to an average of just 96.3 PPG.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Rivalry Game of the Month is on the Bos Celtics at 7:35 ET.

The Boston Celtics were expected to be among the East's best teams but welcome Philadelphia to TD Garden just 25-25 on the season. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers (one of Boston's fiercest rivals) sit 34-16, just a half-game back of the Nets (current No. 1 seed in the East). The Milwaukee Bucks are 1 1/2-games back of the 76ers, as those three teams have separated themselves from the rest of the Eastern Conference teams. The Celtics are currently the No. 7 seed and will desperately want to avoid the "Play-In" round which features seeds 7 through 10.

Joel Embiid returned from a 10-game absence due to a bone bruise in his left knee on Saturday during Philadelphia's 122-113 victory over Minnesota (had 24 & 8), but sat out Sunday's 116-100 loss to Memphis. "Any player who has been out three weeks and then plays in a game, you probably don't play him in a (back-to-back), it's just smart," Sixers head coach Doc Rivers said. "This one was pretty simple. This wasn't a hard decision for any of us." Embiid is averaging 29.8 & 11.3 in 32 games this season and expects to be on the floor in this one. The rest of Philly's starting-five consists of PF Harris (20.8 & 7.3) and SF Green (9.6 & 3.7) plus guards Simmons (15.2-7.9-7.2) and Curry (12.7). Milton (14.1) has been the best scorer off the bench but kudos to veteran center Howard (7.0 & 8.3), who has played in every game this season.

Part of Boston's problem this season has been staying healthy. However, head coach Brad Stevens likes the balance and cohesiveness his healthier roster is playing with these days. All Stars Tatum (25.2-7.0-4.3) and Brown (24.3-5.7-3.6) have only missed a handful of games but PG Walker (17.9-3.6-4.8) didn't get on the court until and team-leader Smart (12.9 & 5.5 APG) missed 19 games from. Big Man Thompson (7.9 & 8.4) has been out since mid-march, while Theis (9.5 & 5.2) was moved at the trade deadline. The good news has been Robert Williams has averaged 11.8 & 9.3 with Thompson sidelined, including 18.0 & 8.5 in Boston's back-to-back wins. Then there is the recently acquired Fournier (19.7 PPG while with Orlando), who followed up his seven 3-pointers in a win Friday night against the Houston Rockets with four more vs Charlotte to finish with 17 points!

The Sixers swept back-to-back games against the Celtics in Philadelphia back on Jan 20 and 22, so expect the revenge motive to play a big part in this rivalry game that turns into a Boston rout!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout is on the Phi 7ers at 7:05 ET.

The 23-23 Memphis Grizzlies begin a four-game road trip with a stop in Philadelphia on Sunday. Memphis is currently 9th in the West, a half-game back of the 8th-seed. Seeds 7 through 10 enter a "Play-In" format for the final two seeds in each conference and Memphis is three games back of the No. 7 and also three games up on the 11-seed, the last team out of the playoff picture. The 76ers welcome the Grizzlies to Philadelphia off a 122-113 Saturday victory over the Timberwolves. which allowed them to move into a tie with the Brooklyn Nets for the East's best record (both teams are 34-15).

Memphis is also off a game with Minnesota, when the Grizzlies beat the Timberwolves 120-108 on Friday in Memphis. EIGHT players scored in double-digits for the Grizzlies, as center Jonas Valanciunas (16.2 & 12.5) collected 19 points and 11 rebounds. It was his NINTH straight double-double with Valanciunas recording 16 straight games with at least 10 rebounds.PG Morant (19.3 & 7.4 APG) had a modest 11 points but as noted, SIX others were in double digits. Joining Morant and Valanciunas in double digits on the season are Brooks (16.0), Anderson (12.4-5.8-3.4), Clarke (11.6 & 5.6) and Allen 10.0).

The "big news" for Philly last night was the return of MVP candidate Joel Embiid. The four-time All-Star center returned with a flourish on Saturday (following a 10-game absence due to a bone bruise in his left knee) by scoring 24 points, eight rebounds and three blocks. He's averaging 29.9 & 11.3 on the season, joined in the starting lineup by PF Harris (20.5 & 7.3) and SF Green (9.7 & 3.6) plus guards Simmons (15.5-7.9-7.4) and Curry (13.0). Guard Milton (14.1) has been the leading scorer off the bench all season plus veteran center Howard (7.0 & 8.2) has played in 47 of Philly's 48 games this season.

Philadelphia head coach Doc Rivers told reporters that he wasn't sure if Embiid would play on Sunday but note that the 76ers were 7-3 during his recent 10-game absence. The 76ers are 12-3 since March 1, losing only in OT at home to Milwaukee plus at the LA Clippers and Denver. Can we all agree that Memphis is NOT in the class of those three teams? Memphis is tipping off a stretch in which the Grizzlies will play 11 of their next 14 games away from home and up first is Philadelphia, which owns the NBA's second-best 20-4 home record. at home. Philly will also remember barely losing a 106-104 decision in Memphis on Jan 16, a game Joel Embiid sat out for rest purposes. Embiid or no Embiid, Philly wins "with room to spare!"

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Por Blazers at 10:10 ET.

The Milwaukee Bucks owned the NBA's best record the previous two seasons (60-22 and 56-17) but each year lost before reaching the NBA Finals. A FIVE-game losing streak (Feb 10-18) left the Bucks at just 16-13 and with many asking, "What's wrong with the Bucks?" Milwaukee answered its critics with 13 wins over 14 games from Feb 19-Mar 24, including EIGHT straight wins before a 122-144 Friday loss to the Celtics on Mar 26. However, a 102-96 loss to the Knicks followed on Saturday and a 129-105 at the Clippers on Monday made it THREE straight losses for the Bucks. Milwaukee did beat the LBJ and A.D.-less Lakers 112-97 on Wednesday but that's hardly a reason to 'celebrate.'

30-17 Milwaukee is THREE games back of the Nets (No. 1 seed)  in the East and  2 1/2-games back of the 76ers (No. 2 seed), as the Bucks continue their six-game Western Conference tonight in Portland. The Bucks pounded Portland 134-106 back on Feb 1 in Milwaukee  but the Blazers have gone 19-9 since that 'disaster.' Portland enters this contest with a 29-18 record and while that's only good enough for the West's No. 6 seed, the Blazers are just 1 1/2-games behind the LA Clippers, who currently hold down the No. 3 seed.

Milwaukee's starting-five is intact and ALL average in double digits. Giannis (28.3-11.4-6.3) leads the way, followed by fellow forward Middleton (20.3-6.0-5.4), PG Holiday (16.4-4.5-5.2), center Lopez (11.0 & 6.8) and guard DiVincenzo (10.7-5.4-3.0). The 6-10 Portis (11.0 & 6.8) is currently sidelined but guards Forbes (9.4) and Connaughton (6.9 & 4.7) continue to contribute off the bench.

Portland is led by PG Lillard (29.8-4.3-7.8) plus the Blazers will have a "new look" from the team that played the Bucks back in Milwaukee on Feb 1. SG McCollum (24.2-3.8-4.7) is back after a long absence and hasn't missed a beat, while center Nurkic (9.5 & 7.3) has been back the last three games, averaging 8.0 & 6.0). The Bucks sent Trent (15.0) to Toronto but got Powell (19.4 on the season) in return and he's averaged 16.3 PPG in his three games with the Blazers. Familiar to Milwaukee will be the ageless Anthony (13.9 PPG in playing 46 of 47 games) and veteran center Kanter (12.2 & 11.6), who more than 'held down the fort' with Nurkic sidelined.

OK, the 'elephant' in the room is that the Bucks have won EIGHT of the last nine games against the Blazers. However, the Bucks have been "no-shows" too often for my taste this season, while Portland is back healthy and FULL of confidence coming off a 4-0 road trip. Home dog 'barks' LOUDLY in this one!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Ind Pacers at 8:10 ET.

The Charlotte Hornets entered the 2020-21 season off FOUR consecutive losing years, with the team's 23-42 (.354) record last season being the worst of their four-year playoff drought. However, the Hornet are currently 24-23 (.511), which puts them atop the Southeast Division, although they are in a virtual tie with the 25-24 (.510) Heat and just a half-game up on the 24-24 Hawks. Charlotte can claim to be the East' current No. 4 seed but let me point out that the Hornets are just 1 1/2-game ahead of the East's current No. 8 seed.

The 45-28 Indiana Pacers earned the East's No. 4 seed in last year's playoff 'bubble' but got swept 4-0 by the Heat in the first round (note: Miami did reach the NBA Finals, before losing to the Lakers). It's been a season of stops-and-starts for Indiana all season this year, as the Pacers enter 21-25, as their winning percentage has fallen from .616 last season to .457 so far this season. Indiana is currently the East's No. 9 seed  and the NBA's new playoff format guarantees only the top-six teams in each conference a playoff berth. The No. 7 thru No. 10 seeds will be involved in a "Play-In" format for the two final spots (7 & 8). The good news is, the Pacers are just 2 1/2 games back of the current 4th-seeded Hornets.

Charlotte hardly resembled a playoff team Thursday night in a 111-89 road loss to the Brooklyn Nets, who played without James Harden. The Hornets are still adjusting to losing rookie sensation LaMelo Ball (15.9-5.9-6.1) to a broken wrist but Charlotte is 4-2 since Ball's injury. Boston 'refugees' Rozier (20.7-4.0-3.5) and Hayward (19.9-5.9-4.1) have led Charlotte in scoring all season, while PG Graham (14.0 & 5.2 APG) and PF Washington (11.8 & 6.6) also score in double digits.

The Pacers enter off back-to-back losses, falling to 4-13 ATS in their last 17 games (hardly a good sign). That said, in PG Brogdon (21.2-4.8-64.9) and PF Sabonis (20.2-11.3-6.1) Indiana owns two All Stars. The Pacers also feature quality depth, as Caris LeVert is finally healthy and averaging 14,9-4.1-4.1 in his 10 games, while SF McDermott (13.4) & 3.8), center Turner (12.7-6.4-3.5 BPG), Justin Holiday (11.3) and Lamb (10.4) also score in double digits. 

The Hornets and Pacers split two games in late January in Charlotte. This contest marks Indiana's second home game during a stretch of four home games in a five-game span. The Pacers have too much talent to continue to play this poorly at home (8-13 on the season) and should be in a foul mood after being held to just FIVE points over the game's final six minutes of a 92-87 home loss to the Heat on Wednesday. Indiana wins "with room to spare" in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* East/West Game of the Month is on the Mia Heat at 8:10 ET.

The Miami Heat surprised everyone, as after earning the East's No. 5 seed, beat Indiana (No. 4 seed) in a four-game sweep, Milwaukee (No. 1 seed) 4-1, Boston (No. 3 seed) 4-2 to reach the NBA Finals. The Heat then extended the Lakers (West's No. 1seed) to six games before. The Heat were an NBA-best 16-5 ATS in the 2020 postseason. However, it's been far from 'smooth sailing' in the 2020-21 season, as Miami just recently snapped a six-game slide with back-to-back wins over the Knicks (Monday) and the Pacers (Wednesday). The 24-24 Heat are back home to take on the Warriors and while they are just ONE game ahead of the East's No. 8 seed, they are also just ONE game behind the East's No. 4 seed.

The Warriors fell to 15-50 last season, after FIVE straight trips to the NBA Finals (three titles). However, despite losing Klay Thompson before the start of the season, Golden St has 'hung in' the West's playoff race. Steph Curry (29.1-5.3-6.2) returned Monday after missing the previous five games with a bruised tailbone and he fueled the Warriors' 116-102 home victory over the Chicago Bulls. Curry finished with 32 points, ending Golden State's four-game slide. The 23-24 Warriors are currently  two games back of the 8th-seeded Spurs, in a virtual tie with 22-23 Memphis. The West's No. 7-10 seeds will enter a "Play-In" format for the final two playoff spots (No. 7 and No. 8).

PG Curry is joined by two solid producers in SF Wiggins (18.2 & 4.7) and SG Oubre (15.2 & 6.0) but No. 1 pick (No. 2 overall) Wiseman (11.8 & 5.9) has played just 33 of 47 games and has been erratic. Then there is Draymond Green (6.1-6,5-8.4) who can just be the Warriors' best player or worst 'nightmare' from game-to-game. Miami's Butler has been limited to 33 games but is healthy now and averaging 21.4-7.6-7.2. The 6-9 Adebayo (19.3-9.6-5.3) just keeps getting better and Herro (a breakout star in last year's Finals) checks in with 15.5 PPG and 5.2 RPG. SG Duncan Robinson (12.9 & 3.8) hasn't missed a game and veteran PG Dragic (13.5 & 4.3 APG) is also now healthy and playing. More good news comes in that two-time All-Star Victor Oladipo is expected to be on the court tonight. He had been dealing with a cold, which kept him from making his team debut this week during Miami's two-game road trip to New York and Indiana. The Heat acquired Oladipo in a March 25 trade with the Houston Rockets.

Golden State begins a three-game trip to the East Coast with this game with the Heat but the Warriors are in the WRONG place at the WRONG time tonight in Miami. The Heat are healthier than they've been all season plus Miami regained a key component to its potential success these last two games, its defensive identity. The Heat held the Pacers to FIVE points over the game's final six minutes in a 92-87 comeback victory on Wednesday at the Pacers (Indiana was held to just 40.0% shooting for the game) and also held the Knicks to 88 points in a 10-point victory at New York on Monday, holding the Knicks to 41.3% shooting. The 'price' is sure 'right' in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the SA Spurs at 8:40 ET.

The Sacramento Kings and the San Antonio Spurs square off at the AT&T Center on Wednesday night. The teams met Monday in San Antonio with the Kings routing the Spurs 132-115. All five Sacramento starters scored in double digits as the team shot 56.0% overall, including 18 of 36 on threes. Three-point shooting was the difference in the game, as the Spurs shot an impressive 50.5% for the game but was a much more modest 10 of 27 from beyond the arc. The Kings have won SEVEN of eight (6-2 ATS) and are now 22-25, leaving them just ONE game back of the Warriors, who currently own the 10th seed (7-10 seeds enter the "Play-In" format for the West's final two playoff positions). The Spurs are 23-21 (current No. 8 seed) but in contrast to the Kings, the Spurs have lost FIVE of their last six. Most troubling is that the Spurs have NOT been able to take advantage of a current NINE-game homestand (Spurs have opened 1-4 with four games to go).

Sacramento rookie Tyrese Haliburton has moved into the starting lineup recently and is now averaging 13.2 & 5.0 APG on the season. Along with PG Fox (24.8 & 7.2 APG) and SG Hield (16.7 & 4.6), the Kings own an impressive backcourt trio. SF Barnes (15.7 & 6.5) was mentioned as trade 'bait, but was not moved. It's not good news that the 6-11 Bagley (13.9 & 7.4) is out until mid-April but the 6-10 Holmes (14.4 & 9.0) is vastly underrated. Sacramento added SFs Davis (Tor) and Harkless (Mia) at the trade deadline and in their second games with the Kings (Monday), scored 14 and 13 points, respectively.

Aldridge (13.7 & 4.5) has left San Antonio for 'greener pastures' with the Nets but the Spurs are still a deep team. Of the five starters and top-two reserves vs the Kings on Monday, SIX are averaging in double digits. DeRozan (20.4-4.4-7.2), Murray (15.7-7.0-5.3), Johnson (13.3 & 6.4) and White 13.2 are in double figures, with only center Poeltl (7.7 & 7.8) below 10 PPG. Guard Mills (12.8) and SF Gay (10.8 & 4.9) add double digits off the bench plus when healthy, Walker usually starts and chips in 11.5 PPG. Walkers hasn't played since March 22 (wrist) but is expected to play tonight.

Is it time to make the claim, '"Break up the Kings?" There is little doubt that Sacramento is playing better basketball right now than San Antonio but if only it were that easy to pick NBA winners. Is this the year in which Sacramento ends its streak of 14 consecutive losing and non-playoff seasons? Maybe, but in this quick turnaround situation I'll back the Spurs, as I expect Pop's team to find a way to sneak a way into this season's playoffs, after seeing the team's run of 22 straight playoff appearances end during last year's pandemic-shortened season. The oddsmakers seem to agree, as after getting blasted by 17 points on Monday, the Spurs are again about a two-point favorite in tonight's game.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Mia Heat at 7:10 ET.

The Miami Heat swept the Indiana Pacers in last season's first round of the playoffs but the Pacers have beaten the Heat in two previous meetings this season March 19 and 21). Miami visits Indiana Wednesday night after snapping a SIX-game losing streak on Monday. The Pacers had gone through a 2-8 stretch when they shot "lights out" in a 137-110 win at Miami on March 19 and two nights later, the Pacers won at Miami again, this time prevailing 109-106 in OT. Those wins started what became a 4-1 Pacers run that was halted on Monday night in a 132-124 loss to the Wizards.

The NBA's new playoff format guarantees only the top-six teams in each conference a playoff berth. The No. 7 thru No. 10 seeds will be involved in a "Play-In" format for the two final spots (7 & 8). Right now, Miami is 23-24 (8th) and Indiana 21-24 (9th). However, we should note that the 4th-seeded Hornets are just 2 1/2 games ahead of Miami, meaning they are just 3 1/2 games ahead of Indiana. Miami is still playing without Nunn (13.5) but the remainder of its key players, although most have missed to-plus games, are currently active. Butler (21.5-7.7-7.3) and Adebayo (19.4-9.6-4.3) are All Star-quality performers plus guards Herro (15.5-5.3-3.6), Dragic (13.5 & 4.8 APG) and Robinson (12.7 & 3.7) make up a very good trio.

PG Brogdon (21.5-4.7-6.0) and PF Sabonis (20.4-11.3-6.1) are Indiana's two stars but the Pacers feature quality depth. Caris LeVert is finally healthy and averaging 15.0-4.4-39 in his nine games, while SF McDermott (13.4), center Turner (12.7 & 6.4), Justin Holiday (11.5 & 3.8) and Lamb (10.8) also score in double digits. Aaron Holiday averages 6.7 PPG) and McConnell 7.2 & 6.5 APG. McDermott (right-ankle injury) is expected back after he sat out the Wizards game. Lamb's return from injury has also helped, as he's played in 28 games this season since tearing his ACL last February.

The Pacers just recently beat the Heat on Mar 19 and 21 in Miami but have opened as a small home dog. Maybe that's because the Pacers are just 8-12 SU at home this season but it's also because the Pacers are only 4-12 ATS their last 16 games. A little "revenge motive" for Miami also plays into the mix!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Pho Suns at 10:10 ET.

The Atlanta Hawks fired head coach Lloyd Pierce on March 1 and replaced him with assistant coach Nate McMillan. The veteran NBA coach quickly turned the Hawks into the 'Utah Jazz,' as Atlanta has won EIGHT straight while going 6-1-1 ATS. The Hawks opened an eight-game road trip by beating the Lakers at Staples Center (for their 8th straight win) but THREE losses in their next four games followed. The 23-23 Hawks still have three games remaining in their two-week road trip, starting with a visit to Phoenix on Tuesday night. The Suns went 8-0 SU & ATS in last year's 'bubble' but still missed the playoffs for the 10th consecutive season. That will change this season, as Phoenix is 31-14, giving them the West's second-best record.

PG Trae Young (25.6 & 9.4 APG) has led the Hawks all season. There was talk of moving PF Collins (18.4 & 7.8) at the trade deadline but he stayed put and scored a career-high 38 points in Friday's win. Center Capela, who averages a double-double (14.6 & 14.1) on the season and SG Huerter (11.6-3.5-3.5), have been mainstays. On the injury front, SF Reddish (11.2 & 4.0) has missed 20 games (last played Feb 21), as he's being held out of the lineup with a right Achilles injury and it is unclear how long he will be sidelined. However, PF Hunter (16.0 & 5.1) returned for two games for the first time since Jan 29 on March 22nd  & 24th but Hunter missed his second straight game with right knee soreness on Sunday. The team is taking a cautious approach with Hunter since he returned from missing 23 games following surgery on his right knee. The Hawks will have veteran guard Lou Williams (12.1 PPG in 42 contests with the Clippers) available on Tuesday after being acquired at the trade deadline from the Clippers.

