At 7:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (553) and the Philadelphia 76ers (554). THE SITUATION: New York (9-23) has lost two straight games as well as seven of their last eight contests with their 128-110 loss to Phoenix on Monday as a 1.5-point underdog. Philadelphia (20-12) has lost three of their last four games with their 123-96 loss in San Antonio on Monday as a 1-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Knicks have played 4 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a point spread setback. Additionally, New York has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a loss by at least 10 points. Furthermore, while the Knicks have allowed at least 110 points in eleven straight games, they have then played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after allowing at least 110 points in four straight contests. New York has also failed to cover the point spread in six of their last eight games — and they have played 9 of their last 10 games Over the Total after only covering the point spread once or twice in their last six games. This is an injured group right now with Allonzo Trier, Mitchell Robinson, and Damyean Dotson all out for this game and Tim Hardway listed as questionable with a heel injury. These absences probably hurt the Knicks defense more than it does their offense. Over their last five games, New York is scoring 109.6 PPG but they are giving up 118.8 PPG to their opponents while playing at a fast pace. Now they go on the road where they have played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total. They have also played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total as a double-digit underdog. And while they will be looking to avenge a 117-91 loss to the Sixers back on November 28th, the Knicks have played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total when motivated by revenge from a loss by at least 20 points. New York made only 40.4% of their shots in their last game which was the lowest field goal percentage in their last six games — but Philadelphia comes off a game where they made just 40.8% of their shots which was the lowest field goal percentage they have endured all season. The 76ers have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a point spread setback. Furthermore, Philly has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a double-digit loss. And while they have allowed at least 105 points in seven straight games, they have then played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after allowing at least 105 points in their last game. The Sixers return home where they are scoring 116.1 PPG while allowing 108.8 PPG to their opponents. Over their last five games, they are allowing their opponents to make 49.3% of their shots. This is their sixth game in ten days — and they have played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing at least their sixth game in the last ten days.

FINAL TAKE: Both these teams are likely to shoot much better from the field after poor shooting efforts in their last game. Defense will likely be hard to come by given injuries and fatigue — and that means plenty of scoring from two teams very happy to push the pace. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (553) and the Philadelphia 76ers (554). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (545) and the Indiana Pacers (546). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (7-23) has lost two straight games with their 128-105 loss to Philadelphia on Sunday as a 9-point underdog. Indiana (20-10) has won seven straight games with their 110-99 win over New York as a 12-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pacers have raised their level of play on the defensive end of the court. During their seven-game winning streak, Indiana is allowing their opponents to score just 97.4 points per 100 possessions. Their last five opponents are shooting just 41.6% from the field. The Under is 35-16-1 in the Pacers’ last 52 games after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. This team stays at home where they are scoring 105.2 PPG while holding their opponents to just 97.7 PPG — and both those numbers are below their 106.7 PPG scoring average along with their 101.2 PPG defensive average overall this season. Indiana has played 39 of their last 58 games Under the Total on their home court — and this includes them playing twelve of their last fifteen home games Under the Total. The Pacers have also played 10 of their last 12 home games Under the Total as the favorite — and they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road. Indiana has played ten straight games Under the Total — and while that might perk the interests of some contrarian bettors, the Pacers have played 22 of their last 31 games Under the Total when on an Under streak of at least four games which includes them playing eight of their last nine Under the Total if they have played at least four straight Unders before that game. Furthermore, Indiana has played 5 straight games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% — and the Under is 19-6-1 in their last 27 games against fellow NBA Central opponents. Cleveland has played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total against Central Division rivals. They have lost two straight games by double-digits with their loss to the 76ers preceded by a 114-102 loss to Milwaukee — and the Cavaliers have plated 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after losing two straight games by double-digits. This team is ravaged with injuries with Tristan Thompson joining Kevin Love being on the shelf — and they are not playing their outside shooting threat in J.R. Smith so he can be kept healthy so that he retains some trade value. Head coach Larry Drew will want his team to play harder on defense after allowing the Sixers to make 56% of their shots which was the second worst defensive effort of the season. Now the Cavs go on the road where they score 100.7 PPG which is -2.7 PPG below their overall season average. Cleveland has played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total on the road. They also have played 8 of the last 10 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: The Cavaliers are looking to avenge a 119-107 loss at home to the Pacers back on October 27th — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the total when playing with same-season revenge. The Under is 7-3-1 in the last 11 games between these two teams — and these two teams have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when meeting at Indiana. 25* NBA Central Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (545) and the Indiana Pacers (546). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Milwaukee Bucks (571) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (572). THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (18-9) saw their two-game winning streak snapped on Wednesday with their 113-97 loss at Indiana as a 2-point favorite. Cleveland (7-21) has won two of their last three games with their 113-106 upset win over the Knicks as a 1.5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKS MINUS THE POINTS: Milwaukee made just 41.3% of their shots on Wednesday which was their fourth-lowest shooting percentage of the season — and they failed to score triple digits for just the second time all season. They also allowed the Pacers to make 47.3% of their shots which was the worst defensive performance in their last five games. The Bucks should respond with a strong effort after playing one of their worst games of the season. Milwaukee has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 road games after an upset loss. The Bucks stay on the road where they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 road games against teams with a losing record at home. Milwaukee has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against Central Division opponents. Cleveland held New York to just a 43.6% field goal percentage on Wednesday which was the best defensive game they have played in their last five contests. But the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 3 home games after a straight-up win. Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when playing with one day of rest. The Cavs stay at home for this one where they have failed to cover the point spread in 29 of their last 40 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Cleveland has also failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 31 home games with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. And in their last 12 games against fellow Central Division opponents, the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread 9 times.

FINAL TAKE: Giannis Antetokounmpo had missed some time but is healthy again after playing in Wednesday’s game with the Pacers. After a disappointing effort against Indiana, look for the Bucks to take out their frustrations against the hapless Cavaliers. 25* NBA Central Division Game of the Milwaukee Bucks (571) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (572). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans (550) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (549). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (14-15) has lost two of their last three games after their 113-100 loss at Boston as a 2.5-point underdog on Monday. Oklahoma City (17-8) has won five of their last six games with their 122-113 win over Utah on Monday as a 5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PELICANS MINUS THE POINTS: New Orleans should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread setback. The Pelicans have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a double-digit loss. The team is missing a key piece in center Nirotic Mikola who has been out with an ankle injury. But they still have Anthony Davis — and they return home where all their role players should perform better after playing their last two games on the road. New Orleans is 10-4 when playing at home this season while scoring 121.9 PPG on 49% shooting from the field. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. Furthermore, the Pelicans will be motivated to avenge a 122-116 loss to the Thunder back on November 5th where they were 3.5-point underdogs. That game was in Oklahoma City but New Orleans get this rematch back in the Big Easy — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 opportunities to avenge a loss on the road to their opponent. Oklahoma City ha failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win. And while the Thunder have covered the point spread in four of their last six games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 30 road games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Oklahoma City has also failed to cover the point spread in 37 of their last 49 road games after a game where at least 235 combined points were scored. This will be the Thunder’s fourth time in their last five games that they will be playing away from home where they are making just 43.8% of their shots this season. Lastly, Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games with the Total set at least at 230.

FINAL TAKE: Even without Mirotic, look for the Pelicans to play much better back at home tonight. 25* NBA Wednesday ESPN Game of the Month with the New Orleans Pelicans (550) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (549). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Houston Rockets (532) minus the points versus the Portland Trail Blazers (531). THE SITUATION: Houston (11-14) has lost three straight games after their 107-104 upset loss at Dallas as a 3.5-point favorite on Saturday. Portland (15-11) has won two straight games with their 113-105 win over Minnesota as a 3.5-point favorite. on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ROCKETS MINUS THE POINTS: Houston has been the biggest disappointment in the league this season. Chris Paul missing time with injuries has not helped — but he is also making 43.1% of his shots when he is on the court which is his lowest field goal percentage since his rookie year. I certainly was concerned about this team entering the season given their offseason moves. I did not think adding Carmelo Anthony would help this team — and he is now permanently inactive with this club until another team decides to take a chance on him. Losing Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute not only two shooters who could make 3-point shots but it removed two of their best defensive players from last season. The bench for this team is thinner as well. But this team still has James Harden — and they should play better returning home after playing their last three games on the road. The Rockets have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after a loss to a divisional rival — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after suffering an upset loss to a fellow Southwest Division rival. Furthermore, Houston has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games after losing three straight games on the road. The Rockets will also be motivated to avenge a 104-85 loss at home to Portland back on October 30th as a 4.5-point favorite. Houston has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 24 games when playing with revenge from an upset loss as a home favorite. Portland has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. Additionally, the Trail Blazers have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last contest. Now after playing their last two games at home, Portland goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games. Furthermore, the Trail Blazers have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games on the road as an underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Lastly, Portland has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against fellow Western Conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: While Houston has played badly for much of this season, they still display glimpses as to why they came within one quarter of upsetting the Golden State Warriors in last year’s playoffs. They need to make more of their shots. Returning home should help. This team certainly feels things are urgent about turning things around. Expect a big effort tonight. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month with the Houston Rockets (532) minus the points versus the Portland Trail Blazers (531). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the New York Knicks (710) minus the point(s) versus the Brooklyn Nets (709). THE SITUATION: New York (8-18) has lost two straight games with their 128-100 loss at Boston on Thursday as 13-point underdogs. Brooklyn (9-18) comes off a triumphant 106-106 upset win over Toronto yesterday as 8.5-point underdogs.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KNICKS MINUS THE POINT(S): The Nets are likely to suffer an emotional letdown after that big win. Brooklyn has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after an upset victory against an Atlantic Division rival where they were underdogs by at least 6 points. The Nets have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a narrow win by 3 points or less against a divisional rival. Furthermore, Brooklyn has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games when they are playing without rest. The Nets held the Raptors to just a 39.3% field goal percentage in that win which was their best defensive effort in their last nine games. And while they made only 43.9% of their shots, this was the best offensive performance in their last four contests. This team really misses Caris LeVert who was enjoying a breakout season before he suffered a season-ending leg injury. Moving forward, Brooklyn has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after losing five or six of their last seven games — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a losing record. And in their last 8 expected close games where they are listed in the +/- 3-point range, the Nets have failed to cover the point spread 5 times. New York should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after a loss by at least 20 points — and they have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a loss to a divisional rival on the road. The Knicks have also covered the points spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with one day of rest. Head coach David Fizdale needs to get his team playing better on defense after their last four opponents have made at least 47.5% of their shots from the field. Fizdale described his team’s effort against the Celtics as “terrible defense” — but New York has covered the point spread in 23 of their last 37 games after allowing their last four opponents to each make at least 47% of their shots. The Knicks have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 31 home games in the first-half of the season. New York has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Together, these team trends produce our specific 115-50 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: The Knicks are dealing with some injuries with Trey Burke questionable with a knee injury while Kristaps Porzingis has yet to take the court this season with his torn ACL. Tim Hardaway, Jr. has taken over the lead dog for this team on offense — and Fizdale has done a good job of getting this young roster to play into his system. Both of these teams are not going to make the playoffs — and it is the Knicks who will likely play harder tonight in this very winnable game for them. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Game of the Month with the New York Knicks (710) minus the point(s) versus the Brooklyn Nets (709). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (705) and the Utah Jazz (706). THE SITUATION: Houston (11-12) saw their two-game winning streak end on Monday with their 103-91 loss at Minnesota despite being a 2.5-point favorite in that game. Utah (12-13) has won three of their last four games with their dominant 139-105 win over San Antonio on Tuesday as a 7.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Jazz may have had a breakthrough on the offensive end of the court. They shot a season-high 60.7% from the field — but the encouraging aspect of that game was that all thirteen players registered at least one assist in that game. Looking for the extra pass creates better scoring opportunities — and twelve of the Utah players made at least 50% of their shots in that game with seven players scoring in double-digits. The Jazz also made 20 shots from behind the arc while making a whopping 60.6% of their 3-point shots. The Over is 8-1-1 in Utah’s last 10 games after a game where they scored at least 125 points in their last game. The Jazz have also played 6 straight games Over the Total after a double-digit victory — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. Defense remains a concern for this team, however, as they are allowing visiting teams to make 49.6% of their shots on their home court which has translated into 112.4 PPG. Utah has played 7 straight games Over the Total on their home court. Houston has played 5 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 straight games Over the Total after a point spread victory. The Rockets have also played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Houston has a healthy Chris Paul back into the mix again but they made only 43.2% of their shots on Monday which was the worst shooting effort in their last six games. Even with that poor performance, the Rockets are scoring a robust 117.4 PPG on 47.5% shooting with Paul back on the court over their last five games with that field goal percentage far above their 44.9% mark for the season. Houston also held the Timberwolves to just a 43.9% field goal percentage which was their lowest opponent’s field goal percentage for the season. Unfortunately, that effort was likely an aberration for a team that has allowed their last nine opponents to score 116.1 PPG which has contributed to them drop to 25th in the league in Defensive Rating. Even after Monday, the Rockets have allowed their last five opponents to make 49% of their shots with this team still not finding answers on the defensive end of the court after not resigning Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute in the offseason. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 4 of the last 5 games Over the Total — and they have played 21 of their last 32 games Over the Total in the month of December.