The Suns' major offseason acquisition was getting PG Chris Paul but also added SF Jae Crowder. Paul (16.0-4.7-8.5) has been terrific, while Crowder (10.0 & 5.0) has missed just three games, starting 27 of 42. Center Ayton (14.8 & 11.0) and SF Bridges (13.4 & 4.9) have both played in ALL 45 games this season. Then, there is Devin Booker, who averages 25.1-4.1-4.6. The Suns of Mike D'Antoni were known for their fast-paced style (See the book ":07 Seconds of Less") but Monty Williams' team is allowing just 107.0 PPG (3rd) on 45.4% shooting (7th), including 34.1% on threes (2nd).

The Hawks are coming to the end of a two-week long road trip and this visit to Phoenix is a tough stop. The Suns own the NBA's top pointspread mark (30-15) and add another 'cover' in this one. Lay it!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Den Nuggets at 10:10 ET.

The Philadelphia 76ers own the East's best record (32-14) but the Nets have closed within a half-game of them at 32-15 (Bucks are three games back). After one game with Aaron Gordon in the mix, it looks like the Denver Nuggets made a smart move in acquiring the young forward. The Sixers are 10-2 in March as they visit Pepsi Center on Tuesday to take on the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets have won 11 of 14 to reach 28-18, tying them with the Portland Trail Blazers. Denver and Portland are each 1 1/2-games back of the Lakers (West's No. 4 seed) but SEVEN games back of the West's No. 1 seed Utah (35-11).

The Sixers have stayed atop the Eastern Conference despite not having Joel Embiid for most of the month. Embiid (29.9 & 11.5) was having an MVP-caliber season before a bone bruise in his left knee has sidelined him for the past eight games. He's likely to miss Tuesday's game. Philly had a four-game winning streak snapped Saturday night at the Los Angeles Clippers (lost 122-112), the fourth of a six-game road trip, which concludes with this game and finishes in Cleveland on Thursday night. Philly's regular starting-five includes Embiid, Harris (20.9 & 7.6), Simmons (15.9-7.9-7.7), Curry (12.9) and Green (9.7 & 3.6). A trio of guards add depth on the perimeter in Milton (13.8), Korkmaz (8.9) and Maxey (7.3) plus veteran center Howard (6.7 & 8.1).

Denver's been led all season by its two breakout stars, center Jokic (26.9-11.1-8.5) and PG Murray (21.0-3.9-4.9). The 6-10 Porter (16.3 & 7.4) has developed into a quality small forward. Denver just acquired Aaron Gordon (14.4-6.6-4.2) from Orlando and Javale McGee (8.0 & 5.2) from Cleveland to give their frontcourt even more depth. Gordon scored 13 points on 6-for-9 shooting in 21 minutes in his first game for Denver on Sunday. Veteran PF Millsap (9.7 & 5.1) is back healthy, while the 6-8 Green (8.8 & 5.4) and the 6-6 Dozier (7.3 & 3.7) have been very solid off the bench up front. Swingman Barton (12.5-4.1-3.0) missed the end of last season with an injury but has played in 43 of 46 games this season. 

Tough spot here for Philly up against a Denver team that REALLY improved itself with the additions of Gordon and McGee. The Nuggets are primed to make a move in the West with SEVEN of their next nine games here at Pepsi Center. Nuggets win "with room to spare!"

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Oddsmaker's Error is on the LA Clippers at 10:10 ET.

The Milwaukee Bucks owned the NBA's best record the previous two seasons (60-22 and 56-17) but each year lost before reaching the NBA Finals. A FIVE-game losing streak (Feb 10-18) left the Bucks at just 16-13 and with many asking, "What's wrong with the Bucks?" Milwaukee answered its critics with 13 wins over 14 games from Feb 19-Mar 24, including EIGHT straight wins before a 122-144 Friday loss to the Celtics on Mar 26.  However, a 102--96 loss to the Knicks followed on Saturday.

The Clippers got Kawhi back for their Saturday game at home vs the 76ers and they beat the team with the East's best record, 122-112. Kawhi led the way with 28 points, as the Clippers won for the FIFTH straight time. The 31-16 Clippers own the West's No. 3 seed (one game ahead of the Lakers), one game back of the Suns but four back of the Jazz, who own the NBA's best record at 34-11. 

Milwaukee's starting-five (when healthy) consists of Antetokounmpo (28.3-11.5-6.4),. Middleton (20.5-61-5.4), Holiday (15.9-4.4-5.1), Lopez (11.4 & 5.2) and DiVincenzo (10.7-5.4-3.0). The 6-10 Portis (11.0 & 6.8) plus guards Forbes (9.4) and Connaughton (7.0 & 4,7) have been regular contributors off the bench, as well as fill-in starters. Here's the latest update. Antetokounmpo was one of four starters to miss Saturday's 102-96 home loss to the New York Knicks but he's expected to play here. Khris Middleton (hip), Jrue Holiday (knee) and Donte DiVincenzo (foot) also are slated to be back in the lineup. We'll see. However, key reserves P.J. Tucker (calf) and Bobby Portis (health and safety protocols) have been ruled out.

The Clippers have been playing short-handed, with big man Serge Ibaka (back), swingman Marcus Morris Sr. (calf) and PG Patrick Beverley (knee) injured. However, getting Kawhi (26.0-6.3-4.8) to team with George (22.5-6.3-5.5) is a pretty big deal. LA's depth has proven VERY valuable during the team's 5-0 SU & ATS run, as Jackson has averaged 12.4 PPG in March, filling in nicely for Beverley. Swingman Batum (8.6 & 4.8) has been solid all season (he's now coming off the bench) plus note what these three Clippers have done lately. Kennard is averaging 9.9 PPG his last eight, the 7-0 Zubac is averaging 11.7 & 9.1 the last seven games and Mann is averaging 15.4 PPG in LA's five-game winning streak.

Milwaukee posted a 105-100 home win over Los Angeles on Feb 28, when Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded 36 points, 14 rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots. A little revenge motive  between top-tier teams never hurts but while this game opens a stretch of six straight road games and nine of 10 for Milwaukee, the Clippers get set to play just the second contest of NINE straight games at Staples Center (don't look over your shoulders Suns and Jazz!). The Clippers were undervalued vs the 76ers and are again here vs the Bucks.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the Bos Celtics at 7:35 ET.

New Orleans forwards Zion Williamson (26.3 & 7.0) and Brandon Ingram (23.8-5.0-4.6) are creating serious headaches for opposing teams on a regular basis but New Orleans remains a modest 20-25 on the season. The playoff structure this season has Seeds 1 through 6 entering the playoffs, while Seeds 7 through 10 will enter a "Play-In' format (Google for details, if interested). The Pelicans are currently 1 1/2-games back of the 10th-seeded Warriors. Led by the trio of Tatum, Brown and Walker, the Boston Celtics were expected to be among the East's top-contenders, battling Milwaukee, Miami, Philadelphia and maybe Brooklyn (would the KD/Irving duo work?). Boston opened 8-3 (even though Walker was sidelined) but the team's early success did not last. As the Celtics welcome the Pelicans to TD Garden, Boston is just 23-23 and tied with the Hawks for the final guaranteed spot (No. 6 seed) in the East. Boston can hardly even 'see' the East's No. 1 team (76wes), who are NINE games up on the Celtics. more in a bit.

Zion Williamson is routinely accomplishing feats that link him to NBA legends, as he has scored more than 20 points in 23 consecutive games, making him the only player younger than 21 to do so. The Pelicans received quite a 'haul' from the Lakers in the A.D. trade, as along with Ingram]m, New Orleans got starting PG Lonzo Ball (14.2-4.2-5.6) and 6-5 SG Josh Hart, who comes off the bench to average 9.0 PPG and an impressive 7.0 RPG. Guard Bledsoe (11.4-3.4-3.8) and center Adams (8.0 & 9.0) were both acquired in trades just prior to the start of the season.

Boston used a HUGE fourth quarter to beat the Thunder 111-94 at OKC on Saturday, which followed an impressive 122-114 victory in Milwaukee on Friday, as Boston concluded a four-game trip on a winning note. Tatum (25.1-6.8-4.5), Brown (24.5-6.8-4.4) and Walker (18.0-3.5-4.6) have having strong seasons, plus Smart (12.9 & 4.5 APG), the team's best perimeter defender and a team leader, has been back on the court since the All Star break. Boston expects big things from Fournier (19.7), who they just got from Orlando but he sat out the last game while enrolled in the NBA's health and safety protocols. It is uncertain if he will take the court against the Pelicans on Monday. Big Man Thompson (7.9 & 8.4) is also in the NBA's health and safety protocols and hasn't played since March 14. The 6-8 Robert Williams (7.7 & 6.6) is seeing more minutes lately and Thompson hasn't really been missed.

Look back over New Orleans's main contributors (see above) and you'll ask the same question I have. How does a team with this roster remain a sub-.500 team? The answer is simply stated by Bill Parcells' famous quote, "You are what your record says you are!" Is it possible that Boston WON'T remember its first game against the Pelicans this season? Williamson had 28 points and 10 rebounds to support Brandon Ingram's 33 points in a 120-115 overtime victory over the visiting Celtics back on Feb 21. New Orleans overcame a 24-point deficit for the largest comeback win in franchise history. Lay the modest points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider of the Month is on the Den Nuggets at 9:05 ET.

The Atlanta Hawks fired head coach Lloyd Pierce on March 1 and replaced him with assistant coach Nate McMillan. The veteran NBA coach quickly turned the Hawks into the 'Utah Jazz,' as Atlanta has won EIGHT straight while going 6-1-1 ATS. The Hawks opened an eight-game road trip by beating the Lakers at Staples Center (for their 8th straight win) but then lost to the Clippers (also at Staples) and to the Kings in Sacramento. However, Atlanta rebounded Friday night with a 124-108 in San Francisco over the slumping Warriors. 23-22 Atlanta continues its eight-game road trek tonight in Denver against the Nuggets, who have won 10 of 13 to get to 27-18 (tied with Portland). Both the Nuggets and Blazers are just 1 1/2-games back of the Lakers, who continue to play without LBJ and A.D.

PG Trae Young (25.7-4.0-9.5) has led the Hawks all season. There was talk of moving PF Collins (18.6 & 7.90 at the trade deadline but he stayed put and scored a career-high 38 points in Friday's win. Center Capela, who averages a double-double (14.7 & 14.3) on the season and SG Huerter (121.7-3.6-3.6), have been mainstays. On the injury front, SF Reddish (11.2 & 4.0) has missed 16 games (last played Feb 21), as he's being held out of the lineup with a right Achilles injury and it is unclear how long he will be sidelined. However, PF Hunter (16.0 & 5.1) returned the last two games for the first time since Jan 29 but while he played 28 minutes on Friday, he was 1 of 9 from the floor in scoring five points. It's GREAT news for Atlanta that he's back but he'll need time to get back in the groove.

Speaking of GREAT news, an already deep Denver team just added  forward Aaron Gordon (14.6 & 6.6) from the Magic and swapped centers with Cleveland, getting JaVale McGee (8.0 & 5.2) for his second tour with the franchise in exchange for Isaiah Hartenstein and two future second-round selections. Denver's been led all season by its two breakout stars, center Jokic (27.2-11.1-8.6) and PG Murray (21.1-3.9-5.0). The 6-10 Porter (16.3 & 7.3) has developed into a quality small forward. Denver just acquired Aaron Gordon (14.4-6.6-4.2) from Orlando and Javale McGee (8.0 & 5.2) from Cleveland to give their frontcourt even more depth. Veteran PF Millsap (9.7 & 5.1) is back healthy and starting, while the 6-8 Green (8.5 & 5.3) and the 6-6 Dozier (7.5 & 3.8) have been very solid off the bench up front. Swingman Barton (12.5-4.0-3.0) missed the end of last season with an injury but has played in 42 of 45 games this season.

The Hawks beat Denver 123-115 in Atlanta back on Feb 21 but winning at Pepsi Center will be tough. The Nuggets are playing well (won of 13) and just added two key pieces in Gordon and McGee, who are both available to play tonight. This contest begins a stretch in which Denver will play NINE of its next 12 games at home, with the Nuggets VERY capable of moving up in the West standings during this span. Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout is on the LA Clippers at 10:10 ET.

The streaking Philadelphia 76ers have won 10 of their last 11 games and are a perfect 3-0 so far on their six-game road trip. 32-13 Philadelphia is looking to hold off Brooklyn (1 1/2-games back) and Milwaukee (2 1/2-games back) atop the East, as those three teams have separated themselves from the rest of the conference. The 76ers are in LA tonight to play the Clippers, who have won FOUR in a row to reach 30-16. The Clips currently own the West's No. 3 seed, one game ahead of the Lakers. They are one game back of the Suns and four back of the Jazz, owners of the NBA's best overall record at 33-11.

Philly's regular starting-five are Embiid (29.9 & 11.5), Harris (20.7 & 7.6), Simmons (15.9-8.0-7.7), Curry (13.1) and Green (9.6 & 3.7). However, Embiid (a legitimate MVP candidate), has been out since March 12 after suffering a left ankle sprain against the Washington Wizards. However, the 76ers are 6-1 without Embiid these last seven games.

"Everybody is playing confident basketball," Philadelphia guard Seth Curry said. "We're first and foremost playing good defense as a team. That's pretty much there every night for us on the defensive end. And offensively, everybody's involved." Ben Simmons has been the catalyst for Philadelphia, getting everyone involved on offense and setting the tone defensively. During the month of March, Simmons is shooting 51 percent from the floor, averaging 15.6 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.0 assists a contest. A trio of guards add depth on the perimeter in Milton (13.8), Korkmaz (9.1) and Maxey (7.3) plus veteran center Howard (6.6 & 5.5) has played in all 45 games.

The Clippers will be playing short-handed, with big man Serge Ibaka (back), swingman Marcus Morris Sr. (calf), PG Patrick Beverley (knee) and Kawhi Leonard (foot) all questionable to play against Philadelphia. The Clippers had only nine healthy players available in Thursday's win on the road against the San Antonio Spurs but Paul George (22.4-6.2-5.4) picked up the slack, finishing with 24 points and 13 rebounds as the Clippers swept the Spurs in back-to-back games at San Antonio. PG Rajon Rondo came in a Thursday trade but is also is a question mark for Saturday with an abductor strain.

Naturally, the key is will Kawhi (25.9-6.3-4.8) play? I've got a feeling that with Doc Rivers facing his former team for the first time since being relieved of his duties last year, he will. That said, I'm on LA either way. Jackson has averaged 12.4 PPG in March (28 points the last game), filling in nicely for Beverley. Swingman Batum (8.7 & 4.7) has been solid all season (he's now coming off the bench) plus note what these three Clippers have done lately. Kennard is averaging 10.9 PPG his last seven, the 7-0 Zubac is averaging 12.5 & 8.8 the last six games and Mann is averaging 13.5 PPG in LA's four-game winning streak.

This marks the first of NINE straight home games for the Clippers, who could really make a run at Jazz in this stretch. Winning this first game against the 76ers could just set the tone for these next 16 days when the Clippers play nine games at Staples Center. "Fingers crossed" on Kawhi's status.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Bailout Blowout is on the LA Lakers at 10:40 ET.

The Lakers are trying to find their way without superstars Anthony Davis (calf) and LeBron James (ankle) and are back on the Staples Center court tonight after a 109-101 home loss last night to the Philadelphia 76ers, LA's FOURTH in a row. The Cleveland Cavaliers just traded JaVale McGee (8.0 & 5.2) to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, while Andre Drummond (17.5 & 13.5) reportedly is waiting on a contract buyout that will make him a free agent. Drummond has not played since Feb 12 and  has been linked to both the Lakers and the New York Knicks.

The Cavaliers visit LA having managed to win THREE of their last five games, despite all of their recent upheaval. They are coming off a 103-94 road victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, when Darius Garland (16.6 & 5.9 APG had 22 points. Leading scorer Collin Sexton (24.0 & 4.3) did not play Wednesday after experiencing right hamstring soreness in the morning shootaround, but the injury is not believed to be serious. Center Jarrett Allen, acquired from the Brooklyn Nets in January, has averaged 14.4 points and 11.6 rebounds in 17 games since Drummond last saw action, slightly above his season numbers of 13.1 points and 9.9 rebounds per game.

The Lakers' four-game losing streak started last Saturday when LBJ (25.4-7.9-7.9) was injured in a home loss to the Atlanta Hawks. Kyle Kuzma had 25 points for the Lakers on Thursday, while Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell added 20 each. The Lakers trailed by as many as 18 points in the fourth quarter but pulled within a single possession in the final minute, before the comeback fell short. The offseason acquisitions of PG Schroder (15.1-3.5-4.8) and PF Harrell (14.8 & 6.6) were excellent additions plus I continue to maintain that Kuzma (12.4 & 6.7) is significantly underrated.

However, here's the bottom line. The Lakers are going to have to figure out a way to win games over the coming weeks after coach Frank Vogel said Thursday that AD's (22..5 & 8.4) return is "still a ways away." The Lakers were the subject of some rumors at Thursday's NBA trade deadline but the team never made a move. Only the top six teams in each conference advance straight to the playoffs this season, as the teams in positions seven through 10 will need to participate in a play-in tournament for the final two playoff spots. The Lakers are currently fourth in the Western Conference (28-17), just 1-1/2 games ahead of both the Denver Nuggets and the Portland Trail Blazers (26-18). The defending champion Lakers could use victories anywhere on the schedule they can get them and my bet says this is a game where a "W" should be expected. LA wins "with room to spare!' Lay it.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Dal Mavs at 8:40 ET.

The 45-28 Indiana Pacers were the East's No. 4 seed entering last year's playoffs but got swept 4-0 by the Miami Heat, which made it all the way to the NBA Finals before losing 4-2 to the Lakers. The Pacers hovered around .500 through mid-February but a four-game skid from Feb 24-Mar dropped them to 15-18 and three wins in their last four games still leaves them three-games under .500 at 20-23. The 7-10 seeds will enter a 'Play-In' format for the East's seventh and eighth seeds, so the Pacers are 'living on the edge' by owning the current No. 9 seed (2 1/2 games clear of the dreaded 11th-seed).

Dallas was expected to be a solid playoff contender this season (broke a three-season playoff drought by going 43-32 last season) but that wasn't the case through the season's early going. The Mavericks lost SIX straight from the end of January into the beginning of February to fall to 8-13. However, Dallas finally got its full complement of players back and currently sits 23-19, after winning 15 of its last 21. Dallas holds the No. 7 seed but is just two games back of Denver and Portland (26-18), who share the 5th and 6th seeds.

PG Brogdon (21.4-4.7-6.0) and PF Sabonis (20.2-11.2-6.2) are having excellent seasons. While Brogdon (16 points) and Sabonis (14 points / 11 rebounds) were key contributors in Wednesday's 116-111 win over the Pistons, Caris LeVert recorded his best performance since being acquired in the blockbuster deal that sent James Harden to Brooklyn in January. LeVert scored 15 of his team-high 28 points in the second quarter and in seven games has  averaged 16.7-4.3-4.0. SG Lamb's return from injury has also helped, as he's averaged 10.9 PPG in his 26 games back since tearing his ACL last February.

The Mavs won 128-108 at Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, capping a 2-1 three-game road trip for Dallas, which will embark on a five-game trek after its brief pit stop at home tonight vs Indiana. The duo of Doncic (28.6-8.3-9.1) and Porzingis (20.0 & 8.6) leads the way for the Mavs but the Mavs have excellent depth, led by swingman Hardaway, who is averaging 16.5 PPG (19 starts in his 41 games).

Porzingis collected 27 points and 13 rebounds plus Luka Doncic added a triple-double (13-12-12) in Dallas' 124-112 victory at Indiana back on Jan. 20, game in which the Mavericks played without Dorian Finney-Smith (8.4 & 5.3), Maxi Kleber (7.8 & 5.4), Dwight Powell (4.8 & 3.4) and Josh Richardson (13.2) because of COVID-19 protocols. All FOUR of those players are available tonight, so don't expect 'revenge' to work here for Indiana. After all, the Pacers 'limp' into this contest just 3-11 ATS (a 79% "go-against") in their last 14 games.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Revenge Rout is on the Den Nuggets at 8:05 ET.

New Orleans forwards Zion Williamson (25.7 & 7.0) and Brandon Ingram (24.7-5.1-4.7) are creating serious headaches for opposing teams on a regular basis but New Orleans remains a modest 19-24 on the season. The playoff structure this season has Seeds 1 through 6 entering the playoffs, while Seeds 7 through 10 will enter a "Play-In' format (Google for details, if interested). Williamson and Ingram each scored 30 points to lead the visiting Pelicans to a 113-108 victory over the Denver Nuggets last Sunday and tonight, the Nuggets visit New Orleans for a rematch. The Nuggets bounced back from the loss to New Orleans to win 110-99 at Orlando on Tuesday for their ninth win in 11 games but then lost 135-111 at Toronto on Wednesday, their most lopsided loss of the season. Denver is currently 26-18, leaving them tied with Portland for the West's fifth-best record.

Denver's been led all season by its two breakout stars, center Jokic (27.0-11.3-8.5) and PG Murray (21.1-4.0-4.8). The 6-10 Porter (16.0 & 7.4) has developed into a quality small forward. Denver just acquired Aaron Gordon (14.4-6.6-4.2) from Orlando and Javale McGee (8.0 & 5.2) from Cleveland to give their frontcourt even more depth. Veteran PF Millsap (9.5 & 5.0) is back healthy and starting, while the 6-8 Green (8.7 & 5.4) and the 6-6 Dozier (7.7 & 3.7) have been very solid off the bench up front. Swingman Barton (12.7-4.1-3.1) missed the end of last season with an injury but has played in 41 of 44 games this season.

Williamson enters this game with 21st consecutive games with at least 20 points, the longest ever for an NBA player who has yet to turn 21 years old, which he will do in July. Ingram came from the Lakers in the A.D. along with Lonzo Ball (14.2-4.2-5.6) and Hart (9.1 & 7.6). Not a bad haul. Bledsoe (11.3-3.4-3.7), who was acquired right before the start of the season, guard Alexander-Walker (9.2) and starting center Adams (8.1 & 9.2) round put the main contributors.

On paper, the Pelicans sure look like a team that should be MUCH better than its current record. However, quoting Bill Parcells, "You are what your record says you are!" Denver's 135-111 loss at Toronto on Wednesday was not just its most lopsided loss of the season but also ended a SIX-game road winning streak. With Sunday's home loss to the Pelicans last Sunday still fresh in their minds, expect the Nuggets to win here, as the Pelicans continue to underachieve.

Good luck...Larry 

My 10* Division Game of the Month (Pacific) is on the Sac Kings at 10:10 ET.

The Golden St Warriors were an NBA-worst 15-50 last season but have been more competitive than expected this season but injuries continue to throw 'roadblocks' in their way. The Warriors were 19-15 through Feb 26 but head to Sacramento having lost SEVEN of 10 to fall to 22-22. Golden St currently finds itself as the West's No. 10 seed, the last of the four 'Play In' spots. The Kings welcome the Warriors to Golden 1 Center tonight off a 110-108 win over the Hawks. However, the Kings are just 19-25 and THREE games back of the Warriors. The Kings last made the playoffs back in the 2005-06 season.

Golden St PG Stephen Curry (29.0-5.3-6.2) has been ruled out of the next three contests due to a bruised tailbone and the Warriors are 1-4 in the five games he's missed this season. Forward Paschall (9.5 & 3.2) will also miss tonight's game. Wiggins (17.7 & 4.6) and Oubre (15.1 & 5.9) have both been very good for the Warriors but without Curry, it's hard to back them. The good news is that the team's No. 1 pick (2nd overall) James Wiseman was immediately promoted into a starting role upon returning from a three-game, COVID-related absence to play Tuesday in Golden State's 108-98 home loss to the Philadelphia 76ers (note: it was just his second start since Jan 23). Head coach Steve Kerr announced before the contest that Wiseman (11.8 & 5.9) would be his team's full-time starting center moving forward. "It was good to see him out there," Kerr said after the defeat. "He's going to get better and better as we go. He had a week off ... he needs his rhythm, and that will come."

Speaking of No. 1 picks, Sacramento's Tyrese Haliburton (chosen 10 picks after Wiseman) made his FIFTH consecutive start in last night's 110-108 over Atlanta. The Kings have won FOUR of those five games, with Haliburton (12.8-3.4-5.1 on the season) scoring 17 or more points in three of those victories, including 17 on Wednesday. He joins a backcourt rotation that already features Fox (24.1-3.4-7.3), who is coming off his third-best scoring night of the season with 37 points vs Atlanta, and Hield (16.8-4.6-3.3). Up front, SF Barnes (16.1 & 6.6) has been mentioned as trade 'bait,' while the 6-11 Bagley (13.9 & 7.4) is out until mid-April. The 6-10 Holmes (14.0 & 8.8) is vastly underrated and with Bagley sidelined, Whiteside added eight points and 12 rebounds last night. Remember, Whiteside averaged a double-double in SIX straight years from the 2014-15 through the 2019-20 seasons!

Sacramento is on a 4-1 SU & ATS run (lone loss at Philly, the East's best team) and knows a win here closes them within two games of the Warriors, who won't get Curry back for at least a couple games. The Kings may also remember losing back on Jan 4 in San Francisco 137-106 when the Warriors shot 52.6%, including going 23 of 43 from three-point range. Curry had 30 points in that om]ne and Paschall addec14 & 7. Neither will be available tonight. The Kings make it a 5-1 SU &ATS run with a win and cover tonight.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the Ut Jazz at 10:05 ET.

The Utah Jazz opened the season 4-4 but then won 22 of 24 games (21-3 ATS) from Jan 8 through Feb 24 to give them the NBA's best overall record. Utah still owns the NBA's best record at 31-11 but the Jazz have 'cooled' in going just 5-5 their last 10 (more in a bit). Utah welcomes the Brooklyn Nets to Salt Lake City tonight, who edged the Blazers last night in Portland. The Nets have now won 16 of their last 18 games to  reach 30-14, just ONE game back of the 31-13 76ers for the East's top record.

The Nets were already without Kevin Durant (29.0-7.3-5.3) and Kyrie Irving (28.1-4.8-5.7) plus got a scare when James Harden came close to being sidelined due to a sore neck. However, Harden (25.3-7.9-11.2) ended up playing and finished with 25 points and a career-high-tying 17 assists. PF Green (9.8 & 3.8) and SF Harris (17.7 & 3.5) both had good games, scoring 20 and 17 points, respectively. However, Durant and Irving will NOT play here and while the Blazers are a good team, they are NOT the Jazz.

It's "all hands on deck" for the Jazz with a starting-five of Mitchell (25.4-4.6-5.5) and Conley (16.4-3.4-5.5) in the backcourt, while center Gobert (14.5 & 13.4) is surrounded by Bogdanovich (14.9 & 3.9) and O'Neale (7.5 & 6.6) up front. Clarkson (17.5) is the front-runner for 6th-man of the year plus SG Ingles (12.3-3.6-4.2) and backup center Favors (5.9 & 5.3) have been quality contributors off the bench all season.

Tough scheduling spot for the Nets here and without Durant and Irving, it's quite a test. I noted that the jazz have gone just 5-5 in their last 10 but note that NINE of those games came on the road. Utah won its lone home game in that stretch and comes into this game having won 16 straight at Vivint Arena. Also, I bet the Jazz remember losing 130-96 at Brooklyn back on Jan 5, before the Jazz jelled into the dominant team they now are. Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on the Mil Bucks at 7:35 ET.

Led by the trio of Tatum, Brown and Walker, the Boston Celtics were expected to be among the East's top-contenders, battling Milwaukee, Miami, Philadelphia and maybe Brooklyn (would the KD/Irving duo work?). Boston opened 8-3 (even though Walker was sidelined) but the team's early success did not last. As the Celtics visit Milwaukee tonight for the first of back-to-games with the Bucks (play again Friday), Boston 'limps' in having lost FOUR of its last their five to drop below .500 for the season at 21-22. Boston fell to 8-15 on the road after opening a four-game trek with a 132-126 overtime setback at Memphis on Monday.

The Milwaukee Bucks owned the NBA's best record the previous two seasons (60-22 and 56-17) but each year lost before reaching the NBA Finals. A FIVE-game losing streak (Feb 10-18) left the Bucks at just 16-13 and with all asking, "What's wrong with the Bucks?" Milwaukee has answered its critics with a season-best SEVEN straight wins, as well 12 wins over its last 13 games. A sprained left knee prevented the two-time reigning NBA Most Valuable Player (Giannis Antetokounmpo) from playing Monday against Indiana (Bucks won 140-113) and his availability is in question for Wednesday.

Tatum (24.9-6.8-4.3), Brown (24.7-5.6-3.9) and Walker (17.7-3.6-4.6) represent Boston's latest version of a "Big Three" but Tatum (dealt with "dizziness," per head coach Brad Stevens) and Walker (sat out the second game of a back-to-back set) both missed the game at Memphis. Walker will be back but no word yet on Tatum. Marcus Smart (12.8 & 5.4 APG) came back after the All Star break but Boston is just 2-5 in those seven games. The 6-10 Thompson was expected to greatly enhance Boston's interior play but at 7.9 & 8.4, he's been nothing special. He's missed Boston's last five games, with the Celtics losing FOUR of the five.

Obviously the Bucks can't wait to get Giannis (29.0-11.7-6.4) back but it's unlikely he'll play here. That said, Milwaukee has excellent depth led by SF Middleton (20.4-6.0-5.5) and Jrue Holiday (15.9-4.6-5.2), who scored 28 points and  added 14 assists in the rout of the Pacers (sans Giannis). Center Brook Lopez (11.4 & 5.0) and guard DiVincenzo (10.5-5.5-3.1) are regular starters plus Connaughton (6.9 & 4.5) started in place of Giannis vs Indiana, scoring 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds. The 6-10 Bobby Short (10.8 & 6.9) and SG Forbes (8.5) have been quality players off the bench all season.

Milwaukee is making a strong case that its back to being the East's "Big Dog" (Giannis won't be sidelined for long) and the team's plus-7.5 point-differential is second to only that of Utah (+8.3). The Bucks will also will be out for revenge after losing to Boston 122-121 in the season opener. With or without Tatum, I want NO part of a Boston team that is 8-15 on the road (7-16 ATS), the WORST road record of any of the 10 teams currently in playoff position in the East.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout is on the LA Clippers at 10:10 ET.

The Atlanta Hawks fired head coach Lloyd Pierce on March 1 and replaced him with assistant coach Nate McMillan. The veteran NBA coach has turned the Hawks into the 'Utah Jazz,' as Atlanta has won EIGHT straight (longest active streak in the NBA) while going 6-1-1 ATS. The Hawks opened an eight-game road trip with a visit to Staples Center for a contest with the Lakers on Saturday, who were 4-0 SU & ATS since the All Star break (7-1 SU & ATS since a four-game slide from Feb 18-24), and upset the Lakers 99-94. The 22-20 Atlanta Hawks will try to make it two wins in a row at Staples Center against the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night.

The Clippers are coming off a 125-98 blowout win over the Charlotte Hornets at home on Saturday, giving them a modest 3-2 record since the All Star break. Los Angeles likely will be playing without starters Patrick Beverley (8.3 & 3.7 APG) and Serge Ibaka (10.9 & 6.7). Beverley has missed the last four games with right knee soreness, while Ibaka has missed the last three games due to lower back tightness. However, players like Jackson and Zubac have stepped up. Also, the news that LeBron James is out indefinitely after suffering a high-ankle sprain in his team's loss to the Hawks (A.D. has been sidelined since mid-Feb), the Clippers have a chance to make up some ground in the Western Conference, hosting 10 of their next 12 games.

PG Trae Young (25.7-4.1-9.4) has led the Hawks all season and the Hawks also got a boost defensively from the return of center Clint Capela, who had eight points and eight rebounds in last Thursday's 116-93 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Capela, who averages a double-double (14.4 & 14.2) on the season, had missed two games with left heel soreness. PF Collins (18.2 & 7.8) and SG Huerter (12.1) have been mainstays, as each has played all 42 games this season. On the injury front, PF Hunter (17.2 & 5.4) is out of commission with an articular tear in his right knee and he is not expected to return until the end of March (he's played just 18 games). Meanwhile, SF Reddish (11.2 & 4.0) has missed 15 games (last played Feb 21), as he's being held out of the lineup with a right Achilles injury and it is unclear how long he will be sidelined.

Kawhi (26.0-6.3-4.9) and George (23,0-6.1-5.4) remain LA's 'Dynamic Duo' but Williams (12.3) has played MUCH better since Feb 1, as has PF Morris (11.9 & 3.8). PG Jackson (8.8) is filling in for Beverley and center Zubac (8.4 & 6.9) has started three in a row averaging 13.0 & 7.7. The 30-11 Jazz sit atop the West, two games ahead of the 28-13 Suns and three up on the 28-15 Lakers. The 27-16 Clippers are 4th at 27-16, four games back of the Jazz. However, as noted above, the Clippers have a great opportunity to "make a move" with 10 of their next 12 games at home. With LBJ and A.D. sidelined, the Clippers co-tenants are clearly vulnerable.

After tonight's game with the Hawks, the Clippers travel to San Antonio (Wed & Thu) for two games with the Spurs but then return to Staples Center for NINE straight games. It's "Movin' time" and it starts here with a win over the red-hot Hawks, who beat the Clippers 108-99 back in Atlanta on Jan 26.  

Good luck...Larry

My 10* play is on the Dal Mavericks at 10:10 ET.

Doncic led the Mavs into the playoffs last season (ending a three-year drought) and Dallas was expected to be a playoff regular with him as its leader. However, the Mavs saw starters like center Porzingis (20.8 & 8.4), SG Richardson (13.3), SF Finney-Smith (8.2 & 5.3) and PF Kleber (7.3 & 5.4) all miss 10 or more games. Doncic (28.8-8.4-9.3) can be unstoppable at times. Porzingis (20.0 & 8.6) has been healthy lately plus 6th-man Hardaway (16.5) has been terrific all season. Hardaway has started for Finney-Smith (8.2 & 5.3) Wednesday and Friday and may again as Finney-Smith is NOT expected to play. SG Richardson (13.0) and PF Kleber (7.8 & 5.4) are the team's other two starters. Guards Brunson (12.5)) and Burke (7.1) round out the main contributors

Portland hung tough despite CJ McCollum (25.-3.8-4.6 being out since Jan 16 (fractured left foot), while center Jusuf Nurkic (wrist) has played just 12 games (9.8 & 7.7) and PF Zach Collins (ankle) has yet to play a single game. Portland's Lillard (30.6-4.5-7.7) is a true superstar plus Trent (15.0) and Simmons (8.1) have stepped up in McCollum's absence. The ageless Anthony adds 14.2 PPG off the bench plus PF Covington (8.5 & 6.6) and SF Jones (7.8 & 4.5) were acquired in the offseason (both are excellent defenders) and while not spectacular, have been solid contributors.

The Mavs and Blazers played Friday night in Portland with the Blazers winning 125-119. Portland is now 25-16 (tied with the Nuggets for the West's No. 5 seed), while the Mavs are 21-19 (No. 8 seed). As expected Doncic (38) and Lillard (31) went mano-a mano but the "big news" was CJ McCollum shaking off the rust with 32 points in his third game since returning from a fractured left foot. The two teams square off again Sunday night and I can't help but play the Mavs in this quick "payback" situation. Full disclosure, I did have the Mavs in the Friday game, as well. 

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker's Error is on the LA Lakers at 3:40 ET.

The Atlanta Hawks fired head coach Lloyd Pierce on March 1 and replaced him with assistant coach Nate McMillan. The veteran NBA coach has turned the Hawks into the 'Utah Jazz,' as Atlanta has won SEVEN straight (longest active streak in the NBA) while going 5-1-1 ATS. The Hawks open an eight-game road trip with a visit to Staples Center for a contest with the Lakers, who are 4-0 SU & ATS since the All Star break, extending a run in which LA has gone 7-1 SU & ATS since a four-game slide from Feb 18-24.

PG Trae Young (25.9-4.1-9.4) has led the Hawks all season and the Hawks also got a boost defensively from the return of center Clint Capela, who had eight points and eight rebounds in Thursday's 116-93 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Capela, who averages a double-double (14.6 & 14.1) on the season, had missed two games with left heel soreness. PF Collins (18.2 & 7.6) and SG Huerter (12.2-3.7-3.6) have been mainstays, as each has played all 41 games this season. On the injury front, PF Hunter (17.2 & 5.4) is out of commission with an articular tear in his right knee and he is not expected to return until the end of March (he's played just 18 games). Meanwhile, SF Reddish (11.2 & 4.0) has missed 15 games (last played Feb 21), as he's being held out of the lineup with a right Achilles injury and it is unclear how long he will be sidelined.

Speaking of dealing with injuries, the Lakers have been without starters Anthony Davis (22.5 & 8.4) and Marc Gasol (4.8 & 4.1). Davis has missed the last 13 games with a right calf strain and the Lakers will re-evaluate Davis' potential availability at the end of the month. Gasol has missed the last six games due to the NBA's health and safety protocols. He was cleared to come out of isolation but remains in the NBA's health and safety protocols. He could be available for Saturday's game against Atlanta. As always, there is LBJ, who is averaging 25.8-8.1-8.0. Adding PG Schroder (14.8-3.4-4.7) and PF Harrell (14.3 & 6.4) during the offseason was HUGE for the Lakers plus SF Kuzma (12.1 & 6.7) is one of the NBA's more underrated players.

There is NO doubt that the Hawks are on a roll but are they really playing better than the Lakers, who are now 28-13, just two games back of the Jazz for the West's No. 1 seed? The Hawks recent surge has them just 21-20 on the season and back on Feb 1 in Atlanta, the Lakers won 107-99 over the Hawks as SEVEN-point favorites. Here at home, LA is laying LESS than that! I'm on the Lakers!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Revenge Rout of the Month is on the Dal Mavericks at 10:05 ET.

The Dallas Mavericks lost at home to the Clippers on Monday but then rebounded with an impressive 105-89 victory over LA on Wednesday. They now head into another back-to-back challenge when they travel to Portland to face the Trail Blazers this weekend (Friday & Sunday). Similarly, Portland was involved in its own short series, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 125-124 on Tuesday and prevailing again 101-93 in the rematch on Thursday (both games were played in Portland).

Doncic led the Mavs into the playoffs last season (ending a three-year drought) and Dallas was expected to be a playoff regular with him as its leader. However, the Mavs saw starters like center Porzingis (20.8 & 8.4) miss 15 games, SG Richardson (13.3) miss 12, SF Finney-Smith (8.2 & 5.3) miss 13 and PF Kleber (7.3 & 5.4) miss 15. Doncic (28.5-8.4-9.3) can be unstoppable at times, like Wednesday vs the Clippers when he poured in 42 points. Porzingis (20.4 & 9.3) has been healthy lately plus 6th-man Hardaway (16.3) has been terrific all season. Hardaway started for Finney-Smith (8.2 & 5.3) Wednesday and may again as Finney-Smith is NOT expected to play. SG Richardson (13.3) and PF Kleber (7.5 & 5.4) are the team's other two starters. Guards Brunson (12.6 & 3.3 APG) and Burke (7.0) round out the main contributors

The Blazers have been streaky, opening the season just 10-9 through Feb 1. However, Portland then won EIGHT of nine, before losing FOUR in a row to close February. Portland is 6-2 in March after its back-to-back wins over the Pelicans. Portland has hung tough despite CJ McCollum being out since Jan 16 (fractured left foot), while center Jusuf Nurkic (wrist) has played just 12 games (9.8 & 7.7) and PF Zach Collins (ankle) has yet to play a single game. Portland's Lillard (30.6-4.5-7.8) is a true superstar plus Trent (15.2) and Simmons (8.1) have stepped up in McCollum's absence (more shortly). The ageless Anthony adds 14.1 PPG off the bench plus PF Covington (8.5 & 6.6) and SF Jones (8.0 & 4.5) were acquired in the offseason (both are excellent defenders) and while not spectacular, have been solid contributors.