FINAL TAKE: With this Total set in the high 210s, expect both teams to reach the 110 point threshold in what shapes up to be a barn burner. 25* NBA Thursday TNT Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (705) and the Utah Jazz (706). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Charlotte Hornets (509) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (510). THE SITUATION: Charlotte (11-12) has lost two straight games with their 119-109 loss to New Orleans on Sunday as a 3-point favorite. Minnesota (12-12) has won five of their last six games with their 103-91 win over Houston on Monday as a 2.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: One of the results of the Jimmy Butler trade for the Timberwolves was an improvement of their play on the defensive end of the court. Adding Robert Covington and Dario Saric gives the team two players who are strong defenders. Over their last five games, Minnesota is holding their opponents to just 42.3% shooting which is significantly better than their 45.5% opponent’s field goal percentage for the season. Save for the Celtics scoring 117 points against them, the T-Wolves have held their other four opponents to no more than 95 points. Their victory over the Rockets on Monday fell well below the 223 point total — and they have played 12 of their last 15 games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Under the Total. Minnesota has played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Furthermore, the Timberwolves have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. And in their last 8 games against fellow Eastern Conference opponents, Minnesota has played 6 of these games Under the Total. Charlotte has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against Western Conference opponents. The Hornets have suffered two straight upset losses at home as they enter this game — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after losing two straight games Under the Total after suffering two straight losses at home as the favorite. Additionally, Charlotte has played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after playing a game where at least 225 combined point were scored. They go back on the road where they are making only 42.8% of their shots which is a bit lower than their 46% field goal percentage for the season. The Hornets have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total on the road — and they have played 7 of their last 9 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: The team trends strongly indicate that both teams tend to play lower than expected scoring games in situations like this. 25* NBA Non-Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Charlotte Hornets (509) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (510). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Orlando Magic (703) and the Miami Heat (704). THE SITUATION: Orlando (11-12) snapped their two-game losing streak on Friday with their 99-85 win at Phoenix as a 4-point favorite. Miami (9-13) has won two straight games after their 102-100 upset at Utah as a 4-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Heat’s win was their second straight upset victory after they stunned New Orleans as a 3-point underdog on Friday. Miami has then played 10 of their last 11 games Under the Total after pulling off an upset win as a home underdog. The Heat have also played 9 straight games Under the Total after pulling off two straight upset victories. Furthermore, Miami has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. This is a team riddled with injuries right now. Dion Waiters and Goran Dragic are both out indefinitely and Rodney McGruder is questionable with the ankle injury he suffered in that game with the Jazz. The Heat pulled off that upset win despite making only 39.6% of their shots — and this team is still without their best offensive pieces. They stay at home where they are shooting only 43.1% from the field. Miami has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when playing at home. Orlando has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total when playing with at least three days of rest. They go back on the road where they have played 10 of their last 11 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record at home. The Magic have also played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Orlando has covered the point spread in four straight games — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four straight games. And in their last 5 games against fellow Eastern Conference opponents, the game finished Under the Total 4 times.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams played on opening night this season with the Magic pulling the 104-101 upset with that final score finishing just below the 207.5 point total. Expect another Under tonight. 25* NBA Southeast Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Orlando Magic (703) and the Miami Heat (704). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Portland Trail Blazers (722) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (721). THE SITUATION: Portland (13-8) snapped their three-game losing streak on Wednesday with their 115-112 win over Orlando as a 10-point favorite. Denver (14-7) has won four straight games with their 117-85 win over the Lakers as a 3-point favorite on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TRAIL BLAZERS MINUS THE POINTS: Portland left a bad taste in many bettors mouths last season when they were routed by New Orleans in the playoffs. Yet the Trail Blazers returns seven of their top ten rotation players from the group that finished as the third seed in the Western Conference. Even more impressive, not only did 75% of the minutes that were played last year but Portland’s returning players accounted for 80% of their points, assists and shot attempts. This is a good team at home where they are 8-3 with an average winning margin of +8.2 PPG. The Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 33 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. Furthermore, Portland has covered the point spread in 21 of their last 31 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have also covered the point spread in 16 of their last 25 games at home when listed on the +/- 3-point range. The Trail Blazers are also 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 games against fellow Northwest Division opponents. Denver may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games on the road after a point spread win. The Nuggets have also failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 road games after a win at home. Denver has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 115 points in their last game. The Nuggets out-rebounded the Lakers by a whopping 65 to 45 margin but they are not likely to come close to that advantage against this Blazers team that out-rebounds their guests by +9.6 RPG when playing at home. Denver is 5-4 on the road but they are making only 44.5% of their shots — and they face a Portland team that holds the visitor to just a 43.5% field goal percentage. Lastly, while the Nuggets have covered the point spread in four straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after covering the point spread in four straight games.

FINAL TAKE: Look for Portland to pull away from the Nuggets with them having home court advantage. 25* NBA Friday ESPN Game of the Month with the Portland Trail Blazers (722) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (721). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Sacramento Kings (504) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Clippers (503). THE SITUATION: Sacramento (10-10) has lost their last two games with their 133-112 loss to Washington as a 3.5-point underdog. Los Angeles (14-6) has won three straight games as well as eight of their last nine contests with their 115-99 win over Phoenix last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KINGS PLUS THE POINTS: Sacramento should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a double-digit loss — and they have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit loss at home. Additionally, the Kings have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 125 points in their last contest. Head coach Dave Joerger has an intriguing mix of young talent featuring three lottery draft picks in De’Aaron Fox, Willie Cauley-Stein and Buddy Field — and he has made this group dangerous by having them play at a blisteringly fast pace which was a style that did work when he was coaching the Grit-n-Grind Memphis Grizzlies in his previous spot. Sacramento has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Furthermore, the Kings have covered the point spread in 4 straight games in expected close games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games played on a Thursday night. They also have a big advantage over the Clippers with their extended rest for this game — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games when playing with at least three days rest. Los Angeles has one of the deepest benches in the league — but they will be challenged at the breakneck speed at which the Kings play when playing without rest from their win over the Magic last night. Some of their depth may be reduced tonight with Luc Mbah a Moute out and Marcin Gortat questionable with injuries. The Clippers have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a point spread win as a double-digit favorite. And while Doc Rivers team has covered the point spread in two straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after two straight point spread covers. Now this team goes on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 road games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Lastly, the Clippers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games played on a Thursday night.

FINAL TAKE: The Kings will be motivated to make a statement on national television against a Clippers team that has beaten them twelve times in a row. Don’t be surprised if this young Sacramento team uses this moment to earn an important win for the franchise. 25* NBA Thursday TNT Game of the Month with the Sacramento Kings (504) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Clippers (503). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Houston Rockets (710) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (709). THE SITUATION: Houston (9-10) returns home from a winless three-game road trip after a 135-131 loss in overtime at Washington on Monday as a 1.5-point underdog. Dallas (9-9) has won six of their last seven games with their 113-104 upset win over Boston as a 2.5-point underdog on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ROCKETS MINUS THE POINTS: Houston is struggling through the first quarter of the season. Offseason roster moves where they did not resign two of their important complementary pieces last season in Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute who made their 3-point shots while playing well on the defensive end of the court. They were exchanged for players like Carmelo Anthony who was simply not a good fit at this stage in his career. Anthony is now gone — and the team immediately started playing better with that decision. But a hamstring injury to Chris Paul left James Harden without much help on offense — and that vulnerability is most start when on the road. The Rockets have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after losing their last three games on the road. Returning home will help where the role players are more comfortable in making their shots to compliment Harden — Houston is shooting 48.7% from the field at home. The Rockets also need to play better on the defensive end of the court after allowing the Wizards to make 56.8% of their shots. That was the worst defensive effort of the season for Houston — but they should see improvement on that end of the court with the assistant coach Jeff Bzdelik back with the team after temporarily retiring in the offseason. Bzdelik was considered the defensive mastermind for this group last season. Houston three road losses were all to Eastern Conference opponents — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after playing their last three games against non-conference opponents. Hosting a Mavericks team that makes only 43.0% of their shots on the road should help. Dallas has scored at least 113 points in their last two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after scoring at least 110 points in two straight games. Both of those games were at home — and the Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after playing their last two games at home. Dallas has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games when playing with at least three days of rest. The Mavericks go back on the road where they are just 1-7 this season with an average losing margin of -7.9 PPG. Dallas allows their home hosts to score 111.0 PPG with a 46.8% field goal percentage — and that is not a good sign when facing this high-scoring Rockets team. The Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against the Rockets — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games played in Houston. Together, these team trends produce our specific 60-25 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: The Rockets may not have Paul return to the court just yet as he is listed as questionable still with his hamstring injury. But this Dallas team is banged up with their two first-round draft picks over the last two seasons in Luka Doncic and Dennis Smith are both questionable with Doncic dealing with an illness and Smith handling an injured wrist. Being without both players will be devastating for their chances tonight — but even if both can take the court tonight, they are facing an angry Rockets team that needs a win back at home. 25* NBA Southwest Division Game of the Month with the Houston Rockets (710) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (709). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (503) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (504). THE SITUATION: Miami (7-12) has lost four of their last five games with their 125-115 loss at Toronto on Sunday as a 12-point underdog. Atlanta (4-16) snapped their ten-game losing streak on Sunday with their 124-123 upset win over Charlotte as a 6.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HEAT MINUS THE POINTS: The Hawks made 53.2% of their shots against the Hornets in what was the best offensive effort in their last thirteen games. But Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Now the Hawks go back on the road where they are 0-6-1 ATS in their last 7 road games against teams with a losing record at home. The Hawks are also just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 trips to Miami to face the Heat. This is a team in complete rebuild mode with a very young group of players led by rookie Trae Young. Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games with the Total set in the 220 to 229.5 point range. The Hawks have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning percentage below 40% — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Atlanta is getting out-rebounded by -8.0 RPG — and Miami has covered the point spread in 23 of their last 35 games against teams that out-rebounded by at least -3.0 RPG. The Heat begins a four-game homestand that they fully understand they need to take advantage of given their slow start. Injuries have slowed this team down with Dion Waiters, Goran Dragic, and Tyler Johnson all out for tonight’s game. But the team has seen Dwyane Wade take the court again with the veteran scoring 35 points off the bench in that game with the Raptors. Miami has lost seven of their last nine games — but they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 31 games after losing six or seven of their last eight games including covering the point spread in these last three situations. Furthermore, the Heat have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games after allowing at least 115 points — and they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 35 games after a game where at least 235 combined points were scored. Lastly, Miami is looking to avenge a 123-118 road loss to Atlanta as a 5.5-point favorite back on November 13th. The Heat have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 10 games when avenging a loss as a road favorite — and they are also supported by an empirical revenge angle that has been 61% effective over the last five seasons. Teams looking to avenge a loss where they allowed at least 100 points against a team that enters this rematch coming off an upset victory have then covered the point spread in 176 of the last 288 situations where these conditions applied.

FINAL TAKE: The joke in Atlanta is they are in the tank this year because they are “Tryin’ for Zion” as they look to put themselves in a position to have the most ping pong balls to get the first pick in the NBA draft from which they can select Duke forward Zion Williamson. While Miami was not able to acquire Jimmy Butler in a trade, they still have playoff aspirations. The Heat need to win this game to get off to a good start on an important four-game winning streak. 25* NBA Southeast Division Game of the Month with the Miami Heat (503) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Milwaukee Bucks (710) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (709). THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (13-5) saw their three-game winning streak snapped last night with an embarrassing 116-114 loss to Phoenix despite being big 13.5-point favorites. San Antonio (9-9) had lost five of their last six games before upsetting the Pacers in Indiana last night by a 111-100 score as a 1.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKS MINUS THE POINTS: Milwaukee should rebound with a strong effort tonight as they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a point spread defeat. The Bucks are also 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 games when playing without rest. Milwaukee has only lost twice in their nine games at home this season even after last night — and they are outscoring their visitors by +16.2 PPG. The Bucks are 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games on their home court. San Antonio has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread victory. Furthermore, the new-look Spurs have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games when playing without rest. This team is undermanned right now with both Pau Gasol and Dejounte Murray out with injuries. Being without Murray really hurts since he is the glue to their efforts on the defensive end of the court. Hall of Fame head coach Gregg Popovich has suddenly found himself behind the times in the league with a roster that is too willing to take lower-percentage mid-range 2-point shots as opposed to the en vogue style of layups or 3-pointers. His protege, Mike Budenholzer, has done a masterful job already in his first season with Milwaukee — and his team has been successful in coaxing opponents into taking lower-percentage shots inside the arc. San Antonio made 50.6% of their shots last night — but that was their best shooting effort in their last eleven contests. This is a bad matchup for the Spurs. Lastly, they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Look for this upstart Bucks team to respond with a convincing effort tonight. 25* NBA TV Game of the Month with the Milwaukee Bucks (710) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (709). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (507) and the Boston Celtics (508). THE SITUATION: New York (4-14) has lost six straight games after their 118-114 loss to Portland last night as a 7.5-point underdog. Boston (9-8) has lost two straight games after their 117-112 loss in Charlotte on Monday as a 3.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Knicks have played 4 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after a point spread setback. New York has also played 21 of their last 31 games Over the Total when playing without a day of rest. Now the Knicks go back on the road where they are allowing their home hosts to score 117.8 PPG while shooting 48.9% from the field. Over their last five games, New York is seeing their opponents make 50.1% of their shots. The Knicks have played 4 straight games Over the Total on the road — and they have also played 5 straight road games Over the Total against teams with a winning record at home. Boston has suffered two straight upset loss as their upset loss against the Hornets was preceded by a 98-86 loss at home to Utah as a 4-point favorite on Saturday. The Celtics have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread loss — and they have also played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total after an upset loss as a road favorite. Furthermore, Boston has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after enduring two straight upset losses. Now the Celtics return home where they have played 6 of their last 8 home games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Boston is a heavy favorite tonight being asked to lay 14 or so points. The Celtics should play well tonight — expect a high scoring game. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (507) and the Boston Celtics (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Indiana Pacers (704) minus the points versus the Indiana Pacers (703). THE SITUATION: Indiana (8-6) has lost three of their last four games with their 115-103 loss in Houston as a 2.5-point underdog last Sunday. Miami (6-8) snapped their three-game losing streak on Wednesday with their 120-107 win in Brooklyn as a 2-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACERS MINUS THE POINTS: Indiana should benefit from their mini-break since their last game — they are an impressive 34-15-2 ATS in their last 51 games when playing with at least three days of rest. This is a well-coached team under Nate McMillan that plays hard for him while exhibiting strong team chemistry. They should rebound with a strong effort tonight as they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a double-digit loss — and they have also covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a point spread loss. They return home where they are outscoring their opponents by +5.8 net PPG due to strong efforts on defense as they are holding their visitors to just a 43.1% field goal percentage. Indiana has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 home games after losing three of their last four contests. The Pacers have also covered the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games against Eastern Conference opponents. Miami is a team that was hoping to acquire Jimmy Butler given their deep roster that lacks a superstar. Now that those ambitions have been dampened, head coach Erik Spoelstra may have some difficulties maintaining the morale of this team that has grown stagnant with a crop of role players all feeling deserved for more playing time. The team stepped up in the short term after the Butler issue resolved itself by making 54.1% of their shots against the Nets in what was their best offensive effort of the season. They also held Brooklyn to just a 40.2% shooting mark which was the best defensive performance in their last four games. But defeating the Nets was a nice respite from their disappointing start but this team has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up win — and they are just 1-8-3 ATS in their last 12 games after a double-digit victory. Additionally, the Heat are just 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 games are a point spread win. To compound matters for Spoelstra, his team remains undermanned with James Johnson, Dion Waiters, and Dwyane Wade all out for this game. Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games against Eastern Conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: Indiana pulled away from Miami in the last meeting between these two teams last Friday in a 110-102 victory as a 2.5-point favorite. The Pacers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 meetings with the Heat. Expect more of the same tonight from this Indiana team that needs a win. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Month with the Indiana Pacers (704) minus the points versus the Indiana Pacers (703). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Portland Trail Blazers (721) and the Los Angeles Lakers (722). THE SITUATION: Portland (10-3) has won four straight games with their 100-94 win over Boston on Sunday as a 4-point favorite. Los Angeles (7-6) has won three straight games as well as five of their last six games with their 107-106 victory over Atlanta on Sunday as an 11-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Lakers improved play can be tied to improved play on the defensive end of the court. Los Angeles has not allowed their last nine opponents to shoot better than 50% from the field while holding their last five opponents to just a 43.1% field goal percentage. The Lakers have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a point spread loss — and the Under is also 5-0-1 in their last 6 games after a straight-up win. Los Angeles has also played 6 straight games Under the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game — and they have played 5 straight games Under the Total after a point spread win. The Lakers stay at home where they have played 4 straight games Under the Total on their home court — and they have also seen the Under go 5-0-1 in their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. LA has also played 4 straight games Under the Total against Western Conference opponents while the Trail Blazers have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against Western Conference foes. Portland is also playing hard on the defensive end of the court as they have held their last five opponents to just a 42.2% field goal percentage — and they are holding their home hosts to just a 42.1% shooting percentage. The Trail Blazers have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Portland has also played 5 straight games Under the Total. This team has also played 9 of their last 13 road games Under the Total against a team with a winning record — and they have also played 13 of their last 17 road games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: This is already the third meeting between these two teams after the Lakers pulled the upset over the Trail Blazers back on November 3rd by a 114-110 score as a 3.5-point favorite that finished well below the 236 point total. This third clash probably favors the respective defenses who can continue to fine-tune their defensive approaches against a familiar opponent. As it is, these two teams have played 7 straight games Under the Total when playing in LA. 25* NBA Wednesday ESPN Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Portland Trail Blazers (721) and the Los Angeles Lakers (722). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Denver Nuggets (504) minus the points versus the Houston Rockets (503). THE SITUATION: Denver (9-4) has lost three straight games after their 121-114 loss to Milwaukee on Sunday as a 3.5-point favorite. Houston (5-7) looks to build off their 115-103 win over Indiana as a 2.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NUGGETS MINUS THE POINTS: Denver has suffered three straight upset losses in a three-game losing streak that started with a loss at Memphis by an 89-87 score as a 3-point favorite before losing at home to Brooklyn by a 112-110 score as a 7.5-point favorite. The Nuggets started the season winning nine of their first ten games but now face adversity for the first time this season. The problems are not difficult to resolve — slow starts and inability to finish down the stretch has plagued this team in these losses. Denver also needs to tighten things up on defense after allowing the Bucks to make 57.1% of their shots on Sunday which was their worst defensive effort of the season. The Nuggets should play better tonight — they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after enduring three straight upset losses. Additionally, Denver has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after losing three straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after failing to cover the point spread in three straight games. And in their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road, the Nuggets have covered the point spread 4 times. Houston raced out to a 76-54 lead at halftime in their game against the Pacers on Sunday but they are likely to suffer a letdown tonight. The Rockets made 48.6% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last five games. But Houston has failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after enjoying at least 20 points at halftime of their last game — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by at least 10 points. Consistency has been an issue for this team so far this season as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win. This is a team that has also taken a few steps back on the defensive end of the court — they really miss the defensive efforts of Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute who both departed the team in the offseason as free agents. Furthermore, the bench is not as strong as last year’s 65 win team —and injuries have limited their second unit even more. The Rockets have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. And in their last 6 games against Western Conference opponents, Houston has failed to cover the point spread all 6 games.

FINAL TAKE: Denver should be very motivated to put an end to their losing streak — and it will be even sweeter to do so against this Rockets team that most pundits considered to be the second best team in the Western Conference. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month with the Denver Nuggets (504) minus the points versus the Houston Rockets (503). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (707) and the Chicago Bulls (708). THE SITUATION: Dallas (4-8) has won of their last three games with their 111-96 win against Oklahoma City on Saturday as a 1.5-point favorite. Chicago (4-9) has won two of their last three games as well with their 99-98 win over Cleveland as a 4.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks enjoyed their best offensive performance of the season in their win over the Thunder as they shot 55.8% of their shots from the floor. Dallas also limited OKC to just a 39.2% shooting percentage — and that defensive effort should travel on the road tonight. The Mavs have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a straight-up win. They will be a short one or two of their key contributors tonight with Wesley Matthews doubtful with a hamstring injury while rookie Luka Doncic is questionable with a knee. Dallas goes on the road where they have played 17 of their last 26 road games Under the Total with the number in the 210 to 219.5 point range. The Mavericks have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40%. Chicago is also undermanned with Bobby Portis, Kris Dunn and Lauri Markkanen all out with injuries. But this team is still playing hard on the defensive end of the court. They limited the Cavaliers to just a 42.9% shooting percentage on Saturday — and that is exactly the same opponent’s field goal percentage that their last five opponents have averaged. The Bulls have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They stay at home where they have played 4 straight games Under the Total — and they have also played 8 of their last 11 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams played back on October 22nd with the Mavericks winning that game in Dallas by a 115-109 score. That game fell well below the 229 point total — expect this game to also finish below the number given the injuries both teams have now experienced. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (707) and the Chicago Bulls (708). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Indiana Pacers (507) minus the point(s) versus the Miami Heat (508). THE SITUATION: Indiana (7-5) looks to bounce-back from their 100-94 upset loss at home to Philadelphia on Wednesday as a 2.5-point favorite. Miami (5-5) has won two straight games with their 95-88 win over San Antonio as a 1-point favorite on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACERS MINUS THE POINTS: Indiana has suffered two straight upset losses as their loss to the 76ers came on the heels of a 4-point loss at home as a 1-point favorite to the Rockets on Monday. Head coach Nate McMillan’s team should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have rebounded to cover the point spread in a decisive 40 of their last 59 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after a point-spread setback. The Pacers made only 39.4% of their shots in what was their worst shooting effort of the season. The team is once-again getting outstanding production from their breakout star Victor Oladipo who led them to the playoffs last season. But when Oladipo gets help on offense, this becomes a very difficult team to beat. Indiana has won seven of their eight games this season when they score at least 100 points — and the Heat are allowing 110.1 PPG. The Pacers entered their game with the Sixers scoring at a higher Points-Per-Possession rate with a better Offensive Net Rating than both Philly and the Celtics. They also force more turnovers and generate more points off turnovers than those two Eastern Conference rivals. This is an underrated team that has a deep bench that helps them play consistently night-in and night-out while not being as vulnerable to the whims of 3-point shooting. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after losing their last two games by 6 points or less — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. This consistency translates into good play on the road as they have won four of their six games away from home this season while shooting 49.9% from the field in those games. The Pacers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Indiana has also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games against fellow Eastern Conference opponents. Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they are just 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games after a point spread win. This is a middling team with an expensive roster that lacks a true superstar — so this group seems to be in a holding pattern waiting to see if they can trade for Jimmy Butler. Goran Dragic is their lone player who can create his own shot — but he is out for tonight with a knee injury. He joins Dion Waiters and James Johnson who are also out with injuries — and Dwyane Wade is not available tonight as he is taking another night off for “personal” reasons. The Heat benefitted in that game with the Spurs from San Antonio only making 33% of their shots which was the lowest opponent’s field goal percentage for them all season. But Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 23 home games as an underdog getting 6 points or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against Eastern Conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: Expect this undermanned Heat team to struggle against what should be a very motivated Pacers group looking to avoid their third straight upset loss. 25* NBA Road Warrior of the Month with the Indiana Pacers (507) minus the point(s) versus the Miami Heat (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Brooklyn Nets (702) minus the points versus the Detroit Pistons (701). THE SITUATION: Brooklyn (2-5) looks to bounce-back from a 115-96 loss at New York against the Knicks on Monday as a 1-point underdog. Detroit (4-2) has lost two straight games with their 108-105 loss in Boston as a +8.5-point underdog last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NETS PLUS THE POINTS: Brooklyn should respond with a better effort tonight. The Nets have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a double-digit loss — and the 40.5% shooting percentage in that game was their lowest shooting mark of the season. Brooklyn was outworked in that game by the Knicks as they were out-rebounded by a whopping 68 to 36 margin. Rebounding was an issue for this team last season which is why they signed free agents Ed Davis and Kenneth Faried in the offseason to offer them better rebounding and defensive heft off their bench. This is a gritty team under third-year head coach Kenny Atkinson who has done a great job of coaching up the players that general manager Sean Marks has been able to bring in. Marks is doing a masterful job of rebuilding this franchise after they mortgaged the future a number of years ago in acquiring Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett from the Celtics. The key to the development of this team is the progress of Caris LeVert who can form a potent 1-2 punch with budding superstar D’Angelo Russell — and the former first-round pick is scoring 18.9 PPG this season despite scoring only 4 points on 2 of 11 shooting in that game against New York. This is a team that lives (and dies) by their 3-point shooting — and they are making 39.5% of their shots from behind the arc which is very encouraging for a team that launched the second most 3-pointers per 100 attempts last season. This team played well in a 6-point loss in New Orleans before a narrow 6-point loss at home to Golden State before laying an egg against the Knicks. Brooklyn has covered the point spread in 27 of their last 42 games after losing five or six of their last seven games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with one day of rest. Detroit has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss on the road by 3 points or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Pistons have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing without a day of rest. Detroit has not been reliable in situations like this — they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 24 road games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. The Pistons have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a losing record. Furthermore, Detroit has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 trips to Brooklyn. Lastly, while the Pistons began their season with a 103-100 win at home against the Nets as 6-point favorites, they are a facing a Brooklyn team that has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when playing with revenge.