Portland is currently 24-16, tied for 5th in the West with Denver), while Dallas is 21-18 (No. 8 seed, 3 1/2-games back of the Blazers). The great news for Portland is that McCollum (24.5-3.8-4.6) finally returned in the two games this week against the Pelicans, playing 23.5 MPG and averaging 10.5 PPG. However, it will take a little while for him to get back to 100%. This is an important two-game series for both teams but MORE important for Dallas. The Mavs are as healthy as they've been all season and have won 12 of 14. They could surely use a 2-0 sweep and of course, a team has to win the first of the two to be in a position for a sweep. Dallas was 10-2 from Feb 6-Mar 10, losing only at Philly (76ers are 18-4 at home) and home to these Blazers 121-118, despite Doncic outscoring Lillard 44-34. My bet says a little "payback" is in order tonight (as for Sunday???).

Good luck...Larry

My 9* East/West Game of the Month is on the Bos Celtics at 7:30 ET.

The Sacramento Kings play their fourth contest of a six-game road trip tonight in Boston against the Celtics. The Kings rebounded from dropping the first two games of their trek with a 121-119 defeat of Washington on Wednesday and visited TD Garden just 16-24 on the season. Boston opened the season as one of the Eastern Conference favorites but after an 8-3 start, the Celtics have looked nothing even remotely like a contender. Boston is languishing in the lower half of the Eastern Conference playoff standings and enters tonight at .500 (20-20) after consecutive losses to Utah and Cleveland.

Luke Walton is in his second season as head coach of the Kings, having gone 31-41 in last year's pandemic-shortened season. Walton's in good company, as the Kings opened this season on a run of 14 consecutive losing seasons and non-playoff appearances. PG Fox (23.7 & 7.6 APG) and Hield (16.5 & 4.6) lead the way, while three Sacramento frontcourt players are producing as well. The Kings don't have a true center, as that frontcourt trio includes 6-8 SF Barnes (16.6 & 6.2) plus 6-11 PF Bagley (13.9. & 7.4) and 6-8 PF Holmes (13.7 & 8.6). Rookie PG Haliburton ((12.7 & 5.1 APG) from Iowa St has stepped right in and looks like he'll be a quality NBA player.

Boston is without post player Tristan Thompson (7.9 & 8.4) due to COVID-19 protocols plus PG Kemba Walker (17.9 & 4.5 APG) did not play against the Cavs, as has been customary for the veteran guard in the second game of back-to-backs. In Walker's absence, Jayson Tatum (25.3-6.9-4.4) and Jaylen Brown (24.3-5.4-3.9) combined for 57 points. There is good news for Boston, as the team's best perimeter defender, Marcus Smart (12.9 & 5.3 APG), has returned since the All Star break and had 19 points against Cleveland. Let me also note that the 6-8 Robert Williams (7.5 & 6.4) posted 13 points and 14 rebounds off the bench on Wednesday and could see a more prominent role down the stretch to help on the glass and defensively.

Boston is NOT a .500 team and should remember losing 116-111 in Sacramento on Feb 3. The Kings are headed for another losing and non-playoff season (15th straight), while Boston should play MUCH better in the second half. Why not start here vs the Kings, who rank 29th of 30 teams in allowing 120.0 PPG plus dead-last in opponents FG percentage (49.1) and three-point percentage (39.2). Lay the points.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner of the Month is on the Dal Mavs at 9:35 ET.

The Clippers lost at home to the Mavs back on Dec 27 by the scorer of 124-73. That 51-point loss was the most lopsided defeat in franchise history. The Clippers visited Dallas Monday, coming off an embarrassing 135-115 lost in New Orleans against the Pelicans the night before. The Clippers entered Monday's game without Patrick Beverley (knee) and Serge Ibaka (back), so they gave Zubac his second start of the season plus Marcus Morris made just his third. Nicolas Batum was healthy, but he was dropped into a reserve role after starting his first 37 games this season. The result? A 109-99 win over Dallas, which entered that contest having won 11 of its 14 games. After allowing New Orleans to score 135 points on Sunday, the Clippers held Dallas to under 100 points on Monday. The Mavericks did not score a point in the final 3:15, committing two turnovers and going 0-of-5 from the floor in the closing minutes. The same two teams meet again tonight, again in Dallas.

The Clippers are currently the West's no. 4 seed, 1 /2-games back of the Suns and Lakers, plus four games back of the top-seeded Jazz. Kawhi (26.4-6.4-4.8) and George (22.9-6.1-5.3) are LA's "Dynamic Duo" but Kawhi's missed eight games and George 11. However, one is never quite sure when 'load management' will raise its ugly head. The rearranged lineup worked well on Monday, with Zubac (8.2 & 7.0) scoring 15 points with 11 rebounds, Morris (11.9 & 3.7) added 14 points and six rebounds, while Batum (8.9 & 4.7) was effective in his bench role, making 4-of-6 three-point attempts for 12 points. All numbers were above the season averages for each player.

Doncic led the Mavs into the playoffs last season (ending a three-year drought) and Dallas was expected to be a playoff regular with him as its leader. However, the Mavs saw starters like center Porzingis (20.8 & 8.4) miss 15 games, SG Richardson (13.3) miss 12, SF Finney-Smith (8.2 & 5.3) miss 12 and PF Kleber (7.3 & 5.4) miss 15. Doncic (28.1-8.5-9.30 has missed six games and 6th-man Hardaway (16.3) has only missed four. All starters are now healthy plus swingman Hardaway is joined off the bench by guards Brunson (12.8-3/4-3/4) and Burke (7.1).

The Mavs enter this contest 20-18 (No. 8 seed) but are just 2 1/2-games back of the 5th-seeded Nuggets. Dallas has its preferred starting lineup back intact and came into Monday's contest averaging 115.7 PPG in its previous 14 games. Expect a big "bounce-back" effort here by the Mavs, who will be the more motivated side in this one. Any points are just a bonus.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the LA Lakers at 10:35 ET.

The defending champion Lakers won SEVEN straight games from through Feb 12 and stood at 21-6 (only the 21-5 Jazz had a better record). However, in LA's 122-105 loss at Denver on Feb 14, A.D. (22.5 & 8.4) was lost to a right calf strain that has forced him to miss the last nine games. Including the loss to Denver, the Lakers lost SEVEN of 10 to end the first half. The Lakers returned to edge the Pacers last Friday but needed a 34-21 fourth quarter to win by five points. The Lakers take to the court for just the second since the break when they play in San Francisco tonight against the Warriors.

The Warriors were an NBA-worst 15-50 last season but have been competitive this season, although they had lost FOUR in a row before snapped that four-game skid with Sunday's 131-119 home triumph over Utah, the team with the NBA's best record of 28-10. Golden St moved to 20-19 with the win and the Warriors are currently the West's NO. 9 seed (seeds 7 through 10 will qualify for the NBA's "Play-In" postseason format). 

It doesn't appear Davis (strained right calf) will be back anytime soon. The club announced last week that he won't even be re-evaluated until close to the end of the month, meaning an April comeback would be an optimistic outlook. LBJ has missed just one game and leads the team with a line of 25.6-7.9-7.8. The offseason addition of starting PG Schroder (14.8-3.5-4.5) and PF Harrell, who comes off the bench to average 13.9 & 6.4, have been huge.  Klye Kuzma (11.6 & 6.8) is often overlooked but note that he and 24 points and 13 rebounds vs Indiana plus in the Lakers' final game before the All-Star break, had a 25-point, 13-rebound double-double at Sacramento.

The Warriors got a game-high 32 points from Stephen Curry vs the Jazz on Sunday plus a season-best 28 points from Andrew Wiggins Curry (29.3-5.4-6.3), Wiggins (17.2 & 4.5), Oubre (15.2 & 6.0) and the "do-everything" Green (6.1-6.2-8.5) have been Kerr's "Core 4" this season. The team's 1st-round draft pick Wiseman (12.0 & 5.9) has shown potential but injuries plus a recently missed COVID test keeps Kerr only guardedly optimistic. Veteran swingman Bazemore (6.4) and Lee (6.3) plus 6-6 second-year pro Paschall (9.6 & 3.2) add depth.

The Warriors surprised the defending champs 115-113 in January, before the Lakers exacted a measure of revenge in a 117-91 blowout on Feb 28. However, I feel as if this is a great spot for LA, catching Golden St in the second of back-to-back games, in which the Warriors just upset the Jazz. As for LA, it's just the team's SECOND game in the last 12 days because of the All Star break. Don't forget, LA is 13-5 on the road, tied with the Suns for the NBA's best road record.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Pho Suns at 10:05 ET.

The Suns went 8-0 SU & ATS in last year's Orlando 'bubble' and many (most) felt as if Phoenix would seriously contend for a playoff spot in the Western Conference in the 2020-21 season, likely ending a 10-year postseason drought. However, the Suns exceeded expectations in the first half of the current season by entering the All Star break at 24-11. Only the Jazz owned a better record in the entire NBA, while Phoenix was also an NBA-best 24-11 ATS. The Memphis Grizzlies opened the season off three straight losing and non-playoff seasons but had last year's ROY in Ja Morant plus a very deep team. However, Jaren Jackson (17.4 & 4.0) had meniscus surgery on his left knee and has yet to play (reports say he may be back before the end of the season).

Looking at the Memphis roster shows that SIX players are averaging in double digits, led by PG Morant (19.8 & 7.8 APG) and veteran center Valanciunas (16.0 & 11.7). Books (15.9), Anderson (13.0-5.9-3.4), Clarke (12.2 & 5.8) and Melton (10.2) complete the double digit scorers. What's more, SIX more players chip in between 6.7 and 9.8 PPG, including SF Winslow who finally got back on the court in late-February and has averaged 8.8 & 5.4 in nine games. So why are the Grizzlies just 17-18.

The Suns have been healthy for MOST of the season and Chris Paul (15.8-4.7-8.8) has surely given the Suns all that they had hoped for when they traded for him in the offseason. Devon Booker had averaged 26.6 PPG the two seasons before Paul arrived and still leads the team at 25.1 PPG (very little drop-off). Center Ayton hasn't missed a game while averaging a double-double (14.4 & 11.2) plus SF's Bridges and Johnson (both former 1st round picks) are adding 13.8 & 4.9 and 10.4 & 3.4, respectively. Veteran PF Saric (11.7 & 4.1) and SF Crowder (10.0 & 5.0) give Phoenix SEVEN players in double digits.

The Grizzlies opened the second half by beating Washington but have then lost 103-102 at home to the Nuggets and last night, lost 128-122 at OKC. The Grizzlies held a 10-point lead after three quarters but were outscored 38-22 in the final quarter by the Thunder. They now back again tonight at Phoenix and will be catching the Suns off a surprising 122-111 home loss to the Pacers. It marked just the FOURTH loss in the last 21 games for Phoenix. Devin Booker provided a succinct analysis for the defeat. "I think they just played harder than us beginning to end, simple as that," he said. This is the WRONG place at the WRONG time for the Grizz. B-L-O-W-O-U-T Alert!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout is on the Chi Bulls at 9:05 ET.

The Toronto Raptors won the NBA title in 2019 and even without Kawhi, finished with the NBA's second-best regular season record last season. This year's 72-game season opened right before Christmas but the Raptors knew the 2020-21 season could be a "trying one, "as due to COVID travel restrictions, the Raptors would be playing their 'home' games in Tampa. The Raptors stumbled to a 2-8 start but did climb back to 17-17 by the end of February. However, bad luck struck again, as the Raptors are currently on a FOUR-game slide with COVID "wreaking havoc" on the team's schedule with two games being postponed (Feb 28 and Mar 2) plus the Raptors currently have FIVE players sidelined while adhering to the league's health and safety protocols. Toronto will be without Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Malachi Flynn and Patrick McCaw (more in a bit).

As for the Bulls, Billy Donovan took over a team that had gone 71-158 the previous three seasons, so Chicago's 16-20 mark may not seem very impressive but its .444 winning percentage is a 'step in the right direction' from a three-season winning percentage of just .310. In fact, Chicago is in a virtual tie with the 17-21 (.447) Raptors for the 10th and final seed in the East's four-team "Play-In" bracket (includes 7 thru 10 seeds).

When healthy, the Raptors own a formidable lineup but head coach Nick Nurse has already said that FIVE players (see above) will miss Sunday's game. The losses are HUGE, as guard VanVleet (20.1-4.4-6.6) and PF Siakam (20.1-7.5-4.9) are All Star-caliber players, while Anunoby (13.8 & 5.3) has developed into a solid SF in the NBA. Strating in Toronto's last game were Baynes (6.3 & 5.6), Bembry (4.8) and Johnson (3.1). OUCH!

A close look at Chicago reveals that SIX players are averaging in double digits plus four more add between 7.0 and 9.8 PPG. LaVine (28.5-5.2-5.2) and White (16.1-4.9-5.9) comprise an outstanding backcourt, while the following four frontcourt players join them in double figures; the 7-0 Markkanen (19.4 & 5.9), the 6-8 Young (12.2 & 6.1), the 6-10 Carter (11.8 & 7.9) and the 6-8 Porter (10.5 & 5.9) Note that FIVE of the above six (exception is Young) are all former first-round draft picks!

Toronto had allowed 127.3 PPG in the first three of its four-game slide but 'held' Charlotte to just 114 points in last night's 10-point loss. However, the Hornets 'let their foot off the pedal' in the fourth quarter, scoring just 16 points after scoring 98 points through  the first three. The final margin was still 10 points, even with the Raptors outscoring the Hornets by 16 points in the 4th. No reason for the Raptors to be competitive in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Month is on the LA Lakers at 10:35 ET.

The defending champion Lakers won SEVEN straight games from through Feb 12 and stood at 21-6 (only the 21-5 Jazz had a better record). However, in LA's 122-105 loss at Denver on Feb 14, A.D. (22.5 & 8.4) was lost to a right calf strain that has forced him to miss the last nine games. Including the loss to Denver, the Lakers have lost SEVEN of 10 and when they return to the court tonight from the All Star break at Staples Center to face the Indiana Pacers, the 24-13 Lakers are now No. 3 in the West (barely ahead of the 25-14 Clippers), 1 1/2-games back of the Suns and 3 1/2-games back of the No. 1-seeded Jazz. The Pacers were the East's No. 4 seed last year but got swept 4-0 by the Heat in the first round of the playoffs. Indiana's 2020-21 season has been full of stops-and-starts, and enters this contest just 16-19 which puts them in a virtual tie with THREE other teams fighting at the bottom of the East's playoff 'cut line!' The Pavers are opening the second season by playing SIX of the first seven games on the road.

PG Malcolm Brogdon (21.1-4.6-6.2) and PF Domantas Sabonis (20.8-11.1-6.0) are having outstanding seasons. However, TJ Warren averaged 15.5 PPG through the first four games but has not seen the court since. Oladipo was traded away but the player expected to replace him, Levert (18.5 PPG for the Nets), Justin Holiday (11.7 & 4.0) has been starting in the backcourt with Brogdon, while Center Turner (13.5 & 6.5) and SF McDermott (13.2 PPG on 50.6% shooting) join Sabonis up front. has been lost to a medical issue (kidney) is having perhaps his best season as a pro, averaging 20.8 points, 11.1 rebounds and 6.0 assists a contest. Also making 'noise' are Lamb (11.3 PPG in his 21 games since returning from a serious injury last season) and TJ McConell (6.7-3.7-6.8), who averaged 12.5 PPG and 8.5 APG in the four games prior to the break.

The 36-year-old Lebron James (25.8-8.0-7.8 missed just one game the first half of the year for a mild left ankle sprain he's been dealing with since December. Naturally, he played in the All Star game but said that's his only action since (he's well-rested). PG Schroder missed a few games because of COVID protocols but is back and he's been a HUGE addition, averaging 14.9-3.5-4.5. So has PF Harrell, averaging 13.8 & 6.4. Kuzma (11.5 & 6.7) has gotten some starts because of injuries to others, as has Morris (5.4 & 3.8). Caldwell-Pope (8.7) starts alongside Schroder plus Horton-Tucker (7.2) and Caruso (5.8) add depth.

Anthony Davis is expected to return sometime this month but LA needs to "Get its act together" prior to that. Why not start here vs Indiana?

Good luck...Larry

My 10* "Best of the Best" Western Conference Game of the Month is on the Por Blazers at 10:05 ET.

The Suns went 8-0 SU & ATS in last year's Orlando 'bubble' and many (most) felt as if Phoenix would seriously contend for a playoff spot in the Western Conference in the 2020-21 season, likely ending a 10-year postseason drought. However, the Suns have exceeded expectations in the first half of the current season by entering the All Star break at 24-11. Only the Jazz own a better record in the entire NBA (Suns are 2 1/2 games back of the Jazz). while Phoenix leads the Lakers by one game and the Clippers by 1 1/2-games. More notably, the suns are also 24-11 ATS, the best pointspread in the entire league. 

The Blazers have been streaky, opening the season just 10-9 through Feb 1. However, Portland then won EIGHT of nine, before losing FOUR in a row. The Blazers did 'right the ship' just before the break, winning THREE in a row at home to enter the All Star break at 21-14 (West's No. 5 seed). Portland has hung tough despite CJ McCollum (26.7-3.9-5.0) being out since Jan 16 (fractured left foot), while center Jusuf Nurkic (wrist) has played just 12 games (9.8 & 7.7) and PF Zach Collins (ankle) has yet to play a single game.

The Suns have been healthy for MOST of the season and Chris Paul (16.0-4.7-8.8) has surely given the Suns all that they had hoped for when they traded for him in the offseason. Devon Booker had averaged 26.6 PPG the two seasons before Paul arrived and still leads the team at  24.9 PPG (very little drop-off). Center Ayton hasn't missed a game while averaging a double-double (14.5 & 11.4) plus SF's Bridges and Johnson (both former 1st round picks) are adding 13.7 & 5.1 and 10.4 & 3.4, respectively. Veteran PF Saric (11.5 & 4.0) and SF Crowder (10.1 & 4.0) give Phoenix SEVEN players in double digits.

Portland's Lillard (29.8-4.3-8.0) is a true superstar plus Trent (15.2) has helped ease the 'pain' of losing McCollum in the backcourt. Kanter (11.9 & 11.9) has been excellent getting more time with Nurkic out plus the ageless Anthony adds 13.9 PPG off the bench. SF Jones (8.1 & 4.8) and PF Covington (7.9 & 6.6) were acquired in the offseason (both are excellent defenders) and while not spectacular, have been very solid.

I'm 'sold' on Phoenix but caution that no one should overlook Portland. The Suns and Blazers are meeting for the second time this season, with the Suns routing the Blazers in Phoenix 132-100 back on Feb 22. It marked the Suns' largest margin of victory this season but note that Portland was in the midst of a four-game losing streak the last time the teams played. Turnabout (here in Portland) is 'fair play.' Take the home dog!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Por Blazers at 10:05 ET.

The Golden State Warriors owned the NBA's worst record (15-50) last season, after appearing in five straight Finals (winning three titles). However, the Warriors have been one of the NBA's "surprise" teams this season, as they are currently 19-16 (No. 8 seed in the West). Portland opened a disappointing 12-10 this season but then ripped off SIX straight wins (Feb 9-18) to reach 18-10. However, a four-game slide followed, before the Blazers ended their skid with a 123-111 home win over Charlotte on Monday. Each team will be playing the first of two consecutive games to close the NBA's first half. The 19-14 Trail Blazers (current No. 6 seed) will remain home to play Sacramento on Thursday, while the 19-16 Warriors will move on to Phoenix.

The Warriors visit Portland off an 'ugly' 117-91 road loss at the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday. Head coach Steve Kerr called the game "his club's worst effort of the season!" Golden State fell behind 41-21 after the first quarter and never made the game competitive. "There's going to be a handful of games every year that are sort of inexplicable, and this is one you don't spend too much time on," Kerr said. "You flush the toilet, and you move on." Looking for some good news, while Draymond Green sprained an ankle in the second quarter and did not return, he will play Wednesday night according to Kerr. Green plays "wherever needed," leading the team in rebounds (6.0) and assists (8.5). The trio of Curry (29.5-5.4-6.4) , Wiggins (17.1 & 4.5) and Oubre (15.5 & 5.9) have been "constants" but it's sure good news that the team's No. 1 pick from last season's (No. 2 overall pick) is finally back. The 7-1 Wiseman has averaged 11.5 & 4.8 in the last four games, VERY close to his season averages of 12.0 & 5.9). Depth has been provided by the 6-8 Paschall (10.2) plus veteran guards Bazemore (6.5 ) and Lee (6.3).