FINAL TAKE: This is a trap game for the Pistons who might be feeling pretty good about themselves with their only two losses this season were against the Celtics after winning their first four games of the year. Brooklyn is a hardworking team that launches tons of 3s — so Detroit playing without a day of rest may be behind the proverbial 8-ball in this one pretty quickly tonight. 25* NBA Game of the Month with the Brooklyn Nets (702) minus the points versus the Detroit Pistons (701). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (503) plus the points versus the Charlotte Hornets (504). Miami (3-3) saw their two-game winning streak snapped last night with their 123-113 upset loss to Sacramento as a 9-point favorite. Charlotte (3-4) also looks to bounce-back from their 105-103 loss in Philadelphia as a +7.5-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HEAT PLUS THE POINTS: Miami should rebound with a strong effort tonight as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their 16 games after an upset loss as a home favorite — and they have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 road games after an upset loss. The Heat have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit loss at home. One of the strengths of this team is their depth with head coach Erik Spoelstra comfortable in using his entire bench which will helps this team playing without rest. Miami is 20-6-1 ATS in their last 27 games played on the second of back-to-back nights. The Heat made just 41.3% of their shots last night which was the worst shooting effort in their last four contests. They also played their worst defensive game of the season as the Kings made 49.5% of their shots. Miami has been a reliable road underdog who has covered the point spread in 44 of their last 67 games away from home getting the points. The Heat are also 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 meetings with the Hornets — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 trips to Charlotte. The Hornets have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games coming off a game on the road where they lost but covered the point spread as an underdog. And while this Charlotte team has covered the point spread in five of their seven games this season, they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. This Hornets team remains middling accumulation of bad contracts that finished 36-46 in each of their last two seasons. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games on their home court. Rookie head coach James Borrego is one of a handful of coaches this season that uses an amped-up pace to attempt to disguise mediocre talent. But Charlotte has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games with the Total set in the 220 to 229.5 point range — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games with the Total set in that range.

FINAL TAKE: Miami will also be motivated to avenge a 113-112 upset loss at home to Charlotte back on October 20th where they were +3.5-point favorites. The Heat felt like they got jobbed in that game after a controversial foul was called that allowed Kemba Walker the opportunity to win the game at the free throw line as time expired. Miami should put themselves in a position to pull the upset tonight. 25* NBA Southeast Division Game of the Month with the Miami Heat (503) plus the points versus the Charlotte Hornets (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (507) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (508). THE SITUATION: Golden State (73-29) took a commanding 3-0 lead in this series on Wednesday with their 110-102 win in Cleveland (62-41) as a closing 3.5-point favorite. They have the opportunity to win back-to-back NBA Championships Friday night.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Warriors shot 51.9% from the field after making 57.3% of their shots in Game Two — but they have then played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total after making at least 50% of their shots in two straight games. Golden State has also played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total after winning at least four straight games — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. The Warriors have also played 4 straight games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. Additionally, Golden State has now played 20 of their last 28 road games Under the Total which includes them playing seven of their last eight games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. And in their last 4 opportunities to close-out a playoff series, the Warriors have played all 4 games Under the Total. Cleveland has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. They also have played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total when playing no more than their fifth game over the last fourteen days. Furthermore, the Cavaliers had 92 shots attempts in Game Three after taking 90 shots in Game Two — and they have then played 25 of their last 36 games Under the Total after attempting at least 90 shots in two straight games and this includes playing their last four games below the number in that situation. And in their last 17 home games against teams with a winning record on the road, Cleveland has played 12 of these games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: This is the first game in this series that will be played with just one day of rest. I look for a slower-paced game than the first three games of the series with perhaps both offenses taking a step back without the extra rest. 25* NBA Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (507) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (506) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (505). THE SITUATION: Golden State(72-29) took a 2-0 lead in this series on Sunday with their 122-103 win over the Cavaliers as an 11.5-point favorite. This series travels to Cleveland (62-40) for Games Three and Four.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS PLUS THE POINTS: Cleveland lacked energy on Sunday as they looked deflated after seeing so many things go against them in the opening game of this series. After out-rebounding the Warriors by a 53 to 38 margin in Game One, the Cavs only won the rebounding battle by a 42-41 margin in an area that they simply have to own a decisive edge. Cleveland was also too slow to adjust to Golden State’s slipping off their screens which helped them score 22 of their first 32 points in the paint. The Warriors shot 57.3% from the field which was the Cavaliers’ worst defensive effort in their last 49 games. The Cavs also made just 41.1% of their shots from the field which was their worst offensive effort in their last eight games. They made only 9 of their 27 (33.3%) shots from behind the arc. Yet despite all this, Cleveland still pulled to within 5 points in the 4th quarter of that game before Stephen Curry became possessed with his 3-point shooting. Expect the Cavaliers to play their best game in this series on Thursday with it being essentially a must-win situation for them back on their home court. Remember, Cleveland was down 0-2 to the Celtics last round before returning home where they won the next two games to even that series. The Cavaliers have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. Cleveland has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after losing the previous two games by double-digits. They have covered the point spread in 4 straight games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Golden State’s 57.3% field goal percentage was not only their best shooting effort in their last 42 games but it was also their best offensive performance in the playoffs in the Steve Kerr coaching era with the team. But the concerns for this team is not how high their ceiling is when they are clicking on most of their cylinders but rather a complacency that has too often plagued them this season. The Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games after a straight-up win — and they are 7-21-1 ATS in their last 29 games after a double-digit win. And while Golden State has won four straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after winning at least four in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after winning their last two games at home. Now the Warriors go on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 road games with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. Lastly, Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 playoff games when leading in the series.

FINAL TAKE: There is speculation that the Andre Iguodala might be able to take the court again after being out the last two weeks with an injury. But Iguodala will likely be rusty and his presence on the court may play into the Warriors’ hubris that almost cost them against the Rockets. The Cavaliers have made only 19 of their 64 (30%) 3-point shots so far in this series. If Cleveland can just match their 36.5% mark from behind the arc this season in Game Three, that should be enough help to compliment another likely super-human performance from LeBron James. 25* NBA Game of the Year with the Cleveland Cavaliers (506) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (505). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (503) and the Golden State Warriors (504). THE SITUATION: Golden State (71-29) won the opening game of this series with their 124-114 win in overtime on Thursday over the Cavaliers as a 12.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: These two teams had their offensive clicking in the first-half with the halftime score being a 56-56 tie. But things slowed down in the second-half — and that game only needed a flurry of baskets in the final two minutes of the game to reach 214 combined points (before overtime allowed for all Over tickets to be redeemed). Cleveland (62-29) has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 16 of their last 23 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. And while the Cavs have covered the point spread in four of their last five games, they have then played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. The extended schedule should help Cleveland’s effort on defense as they Under is 4-1-1 in the last 6 games when playing with two days of rest — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total when playing just their second game in seven days. The Cavs have also played 4 of their last 5 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. Golden State shot 51.1% from the field which was their best shooting effort in their last five games. The Warriors have then played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and the Under is 20-7-1 in their last 28 games after a point spread loss. The Under is also 19-6-1 in Golden State’s last 26 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. The Warriors were out-rebounded by a 53 to 38 margin — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after being out-rebounded by at least 15 boards. Golden State has also played 4 of the last 5 games Under the Total on their home court — and they have played 40 of their last 65 home games Under the Total when laying 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: Look for Game Two to resemble the second-half on Thursday. 25* NBA Sunday Night O/U Special Feature with Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (503) and the Golden State Warriors (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (501) and the Golden State Warriors (502). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (62-38) reached the NBA Finals with their 87-79 upset win in Boston on Sunday as a 3.5-point underdog. Golden State (70-29) sealed their fate to make this the fourth straight meeting between these two teams in the NBA Finals with their 101-92 win in Houston on Monday as a 6-point favorite. The first two games of this series are at the Warriors’ Oracle Center.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers held the Celtics to a season-low opponent’s field goal percentage of 34.1% on Sunday — but anyone watching that game will attest that Boston’s pathetic shooting deserves most of the credit for those numbers. Cleveland has then played 12 of the last 18 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 85 points in their last game — and they have played 3 of their last 4 games Over the Total after not allowing their last opponent to shoot better than 35% from the field. Additionally, the Cavaliers have played 31 of their last 45 road games Over the Total with the number set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. And while the last meeting between these two teams back on January 15th resulted in a 118-108 victory for the Warriors in Cleveland, the Cavs have then played 13 of their last 21 games Over the Total when avenging a double-digit loss. Golden State closed out their series with the Rockets by playing five straight games Under the Total. The Warriors have then played 3 of their last 4 games Over the Total after playing four straight Unders. Golden State has also played a decisive 42 of their last 69 home games Over the Total when favored in the 12.5 to 18 points favorites — and this includes playing nine of their last fourteen Over the Total in that situation.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams played four straight Overs to close out the NBA Finals last year with the Total ranging from 222 in Game Two to 231 in the final Game Five. While both these are not as potent offensive units as they were last year at this time, they both should play at a fast pace once again that both teams prefer. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (501) and the Golden State Warriors (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Houston Rockets (512) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (511). THE SITUATION: Golden State (69-29) forced a decisive seventh game in this series on Saturday with their 115-86 victory over the Rockets. This series returns to Houston (76-22) for the climactic seventh game.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ROCKETS PLUS THE POINTS: The Warriors finally displayed their brilliance in the second-half on Saturday by destroying Houston in the second-half by a stunning 64-25 scoring margin. But for a team whose biggest challenge this season has been overcoming complacency, winning by such a decisive margin to close out that game may have been the worst thing that could have happened to them along the way in forcing a final seventh game in this series. This is awful basketball in both conferences — so a home underdog getting 6 or so points has inherent value. I have zero confidence in Golden State replicating their strong performance in the second-half from Saturday (or from Game Three which prompted them to then lay two straight eggs in Game Four and Game Five). This is a team that has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 22 games after a straight-up win — and they are just 6-21-1 ATS in their last 28 games after a double-digit victory. Additionally, the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. And in their last 14 opportunities to close out a playoff series, Golden State has failed to cover the point spread 9 times including failing to cover these last three situations. The Warriors will be without Andre Iguodala which leaves them woefully short in terms of depth. I am assuming that Chris Paul will also not be able to play with his hamstring injury. I am not expecting fireworks from James Harden who I tend to consider overrated. But the Rockets launch 3s like crazy and squeeze out as much value per scoring possession as any team in the league. Houston has covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit loss. Additionally, the Rockets have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss by at least 15 points.