The Blazers have endured the past 20 games without CJ McCollum (26.7-3.9-5.0), whose fractured foot will be re-evaluated this week. Lillard (29.6-4.3-8.1), as usual. leads the way but he was held to a modest 23 points in the win over Charlotte. However, Carmelo Anthony (13.6) turned back the clock with six 3-pointers and 29 points off the bench, while PF. Robert Covington (7.7 & 6.5) added 21 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks) plus Gary Trent Jr. 17 points came up big. Trent is averaging 15.5 PPG on the season and has done an excellent job of mitigating the loss of McCollum. The same can be said of center Enes Kanter, who is averaging 11.6 & 11.5 on the season, helping ease the loss of starting center Nurkic (9.8 & 7.7), who hasn't played since Jan 14.

These teams split one-sided games in an NBA-style doubleheader early in the season in San Francisco. Damian Lillard led a three-point assault with 6-for-10 accuracy from beyond the arc in a 123-98 Trail Blazers win on Jan 1, while the Warriors rebounded with a 137-122 triumph two nights later behind Stephen Curry's 62 points. The victor tonight  becomes a '20-game winner' and I'm betting Curry 'under' 62 points and taking the Blazers in the game. After all, Portland was a road favorite in both of those early January games in San Francisco but is now a small home dog??

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker's Error of the Month is on the LA Lakers at 10:05 ET.

The Suns went 8-0 SU and ATS in the Orlando 'bubble' but still couldn't sneak into the playoffs. In the offseason, Phoenix acquired longtime All Star PG Chris Paul in an effort to break its 10-year playoff drought. The Suns opened 6-2 but were just 8-8 on Jan 27. However, the Suns visit Staples Center tonight at 22-11, having won 14 of their last 17 games. The Suns currently own the West No. 4 seed just a half-game back of the 24-12 Clippers and ONE game back of tonight's opponent, the 24-11 Lakers. The Lakers won their SEVENTH straight game on Feb 12 and at 21-6, only the 21-5 Utah Jazz owned a better record in the NBA. However, the Lakers then fell into their worst slump of the season (FOUR straight losses and five of six), before winning home games over the Blazers (Fri) and Warriors (Sun) to reach 24-11.

The two Pacific Division rivals are meeting for the first time this season tonight. Devin Booker is a major reason the Suns are among the top teams in the Western, coming off scoring a season-high 43 points in the Suns' 118-99 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday. He has topped 30 points in THREE of his last four and is now averaging 25.5 PPG (has averaged 26.6 PPG each of the last two seasons). Chris Paul (16.4-4.7-6.0) has everything the Suns had hoped for and center Ayton (14.5 & 11.6) has stayed healthy (he has not missed a SINGLE game!) with 19 double-doubles on the season. Head coach Monty Williams moved Frank Kaminsky (7.3 & 3.8) into the starting lineup back on Feb 7 and the Suns are 11-2 (Kaminsky has started 11 of those 13 with Phoenix going 10-1).

A.D. (22.5 & 8.4) is sidelined with an Achilles problem (earliest return is right after the All Star break) and LA has gone just 3-5 since he was hurt at Denver back on Feb 15. Of course, LBJ hasn't missed a SINGLE game (35 minutes per), averaging 25.5-8.1-7.8. However, the return of PG Schroder on Friday was a "big deal." He had been held out the previous four games due to COVID-19 protocols (he tested negative but was held out due to contact tracing). Simply put, the Lakers aren't the same club without Schroder (14.5-3.6-4.3) in the lineup (had gone 0-4 SU & ATS in his absence). LA has won both games in Schroder's return! With A.D. sidelined, PF Harrell (13.7 & 6.4) and SF Kuzma (11.1 & 6.5) get more "PT" plus LA has a deep backcourt in Caldwell-Pope (8.8), Horton-Tucker (6.9), Caruso (5.8) and Matthews (4.5). Morris (4.9 & 3.7) has taken Davis' spot at PF and as he has done all season, Gasol (4.8 & 4.1) starts at center.

I like the way the Suns are playing but I said Friday I expected LA to make a strong "final push" before the All Star break. So far, so good. I've had the Lakers Friday and Sunday and will play them again here. The Lakers were in sync in Sunday's 117-91 blowout of the Warriors with LBJ scoring 19 points to lead six Lakers in double figures. James delivered his damage in a season-low 24 minutes as he and the Lakers' starters rested the entire fourth quarter. The LA bench contributed 55 points! Defense has also played a significant role Sunday. The Lakers limited Stephen Curry, who averaged 29.9 points entering the contest, to 16 points. That defensive effort came on the heels of LA holding Damian Lillard to 11 second-half points after he scored 24 in the first in Friday's victory over the Blazers. Watch out Devin! LA is a "bargain" at this price!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Division Game of the Year (Pacific) is on the LA Lakers at 8:05 ET.

All are familiar with the "fall from grace" of the Warriors, going from FIVE straight appearances in the NBA finals (three titles) to the NBA's worst record (15-50) in last year's pandemic-shortened season. However, the Warriors have won SEVEN of 10 and at 19-15, 4 1/2-games inside the playoff cutline (10 teams make this year's postseason). The Los Angeles Lakers won their SEVENTH straight game on Feb 12 and at 21-6, only the 21-5 Utah Jazz owned a better record in the NBA. However, the Lakers were buried in their worst slump of the season (FOUR straight losses and five of six) when they hosted the visiting Portland Trail Blazers on Friday. LA got off the schneid with a 102-93 victory.

Curry (29.9-5.5-6.3), Wiggins (17.5 & 4.6) and Oubre (15.5 & 6.0) have led the way for the Warriors this season. However, the recent "big news" was that the team's No. 1 pick (2nd overall of the 2020 draft), James Wiseman (12.3 & 5.8), has returned (11-game absence caused by a sprained wrist). He's played in three straight (all off the bench), averaging 13.7 & 3.7 in about 17 minutes per game. it may NOT be a coincidence that the Warriors are 3-0 SU & ATS in that span. Joining Curry, Wiggins and Oubre in the starting lineup are center Looney (just returned as well and is splitting time with Wiseman) and Green (5.7-6.1-8.7), who with the return of Wiseman and Looney, is back to his natural position of PF.

A.D. (22.5 & 8.4) is sidelined with an Achilles problem (earliest return is right after the All Star break) and LA has gone just 2-5 since he was hurt at Denver back on Feb 15. Of course, LBJ hasn't missed a SINGLE game (35 minutes per), averaging 25.7-8.2-7.9. I had a HUGE play on LA in Friday's game and noted that PG Schroder had been held out the previous four games due to COVID-19 protocols (he tested negative but was held out due to contact tracing) but was available to return on Friday. Simply put, the Lakers aren't the same club without Dennis Schroder (14.4-3.6-4.2) in the lineup (had gone 0-4 SU & ATS in his absence). Schroder made his presence felt on both ends of the court in Friday's game. He scored 22 points and helped slow Portland's Damian Lillard, who managed 11 points in the second half after scoring 24 in the first. With A.D. sidelined, PF Harrell (13.9 & 6.5) and SF Kuzma (11.1 & 6.4) will see more "PT" plus LA has a deep backcourt in Caldwell-Pope (8.8), Horton-Tucker (6.7), Caruso (5.5) and Matthews (4.7).

I said in taking LA on Friday that I expected a "Big push" from them heading in the All Star break and while I won't project on Tuesday's home with the Suns or Wednesday's road game at Sacramento (LA's final game before the break), I will play the Lakers here. The Warriors returned from FOUR games in six days on a road trip to beat the Hornets in San Francisco on Friday but now it's right back on the road for THREE in a row prior to the break. The Lakers are up first and PRIMED to avenge a 115-113 loss to Golden St here at Staples back on Jan 18, when the Warriors rallied from 14 points down in the fourth quarter to edge LA. In that game, LA was favored by 8 1/2-points but here, it's HALF that!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* "Signature" 37-Club Play is on the LA Lakers at 10:05 ET.

The Los Angeles Lakers won their SEVENTH straight game on Feb 12 and at 21-6, only the 21-5 Utah Jazz owned a better record in the NBA. However, the Lakers are buried in their worst slump of the season as they enter Friday's matchup against the visiting Portland Trail Blazers. Portland won SIX in a row from Feb 9 through Feb 17 but visit Staples Center on a three-game slide, giving them an 18-13 record.

Starting center Nurkic (9.8 & 7.7) was lost to a broken wrist back on Jan 14 and SG McCollum (26.7-3.9-5.0) was lost to a foot injury two days later (last played Jan 16). Lillard (29.6-4.4-8.0) is having another All Star season for Portland, while Trent (15.3) is filing in for McCollum and Kanter (11.7 & 11.4) for Nurkic. Anthony (13.4) has provided consistent scoring off the bench all season.

No one is surprised that LBJ (25.6-8.1-8.0) has played EVERY game this season but since A.D. (22.5 & 8.4) was sidelined with an Achilles problem, the Lakers have lost FIVE of six. It's also important to note that PG Dennis Schroder has been held out the last four games due to COVID-19 protocols (he tested negative but was held out due to contact tracing) but he is available to return on Friday from a seven-day quarantine. Schroder (14.2-3.6-4.3) has made a big impact for LA this season, as has PF Harrell, who hasn't missed a game while averaging13.8  & 6.4 (both were acquired over the offseason). SF Kuzma (11.3 & 6.2) is getting more minutes with A.D. sidelined plus LA does own a deep backcourt in Caldwell-Pope (8.9), Horton-Tucker (6.8), Caruso (5.3) and Matthews (4.9).

The Lakers are currently 22-11, just behind the 23-11 Clippers but now 4 1/2 games back of the streaking Utah Jazz (26-6) in the West. The All Star break is right around the corner, which will give LA a much needed break, This contest is the first of a three-game homestand, before the Lakers play at Sacramento (Mar 3) before the break. I expect a STRONG push here by LBJ and Co. (getting Schroder back will be HUGE) and I'm laying the points tonight.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Situational Stunner is on the Bos Celtics at 7:35 ET.

The Boston Celtics opened the season as one of the Eastern Conference favorites but after an 8-3 start, the Celtics have looked nothing even remotely like a contender. Boston is  with four games remaining before the All-Star break, after losing EIGHT of 11 (including THREE in a row). Boston and Miami (East champs last season) are both 15-17, meaning they would meet in a 9 vs 10 Play-In game (how the mighty have fallen). The Pacers visit Boston off a 111-107 home OT loss to the Warriors, returning to the court on Wednesday after time off due to games against Houston (weather-related) and San Antonio (COVID-related) being postponed (had six days off). The Pacers have hovered around .500 all season and although they are currently 15-15, their record is good enough for the East's No. 4 seed.

PG Brogdon (21.7-4.8-6.4) and PF Sabonis (21.5 & 11.7) are having excellent seasons, while center Turner (13.2 & 6.6), SF McDermott (13.1 PPG on 50.9% shooting) and guard Justin Holiday (11.3 & 4.2) round out the current starting-five. T.J. Warren (foot surgery) and Caris LeVert (kidney operation) remain sidelined. Backup PG McConnell (5.9 & 6.6 APG) plus SG Lamb are also quality contributors. Lamb's return from injury is a BIG deal. He has averaged 12.2 PPG (on 50.7% shooting) in his 17 games back since tearing his ACL last February. Jayson Tatum (25.6-6.9-4.5) and Jaylen Brown (25.4-5.5-3.9) are both All Stars and while a knee injury has limited PG Walker to just 17 games, he's still averaging 17.3-3.6-4.1). Losing Marcus Smart (13.1 & 6.1 APG) has hurt but rookie guard Pritchard (7.3) plus big men Theis (8.8 & 5.0) and Thompson (7.8 & 8.4) are solid NBA players.

The Celtics and Pacers split their first two meetings this season as part of a back-to-back at Indiana in December. Tonight's game begins FOUR straight on the road for Indiana, before the Pacers wrap up the season's first-half with a home game against the Nuggets (Mar 4). Boston won't leave the TD Garden until after the All Star break (four straight at home) and head coach Brad Stevens opined, "These next four games will tell us a lot about where we can go." My bet says Boston wins here "with room to spare."

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Month is on the Mia Heat at 8:05 ET.

It's the Raptors and Heat tonight in Miami. Toronto won the NBA title two years ago and last season had the second-best regular season record next to Milwaukee. However, Toronto has been forced to play its 'home' games in Tampa due to COVID travel restrictions with Canada and the Raptors opened 2-8. They were still just 7-12 through Jan 29 but despite a 'home' loss to Philly last night, are 9-4 their last 13 games (now 16-16 on the season). Miami made it to the NBA Finals last year after bonding in the playoff bubble, posting the best pointspread mark of any playoff team (16-5 ATS). However, a three-game winning streak (all on the road) still leaves the Heat at just 14-17 (12-18-1 ATS). Miami is currently 10th in the East, which would allow them to 'sneak into' the NBA's postseason "Play-In" round

Philadelphia ended Toronto's four-game win streak with a 109-102 win in Tampa. The Raptors played a fourth straight game without Kyle Lowry (17.7-5.4-6.4), who has a sprained left thumb. Norman Powell (17.3) led the Raptors with 24 points and Pascal Siakam (20.6-7.7-4.8) added 22. VanVleet (19.8-4.5-6.7) was left off the All-Star Game reserves roster on Tuesday snub?) but frontcourt players Anunoby (13.9 & 5.90 and Boucher (13.3 & 6.5) has been strong contributors all season.

Adebayo (19.6-9.5-5.5) and Butler (19.1-7.6-7.6) also got snubbed, leaving Miami without an All-Star for the first time since 2017 (both were All-Stars last year). The bigger news is that Herro (16.9-6.1-3.8) missed Miami's last game with a hip injury and is listed as questionable. Vet Goran Dragic (14.4 & 5.3) has an ankle injury and hasn't played since Feb 5 but is listed as questionable for the Raptors game. Both could play.

However, even without Dragic and Herro (as well as Avery Bradley and Meyers Leonard, who are both out longer term), the Heat have shown they have enough firepower to win big games, such as their victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night. Tough spot for Toronto off two games in three nights vs Philly and now playing a third game in FOUR nights at Miami. I feel that the Heat are starting to "come together" and I expect them to win handily here.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Ind Pacers at 7:35 ET.

All are familiar with the "fall from grace" of the Warriors, going from FIVE straight appearances in the NBA finals (three titles) to the NBA's worst record (15-50) in last year's pandemic-shortened season. The 17-15 Warriors visit 15-14 Indiana playing for the FOURTH and final time on a six-day trip. All three Golden State games in the past five days have gone to the wire, including the Warriors' 114-106 victory in New York on Tuesday. The Pacers are back on the court for the first time since Feb 17.

Curry (30.2-5.4-6.2), Wiggins (17.6 & 4.8) and Oubre (15.1 & 6.0) have led the way for the Warriors this season. Curry led ten way with 37 points against the Knicks (Oubre and Wiggins combined for 35) but the best news was that the team's No. 1 pick (2nd overall of the 2020 draft), James Wiseman (12.2 & 5.9), returned for the first time since Jan 30 (11-game absence caused by a sprained wrist). He played just 16 minutes but scored 14 points. Draymond Green (7-12-9) also bounced back effectively after his late ejection against the Hornets contributed to the narrow defeat last Saturday.

The Pacers' unexpected time off was due to games against Houston (weather-related) and San Antonio (COVID-related) being postponed. Head coach Nate Bjorkgren was happy to give his guys a break while also using additional practice time to fine-tune an offensive attack that had averaged 120.5 points in winning THREE of its previous four games. PG Brogdon (21.6-4.8-6.6) and PF Sabonis (21.5 & 5.7) are having excellent season, while center Turner (13.2 & 6.6), SF McDermott (13.1 PPG on 51.1% shooting) and guard Justin Holiday (11.5 & 4.2) round out the current starting-five. T.J. Warren (foot surgery) and Caris LeVert (kidney operation) remain sidelined. Backup PG McConnell (5.8 & 6.6 APG) plus SG Lamb are also quality contributors. Lamb's return from injury is a BIG deal. He has averaged 12.4 PPG (on 50.8% shooting) in his 16 games back since tearing his ACL last February.

These teams met back on Jan 12 in San Francisco under polar-opposite circumstances. On that night, Indiana was the side enduring a back-to-back on the road while Golden State was well rested, having spent two straight weeks at home. However, the Pacers won 104-95 that night and I believe will win just as easily tonight.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Division Game of the Year (Southwest) is on the Dal Mavericks at 8:35 ET.

Memphis opened just 2-6 but then ran off FIVE in a row before five straight games were postponed due to COVID. The Grizzlies returned and won two more (now a seven-game win streak) to reach 9-6 but have since fallen back to 13-13 by losing SEVEN of 11. Dallas was expected to be a solid playoff contender this season (broke a three-season playoff drought by going 43-32 last season) but that hasn't been the case. The Mavericks lost SIX straight from the end of January into the beginning of February to fall to 8-13. However, Dallas finally got its full complement of players back and won FIVE of six (including FOUR straight) before losing 121-118 at home to Portland on Feb 14. The Mavericks haven't played since due to inclement weather in the state of Texas. They had a home game against Detroit and a one-game trip to Houston postponed. Dallas comes in 13-15 and hasn't been at the break-even mark being 8-8 on Jan 23.

Memphis gave regulars Brandon Clarke (12.9 & 5.6), Grayson Allen (10.1) and Kyle Anderson (13.8 & 6.2) the night off against the Suns on Saturday and lost 128-97!  PG Morant (18.9 & 7.8 APG), center Valanciunas (16.2 & 11.0) and SG Brooks (15.8) are all having good years. There's no lack of talent for Dallas, as starting alongside PG Doncic (29.1-8.6-9.4) and center Porzingis (20.5 & 8.2) are guard Richardson (12.5) plus forwards Finney-Smith (9.1 & 4.8) and Kleber (7.1 & 5.4). SF Hardaway comes off the bench to average 16.7 PPG plus guards Brunson (11.7) and Burke (8.0) add more 'punch' off the bench.

Dallas is well-rested and as noted, has its full complement of players back on the court. I still maintain that the Mavs are ready to go on a run. Lay the points in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Den Nuggets at 7:35 ET.

The Denver Nuggets earned the title of "Comeback Kids' in last season's playoffs in the 'bubble' but opened the current season just 1-4. Denver then won 11 of 15 and ended January at 12-8. However, the Nuggets are just 4-5 in February and at 16-13 sit 7 1/2-games back in the West (No. 7 seed). If the playoffs were to begin today, Denver would be in the "Play-In" round (seeds 7 thru 10). The Hawks entered the current season off a three-year mark of 73-158 (.316) and will take the court tonight having lost FIVE losing of their last six games/ Atlanta is a modest 12-17, a record that would leave them a half-game outside of the East's No. 10 seed.

Denver's Jamal Murray is fresh off a career-high 50-point performance in Friday's 120-103 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was a timely performance since it helped the Nuggets end a two-game losing streak and now the team has a chance to break even on its four-game East Coast road trip. Denver has as much quality depth as any team but SG Gary Harris (10.1) and PF Paul Millsap (10.4 & 5.2) are out. Center Jokic (27.0-11.2-8.6) is a star and just became the first Denver player voted to start the NBA All-Star Game since Carmelo Anthony in 2011 (he owns a league-high 26 double-doubles). Murray (20.6-4.4-4.4) has become an All Star caliber player. The 6-8 Porter (14.1 & 6.2) has come into his own (was a high school phenom) while swingman Barton (11.5-3.7-3.2) and guard Morris (10.6) regularly contribute. PF Green (9.1 & 6.0 in just 20 MPG) should get more "PT" with Millsap sidelined.