FINAL TAKE: Houston could not have looked as bad as they did in the second-half on Saturday. But even without Paul, 6 or so points as a home underdog would have looked very tasty even for last year’s Rockets. Houston can win this game outright on their home court — and the Warriors have shown me that they will not take the easy road anywhere. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Year with the Houston Rockets (512) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (511). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET own Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between Cleveland Cavaliers (711) and the Boston Celtics (712). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (61-38) forced a climactic seventh game of this series on Friday with their 109-99 win over the Celtics. This series returns to TD Garden in Boston (66-34) tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Cleveland was carried by LeBron James who scored 46 points on 17 of 33 shooting from the field who led his team to victory. George Hill added another 20 points on 7 of 12 shooting — but he is scoring only 5 PPG on 31% shooting when playing on the road in this series. Who will step up to help James with the scoring tonight? The Cavaliers have played 16 of their last 27 road games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Additionally, Cleveland has played 13 of their last 20 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory — and they have played 15 of their last 21 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Cavaliers have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when tied in a playoff series. Boston made 51.4% of their shots on Friday which was their best offensive effort in their last eleven games. But they should tighten up on offense in this climactic seventh game. They have played 33 of their last 52 games Under the Total in expected close games where they are listed in the +/- 3-point range — and this includes them playing 12 of their last 15 home games when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: With the pressure of this climactic seventh game, the unreliable Cavs supporting cast combined with this young Celtics roster will likely result in a lower scoring game. 25* NBA Sunday Night O/U Special Feature with  Under the Total in the game between Cleveland Cavaliers (711) and the Boston Celtics (712). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (509) and the Golden State Warriors (510). THE SITUATION: Houston (76-21) seized a 3-2 lead in this series on Thursday with their 98-94 upset win over the Warriors as a 1-point underdog. This series returns to the Oracle Center with Golden State (68-29) looking to stave off elimination.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Rockets will be without Chris Paul in this contest who suffered a hamstring injury late in Thursday’s game. Paul was essential in that contest as he was his team’s best offensive player. James Harden is in a massive slump: he  has missed 20 straight 3-pointers while making only 36.8% of his shots since the first game of this series. Houston will have to rely on their defense that has held the Warriors to under 100 points in two straight games with a series of sophisticated switching techniques that has frustrated this Golden State team. The Rockets have played 19 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games after an upset win as a home underdog. Houston has also played 14 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a win by 6 points or less. And while the last three games in this series have gone Under the Total, the Rockets have then played 12 of their last 17 games Under the Total after playing at least three straight Unders. Additionally, Houston has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total on the road as an underdog. Golden State has been lulled into exacerbating some of the bad habits they have picked on offense this year. They are attempting to execute isolation plays at triple the rate they were during the regular season which is not the egalitarian pass-oriented offense that Steve Kerr wants from this team. The Warriors clearly miss Andre Iguodala who remains listed as questionable for tonight’s game. The Warriors have seen the Under go 5-0-1 in their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and the Under is 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games after a point spread loss. Golden State returns home where they have played 13 of their last 20 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. And in their last 20 games when playing with same-season revenge, the Warriors have played 13 of these games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Houston is missing a key piece of their offense while Golden State is out-of-synch on offense. Yet both these teams with Top-Ten defenses during the regular season in terms of efficiency will lean on their defensive efforts in this contest. 25* NBA Saturday Night O/U Special Feature with Under the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (509) and the Golden State Warriors (510). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (709) plus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (710). THE SITUATION: Boston (66-33) took a 3-2 lead in this series on Wednesday with their 96-83 victory as a 1.5-point favorite. The series returns to Cleveland tonight with the Cavaliers (60-38) looking to stave off elimination.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS PLUS THE POINTS: The home team has held court while covering the point spread in all five games in this series. But we should not be hasty in expecting Cleveland to maintain this series trend considering that they are 17-35-1 ATS in their last 53 games at home — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 22 home games as a favorite laying 6.5 to 12 points. Expecting another zig-zag with the Cavaliers covering the point spread in this game also runs into the evidence that Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 24 games after a double-digit loss — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after failing to score at least 85 points in their last game. The Cavaliers may force a Game Seven but I expect this to be their most challenging home game in this series. Between LeBron James tiring, the roster limitations of this Cleveland team and the ever-growing eye-rolls coming from James’ teammates in what looks to be the waning days of LeBron’s second tenure with the franchise before he becomes a free agent, the chips look to be stacking against this Cavs’ team. Tonight will be James’ 99th game this season which ties for the second most he has ever played during a year — and that is not a good sign for a player that he admitted he was fatigued on Wednesday. The Celtics are making it harder for him to score baskets  — Brad Stevens’ move to start Aaron Baynes has added a rim protector down low and a difficult obstacle to James coming off pick-and-rolls. Over the last three halves in this series, James has committed 11 turnovers while only assisting on five baskets. And after his supporting cast made only 8 of 32 (25%) baskets in the second-half of Game Four, they shot only 38.5% of their field goals in Game Five. Tyron Lue was criticized for not playing Kyle Korver for more than 10 minutes on Game Four — but Stevens stymied that move by shortening his bench by not using Semi Ojeleye who Lue would match Korver against on defense. The concern for Lue is that Korver is a defensive liability to any other Celtic besides the rookie Ojeleye — and this highlights the limitations of this roster that was retooled on the fly at the trade deadline when the chemistry was awful between James and the new players that were brought in last summer (to take over for the players that Cleveland is now relying on to complement LeBron). Baynes’ increased playing time also hurt Cleveland on the offensive glass as they pulled down only three offensive rebounds in Game Five with that 7.3% offensive rebounding rate tying for their second-lowest mark in either of the James’ era.

The Celtics have only won once in their seven playoff games on the road — but that was a crucial third game in Philadelphia against the 76ers that essentially ended that series. I expect this young Boston team to continue to improve when playing on the road as they get more acclimated to these situations. They will certainly have the benefit of not having the pressure on them with this game serving as a freeroll with a potential Game Seven still in hand back at TD Garden. Despite the poor win/loss record on the road, the Celtics have still covered the point spread in 30 of their last 48 road games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. Stevens’ move to go big with Baynes replacing Marcus Morris on the court has produced great dividends as Boston has outscored the Cavs but +31.3 points with Baynes and Horford on the court together over the last two games. I just don’t think Lue has the pieces to counter this move — instead, Cleveland will need to make a bunch of 3s tonight or instead hope that James has yet another super-human game left in the tank. Yet it is Boston that is due to see more shots fall after they made only 36.5% of their shots on Wednesday which was the worst offensive effort in their last 21 games. The Celtics are seeing tons of shots at the rim bounce-out: they made just 11 of their 27 (40.7%) layups or dunks in Game Five and they are making just 56.3% of their shots at the rim in this series as compared to the 62.9% shooting percentage at the rim for the other three teams in the Conference Finals. Boston covers the point spread in Game Four in Cleveland if they just make one or two more layups (hello, Jaylen Brown). The Celtics should respond well to this challenge as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after a double-digit win at home. Boston has also covered the point spread in 23 of their last 33 games as an underdog. And in their last 7 opportunities to closeout a playoff series, the Celtics have covered the point spread in 5 of these games.

FINAL TAKE: Boston should play their best game in Cleveland tonight while the Regression Gods should help to see a few more of their shots at the rim actually fall. The Cavaliers may force a Game Seven tonight but expect the closest game of this series. 25* NBA Friday Night Special Feature with the Boston Celtics (709) plus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (710). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (507) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Houston Rockets (508). THE SITUATION: Houston (75-21) evened this series at 2-2 on Tuesday by rallying from an early 12-0 deficit to grind out a 95-92 upset win as an 8-point underdog while breaking the Warriors’ sixteen-game winning streak on their home court. This series returns to Houston’s Toyota Center for a decisive fifth game.

REASONS TO TAKE GOLDEN STATE PLUS THE POINTS: If that collapse by Golden State (68-28) was not a wake-up call for this team, then nothing will be for the defending champions whose biggest enemy all season has been complacency. I delayed a final decision on this game awaiting injury updates to Klay Thomson and Andre Iguodala. It looks like Thompson will play despite his left knee strain suffered on Tuesday. Iguodala will be a game-time decision. While the Warriors cleary missed Iguodala in Game Four, having Thompson healthy for this game is important. Yet the key for this game will be the play of their two superstars Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry who got lulled into too much isolation ball in Game Three. Golden State assisted on only 48.5% of their baskets on Tuesday which was far below their league-leading 64.4% assist on field goals mark for the regular season. Head coach Steve Kerr should have commanded his team’s attention on this aspect heading into tonight’s clash. As it is, the Warriors have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games are an upset loss as a home favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a narrow loss by 3 points or less. Additionally, Golden State has covered the point spread in 8 of their 10 games when avenging a loss by 3 points or less. And in their last 14 games in Houston, the Warriors have covered the point spread 10 times. Houston may suffer a bit of a letdown after stealing Game Four after such a slow start.

At 8:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (708) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (707). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (60-37) held serve at home and evened this series at 2-2 with their 111-102 win over the Celtics as a 7-point favorite. This series moves to Boston (65-33) for Game Five.

REASONS TO TAKE BOSTON PLUS THE POINTS: The Cavaliers are unlikely to continue their strong play going back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games against teams with a winning record at home. And while this is Cleveland’s fifth game in the last fourteen days, they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 31 games when playing no more than their sixth game in fourteen days. An emotional letdown is likely for this team after they raced out to double-digit leads in both the previous two games in Cleveland. The Cavs have then failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after owning double-digit halftime leads in their previous two games. Cleveland has outworked this younger Celtics team as well as they out-rebounded them by +10 and +11 boards in the last two games of this series. But the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning the rebounding battle by double-digits in two straight games. Boston should start much better back on their home court where they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 24 games. Additionally, the Celtics have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a loss on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after losing their last two games in the road. Furthermore, Boston has covered the point spread in 23 of their last 29 games when playing with revenge — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing with double-revenge. Head coach Brad Stevens usually sees his team perform well in these expected close contests. The Celtics have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and this includes them covering the point spread in eight of their last ten games at home when in the +/- 3-point range. Lastly, Boston has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when a playoff series is tied.

FINAL TAKE: While Boston is undefeated at home in these playoffs, that is not nearly enough of a reason to take the Celtics against a LeBron James team. But certainly this young Celtics team plays better on their home court — and the Cavs may not be able to avoid exhaling a small sigh of relief while lowering their sense of urgency after being down 0-2 in this series. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Year with the Boston Celtics (708) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (707). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (505) and the Golden State Warriors (506). THE SITUATION: Golden State (68-27) took a 2-1 lead in this series on Sunday with their dominating 126-85 victory over the Rockets. They stay at home to host Game Four.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Golden State shot 52.2% from the field while making 13 of their 32 (40.6%) of their shots from behind the arc — and they will likely keep their offense clicking on all cylinders for this game. They have played 34 of their last 41 games Over the Total after a win by at least 20 points. They have also played an incredible 97 of their last 113 games Over the Total after winning two of their last three games. And while they held Houston (74-21) to just a 39.5% field goal percentage, they have played 28 of their last 30 games(!) Over the Total after not allowing more than 90 points in their last game. Furthermore, the Warriors have played 23 of their last 27 home games Over the Total with the number set at 220 or higher. Golden State has also played 22 of their last 28 home games when favored in the 6.5 to 12 point range. Additionally, the Warriors have played 26 of their last 35 playoff games Over the Total when leading in the series — and they have played 7 of their last 10 Game Fours in the playoffs Over the number. Houston failed to score in triple digits for the first time in these playoffs while that 39.5% field goal percentage was their lowest mark in eleven games. Even worse, their Offensive Rating of 87.9 in that game was their lowest number of the entire season. But the Rockets have then played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total after a loss on the road. Houston has also played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a loss by at least 10 points — and they have played 4 straight games Over the Total after a loss by at least 15 points. Furthermore, the Rockets have played 29 of their last 38 games Over the Total with the number set at 220 or higher — and this includes them playing thirteen of their last eighteen games on the road with the Total set at 220 or higher. Houston has also played 19 of their last 24 games Over the Total when avenging a loss where their opponent scored at least 100 points. Lastly, in their last 5 Game Fours in the playoffs, the Rockets have played 4 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Houston should play much better on offense in this game — especially with the Warriors’ Andre Iguodala now listed as doubtful for this game. Iguodala has been the primary defender on James Harden in this series. Golden State should continue to play well on offense at home as well which should result in the highest scoring game so far in this season. 25* NBA Western Conference Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (505) and the Golden State Warriors (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (705) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (706). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (59-37) rebounded from losing the first two games of this series in Boston (65-32) by returning home to win Game Three decisively by a 116-86 score as a 6.5-point favorite on Saturday. The Cavaliers host Game Four.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Cleveland nailed 17 of their 34 shots from behind the arc on Saturday and the evidence is quite strong that this strong play on offense will continue tonight as demonstrated by the established personality of this team. Cleveland has played a decisive 22 of their last 25 home games Over the Total after a win by at least 20 points. The Cavaliers have also played 40 of their last 47 home games Over the Total with the number set in the 200 to 209.5 point range — including six straight Overs. Furthermore, Cleveland has played 16 of their last 20 home games Over the Total as a favorite laying no more than 6 points. This team has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest. And in their last 28 Game Fours in the playoffs, the Cavs have played 20 of these games Over the Total — including eight of their last ten Game Fours. Boston has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and the Over is 13-2-1 in their last 16 games after a point spread loss. The Celtics have also played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a loss on the road by double-digits. Furthermore, Boston has played 13 of their last 16 games Over the Total after a loss by at least 30 points. They made only 6 of their 22 (27.3%) shots from behind the arc en route to their 39.2% field goal percentage which was the worst offensive effort in their last nine games. The Celtics have played three straight Unders — but they have then played 6 straight games Over the Total after playing at least three straight Unders. Lastly, Boston has played 23 of their last 29 games Over the Total when playing with revenge — and this including them playing eight of their last nine games Over the Total when avenging a loss on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The team trends for both these teams strongly suggest that both will have strong offensive efforts. Cleveland will be playing with desperation down 2-1 while the Celtics can still feel loose with home court still in hand even with a loss. 25* NBA Playoff A-List O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (705) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (706). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (504) minus the points versus the Houston Rockets (503). THE SITUATION: Houston (74-20) evened this series at 1-1 on Wednesday with their 127-105 victory over the Warriors. The series turns to Golden State (67-27) for Game Three.

REASONS TO TAKE GOLDEN STATE MINUS THE POINTS: The Warriors have lost only three times in the last two years in the NBA Playoffs — and they have outscored their opponent by +17.0 PPG after their previous two playoff losses. Golden State has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a loss by at least 15 points — and they have also covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after a loss by at least 20 points. Furthermore, the Warriors have covered the point spread 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. Golden State has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games when avenging a loss on the road by at least 20 points. Look for Stephen Curry to play better tonight after making only 2 of his 13 shots from behind the arc and averaging just 17.0 PPG in the first two games in this series. The extra time off should help Curry — and the Warriors have covered the point spread in 4 straight games when playing with three or more days of rest. Golden State has also covered the point spread in 21 of their last 28 home games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. Houston (74-20) made 51.1% of their shots on Wednesday which is tied for their best field goal percentage in their last sixteen games. P.J. Tucker, Eric Gordon and Trevor Ariza combined to score 68 points on 23 of 33 (70%) shooting along with making 12 of their 18 (75%) shots from behind the arc — these secondary players are essential for this Rockets team to win this series. But a letdown is likely tonight as Houston is 3-13-1 ATS in their last 17 games after scoring at least 125 points in their last game. The Rockets have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a straight-up win. A concern for this Houston team is controlling the boards as they have been out-rebounded by -15 and -13 rebounds in the first two games of this series. The Rockets have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after being out-rebounded by at least 10 boards in their last two games. Lastly, Houston has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games as an underdog.

CONCLUSION: Look for the Rockets role players to cool down while the Curry and the Warriors to play much better at home in the Oracle Center. 25* NBA Sunday Night Special Feature with the Golden State Warriors (504) minus the points versus the Houston Rockets (503). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (704) minus the points versus the Boston Celtics (703). THE SITUATION: Boston (65-31) held serve on their home court by winning Game Two of this series on Tuesday with their 107-94 victory as a 1-point favorite. Cleveland (58-37) returns home down 0-2 in this series in what appears to be a must-win situation.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS MINUS THE POINTS: The Cavaliers seemed to be in good shape (and the Over certainly did) when they went to the locker rooms with a 55-48 lead. Only scoring 39 second-half points did them (and the Over) in. Cleveland can take something positive from that game in that they held the Celtics to just a 43.5% field goal percentage which was the best defensive effort in their last five games. Returning home should where they shot 48.1% and then 59.5% in their two games in their previous series against the Raptors. The supporting cast makes more of their shots at home and LeBron James should have enough energy with the extended time off since Game Two. The Cavaliers have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 27 Game Threes in the NBA Playoffs. Boston (65-31) look like world beaters right now with head coach Brad Stevens being anointed as a genius in many circles. But this will be their first game away from home since May 7th where they lost to the 76ers by 11 points while shooting only 41.3% from the field. The Celtics are just 1-4 on the road in these playoffs while shooting better than 41.4% from the field just once. Their young talent that has thrived at home this postseason have not been nearly as good when playing in hostile environments. Boston has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after winning their last three games at home. And in their last 13 games when playing no more than their third game in ten days, the Celtics have failed to cover the point spread 9 times.

CONCLUSION: It is too early to write the obituary for this Cavaliers team that just less than two weeks ago looked great in sweeping a Toronto team that had the best record in the Eastern Conference. 25* NBA Saturday Night Special Feature with the Cleveland Cavaliers (704) minus the points versus the Boston Celtics (703). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (701) and the Boston Celtics (702). THE SITUATION: Boston (64-31) was dominant on Sunday as they crushed the Cavaliers in the opening game of the Eastern Conference Finals by a 108-83 score as a 1-point underdog. The Celtics host Game Two.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers were dreadful on offense in this game as they made only 4 of their 26 (15.4%) of their 3-point shots while shooting just 36% from the field. That was their worst field goal percentage in their last 44 games. Cleveland has played 4 straight games Over the Total after a point spread loss — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Additionally, the Cavs have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest. Furthermore, Cleveland has played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total when avenging a loss that was by at least 20 points. Boston (64-31) is not likely to play as well on defense in this contest when considering that the Cavs’ 36% field goal percentage was their lowest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last 43 contests. The Celtics have played 10 of their last 11 games Over the Total after a win by at least 10 points — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a win by at least 15 points. And in their last 12 games at home in TD Garden, Boston has played 10 of these games Over the Total.

CONCLUSION: This should be a close game which will drive the combined score over the number. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (701) and the Boston Celtics (702). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:35 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (734) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (733). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (58-35) takes the court again after sweeping Toronto in four-games after their 128-93 victory on Monday. Boston (63-31) dispatched of the 76ers in five games with their 114-112 win on Wednesday — they host the first two games of this series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINT(S): Cleveland is likely to experience some rust in this game after the extended time away from the court — they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games when playing with at least three days of rest. They torched the hoops on Monday by making 12 of their 26 (46.2%) of their 3-pointers en route to a 59.5% field goal percentage which was tied for the best offensive performance in their last 22 games. But the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games after scoring at least 120 points in their last game. Cleveland has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after a victory by at least 15 points. Now this team goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 27 road games as a favorite — and this includes failing to cover the point spread in twelve of their last seventeen road games when favored by 6 points or less. Boston has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing with at least three days of rest. The Celtics have also covered the point spread in 5 straight games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Boston is undefeated at home in the playoffs — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games on their home court. They also have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 12 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Celtics have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Lastly, this is the first meeting between these two teams since their showdown back on February 11th in that Sunday afternoon game which was the debut of the new players the Cavs’ acquired at the trade deadline. Cleveland dominated that game by a 121-99 score — but Boston has covered the point spread in 22 of their last 27 games when playing with revenge and this includes covering their last ten games when avenging a double-digit loss.

CONCLUSION: The Celtics young players are very comfortable playing at home right now — look for them to outplay the supporting cast of LeBron James this afternoon. 25* NBA Eastern Conference ABC-TV Game of the Year with the Boston Celtics (734) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (733). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Philadelphia 76ers (712) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Boston Celtics (711). THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (57-34) staved off elimination on Monday by defeating the Celtics by a 103-92 score to make this a 3-1 series. Boston (62-31) returns home to host Game Five at TD Garden with the opportunity to close things out.

REASONS TO TAKE PHILADELPHIA PLUS THE POINTS: I did a very deep dive for this contest. Most pundits consider the Celtics’ winning this series a foregone conclusion with the fact that NBA teams that take a 3-0 lead in a series have won all 129 times that has happened. Bettors have followed with Boston moving from a small underdog to them being a small favorite as of this writing. But the oddsmakers initially installed the 76ers as the favorites tonight for a reason. Remember, Philadelphia lost Game Two of this series by 5 points (blowing a 22-point lead in the first half) before losing Game Three by just 3 points in overtime as the Celtics have benefited from winning the two close games in this series. The Sixers were blown out in Game One in a situation I attributed to their playoff inexperience combining with a long layoff against a Boston team still dialed-in from their seven-game series with Milwaukee. And taking a farther step back, Philadelphia entered this series having won twenty of their twenty-one games — and they probably have the best two players on the court with Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons (depending on how one evaluates Al Horford). The key move in Game Four was Philly head coach Brent Brown inserting T.J. McConnell into the starting lineup for Robert Covington. This triggered three changes in the dynamic of this series that helps the Sixers. First, McConnell’s playmaking abilities allow for Simmons to play off the ball on the post which helps him find scoring opportunities — he has been stymied in the first three games of this series with the Celtics daring him to shoot outside jumpers that is not a strength of his. Second, McConnell’s presence on the court with Simmons helps the Sixers push the pace to counter the shell that Boston was often creating around Simmons to slow him down. Third, McConnell offers a better defensive counter to T.J. Rozier — and it is this latter element that is the most promising for Philadelphia moving forward. Rozier scored only 11 points on Monday on 4 of 11 shooting which included only 1 of 6 shooting from 3-point land. He added just 2 assists. Rozier has been essential to the Celtics in these playoffs after this team ranked just 23rd in Offensive Efficiency in the last fifteen games of the regular season since the Kyrie Irving injury. In the first three games of this series, Rozier averaged 23.3 PPG along with 6 Assists-Per-Game while shooting 50% from the field (24-48) and from behind the arc (13-26). In what is not a coincidence, Rozier scored 22 PPG while tallying 6.3 Assists-Per-Game while making 50% of his shots from the field and 50% from 3-point land in Boston’s four wins over Milwaukee in the first round of the playoffs. But in the Celtics’ three losses in that series, Rozier averaged only 11.7 PPG on 27.8% shooting. For this young Boston team that is limited with offensive playmakers at this point of the season and needed seven games to survive against a Bucks team that was outscored by their opponents in the regular season, Rozier represents the key to their chances. Philadelphia may have dug a hole too deep to climb out of in this series — but I do expect them to make things interesting. They should build off the momentum of their win on Monday as they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after a win by double-digits.

CONCLUSION: While the Celtics are undefeated in six home games this postseason, they were trailing by 22 points to these 76ers the last time they met in Boston — they needed the unique combination of poor play and terrible coaching to help them to seize momentum and quickly get back into that game before halftime. Look for Philadelphia to force a sixth game back home. 25* NBA 2nd Round Playoff Game of the Year with the Philadelphia 76ers (712) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Boston Celtics (711). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans (507) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (508). THE SITUATION: Golden State (65-26) seized a commanding 3-1 lead in this series on Sunday with their 118-92 win in New Orleans as a 6-point favorite. They return home to the Oracle Center with designs to close out this series in five games.

REASONS TO TAKE NEW ORLEANS PLUS THE POINTS: The Warriors shot 48.4% from the field in Game Four which is tied for the best effort on offense in their last six games. Don’t be surprised if the defending champions come out flat — they are are just 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 games after a double-digit win. The Warriors have launched at 91 shots from the field in each of their last four games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after taking at least 90 shot attempts in two straight games. Furthermore, Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games on their home court. And in their last 5 opportunities to close out a playoff series up 3-1, the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread 4 times. New Orleans (53-37) should play much better tonight after making only 36.4% of their shots on Sunday which was the worst offensive performance in their last 36 games. They made only 4 of their 26 (15.4%) shots from behind the arc. But the Pelicans have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 26 games when looking to avenge a loss where they allowed at least 110 points. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when looking to avenge a loss at home by at least 20 points. Head coach Alvin Gentry had his team take yesterday off from practice given the heavy minutes his starters have been playing. Now they go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games — and they have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 20 road games with the Total set in the 200 to 229.5-point range.

CONCLUSION: Expect the Pelicans to play like the team that was very competitive in the second and third games of this series. 25* NBA 2nd Round Playoff Bailout Game of the Year with the New Orleans Pelicans (507) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Toronto Raptors (503) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (504). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (57-35) has taken a commanding 3-0 lead in this series on Saturday with their 105-103 victory as a 4.5-point favorite over the Raptors. They host Game Four with the opportunity to close this series out.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers raced out to a 55-40 lead at halftime on Saturday before holding on for that victory. Cleveland has then played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total after leading at halftime by at least 15 points in their last game. The Cavaliers have also played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest. Cleveland has won four straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in four of their last six games. The Cavs have played 26 of their last 38 home games Over the Total after only covering the point spread once or twice in their last six games. Cleveland has also played 6 of their last 9 playoff games Over the Total when playing with the possibility of closing out the series with a win. Toronto (63-28) has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a point spread win — and they have also played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a loss by 3 points or less. Additionally, the Raptors have played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total as a road underdog of 6 points or less. Toronto has played has lost five games in a row to the Cavaliers going back to the regular season. The Raptors have then played 15 of their last 21 games Over the Total when playing with triple revenge — and they have played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total when facing an opponent that they have lost to at least four times in a row. Lastly, Toronto has played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total in the playoffs when facing elimination.

CONCLUSION: Expect a high-scoring game with the Raptors playing like they did in the second-half where they scored 63 points with the pressure off after digging a likely insurmountable hole in this series. 25* NBA 2nd Round Playoff Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Toronto Raptors (503) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:35 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (705) and the New Orleans Pelicans (706). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (53-36) made this a series on Friday by crushing the Warriors by a 119-100 score as a 4.5-point underdog. They host Game Four in the Big Easy.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Golden State (64-26) should bounce-back with a much better effort after being pretty lethargic with the comfort of their 2-0 lead in this series. The Warriors shot just 38% from the field which was the worst offensive effort in their last four games — and they made just 9 of their 31 (29.0%) of their 3-point shots. Golden State has played 18 of their last 20 games Over the Total after an upset loss. The Warriors’ 26 free throws in Game Three were 14 more opportunities at the charity stripe — and they have played 24 of their last 33 games Over the Total after attempting at least 10 more free throws than their opponent in their last game. Golden State has also played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed at least 110 points. Moving forward, the Warriors have played 11 of their last 13 games Over the Total when not playing more than their fifth game in fourteen days. Golden State has played 27 of their last 41 games Over the Total when favored in the 3.5 to 9.5 point range — and they have also played 31 of their last 47 games Over the Total as a road favorite laying no more than 6 points. Furthermore, the Warriors have played 30 of their last 38 games Over the Total with the number at the lofty 230 or higher point range — and this includes them playing thirteen of their last eighteen games Over the Total when on the road. New Orleans (53-36) has played 4 straight home games Over the Total with the Total set at 230 or higher. They have also played 21 of their last 27 home games Over the Total after a double-digit win. And in the Pelicans’ last 13 games after a win by at least 15 points, they have played 10 of these games Over the Total.