The Hawks have a bevy of young stars led by Young (26.6 & 9.3 APG), who is joined by PF Collins (17.8 & 7.4), SF Hunter (17.2 & 5.4) plus SGs Huerter (11.7-3.6-3.8) and Reddish (11.4 & 4.0). Former Houston center has been everything Atlanta has hoped for, averaging 14.7 & 14.0. Veteran Gallinari adds 10.6 PPG but has missed 12 games (he's active now). However, Hunter remains out with a knee injury (last played on Jan 29).
 
Atlanta fell behind by 27 points on Friday against the Celtics (would lose 121-109) and its defensive woes continue to mount. The Hawks beat the Clippers 108-99 in Atlanta back on Jan 26 but have since allowed 118.3 PPG (no opponent has been held under 100 points in that stretch) in going 3-9 in their last 12 games. Denver, led by Jokic and Murray, comes in averaging  115.5 PPG (4th) on 48.3% shooting (5th) and I'm laying the 'short' number!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner of the Month is on the LA Lakers at 8:35 ET.

The Los Angeles Lakers welcome the Miami Heat to Staples Center on Saturday, as the teams square off for the first time since LA beat Miami 106-93 in Game 6 of last season's NBA Finals. Miami made a great run last season in the Orlando 'bubble,' reaching the NBA Finals before losing four games to two against the LA Lakers. The Heat's 16-5 ATS record was easily the best of any team in the postseason. However, the current season has not gone smoothly, as the Heat are not only just 12-17 but their 10-18-1 ATS record (35.7%) is the second-worst mark in the NBA.

The Lakers own the NBA's second-best record at 22-8 (13-3 road record is an NBA-best) but were soundly beaten by the Brooklyn Nets 109-98 here in Staples on Thursday (no K.D. for Brooklyn). LBJ had 32 points, eight rebounds and seven assists for the Lakers but they played without Dennis Schroder due to the NBA's health and safety protocols. They are also missing Anthony Davis (22.5 & 8.4), who missed his second contest after suffering a calf strain Sunday against the Denver Nuggets. A.D. isn't expected to return for at least a month.

The Heat snapped a three-game losing streak with 118-110 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Thursday. Tyler Herro had 27 points on 12-of-17 shooting as SIX Miami players scored in double figures. Jimmy Butler had 13 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds for his third straight triple-double. The 6-9 Bam Adebayo also recorded a triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Adebayo (19.8-9.3-5.5) leads Miami in scoring, although Butler (19.1-7.8-7.7) is close behind. However, Butler has played in just 17 of Miami's 29 games. Herro (17.4-6.2-3.90 is the team's third-leading scorer but Miami really misses vet PG Dragic (14.4 & 5.3 APG) plus its best defensive guard Bradley (8.5). BOTH remain sidelined.

Obviously, Davis' absence is a big deal and Schroder (14.2-3.6-4.3) has been a HUGE plus this season for LA. However, no one is surprised that LBJ (25.9-8.2-7.9) hasn't missed a single game and the Lakers will give more "PT" up front to PFs Harrell (13.2 & 6.2) and Morris (4.4 & 3.4) plus SF Kuzma (11.0 & 6.0) with A.D. out. Not sure who will start alongside Caldwell-Pope (8.5) in the backcourt but Vogel can choose between Horton-Tucker (6.8), Caruso (5.4) and Matthews (5.0).

VERY tough "situation" for Miami here, playing its SIXTH contest (in 10 days) of a seven-game road trip (Miami's last home game was Feb 9) against the defending champs coming off an embarrassing home loss to the Nets (on TNT for all to see). Lay the points with LA!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Bos Celtics at 7:35 ET.

The Atlanta Hawks ended a four-game losing streak by beating the Celtics 122-114 on Wednesday in Boston. PG Trae Young scored 16 of his 40 points in the fourth quarter, eight of which came after the Celtics cut the lead to six with 2:38 remaining. Boston PG Kemba Walker did not play ("load management") and center Daniel Theis missed his second game with a sprained right index finger. The two teams are right back at it tonight at TD Garden.

The Hawks entered the current season off a three-year mark of 73-158 (.316) and will take the court tonight at a modest 12-16 (.429). The Hawks have a bevy of young stars led by Young (26.5 & 9.3 APG), who is joined by PF Collins (18.2 & 7.6), SF Hunter (17.2 & 5.4) plus SGs Huerter (12.0-3.6-3.8) and Reddish (11.5 & 4.0). Former Houston center has been everything Atlanta has hoped for, averaging 14.3 & 14.0.

Boston's 'Dynamic' duo of Brown and Tatum had been the team's top-two producers, with Brown (25.9-5.5-3.6) currently slightly ahead of Tatum (25.8-7.0-4.7) entering this contest. PG Kemba Walker didn't get on the court this season until Jan 17 and while he's averaged 16.4-3.7-4.0 in 13 games, Boston is only 5-8 in that span. Boston really misses Smart (13.1 & 6.) but has depth in the backcourt and the frontcourt.

On the injury front, Atlanta's Hunter remains with a knee injury. On the Boston side, Theis remains questionable but Walker is expected to be back. Brown scored 22 points Wednesday but he is dealing with knee soreness (??). Predicting (guessing?) which players "play or don't play" in situations like Brown is an impossible task (often are game-time decisions). I'll back Boston in this bounce-back spot, as Atlanta's Wednesday win ended a SEVEN-game losing streak against the Celtics and was the first Atlanta win in Boston since April 8, 2018.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the LA Lakers at 10:05 ET.

The Brooklyn Nets played without Durant (hamstring) and Irving (back) in Tuesday's 128-124 win at the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. It was the team's fourth straight win and at 18-12, the Nets have moved past the slumping Bucks, who have lost four in a row to fall to 16-12. Brooklyn is now with 1 1/2-games on the East-leading 76ers 19-10) as they visit Staples Center to take on the defending champion Lakers. LA lost back-to-back road games at Philly and Detroit (Jan 27 & 28) but have since won EIGHT of nine which leaves them at 22-7 (behind only the Jazz, who NEVER lose!).

KD (29.0-7.3-5.3) and Kyrie (28.3-4.6-5.7) have missed 11 and 10 games. They are both listed as day-to-day, which is at best, questionable. However, their absence didn't prevent Harden from leading a big second-half rally Tuesday at Phoenix. Harden (24.3-8.4-11.8 in his 16 games with the Nets). Harden had 38 points, hitting five 3-pointers, with 11 assists and seven rebounds. Joe Harris (14.9) added 22 points, Jeff Green (9.7 & 3.7) collected 18 points and eight rebounds and Tyler Johnson (4.5) also converted five 3-pointers to chip in 17 points.

The Lakers welcome the Nets to town without A.D. (22.5 & 8.4), who is expected to be sidelined until after next month's All-Star break. The Lakers won 112-104 on Tuesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves as LBJ (25.7-8.2-7.9) had 30 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists, while the team's off-season additions PG Dennis Schroder (14.2-3.6-4.3) and PF Montrezl Harrell (13.3 & 6.3) contributed 24 and 17 points, respectively. Kuzma (10.8 & 6.0) took AD's spot in the starting lineup and as usual, Gasol (4.2 & 4.2) started at center and Caldwell-Pope (8.5) at shooting guard. A trio of guards (Horton-Tucker, Caruso and Matthews) combine to average 17.5 PPG plus PF Morris adds 4.6 & 2.5.LA is BETTER than it was last season! Lakers head coach Frank Vogel believes the Lakers' depth will help overcome Davis' absence.

The Nets trailed by as much as 24 points against Phoenix but outscored the Suns 74-49 in the second half. The Nets trailed 124-116 after a three-pointer by Chris Paul with 2:48 remaining but Harden and Green sparked a 12-0 run to clinch the victory. This just in. The Suns are NOT the Lakers. The Lakers are holding opponents to 105.8 PPG (2nd) on 44.9% shooting (4th), including 34.8% on threes (3rd). The Nets are the top-scoring team in the NBA at 121.7 PPG (also lead by making 50.2% of their FGs) but will VERY likely be short-handed. The Nets allow 117.9 PPG (28th), which is 12 PPG more than the Lakers. I WON'T buck the Lakers here!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Mil Bucks at 7:35 ET.

The Toronto Raptors won 124-113 at Milwaukee on Tuesday, led by 33 points from Fred VanVleet (20.4-4.2-6.4) and 23 from Pascal Siakam (20.6-7.8-4.5). PG Kyle Lowry (17.7-5.4-6.4) chipped in with 18 points in just 22 minutes before calling it a night early in the third quarter because of pain in his left ankle. He is listed as questionable for this rematch on Thursday night. For the Bucks, they won FIVE straight (also 5-0 ATS) to open February and many (most?) felt that the team was starting to find the form that led to Milwaukee owning the NBA's best record in each of the last two regular seasons. However, starting with a 125-124 loss in Phoenix on Feb 10, the Bucks will take the court on a FOUR-game losing streak (also 0-4 ATS) and at 16-12, have fallen behind both Brooklyn (18-12) and Philly (19-10) in the East.

Toronto won the NBA title two seasons ago and last season, only Milwaukee owned a better regular season record than the Raptors. However, the team opened the current season 2-8 and while the Raptors have gone 11-7 since that awful start, the team is still an underachieving 13-15 on the season as the All Star break approaches. The good news is the SF Anunoby is back after missing 10 games and his 14.6 PPG and 5.9 RPG are needed. The 6-9 Boucher (13.6 & 6.8) is having his "best season" (he averaged just 6.6 PPG last season, his previous high) plus Powell (16.3) has played both SG and SF.

The Bucks played without Jrue Holiday (16.4-4.8-5.4) on Tuesday, as he missed his fifth straight game in COVID-19 protocol (Bucks are 1-4 in those games). He is eligible to play on Thursday but that doesn't mean he will. Forbes (9.5) has stepped into his starting role to average 12.4 PPG but his scoring off the bench has been missed. Milwaukee has all the talent needed in starters Antetokounmpo (28.2-11.4-5.8), Middleton (20.3-5.8-5.8), Lopez (10.8 & 5.1) and DiVincenzo (9.9 & 4.5) plus the 6-10 Portis (11.8 & 7.3) as been excellent off the bench. Forbes will start again if Holiday is a "no-go" or will join fellow reserves Connaughton (6.0 & 3.8) and Augustin (5.9) off the bench. 

I've had a 'hit or miss' relationship with the Bucks this season but this one sure seems to have "B-L-O-W-O-U-T written all over it." I'm laying the points with Milwaukee.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker's Error Game of the Month is on the GS Warriors at 10:05 ET.

The Miami Heat made a great run last season in the Orlando 'bubble,' reaching the NBA Finals before losing four games to two against the LA Lakers. The Heat's 16-5 ATS record was easily the best of any team in the postseason. However, the current season has not gone smoothly, as the Heat are not only just 11-6 but their 9-17-1 ATS record (34.6%) is an NBA-worst! Golden State's story is well-known, as after FIVE straight appearances in the Finals, the Warriors lost Kevin Durant and Andre Iguodala to sign-and-trades, Shaun Livingston retired and Klay Thompson sat out the entire season with a knee injury. The result was the NBA's worst record (15-50). Thompson then blew out his Achilles this offseason while rehabbing from knee surgery, so expectations were again low. However, the Warriors have been a pleasant surprise by going a respectable 15-13. 

The Heat basically returned their entire roster intact from last year's run to the Finals but Miami will visit Golden State (fourth contest of a SEVEN-game road trip) with only the East's 10th-best record. Miami had one game canceled in January and struggled to suit up the NBA-minimum number of healthy bodies several other times but currently has no players absent due to COVID reasons. However, guards Dragic (14.4 & 5.3 APG) and Bradley (8.5 PPG and an excellent defender) are both out with ankle and calf injuries, respectively. Butler (19.9-7.4-7.1) has excellent numbers but has missed 12 games but he's back in the lineup now and joined by FIVE more double digit scorers. The best of the bunch are the 6-9 Adebayo (19.8-9.4-5.3) and second-year guard Herro (17.3-5.8-3.9), who was terrific down the stretch in last season's playoffs. That said, Miami remains 11-16 and 9-17-1 ATS.

The Warriors are coming off a 129-98 home beatdown of the Cavs on Monday, as Steph Curry had 36 points in 30 minutes and Draymond Green recorded a career-high-tying 16 assists to pace the win. Curry's (30.1-5.3-5.9) is having a terrific season and Green (5.2-5.6-8.3) has lately started at center with 1st-round pick James Wiseman (12.2 & 6.1) sidelined with a wrist injury. SF Wiggins (17.5 & 4.6) has found a 'home' in the Bay Area plus fellow SF Oubre (13.9 & 4.6) has lately been more of a SG, paired in the backcourt with Curry. Joining Monday's starting lineup with the above four was Toscano-Anderson (6.9 & 4.9) plus second-year forward Paschall (10.0) plus vets Lee (6.5) and Bazemore (6.4) contributed off the bench.

Curry admitted after the romp over Cleveland that he's frustrated by the fact that the Warriors keep beating the league's weaker clubs (10-2 against teams under .500) yet struggle against the heavyweights (5-11 against teams .500 and above). For the Warriors to make and survive in the playoffs that will have to change but for the HERE and NOW, don't the Heat fall into the category of "one of the league's weaker teams?" See above for a reminder.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Bos Celtics at 7:05 ET.

The Denver Nuggets earned the title of "Comeback Kids' in last season's playoffs in the 'bubble' but opened the current season just 1-4. Denver then won 11 of 15 and ended January at 12-8. However, the Nuggets opened February with THREE straight losses, before winning three in a row after its impressive 122-105 home win over the Lakers on Sunday. However, the 15-11 Nuggets are no closer to the West's No. 3 seed (Clippers), as they are ahead of the West's No. 14 seed (Rockets). Denver is 4 1/2 back of the LA Clippers and 4 1/2 games ahead of Houston (14th of 15 West teams).

The Nuggets open a four-game road trip Tuesday in Boston against the Celtics. Boston opened the current season 8-3 but are just 5-10 since and at 13-13 has fallen behind the East's No. 1 seed (Philly) by four games, while leading the East's No. seed (Chicago) by just two games. Boston's fast start has long faded and a team that was considered a real contender to win the Eastern Conference is .500 and mulling trade options as the deadline approaches.

Denver has as much quality depth as any team but SG Gary Harris (10.1) has missed straight  with a left adductor strain, PJ Dozier (hamstring) will likely miss a few more games with his hamstring, swingman Barton (11.6-3.7-3.2) didn't play Sunday for personal reasons plus starting PF Paul Millsap (10.4 & 5.2) missed the second half of the Lakers game with a left knee sprain. Center Jokic (26.3-11.5-8.7). Jokic had his sixth triple-double in the win, PG Jamal Murray (18.5-4.4-4.4) had 25 points and SF Porter, who missed 10 games from late-Dec through late-Jan is back contributing 14.5 & 6.9 on the season.

Boston's 'Dynamic' duo of Brown and Tatum had been the team's top-two producers, with Brown (26.0-5.7-3.4) currently slightly ahead of Tatum (25.6-7.1-5.4) entering this contest. PG Kemba Walker didn't get on the court this season until Jan 17 and while he averaged 16.3-9-4.0 in 12 games, Boston is only 4-8 in that span. Boston really misses Smart (13.1 & 6.) but has depth in the backcourt and the frontcourt.

Boston is a disappointment but is NOT a .500 team. Perfect spot to step up tonight against the Nuggets, coming off that big wo=in over the Lakers!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* "Best of the Best" Division Game of the Year (Central) is on the Ind Pacers at 7:05 ET.

The Indiana Pacers ran into the Miami Heat in the first round of last season's playoffs and got swept 4-0 by the team that would make it all the way to the NBA Finals. As for the Chicago Bulls, they failed to even make the Orlando 'bubble' with a 22-43 record prior to the shut down. Even more troubling was the fact that last season's winning percentage (.338) was better than Chicago's previous full season, when the team went 22-60 (.268) and 27-55 (.329). The last three seasons have been quite a fall from grace for a franchise that had made 11 playoff appearances in its previous 13 seasons.

Chicago opened the current season 7-8 but owned the NBA's best ATS record (11-4) during that 15-game start. However, Chicago enters this contest on a 3-7 SU & ATS run. Zach LaVine (28.1-5.4-5.3) and second-year PG White (15.6-4.6-5.4) form an outstanding backcourt, with LaVine entering this contest having led the Bulls in scoring in each of the team's previous SIX games (32.7 PPG!). Chicago's most recent game was a 125-106 loss in LA vs the Clippers and injuries have taken a toll on this team. The 6-10 Wendell Carter Jr. (12.8 & 8.0) hasn't played since Jan 18 because of a bruised right quad. SF Otto Porter Jr. (11.6 & 6.3) has missed SIX consecutive games with back spasms and the 7-0 Lauri Markkanen (19.1 & 6.1) has missed his four straight games with a right shoulder sprain. All FIVE of the above-mentioned players are first-round draft picks!

Oladipo (20.0 PPG) is gone in a trade and his expected replacement (LeVert) has a medical issue that will keep him out for the remainder of the season plus SF Warren, who averaged 15.5 PPG in the season's 1st four games, has not played since. However, the Pacers but there is still enough talent to go around. PG Brogdon (21.1-4.3-6.3) and PF Sabonis (20.8-11.5-5.6) are playing at an All Star level plus center Turner averages 13.5 & 6.8, while leading the NBA in blocks (3.4 per). McDermott is now starting and averaging 13.3 PPG on 51.5 percent shooting. The Holidays, Justin (11.4 & 4.0) and Aaron (7.3) have both been solid plus Lamb's return from injury is a BIG deal. He has averaged 12.1 PPG (on 50.9% shooting) in his 14 games back since tearing his ACL last February.

Indiana scored 41 points in the fourth quarter on Saturday night to rally to a 125-113 road win over the Atlanta Hawks and now look for a third straight win tonight against the Bulls, who as noted earlier, are FAR from 100 percent healthy. The Pacers have yet to go on a 'run' and even so, their 14-13 record gives them the East's current No. 4, just TWO games back of the second-seeded Bucks. Watch out for this Indiana team.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Western Conference Game of the Month is on the Den Nuggets at 10:05 ET.

The Los Angeles Lakers sit atop the Pacific Division at 21-6, two games up on the Clippers and four up on the Suns. Yes, LA has won seven in a row but things have hardly gone smoothly for the Lakers plus the defending champs also find themselves one game behind the blistering hot Utah Jazz (Jazz have won 18 of 19 and are 22-5). The Denver Nuggets earned the title of "Comeback Kids' in last season's playoffs in the 'bubble,' but opened the current season just 1-4. Denver then won 11 of 15 and ended January at 12-8. However, the Nuggets opened February with THREE straight losses, before posting back-to-back wins. They welcome the Lakers to Pepsi Center at 14-11, leaving them as the West's No. 7 seed and dangerously close to the postseason 'cut line!'

The Lakers began a seven-game road trip back on Jan 21 and won the first three games, before losing 107-106 at Philly, ending their 10-0 start to the season on the road. LA finished that road trip 5-2 (winning the final two games) and returned home to beat the Nuggets 114-93 on Feb 4. FOUR more home wins followed, so LA will take a seven-game winning streak into Denver (more in a bit). LBJ (25.8-7.9-7.9) hasn't missed a game, while A.D. (22.9 & 8.6), the other Half of LA's "Dynamic Duo," has missed five. He was back on the court (Achilles' issue) on Friday and scored 35 points. The Lakers have gotten a HUGE boost from PG Schroder (14.1-3.8-4.4) and PF Harrell (13.5 & 6.3 in 25 MPG off the bench). Those off-season additions are joined by returning guard Caldwell-Pope (8.6 ) and SF Kuzma (10.7 & 6.0), who continue to be regular contributors.

Denver is led by center Jokic (26.7-11.3-8.6) who gets better each season. He's surrounded by one of the NBA's deepest rosters, led by PG Murray (18.3-4.0-4.4). PF Porter (14.9 & 6.2) missed 10 games because of health protocols but is back. Swingman Barton (11.6-3.7-3.3), PG Morris (11.0 & 3.4 APG), PF Green (10.1 & 6.3 in 21 MPG off the bench), PF Millsap (10.4 & 5.2) and SG Harris (10.1) all score in double digits. All but Harris (adductor strain) are "good to go" in this one.

I mentioned things not going smoothly for LA and let me explain. The Lakers returned from their road trip to beat the Nuggets 114-93 but trailed by 12 at the half, before outscoring Denver by 33 points in the second half. That game was followed by a double-OT win over then sad-sack Pistons, then back-to-back OT wins over OKC. A quick glance at Friday's 115-105 win over Memphis does NOT reveal that LA fell behind the Grizzlies 22-2 (yes, that's right!) to open the game! Denver HAS to view this as a "statement game" plus who knows when Anthony Davis' sore Achilles will act up and force him to miss a game? A.D> or not, I'm backing the small home dog.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekend Wipeout is on the Dal Mavs at 7:35 ET.

The Portland Trail Blazers have won THREE in a row and FIVE of their last six as they open a three-game road trip Sunday in Dallas, facing a Mavericks' team coming in on its own hot streak. The Mavericks have won FOUR straight and FIVE of six. The Blazers are 15-10 (current No. 5 seed in the West) and the Mavs are 13-14, still ONE game back of the No. 8 seeded Warriors.

The Trail Blazers remain without CJ McCollum (26.7 PPG), who last played on Jan 16 due to a foot injury. Post players Zach Collins and Jusuf Nurkic (9.8 & 7.7 in 12 games) are also out with ankle and wrist injuries, respectively. Lillard (29.0-4.4-7.2) leads the way with Trent (14.8) starting in the palace of McCollum and Kanter (11.5 & 11.1) stepping in for Nurkic. Then there is Carmelo Anthony (13.5 PPG), who continues to provide excellent scoring off the bench. 

Dallas finally has its full complement of players on the roster again after the return of Maxi Kleber (7.0 & 5.3), who had missed 11 games in health and safety protocols. Starting alongside Doncic (28.5-8.7-9.4) and Porzingis (20.7 & 8.3) are guard Richardson (12.8) plus forwards Finney-Smith (8..8 & 4.9) and Kleber. SF Hardaway comes off the bench to average 16.8 PPG plus guards Brunson (11.7) and Burke (8.2) add more 'punch' off the bench. 

The Mavericks lost six straight from the end of January into the beginning of February as noted above, have won five of six, including FOUR straight. I had Dallas in its 143-130 Friday win over New Orleans and wrote the following, "It's hard for me to understand why Dallas is just 12-14 but there are REAL signs that things are about to change!" Dallas has averaged 130.5 PPG in its four-game winning streak and I'm 'riding' them again here!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Pho Suns at 3:05 ET.

The Philadelphia 76ers are playing their third contest of a four-game road trip when they visit the Suns this afternoon in Phoenix. Philly opened the trip with a win in Sacramento but lost 118-114 at Portland on Thursday and now finished the trip Saturday in Phoenix and Monday in Utah. The Jazz are currently the NBA's 'hottest' (best?) team, with a 212-5 record after winning 17 of their last 18. However, looking past the Suns would be a mistake, as Phoenix is 15-9 after winning SEVEN of eight, including FOUR straight.

Joel Embiid used a strict offseason conditioning program and it seems to have worked well. He has missed five of the 26 games but has been dominant when on the court, averaging 29.4 & 10.9. PF Harris (20.1 & 7.4) joins him as a 20-point scorer plus while Simmons' scoring is slightly down (14.0 PPG), his overall game has been very good (8.3 RPG and 8.0 APG). Rookie Maxey (8.8) plus vets Danny Green (8.7) and center Dwight Howard (5.8 & 7.7 in 17 MPG) have each played all 26 games, while Seth Curry (12.8) is back healthy. However, Philly could be missing guard Milton (14.0) due to an ankle injury.

The Suns surprised all with their 8-0 SU & ATS performance in the Orlando 'bubble' to end last season and made a key offseason move designed to put an end to the team's 10-season playoff drought by signing PG Chris Paul. The Suns opened 5-1 but in games played through Jan 27 were just 8-8. However, Phoenix is back playing well and enters this contest winners of SEVEN of its last eight and at 15-9, the Suns currently own the West's No. 4 seed. Devin Booker missed a handful of games with a hamstring injury but he's back (23.8-3.7-4.3 on the season). Paul missed his first game of the season last Monday but returned the next game to score 28 points in a win over Milwaukee. The vet is averaging 16.9-4.5-8.1 on the season (EXACTLY as Phoenix had hoped. 6-11 center Ayton (14.1 & 12.6) has been both consistent AND healthy, delivering 15 double-doubles. Former first round picks Bridges (14.5 & 5.5) and Johnson (11.3 & 3.8) have made HUGE strides this season. SF Crowder was another key off-season addition and is averaging 10.1 & 5.0.

Philly is a dominant 11-2 at home but just 7-6 on the road and as noted, the Suns are playing VERY well. An "under the radar move" should be noted, as PF Frank Kaminsky was inserted into the starting lineup four games ago with the Suns going 4-0 SU and ATS. Kaminsky has averaged 11.8 & 6.8 in those four games plus in the last two, has also handed out 13 assists. I'm 'riding' the Suns to another "W."

Good luck...Larry

My 10* "Signature" 37-Club Play is on the Mil Bucks at 9:05 ET.

The Milwaukee Bucks have owned the NBA's best regular season in each of the last two seasons, going 60-22 and 56-17. However, the Bucks have flopped in the playoffs each time. Milwaukee had won FIVE in a row (had scored at least 123 in each of its victories while winning by an average margin of 20.8 points) before its Wednesday game in Phoenix. The Bucks scored 124 points that game but allowed 125 to the Suns. Milwaukee is now 16-9, second-best in the East (1 1/2 games back of Philly which is 18-8) but its winning percentage of .640 is nowhere near the .748 of the last two regular seasons. 

The Utah Jazz lost back-to-back games on Jan 5 and 6 and were just 4-4. However, beginning on Jan 8 (more on this game later), the Jazz would rip off 11 consecutive wins (also going 11-0 ATS) before losing 128-117 at Denver on Jan 31. Utah did not let that loss linger, as the Jazz have opened February with FIVE straight wins and the team's lone ATS loss in that span was when they beat the Pistons by 12 points while laying 12 1/2-points! Doing the math, the Jazz welcome the Bucks to Salt Lake City's Vivint Arena 16-1 SU and 15-2 ATS their last 17 games!

The Bucks starting-five has been excellent, led by forwards Antetokounmpo (28.1-11.1-5.6) and Middleton (20.7-6.0-6.2). Jrue Holiday (16.4-4.8-5.4) has made all forget about Bledsoe plus center Lopez (10.7 & 5.2) is rounding into form while DiVincenzo (9.7 & 4.5) has been a solid complement in the backcourt to Holiday. The 6-10 Portis averages 11.1 & 7.5 in about 22 minutes off the bench, while guards Forbes (9.4), Augustin (6.0) and Connaughton (5.5 & 3.7) give this team excellent backcourt depth. The Bucks came VERY close to bringing a six-game winning streak into Utah but lost 125-124 to the Suns on Wednesday, when Giannis Antetokounmpo's jumper went awry at the buzzer. Antetokounmpo finished with 47 points to lead the Bucks, who were playing without Jrue Holiday. The guard missed his second game in a row due to the NBA's health and safety protocols for COVID-19. According to head coach Mike Budenholzer, "He's in a good place and he's taking care of himself," the Bucks coach said about Holiday. "But he has an eye on the team, too." Forbes has taken his place in the starting lineup and has averaged 16.0 PPG!

The Jazz might also be without one of their key players in PG Mike Conley (16.5-3.7-6.8), who has missed two consecutive games with a strained right hamstring and is considered day-to-day. However, Like Milwaukee, Utah has the depth needed to 'cover' Conley's absence. Stepping into the starting lineup has been Ingles, who is averaging 10.7-3.6-4.6 on the season. All Star guard Mitchell (24.0-4.3-5.1) leads Utah in scoring and the trio of Bogdanovich (15.9 & 4.0), Gobert (13.4 & 13.5) and O'Neale (7.9 & 6.6) complete the starting-five. Sixth-man Clarkson (17.4 & 4.3) has been terrific all season and the return of PF Favors (6.0 & 5.7) has been a nice bonus.

When these teams met last season in Utah, the game was decided on the final play. Joe Ingles faked a pass to his right and then threw it to Bogdanovic near the left corner, one of his favorite spots. Ingles raised both his arms before the three-pointer even settled into the net, as Utah beat the Milwaukee Bucks 103-100. The defeat added to Milwaukee's woes in Utah, where the bucks have lost 18 consecutive games since their last road win over the Utah Jazz back on Oct 30, 2001. So why take the Bucks in this one? Getting back to Utah's Jan 8 win that began the team's current 16-1 SU (14-2 ATS) run came in Milwaukee, as the Jazz won 131-118. Utah shot 50.5% for the game, including making 25 three-pointers on 53 attempts! The Bucks shot just 44.9 percent, including an awful 31.0 percent on 42 three-point attempts. Milwaukee is off a hard-luck loss and HAS to view this contest as a "statement" game. Milwaukee is the NBA's top-scoring team (121.4 PPG) plus ranks second in both overall FG percentage (49.4%) and three-point percentage (40.2%). I had Denver over Utah on Jan 31 (Utah's ONLY loss in its last 17 games) and I'm "all over" Milwaukee in this one!

Good luck...Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout is on the Dal Mavs at 7:30 ET.

The Mavs went 43-32 last season, ending a three-year postseason drought and led by "All-World" Luka Doncic and 7-3 Kristaps Porzingis, expected to be playoff contenders for years to come. However, Dallas is just 12-14 so far and while the Mavs are just TWO games back of the final playoff spot in the West, they are also just ONE game better than the OKC Thunder, who own the second-worst record of the West's 15 teams. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans come to Dallas 11-13 (in a virtual tie with the Mavericks), despite the presence of Zion Williamson (23.8 PPG on 59.9% shooting with & 7.0 RPG) and Brandon  Ingram (23.7-5.5-4.6). The interesting pregame note is that Dallas has won three in a row and four of its last five. As for New Orleans, the Pelicans had won FOUR in a row before losing 129-116 in Chicago on Wednesday. 

The Pelicans were completing a back-to-back Wednesday in Chicago, after a 130-101 home victory against Houston on Tuesday. They held an eight-point halftime lead before the Bulls outscored them 40-14 in the third quarter. The Bulls made a franchise-record 25 three-pointers and it wasn't the first time New Orleans has had trouble defending three-pointers. The game against Chicago was the EIGHTH game in which the Pelicans have allowed 18 or more three-pointers. Ingram (see above) came to New Orleans in the Anthony Davis trade with LA, along with Lonzo Ball (13.9-4.4-4.7) who starts at guard alongside Bledsoe (13.2) and Hart (8.5* 7.8) who comes off the bench. Center Steven Adams (8.3 & 9.3) is the fifth starter.

Dallas finally has its full complement of players on the roster again after the return of Maxi Kleber (7.1 & 5.3) on, who had missed 11 games in health and safety protocols. Starting alongside Doncic (27.8-8.7-9.3) and Porzingis (19.7 & 8.3) are guard Richardson (12.9) plus forwards Finney-Smith (8.5 7 4.9) and Kleber. SF Hardaway comes off the bench to average 17.2 PPG plus guards Brunson (11.6) and Burke (8.4) add more 'punch' off the bench. There was even a Willie Cauley-Stein 'sighting,' who head coach Rick Carlisle had not played in the last two games, in Wednesday's 118-117 win over the Hawks. Cauley-Stein (6.0 & 4.7) had 14 points (on 5-of-6 shooting) and six rebounds in 23 minutes.

It's hard for me to understand why Dallas is just 12-14 but there are REAL signs that things are "about to change." New Orleans was scheduled to visit Dallas for the first meeting this season on Jan 11 but that game was postponed because of COVID-19 issues with the Mavericks. Be advised that the Mavs swept the FOUR-game series with the Pelicans  last season. Same old, same old here!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the Bos Celtics at 7:35 ET.

The Toronto Raptors were the 2019 NBA champions and last season, entered the postseason as the East's No. 2 seed with a 53-19 record, despite losing Kawhi Leonard to the Clippers as a free agent. Note that the Raptors' record last season put them just 2 1/2-games back of the Bucks and was a half-game BETTER than the West's No. 1 seed, and eventual NBA champion Lakers! However, the Raptors opened the current season 2-8 (3-7 ATS). Toronto was still just 7-12 through Jan 29 but visits Boston winners of FIVE of its last six to reach 12-13.

The Boston Celtics opened the current season 8-3 but are just 4-8 since and at 12-11 have fallen behind the East's top-two teams. Philly is 18-7 and Milwaukee is 16-9 plus Brooklyn is 15-12. The Celtics are now the No. 4 seed and are just ONE game up on Toronto and Indiana! Boston is back home, after losing the final two contests of a five-game road trip to finish 2-3. These rivals met Jan 4 in Tampa (current 'home' of the Raptors), winning 126-114.

The Raptors routed the Wizards 137-115 on Wednesday, as they made 19 three-pointers, Kyle Lowry leading the way with five. Norman Powell scored 28 points and Pascal Siakam added 26 for Toronto, which led by as many as 24 points in the dominant victory. The offense is growing," Toronto head coach Nick Nurse said. "We're not going through too many lulls." He's right about that, as Toronto has surpassed 120 points in each of their past five games. VanVleet (20.7-4.3-6.4) and Lowry (17.0-5.7-6.7) comprise a dominant guard duo plus fellow guard Powell adds 15.8 PPG. PF Siakam (20.2-7.8-4.6) is now a bonafide All Star but Toronto has played its past EIGHT contests without the 6-7 Anunoby (14.6 & 5.9), who has been sidelined by a calf strain. Nurse said it was "50-50" whether the forward would be available against Boston.

The Celtics won the first meeting between the two teams (see above) but victory came during a five-game winning streak for Boston that preceded its recent rut. The team was without star forward Jayson Tatum for two weeks due to COVID-19, and his top scoring partner, Jaylen Brown, missed two games with a knee injury before returning to score 33 points in Monday's loss against NBA-leading Utah. Boston remains without Smart (13.1 & 6.1) due to a calf strain but Tatum (26.8-6.9-4.1) and Brown (26.7-5.6-3.4) are quite a one-two 'punch!' PG Walker (15.0-3.5-4.3) is rounding into shape and I expect Boston to get back to its winning ways.

The red-hot Raptors should get Boston's "full attention" and it's my bet that the Celtics are up to the task. Toronto's not just playing the second night of a back-to-back but this marks Toronto's SIXTH straight road game. The Raptors last played at 'home' (Tampa) back on Jan 31, meaning Toronto's been "on the road" for ALL of February. Lay the "more than reasonable" number.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Underdog of the Month is on the Pho Suns at 10:05 ET.

The Milwaukee Bucks have owned the NBA's best regular season in each of the last two seasons, going 60-22 and 56-17. However, the Bucks have flopped in the playoffs each time. Milwaukee visits Phoenix tonight on a five-game winning streak and the Bucks are now 16-8, second-best in the East (1 1/2 games back of Philly) but their winning percentage of .667 is nowhere near the .748 of the last two regular seasons. The Phoenix Suns surprised all with their 8-0 SU & ATS performance in the Orlando 'bubble' to end last season and made a key offseason move designed to put an end to the team's 10-season playoff drought by signing PG Chris Paul. The Suns opened 5-1 but in games played through Jan 27 were just 8-8. However, Phoenix is back playing well and enters this contest winners of SIX of its last seven. At 14-9, the Suns currently own the West's No. 4 seed.

The Bucks are 3-0 on a six-game road trip after posting a 125-112 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday and have won a season-best FIVE straight games. Milwaukee leads the NBA in scoring (121.3 PPG) plus ranks second in FG percentage (49.4) and third in three-point percentage (40.1). The offense has been pretty special during the winning streak, as the Bucks have scored at least 123 in each of their victories while winning by an average margin of 20.8 points. The Bucks starting-five have been excellent, led by forwards Antetokounmpo (27.3-11.1-5.6) and Middleton (20.8-56.1-6.0). Jrue Holiday (16.4-4.8-5.4) has made all forget about Bledsoe plus center Lopez (10.7 & 5.1) is rounding into form while DiVincenzo (9.7 & 4.4) has been a solid complement in the backcourt to Holiday. The 6-10 Portis averages 11.0 & 7.4 in about 22 minutes off the bench, while guards Forbes (9.1), Augustin (6.0) and Connaughton (5.8 & 3.9) give this team excellent backcourt depth.

Devin Booker missed a handful of games with a hamstring injury but he's back (23.5-3.6-4.3 on the season). Paul (16.4-4.7-8.5) has delivered and 6-11 center Ayton (14.0 & 12.8) has been both consistent AND healthy. Former first round picks Bridges (14.4 & 5.5) and Johnson (11.4 & 3.8) have made HUGE strides this season. The Suns beat the Cavs 119-113 at home on Monday, despite Chris Paul (hamstring) missing his first game of the season. Paul is questionable to play Wednesday. However, E'Twaun Moore moved into the starting lineup while Devin Booker picked up more of the playmaking responsibilities. It didn't affect Booker's play, as he poured in a season-high 36 points, matched his season best of five 3-pointers and added eight assists. As for Moore, he had a season-best 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting while playing 40 minutes.

Milwaukee has an issue at PG as well, as Jrue Holiday didn't play at Denver and it appears he will be sidelined for the rest of the road trip, if not longer, due to health and safety protocols. Milwaukee didn't clarify anything per Holiday's status but teammate Khris Middleton made comments after Monday's game that suggested the 30-year-old tested positive for COVID-19. The 119 points scored against Cleveland were the Suns' most since a 130-126 overtime loss against the Nuggets on Jan 22. Booker has topped 20 points in four of five games since returning from a hamstring injury and center Deandre Ayton contributed 15 points and 16 rebounds against Cleveland, giving him 15 double-doubles in 23 games this season. Two hot teams and with luck, Paul may play for Phoenix (we know Holiday won't play for the Bucks). I'm 'jumping all over' the home dog!

Good luck...Larry

 My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Utah Jazz at 10:05 ET.

The Boston Celtics opened the current season 8-3 but are just 4-7 since and at 12-9 have fallen behind the East's top-two teams. Philly is 17-7 and Milwaukee is 16-8. The Celtics opened their current five-game road trip with a 111-107 win at Golden St (Tue) but then lost 116-111 at Sacramento the following night. However, despite missing Jaylen Brown (26.4 & 5.5) and Marcus Smart (13.1 & 6.1 APG), they beat the Clippers 119-115 Friday night but then lost 100-91 at Phoenix on Super Bowl Sunday. Boston concludes its five-game road trip tonight in Salt Lake City against the Utah Jazz. The Jazz ripped off 11 straight wins both SU & ATS beginning on Jan 8 and not ending until they lost 128-117 in Denver on Jan 31. However, the Jazz welcome Boston to Vivint Arena having won FOUR in a row since that loss to Denver (lone non-cover was a 12-point win as a 12 1/2-point favorite!).

Jayson Tatum (27.0 & 7.1) has been back the last seven games (was out due to COVID protocols) and has 'not missed a beat' but Boston is just 3-4 in those games. PG Kemba Walker (15.9-3.4-4.0) didn't get on the court until Jan 17 and in his nine games, the Celtics are only 3-6. Smart (calf) is out for a while and Brown is questionable at best for this game (knee). Tristan Thompson (7.1 & 8.6) and Theis (7.1 & 8.6) usually start up front for Boston but Brad Stevens has recently used some different players up front (not much luck).

Utah PG Conley (16.5-3.7-6.8) has had an excellent season but could sit with hamstring injury. However, the Jazz inserted Ingles (10.1-3.6-4.5) into the starting lineup in Utah's last game and it was "business as usual. All Star guard Mitchell (23.5-4.3-4.9) leads Utah in scoring and the trio of Bogdanovich (15.9 & 3.8), Gobert (13.3 & 13.5) and O'Neale (7.9 & 6.8) complete the starting-five. Sixth-man Clarkson (17.5) has been terrific all season and the return of Favors (6.1 & 5.8) has been a nice bonus.