CONCLUSION: New Orleans should continue to feed off the energy of their crowd — which is why I am passing on the side play with the Pelicans being a home dog (though I lean to the Warriors). This is an instance where just taking the Over seems prudent. 25* NBA 2nd Round ABC-TV Playoff Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (705) and the New Orleans Pelicans (706). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Toronto Raptors (703) plus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (704). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (56-35) returns home after taking a 2-0 lead in this series on Thursday with their 128-110 win over the Raptors as a 7-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE TORONTO PLUS THE POINTS: Toronto (63-27) has been humiliated after losing two straight games at home despite being healthy favorites. But I think the pressure is off this team now after being completely discounted by everyone as pretenders to the Eastern Conference championship despite being the top seed after their regular season. The Raptors have now lost eight straight games to the Cavaliers in the playoffs. Yet this remains the only team in the NBA that finished the regular season in the Top Five in both Offensive and Defensive Efficiency. Toronto has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after being upset in two straight games as a home favorite. The Raptors have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after suffering two straight losses. And while Toronto has also lost four of their last six games, they have then covered the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after losing four or five of their last six games. The Raptors have to limit their turnovers — they have endured a -8 net turnover margin in each of the two games in this series. Toronto has covered the point spread in 6 straight games after having a -7 or worse turnover margin in their last two games. Limiting these transition scoring opportunities will also slow down this Cavs offense that has feasted off too many easy scoring chances. Cleveland shot 59.5% from the field on Thursday which was their best offensive effort in their last 20 games — and it was the Raptors’ worst defensive performance in their last 18 contests.

CONCLUSION: Don’t be surprised if the Raptors pull the upset tonight — but take the points for the nice cushion of insurance. 25* NBA 2nd Round ABC-TV Playoff Game of the Year with the Toronto Raptors (703) plus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (704). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (515) and the Utah Jazz (516). THE SITUATION: Utah (53-37) evened this series at 1-1 with their 116-108 upset win in Houston as a 10.5-point underdog on Wednesday. The Jazz now return home to Salt Lake City to host Game Three tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE THE UNDER: Utah has played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after pulling off an upset win on the road as a double-digit underdog. The Jazz were on-fire with their shooting on Wednesday as they made 15 of their 32 (46.9%) shots from bind the arc. Their 51.8% field goal percentage in that game was their best shooting performance in their last five games. Utah returns home where they have played 13 of their last 20 home games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. The Jazz have also played 6 of their last 9 home games as an underdog of 6 points or less. Utah has also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. Houston (70-19) needs to tighten things up on defense after allowing this Jazz team to make at least 50% of their shots in the first two games of this series — and that came after allowing Minnesota to shoot 50.6% from the field in their close out game with the Timberwolves in their previous playoff series. Utah has played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total after allowing their last two opponents to shoot at least 50% of their shots — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after allowing their last three opponents to shoot at least 50% from the field. Additionally, the Rockets have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total after an upset loss as a double-digit favorite at home. Houston goes back on the road after playing their last three games at home — and they have played 10 of their last 11 road games Under the Total after playing their last three games at home. And while the Rockets have scored at least 105 points in five straight games — and they have then played 11 of their last 14 road games Under the Total after scoring at least 105 points in three straight games. Lastly, Houston has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when avenging an upset loss as a double-digit home favorite.

CONCLUSION: Expect the third game of this series to be lowest scoring game so far between these two teams in the playoffs. 25* NBA 2nd Round ESPN Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (515) and the Utah Jazz (516). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (509) and the Boston Celtics (510). THE SITUATION: Boston (60-30) won the opening game of this series on Monday with their 117-101 upset win versus Philadelphia (56-32) as a 4.5-point favorite. The Celtics host Game Two.

REASONS TO TAKE THE OVER: Boston has played 4 straight games Over the Total after a double-digit victory. Additionally, the Celtics have played 7 straight games Over the Total after an upset win as a home underdog. Boston has also played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a win on their home court. They held the Sixers to just a 42.2% field goal percentage which was their best defensive effort in their last three games — so that is area that should see some regression. Furthermore, the Celtics have played 13 of their last 16 games Over the Total on their home court. Philadelphia (56-32) made only 5 of their last 26 (19.2%) shots from behind the arc   despite averaging 11 made shots from behind the arc with a 37.4% shooting percentage from 3-point land on the road. Yet despite that poor shooting effort, they still scored 101 points. The 76ers have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 17 of their last 23 road games Over the Total as the favorite. Lastly, Philly has played 23 of their last 34 road games Over the Total with the number set in the 200 to 209.5 point range.

CONCLUSION: Expect another higher-scoring game between these two teams with Philly likely to play much better on offense and Boston happy to play at their pace while launching plenty of 3s. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (509) and the Boston Celtics (510). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Utah Jazz (507) and the Houston Rockets (508). THE SITUATION: Houston (70-18) won the opening game of this series on Sunday by a 110-96 score as an 11.5-point favorite. The Rockets dominated that game from the jump and held a 27-point lead at one point in the first-half while cruising to an easy victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE UNDER: Utah (52-37) needs to play much better on the defensive end of the court while making adjustments so that Rudy Gobert is roaming the middle again to protect the rim. Gobert did not block a shot on Saturday while Houston and too many easy shot attempts inside. The Jazz have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a double-digit loss. They also have played 12 of their last 17 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. Utah did make 50% of their shots in Game One which was the best offensive effort in their last four games. Despite being without Ricky Rubio, the Jazz collected 20 team assists that resulted in 38 field goals in that game — and it is difficult seeing them performing much better on offense despite that only producing 96 points with Rubio out indefinitely with a hamstring injury. Utah has played 4 of their last 5 games on the road Under the Total — and they have played 4 of their last 5 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. Houston nailed 17 of their 32 (53.1%) of their 3-pointers on Saturday so they are due for an appearance from the Regression Gods in that aspect of their hame. The Rockets have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a straight up win — and they have played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a point spread win. Furthermore, Houston has played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. Houston has also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. The Rockets have also played 18 of their last 24 home games Under the Total including six of their last seven games against teams with a losing record on the road.

CONCLUSION: The adjustments in Game Two should favor the defensive end of the court for both teams leading to a lower scoring game. 25* NBA 2nd Round Western Conference Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Utah Jazz (507) and the Houston Rockets (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans (709) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (710). THE SITUATION: Golden State (63-25) easily won the opening game of this series on Saturday with their 123-101 win over the Pelicans as a 7.5-point favorite. The Warriors are likely to get Stephen Curry back for Game Two tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE NEW ORLEANS PLUS THE POINTS: Golden State may be due for an emotional letdown — especially with the comfort of Curry returning to the court tonight. As it is, the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a double-digit victory. Golden State has also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a point spread victory. The Warriors benefited from getting 21 attempts from the charity stripe: they made 24 of 32 free throws while the Pelicans made 9 of the mere 11 attempts they have from the line. That advantage will not likely continue tonight — and Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 33 games after a game where they enjoyed at least a 20 shot edge in free throw attempts. Look for New Orleans (52-35) to play much better tonight as they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games when playing with revenge from a loss by at least 20 points. New Orleans shot just 43.8% from the field in that game which was the worst offensive effort in their last thirteen games. This Pelicans team has been playing great basketball having won nine straight games before the loss on Saturday. New Orleans has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 19 road games with the Total set in the 220 to 229.5 point range in expected high scoring games.

CONCLUSION: With Curry back in the mix, the Warriors are laying too many points to a good Pelicans team. 25* NBA Western Conference Underdog of the Year with the New Orleans Pelicans (709) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (710). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (555) and the Boston Celtics (556). THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (56-31) gets back to the court for the first time since last Tuesday when they eliminated Miami in five games with their 104-91 victory as a 10-point favorite. Boston (59-30) has a quick turnaround after defeating Milwaukee on Saturday in Game Seven of that series by a 112-96 score as a 5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE OVER: Philadelphia (56-31) played their best defensive game in terms of opponent field goal percentage in their last game by holding the Heat to just a 38.6% shooting percentage. That defensive effort helped that game finish below the 215.5 point Total — but the 76ers have played 28 of their last 43 road games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Under the Total. Philadelphia has also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when playing with at least three days of rest. And in their last 22 road games as the favorite, the 76ers have played 16 of these games Over the Total. Boston (59-30) should come out smoking in regards to their shooting after making 53.6% of their shots on Saturday. The Celtics have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Additionally, Boston has 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a double-digit win at home. And in their last 8 games on their home court, the Celtics have played 7 of these games Over the Total.

CONCLUSION: While the Total for this game is dropping after initially being installed at 210, that line movement is going the wrong way. The Celtics will be without Jaylen Brown who is dealing with a hamstring injury — but it is his absence which has led to the line dropping. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (555) and the Boston Celtics (556). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (705) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (706). THE SITUATION: Indiana (51-37) forced a climactic seventh game in this series on Friday when they destroyed the Cavaliers by a 121-87 score as a 1.5-point favorite. Game Seven returns to Cleveland (53-35).

REASONS TO TAKE THE UNDER: Indiana made 15 of their 30 shots from behind the arc en route to their 56.3% field goal percentage on Friday which was the best shooting performance in their last 58 games. Expect those numbers to decline significantly when playing on the road under the pressure of a Game Seven. As it is, the Pacers shoot only 46.8% with a 36.2% mark from 3-point land when on the road. The Under is 19-6-1 in Indiana’s last 26 games on the road. Indiana has also played 12 of their last 13 games Under the Total after scoring at least 120 points in their last game. Furthermore, the Pacers have played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 16 of their last 21 games Under the Total after a point spread win. Additionally, Indiana has played 16 of their last 22 games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. Cleveland has played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. Additionally, the Cavs have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after both a straight-up loss as well as a point spread loss. Cleveland should play better on defense after enduring their highest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last 35 games. The Cavs have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. But while Cleveland shot just 41.8% from the field on Friday, that was actually a better shooting mark than their 41.3% field goal percentage at home in Game Five. The Cavaliers have played 4 straight home games Under the Total.

CONCLUSION: The Under is 7-1-1 in the last 9 games between these two teams — including going 3-0-1 in the last 4 games played in Cleveland. Expect these team trends to continue this afternoon. 25* NBA 1st Round ABC-TV Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (705) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (706). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (551) and the Golden State Warriors (552). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (52-34) reached the Western Conference Semifinals by sweeping Portland in four games after their 131-123 win last Saturday. Golden State (62-25) defeated San Antonio in five games with their 99-91 win over the Spurs on Tuesday. Stephen Curry took part in practice to prepare for this game but he is officially listed as questionable.

REASONS TO TAKE THE OVER: The Pelicans were unstoppable on offense against the Trail Blazers as they made 57% of their shots in their close out game which was their third straight game where they made at least 51.2% of their shots. New Orleans has played 11 of their last 15 games Over the Total after shooting at least 50% from the field in two straight games. The Pelicans have also played 20 of their last 31 games Over the Total after allowing at least 115 points in their last game — and they have played 16 of their last 24 games Over the Total after a game where at least 235 combined points were scored. Furthermore, New Orleans has played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record. The extended break should help the Pelicans offensive flow as well — they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing with at least three days of rest. Golden State (62-25) has played 12 of their last 20 games Over the Total when playing with at least three days of rest. And while the Warriors have not covered the point spread in two straight games, they have then played 16 of their last 27 games Over the Total after failing to cover the point spread in two straight games. Additionally, the Over is 4-1-1 in Golden State’s last 6 games on their home court. And in their last 7 games in the Western Conference Semifinals, they have played 5 of these games Over the Total.

CONCLUSION: Even if Curry does not play tonight, the Warriors should be quite content to engage the Pelicans in an up-tempo game in which they feel they have the advantage over every team in the league. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (551) and the Golden State Warriors (552). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (702) minus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (701). THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (47-41) forced a climactic seventh game in this series with their 97-86 victory over the Celtics on Thursday as a 4.5-point favorite. Game Seven returns to Boston’s TD Garden.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: Milwaukee has not been consistent from game-to-game as of late as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a point spread victory. The Bucks have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit win on their home court. And while Milwaukee has won three of their last four games in this series, they are likely due for a letdown now as they have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after winning three of their last four contests. This Bucks team remains inconsistent on offense especially on the road where they shot just 36.8% in Game Five. Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games away from home. Boston (58-30) should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered then point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after a loss on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a double-digit loss. Boston has also been quite reliable when playing with revenge as they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 24 games when avenging a loss — and this includes covering the point spread in nine straight games after losing by at least 10 points to their opponent in their last game. The Celtics should shoot better at home where their younger players like Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and Terry Rozier tend to play better. Boston made just 37% of their shots on Thursday which was the worst offensive effort in their last ten games. The Celtics have covered the point spread in 4 straight games at home.

CONCLUSION: Boston has two distinct advantages in this seventh game in head coach Brad Stevens and the roster with more playoff experience. When adding their home court advantage in front of what should be a raucous crowd, they should cover the point they are being asked to lay. 25* NBA 1st Round TNT Playoff Game of the Year with the Boston Celtics (702) minus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (701). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Indiana Pacers (512) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (511). THE SITUATION: Cleveland looks to close this series out tonight after winning Game Five of this series by a 98-95 score as a 6.5-point favorite on Wednesday. The Cavaliers have won three of the last four games in this series — all by 4 points or less — after losing Game One by 18 points. But it took a botched missed goaltending by LeBron James on Victor Oladipo combined with James nailing a game-winning 3-point shot at the buzzer to escape Cleveland with the 3-2 series lead.