This will be Boston's FIFTH road game in eight days and will be without Smart and quite possibly Brown. Recapping, Utah has won 15 of its last 16, going 14-2 ATS! I see NO reason to 'step in front of that train,' especially at this reasonable price.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Mil Bucks at 9:35 ET.

The Milwaukee Bucks have owned the NBA's best regular season in each of the last two seasons, going and. However, the Bucks have flopped in the playoffs each time. Milwaukee visits Denver tonight on a four-game winning streak and the Bucks are now 15-8, second-best in the East (1 1/2 games back of Philly) but their winning percentage of .652 is nowhere near the .748 of the last two regular seasons. The Nuggets were the "Comeback Kids" of last season's playoffs but opened the current season just 1-4. However, Denver responded with an 11-4 run. However, the Nuggets are off back-to-back losses and at 12-10, are SIX games back of the West's No. 1 seed (Utah) but just ONE game better than the West's No. 10 seed.

The Bucks starting-five have been excellent, led by forwards Antetokounmpo (27.1-11.2-5.8) and Middleton (20.4-5.8). Jrue Holiday (16.4-4.8-5.4) has made all forget about Bledsoe plus center Lopez (10.6 & 5.0) is rounding into form while DiVincenzo (9.5 & 4.3) has been a solid complement in the backcourt to Holiday. The 6-10 Portis averages 11.2 & 7.2 in about 22 minutes off the bench, while guards Forbes (8.8), Augustin (6.1) and Connaughton (5.9 & 4.0) give this team excellent backcourt depth.

Denver center Nikola Jokic had 47 points in Denver last win (home to Utah on Jan 31) and then in a loss at Sacramento two games later, scored a career-high 50 points. He's having a spectacular season, averaging 27.2-11.5-8.6. PG Murray (19.0-4.0-4.5) had a breakout postseason and continues to play at an All Star level, The 6-10 Porter (15.2 & 6.4) has missed 10 games but is now back, giving Denver quite a trio. Denver also features as much quality depth as any team, as SIX other players are averaging between 7.1 and 11.0 PPG. However, SG Harris (10.1), the team's best perimeter defender, is out with a left adductor strain and Murray is listed day-to-day with a knee problem (he missed Denver's last game).

 My 10* East/West Conf Game of the Month is on the Pho Suns at 2:05 ET.

The Boston Celtics opened the current season 8-3 but are just 4-6 since and at 12-9 have fallen behind the East's top-two teams. Philly is 17-7 and Milwaukee is 15-8. The Celtics opened their current five-game road trip with a 111-107 win at Golden St (Tue) but then lost 116-111 at Sacramento the following night. However, despite missing Jaylen Brown (26.4 & 5.5) and Marcus Smart (13.1 & 6.1 APG), they beat the Clippers 119-155 Friday night. Yes, the Clippers played without Paul George but LA did shoot 51.9% from the floor!

The Phoenix Suns surprised all with their 8-0 SU & ATS performance in the Orlando 'bubble' to end last season and made a key offseason move designed to put an end to the team's 10-season playoff drought. by signing PG Chris Paul. The Suns opened 5-1 but in games played through Jan 27 were just 8-8. However, Phoenix is back playing well and enters this contest winners of FOUR of its last five. At 12-9, the Suns currently own the West's No. 4 seed.

Jayson Tatum (27.3 & 7.3) has been back the last six games (was out due to COVID protocols) and has 'not missed a beat.' However, as noted at the top, Brown and Smart are sidelined. Booker missed a handful of games with a hamstring injury but he's back (23.1 PPG on the season). Paul (16.4-4.7-8.5) has delivered and 6-11 center Ayton (13.9 & 12.8) has been both consistent AND healthy. Former first round picks Bridges (13.9 & 5.4) and Johnson (11.3 & 3.7) have made HUGE strides this season.

Coming off its surprising win over the Clippers, the less than 100% Celtics face a tough spot here against a Phoenix team beginning to look like a real playoff contender. "The Price is Right" on the Suns.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout of the Month is on the Dal Mavs at 8:35 ET.

The injury-plagued Golden State Warriors go for a two-game sweep of the host Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night. Golden State was forced to play small with its three centers and top reserve forward injured. However, they outshot and even outrebounded the Mavericks in a 147-116 romp in the opener of this three-day, two-game set on Thursday. Kelly Oubre Jr, who has been a disappointment this season, scored a career-best 40 points, as all five Golden St starters (plus two reserves), scored in double digits. Dallas stayed with the Warriors at the half (actually led 76-74) but while the Mavs were able to score just 40 points in the second half (20 points each in the 3rd and 4th quarters), the Warriors had a 73-point second half!

The Mavs went 43-32 last season, ending a three-year postseason drought and led by the "All-World" Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis, expected to be playoff contenders for years to come. Dallas had lost NINE of 11, including SIX consecutive games SU & ATS, before winning 122-116 in Atlanta on Wednesday. However, Dallas lost for the 10th time in its last 13 games when it got blown out at home by the Warriors Thursday night (see above).

Golden St not only outshot Dallas on Thursday (57.3%, including 51.2% on threes while making 23 of 27 FTs), the Warriors also outrebounded them 45-42. Rookie center Wiseman (12.2 && 65.1) is out for a while with a wrist injury and PF Paschall (10.0 PPG off the bench) is at best, day-to-day. Curry (28.2-5.5-6.1), SF Wiggins (17.7 & 4.7) and Oubre (13.3 & 5.5) will be the lone double digit scorers on the court tonight for the Warriors.

Meanwhile, Dallas finally has its full complement of players on the roster again after the return of Maxi Kleber (6.6 & 5.5) this past Monday, who had missed 11 games in health and safety protocols. Starting alongside Doncic (27.2-8.8-9.4) and Porzingis (19.6 & 8.2) are guard Richardson (12.5) plus forwards Finney-Smith (8.6) and Kleber. SF Hardaway comes off the bench to average 17.2 PPG plus guards Brunson (11.8) and Burke (9.1) add more 'punch' off the bench. 

Hard to understand why Dallas is just 9-14 (2nd-worst record in the West), while the Warriors are 12-10 (current No. 7 seed). However, as Bill Parcells once opined, "You are who your record says you are." That, I'm NOT 'buying' into Dallas owning a  worse record by year's end than Golden St. Quick turnaround AND "payback" delivers a convincing Dallas win tonight.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* ESPN Game of the Month is on the LA Clippers at 10:05 ET.

The Boston Celtics opened the current season 8-3 but are just 3-6 since and not playing nearly as well as the Eastern Conference's top-three teams, Philadelphia, Milwaukee and Brooklyn. The Celtics will be in Staples Center tonight to play the middle contest of a five-game road against the LA Clippers. The Clippers began the season with a season-opening 116-109 over the Lakers but after 10 games, were just 6-4. However, the Clippers have won 11 of 13 since to reach 17-6 and are now tied with the Lakers for the second-best record in the West (Utah Jazz are 17-5).

The Celtics opened their current road trip with a 111-107 win at Golden St (Tue) but then lost 116-111 at Sacramento the following night. Jayson Tatum (26.8-7.3-4.1) has been back the last five games (was out due to COVID protocols) but while he's averaged 26.6 PPG in that span, Boston has gone just 2-3. He joins Jaylen Brown (26.4-5.5-3.6) to give Boston a 'Dynamic Duo' but the Celtics played Wednesday night without Kemba Walker (rest), Marcus Smart (calf) and rookie Payton Pritchard (knee). Smart (13.1 & 6.1 APG) and Pritchard (7.7) will NOT play tonight and the status of Walker (15.0 & 4.3 APG) is at best, questionable. BTW...Walker got a late start to the season due to an injury and in the seven games he's played, the Celtics are just 2-5!

The Clippers won SIX consecutive home games through the middle of January then began a six-game road trip. The trip started with stars Kawhi Leonard (26.2-5.3-5.3) and Paul George (24.4-6.2-5.5) in COVID-19 health and safety protocols. They each missed two games on the trip but had a combined 60 points in a 121-99 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday to end the trip 4-2. New additions Ibaka and Batum have each missed just ONE game, while starting the other 22. Ibaka is averaging 12.3 & 6.7, while Batum adds 10.2 & 4.7. PG Patrick Beverley (8.1 & 4.4 APG) will miss his seventh straight game (right knee soreness) but the Clippers have managed without him because of the team's excellent depth. In the backcourt it's Williams (9.4), Kennard (8.1) and Jackson (8.0) plus up front it's SF Morris (11.1 & 3.6) and center Zubac (7.6 & 6.3).

 Expect the Los Angeles Clippers to get reacquainted with their home floor seamlessly and win "with room to spare!"

Good luck...Larry

My 10* TNT Game of the Month is on the LA Lakers at 10:05 ET.

Los Angeles completed a 5-2 road trip by beating the Atlanta Hawks 107-99 on Monday. Anthony Davis scored 25 points on 10-of-14 shooting with three blocks, and LeBron James contributed 21 points, nine assists and seven rebounds for the Lakers. LA returns home winners of 10 of 13 games, giving them a 16-6 overall record. Visiting Staples Center tonight will be the "Comeback Kids" of last season's playoffs, the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets opened the current season just 1-4 but come to LA having gone 11-4 since that poor start and as winners of SIX of their last seven.

Denver's most recent win was this past Sunday, when the Nuggets ended Utah's 11-game winning streak with a 128-117 win over the Jazz at Pepsi Center. Nikola Jokic tied a career-high with 47 points on 17-of-26 shooting, making all four of his three-pointers. He also had 12 rebounds and five assists. Jokic is having a superb season, averaging 26.8-11.8-8.6. PG Murray (18.9-4.0-4.4) had a breakout postseason and continues to play at an All Star level, The Porter (16.6 & 6.5) has missed 10 games but has been back for the last sis and gives Denver quite a trio. Denver also features as much quality depth as any team, as SIX other players are averaging between 7.1 and 11.1 PPG, although SG Harris (10.1), the team's best perimeter defender, will miss due to the left adductor strain he suffered in Sunday's game.

It's an accepted fact that LBY (25.0-7.7-7.5) and A'D, (22.3 & 8.7) are as good as any NBB duo but LA's really been helped by the addition of starting PG Schroder (13.6-3.6-4.2) and PF Harrell (13.2 & 6.3) coming off the bench. Also, don't dismiss returning players like Kuzma (9.9 & 5.7), Caldwell-pope (9.4), Horton-Tucker (6.7) and Caruso (5.6)

The Nuggets have been on a four-day break after Monday's home contest against the Detroit Pistons was postponed because the latter did not have the required eight players available due to the NBA's safety and health protocols. Meanwhile, LA's head coach Frank Vogel says his club remains a work in progress, despite owning one of the NBA's best records. The 16-6 Lakers have recently fallen behind the 17-6 Clippers and 16-5 Jazz and Denver surely got their attention with that win over Utah. "We'll continue to stick to our process and hopefully get better as the season goes along," Vogel said. Here's a good spot to "show what the team is made of." My bet says that LA wins "with room to spare!"

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Game of the Week is on the Dal Mavs at 7:35 ET.

The Mavs went 43-32 last season, ending a three-year postseason drought and led by the "All-World" Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis, expected to be playoff contenders for years to come. However, Dallas enters this contest having lost NINE of 11, including SIX consecutive games SU & ATS. Dallas sits 8-13 on the season, third-worst in the West. The Atlanta Hawks opened the current season off three straight losing ones (24-58, 29-53 and 20-47) but are currently 10-10, which would give them the No. 6 seed in the East if the season ended today.  

Dallas has to be desperate to end a frustrating six-game losing streak on Wednesday night, after Monday's 109-108 loss to Phoenix on Monday was decided by Devin Booker's three-pointer with 1.5 seconds left! The good news on Monday was that Dallas has its full complement of players on the roster again after the return of Maxi Kleber (6.9 & 5.4), who had missed 11 games in health and safety protocols. He produced two points and six rebounds in 18 minutes on Monday. Kleber and Kristaps Porzingis (18.6 & 8.2) were both in the starting lineup for the first time this season, as the Mavs used their 12th different starting combination this season. Doncic (27.3-9.0-9.4) and Dallas has excellent depth, as Hardaway (16.9), Richardson (12.9)and Brunson (11.5) all average in double digits. Burke (9.9) and Finney-Smith (8.5 & 4.4) just miss. 

PG Trae Young (26.9-4.2-9.0)  is the brightest star of Atlanta's young talent but don't discount Hunter (17.2-4.5-4.5), Collins (15.9 & 7.5), Reddish (11.9 & 4.4) and Hueter (11.3-3.8-3.4). Then there is former Houston center Clint Capela, who is averaging 13.8 & 14.4 on the season. The Hawks were missing No. 2 scorer De'Andre Hunter against LA, who was out after having a non-surgical procedure on his right knee on Sunday. He was replaced in the starting five by Cam Reddish, who played a solid defensive game against LeBron James. The Hawks went toe-to-toe with the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers on Monday before faltering in the final two minutes and losing 107-99. Atlanta continues to hold its own against the league's top teams, an indication of a potential breakthrough. However, the Atlanta players don't want to think in terms of a moral victory.

Tonight, the Mavericks just NEED a "W." Porzingis continues to work his way back from an October knee surgery. He was withheld from the lineup Saturday but returned to play 34 minutes on Monday, when he scored 19 points and added 10 rebounds. Will he play tonight? No guarantee but this is the healthiest Dallas has been all season and I will 'buy in' on that and play the Mavs.

Good luck...Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on the SA Spurs at 8:35 ET.

"Break up" the Memphis Grizzlies. Memphis entered last season off back-to-back seasons of going 22-60 and 33-49. When the season was shut down due to COVID, the Grizzlies were 32-33. However, they then went 2-6 in 'the bubble,' meaning they needed to win two straight against the Blazers to earn the No. 8 seed. Portland beat them in the first game. Memphis opened this season off three straight non-playoff seasons and opened 2-6. However, the team then ripped off FIVE straight wins before COIVID issues forced five straight postponements. Memphis returned to the court Saturday night at San Antonio and crushed the Spurs 129-112. That's SIX consecutive wins and covers! Who are these guys?

The Spurs were 'flat' on Saturday, off an impressive Friday night home win over the Nuggets, snapping Denver's 5-0 SU & ATS run. San Antonio fell to 0-3 on the second night of back-to-backs this season and the result may just have been a classic case of the Grizzlies' fresh legs -- really fresh, in fact (hadn't played in days!) -- vs San Antonio's tired ones. San Antonio is 11-9 and in a log jam of Western Conference teams hovering around the playoff 'cut line' that features two 10-8 teams, two 11-9 ones and a fifth at 9-9.

Memphis has SEVEN players on the injured list, including the 6-11 Jaren Jackson and SF Winslow, who have each not played this season. Usual starters guard Grayson Allen (8.0) and center Jonas Valanciunas (14.4 & 10.4) were both out due to "health and safety protocols" on Saturday but Valanciunas is with the team and could play Monday. Morant (22.0 & 7.7 APG) and Brooks (15.1-3.9-3.1) are a strong guard duo and Saturday's other three starters included 6-8 PF Clarke (13.3 & 6.1), 6-9 SF Anderson (12.8-7.1-3.9) and 6-8 PF Tillman (8.3 & 4.1), a Michigan St rookie.

The Spurs are led by veteran guard DeRozan (19.8-4.8-6.7) and veteran center Aldridge (14.2 & 4.5) but have a 'TON' of depth. Starting alongside the two above-mentioned vets are 6-6 SF Johnson (14.5 & 7.5) plus guards Murray (15.0-7.2 -5.3) and Walker (12.10. Two players chip in double digits off the bench in guard Mills (14.3) and SF Gay (11.3 & 5.5). San Antonio also got great news in Saturday's loss, as Derrick White (averaged 11.3 PPG last season) saw his first action since missing 14 games with a broken toe and paced the Spurs with 18 points!

The Spurs just snapped Denver's 5-0 SU & ATS run and in this quick turnaround, do the same to Memphis' 6-0 SU &ATS run! Lay the small number!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Revenge Game of the Month is on the Dal Mavs at 8:35 ET.

The Phoenix Suns surprised all with their 8-0 SU & ATS performance in the Orlando 'bubble' to end last season and made a key offseason move designed to put an end to the team's 10-season playoff drought. The Suns jumped out of the gate 5-1 SU & ATS but have gone just 4-7 SU & ATS their last 11. The Mavs went 43-32 last season, ending a three-year postseason drought and led by the "All-World" Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis, expected to be playoff contenders for years to come. However, Dallas enters this contest on a five-game losing streak SU & ATS, giving them an 8-12 record (3rd-worst in the West).

These teams also met in Dallas this past Saturday, with center Deandre Ayton dominating the middle and PG Chris Paul coming on strong late as the Suns rallied past the Mavericks 111-105. Ayton (14.4 & 12.6) had 18 and 17 on Saturday, while Paul (15.6-4.6-8.7) scored 16 of his 29 points in the 4th quarter when the Suns outscored the Mavs 34-23. Devin Booker (22.9) sat out for a fourth straight game while dealing with a strained left hamstring and is no better than questionable for tonight's game.

Doncic (27.4-9.2-9.40 is again having a 'monster' season and expect Porzingis (18.6 & 8.) to play tonight, after resting on the second night of a back-to-back in Saturday's loss. Dallas has excellent depth, as Hardaway (16.8), Richardson (11.9), Brunson (11.5) and Burke (10.4) all average in double digits.

Truth is that Booker remains doubtful for Monday's game, while the Mavs look to almost "all hands on deck." This is a quick rematch for Dallas and the Mavs are already 0-2 vs the Suns this season (lost 106-102 in Phoenix on opening night). The Mavs are 2-8 over their last 10 and enough is ENOUGH. Great revenge and bounce-back spot here for Dallas, plus "the PRICE is sure Right!"

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Division Game of the Year (Northwest) is on the Den Nuggets at 3:35 ET.

Denver started the season with four losses in the first five games but had won 10 of its next 13 before falling 119-109 to the Spurs on Friday night, when the Spurs outscored the Nuggets in the fourth quarter 32-23. The defeat snapped a five-game Denver winning streak and came in the team's final game of a five-game road trip in seven days. The Nuggets return home but waiting for them are the Utah Jazz, who now own the NBA's best record of 15-4 on the strength of an 11-game winning streak (also, an amazing 11-0 ATS!).

Utah has reeled off 11 straight wins, the past two without Donovan Mitchell (23.4-4.4-4.9) and Derrick Favors (5.8 & 5.0). Mitchell (concussion protocol) and Favors (lower back soreness) haven't played since last Tuesday but traveled to Denver on Friday while their teammates were completing a two-game home sweep of the Dallas Mavericks. Their status for Sunday has not been updated but the duo is at best, questionable. The Jazz have terrific depth with SEVEN Players (including Mitchell) averaging in double digits. PG Conley (16.8 & 6.1 APG) has found a home in Utah after struggling last season plus the same can be said about last year's in-season pick-up, 6th-man Clarkson. He comes off the bench to average 17.9 PPG! Center Rudy Gobert is a great defender, good for a nightly 'daily double' (13.6 & 14.1 on the season).

However, speaking of 'double-doubles,' Denver center Nikola Jokic notched his 19th straight double-double to start the year in Friday's loss in San Antonio (). He's averaging 25.7 & 11.7 on the season. He had also been averaging double digits in assists but he averaged just 5.3 per game over his last six games, falling to third in the league at 8.7 per game. Denver can match Utah's depth now that Porter (17.2 & 6.8) has been back for the last five games and SG Harris (10.7) has broken out of an extended offensive slump. He is known for his defense but the Nuggets need his scoring, too. In the last nine games, he has hit 46.5 percent from three-point range. Throw in PG Murray (19.1-4.0-4.4) plus Morris (11.1), Green (10.9 & 6.3), Barton (10.7) and Millsap (9.6 & 5.2) and one gets the point.

Denver came back from a 3-1 deficit to beat Utah in last year's playoffs and in the first meeting this season, Utah edged the Nuggets 109-105 in Denver (Jan 17). It's Denver's turn to 'return the favor' in this one. Utah's 11-game win streak ends here. That's my bet!

Good luck...Larry