THE REASONS TO TAKE INDIANA MINUS THE POINTS: This Cavaliers team looks like the ones that lacked supporting talent fro James in his first run in Cleveland that compelled to bolt for Miami. This team has been inconsistent by failing to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. The Cavs have also struggled away from home where the supporting cast for James tends to play worse. Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 20 road games against teams with a winning record at home. And while the Cavaliers have six straight Unders, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 road games after playing at least two straight games that finished Under the Total. Indiana may have lost two straight as well as three of their last four games but all three of those losses were by 4 points or less. Nate McMillan’s team should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games are losing two straight games by 6 points or less. The Pacers have also covered the point spread in 20 of their last 29 home games when playing with revenge. Additionally, Indiana has a nice home court advantage as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games at home — and they have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 home games as a favorite of no more than 6 points. The Pacers have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 home games after losing three of their last four games.

CONCLUSION: Indiana entered this series confident after winning three of their four meetings with the Cavaliers in the regular season. This Pacers team feels even better about themselves now. Expect Indiana to force a decisive seventh game with James perhaps conserving energy for that climactic game back in Cleveland. 25* NBA Central Division Game of the Year with the Indiana Pacers (512) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (511). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (501) plus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (502). THE SITUATION: Boston (58-29) looks to close out this series tonight on the road in perhaps the last game ever to be played in the Bradley Center after taking a 3-2 lead in this series by a 92-87 score as a 4.5-point favorite. The Celtics got Marcus Smart back in that game and not only is one of the team’s best defensive players but he has been described as “kind of like the soul of our team” by fellow veteran Al Horford.” Milwaukee (46-41) returns home as the favorite looking to stave off elimination and force a decisive seventh game of this series.

THE REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS PLUS THE POINTS: Boston should build off their momentum from Tuesday night’s win as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after a win by 6 points or less. The insertion of Smart into the rotation is very significant as he can defend the Bucks’ Khris Middleton who has been one of Milwaukee’s two consistent offensive players in this series. The other reliable offensive player for the Bucks has been Giannis Antetokounmpo — but Brad Stevens made an interesting switch in Game Five by starting his rookie big man Semi Ojeleye to defend the Greek Freak. Ojeleye played 40 possessions on Antetokounmpo which accounted for half the game while holding him to a series-low 16 points. Ojeleye’s insertion into the lineup is a game-changer for the Celtics as it created smaller lineups with Greg Monroe pushed out the rotation while Stevens avoided playing Aron Bynes along with Al Horford at the same time. These moves gave the Celtics flexibility on defense for the first time in this series as all five players on the court could switch of screens without needing help. Stevens’ gives Boston a significant edge in tactics over Milwaukee’s interim head coach Joe Prunty who is more limited in what adjustments he can make for Game Six. Stevens helps keep his team competitive in most of Boston’s games as they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 26 games as an underdog whole also covering the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games when getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. The Celtics have also covered the point spread in 28 of their last 42 games on the road while also covering the point spread in 8 of their 9 games in Milwaukee. This Bucks team simply is not that good — they were outscored this season by -0.3 PPG which is rare for a playoff team. It is telling that Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. This Bucks team has also failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games off a loss on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 24 of their last 40 games when playing with same-season revenge. And home court has been an issue for this team as they are just 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Milwaukee has also failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 home games as the favorite including failing to cover the point spread in fifteen of their last nineteen home games when laying 6 or less points.

CONCLUSION: The Bucks benefitted from role players stepping up in the two previous games at home in this series but the pressure of an elimination game will likely make things more difficult for inconsistent players like Jabari Parker and Thon Maker. Even with their injuries, this Celtics team has more playoff experience on their rotation which should help them give them a legitimate shot to win this game outright — making the points as the underdog a nice cushion. 20* NBA  Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with the Boston Celtics (501) plus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (501) and the Milwaukee Bucks (502). THE SITUATION: Boston (58-29) looks to close out this series tonight on the road in perhaps the last game ever to be played in the Bradley Center after taking a 3-2 lead in this series by a 92-87 score as a 4.5-point favorite. The Celtics got Marcus Smart back in that game and not only is one of the team’s best defensive players but he has been described as “kind of like the soul of our team” by fellow veteran Al Horford.” Milwaukee (46-41) returns home as the favorite looking to stave off elimination and force a decisive seventh game of this series. The Celtics and Bucks had played five straight and eight straight Overs respectively before Game Five finished below the Total that closed in the 202.5 range.

THE REASONS TO TAKE THE UNDER: Boston has played 24 of their last 35 games Under the Total after allowing 90 points or less in their last game. The Celtics have also played 15 of their last 19 Game Sixes in the NBA Playoffs Under the Total — so their history suggests a lower scoring defensive struggle. The insertion of Smart into the rotation is very significant as he can defend the Bucks’ Khris Middleton who has been one of Milwaukee’s two consistent offensive players in this series. The other reliable offensive player for the Bucks has been Giannis Antetokounmpo — but Brad Stevens made an interesting switch in Game Five by starting his rookie big man Semi Ojeleye to defend the Greek Freak. Ojeleye played 40 possessions on Antetokounmpo which accounted for half the game while holding him to a series-low 16 points. Ojeleye’s insertion into the lineup is a game-changer for the Celtics as it created smaller lineups with Greg Monroe pushed out the rotation while Stevens avoided playing Aron Bynes along with Al Horford at the same time. These moves gave the Celtics flexibility on defense for the first time in this series as all five players on the court could switch of screens without needing help. Milwaukee had shot at least 52.1% from the field in Games Two through Four in this series but those look like outlier performances to the 109 Points Per 100 Possession scoring rate that ranked 13th in the NBA during the regular season. I expect points to be hard to come by again for this team. The Bucks have played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total after scoring no more than 90 points in their last game — and they have played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a game where no more than 185 combined points were scored. Prunty does have this team playing better defense. The Celtics shot 42% from the floor in their winning effort on Tuesday which was their highest field goal percentage in their last three games.

CONCLUSION: Expect the pressure of a elimination/close out game to negatively impact the shooting of both these teams — and with the Total still in the low 200s, the line has not adjusted to what looks to be the new reality of this series. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (501) and the Milwaukee Bucks (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Minnesota Timberwolves (713) plus the points versus the Houston Rockets (714). Houston (68-18) was only leading by a 50-49 score at halftime on Monday in Game Four of this series — but they scored a historic 50 points in the 3rd quarter en route to their 119-100 win over the Timberwolves as a 6-point favorite. Most pundits declared this series over after that outburst of scoring. The Rockets nailed 9 of their 13 shots from behind the arc while making 60.9% of their shots in those decisive 12 minutes of play. But the problem for this Houston team is that they are likely to think this series is now over after that one good quarter. However, keep in mind that the Rockets made only 7 of their 30 attempts from behind the arc in those remaining three quarters for a meager 23.3% shooting clip. That is not a good sign for a team already susceptible to letdowns. Houston has failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 32 home games after a win by at least 15 points. The Rockets have also failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 home games after scoring at least 115 points in their last game. Furthermore, while the Houston forced 16 turnovers on Monday while committing just 6 themselves, they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after committing at least 10 fewer turnovers than their opponents in their last game.

Minnesota (48-38) may be down 3-1 in this series but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after losing three of their last four. This team can still find confidence in their Game Three 121-106 victory over the Rockets as well of their solid first-half effort on Monday before they perhaps let up a bit in their intensity which helped Houston score that barrage of points. The Timberwolves have been playing very good on defense as they have held their last five opponents to just a 43.5% field goal percentage. Minnesota now goes back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 33 road games as an underdog in the 6.5 to 12 point range. And in their last 12 opportunities to avenge a loss at home, the Timberwolves have covered the point spread in 8 of these games. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Underdog of the Year with the Minnesota Timberwolves (713) plus the points versus the Houston Rockets (714). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (702) minus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (701). Boston (57-29) has lost the last two games of this series after losing in Milwaukee on Sunday by a 104-102 score as a 6-point underdog. The Celtics have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a loss on the road. Boston has also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games when playing with one day of rest. The Celtics need to tighten things up on defense after allowing the Bucks to make 52.1% of their shots after seeing them make 59.7% and 57% of their shots in Game Two and Three of this series. Boston has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after enduring an opponent’s field goal percentage of 47% or higher in three straight games. The Celtics have now played eight straight games that finished Over the Total. They have then covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after playing at least three straight Overs — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after playing at least four straight Overs. Now Boston returns home to TD Garden where they are 29-14 this season — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games on their home court. Additionally, the Celtics have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 22 games when avenging a loss where they allowed at least 100 points in their last game. Boston has also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games when avenging a loss on the road.

Milwaukee (46-40) may be due for a letdown after winning these last two games in this series. They have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after shooting at least 47% from the field for three straight games. The Bucks have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a narrow win on their home court by 3 points or less. Furthermore, Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a straight-up win where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. The Bucks benefitted from many of their secondary players — most notably Jabari Parker and Thon Maker — play well on their home court in the Bradley Center — to pull even in this series. But these role players will likely not play nearly as well back on the road where this team is just 19-24 this season. Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games against teams with a winning record on their home court. Despite being 2-2 in this series, the Bucks have only covered the point spread once in their last five games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 27 games after failing to cover the point spread in at least three of their last four games. Milwaukee has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. And in expected close games where the Bucks are listed in the +/- 3-point range, they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of these games. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Game of the Year with the Boston Celtics (702) minus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (701). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (501) plus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (502). Boston (57-28) saw their three-game winning streak snapped on Friday with their 116-92 loss in Milwaukee. The Celtics made only 40% of their shots in that game which was their worst shooting effort in their last four contests. But their effort on defense was even worse as they allowed the Bucks to make 57% of their shots which was on the heels of Milwaukee making 59.7% of their shots in Game Two of this series. These last two games have been the worst defensive performances for this team of the entire season for Brad Stevens’ team — so expect this group to come out and play very hard on the defensive end of the court this afternoon. As it is, Boston is 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games after a double-digit loss. Additionally, the Celtics have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a point spread setback. Boston has been a capable road warrior as they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 28 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 28 of their last 42 road games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. Furthermore, Boston has covered the point spread in 17 of their last 21 games when avenging a loss where their opponent scored at least 100 points. And in their last 8 opportunities to avenge a double-digit loss to their opponent, the Celtics have covered the point spread all 8 times.

Milwaukee (45-40) responded to head coach Joe Prunty’s call to get more physical on Friday — and they snapped what had been a three-game losing streak. With starting center John Henson sidelined with a  back injury, Prunty started Tyler Zeller in his place while also replacing Tony Snell with Malcolm Brogdon. Both these moves worked — and the team got a surprisingly good performance from 7’3 center Thon Maker who has been in the team’s doghouse all season due to concerns over his effort. Expect Stevens to make adjustments of his own to this lineup change with Henson still questionable for this afternoon’s contest. The Bucks have shot at least 48.2% from the field in three straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games after making at least 47% of their shots in three straight games. Milwaukee also played their best defensive contest in their last 31 games in terms of opponent field goal percentage. The Bucks stay at home for Game Four where they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games. Milwaukee has also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Furthermore, the Bucks have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 home games when favorited by no more than 6 points. And in their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60, Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread 4 times. 25* NBA Sunday Afternoon Special Feature with the Boston Celtics (501) plus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (723) and the Utah Jazz (724). Utah (49-35) evened this series at one game apiece with their 102-95 upset win in Portland on Wednesday as a 3.5-point underdog. The Jazz return home for this first time since April 10th after playing three straight games on the road — and they have played 4 of their last 5 home games Under the Total after being on the road for at least the last seven days. Utah has also played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total after playing their last three games on the road. The Jazz have also played 12 of the last 16 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest — and this includes them playing eight of their last nine games Under the Total when playing on their home court with two days of rest. Additionally, Utah has played 4 of their last 5 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have played 12 of their last 17 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. Furthermore, the Under is 20-8-1 in the Jazz’s last 29 games against fellow Northwest Division opponents.

Oklahoma City (49-35) played their best defensive game in their last ten games by limiting the Jazz to just a 41.7% field goal percentage — and they should continue to play well on the defensive end of the court. The Thunder have then played 16 of their last 22 games Under the Total after an upset loss as a home favorite — and this includes playing seven straight Unders off an upset loss as a home favorite to a fellow Northwest Division rival. Oklahoma City has also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a loss at home. Additionally, the Thunder have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now OKC goes on the road where they have played 5 straight games Under the Total. The Thunder have also played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total against fellow Northwest Division opponents. And as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points, Oklahoma City has played 23 of these games Under the Total. Furthermore, the Thunder have played 13 of their last 17 road games Under the Total when attempting to avenge an upset loss as a road favorite. And in the last 8 meetings between these two teams in Utah, the game finished Under the Total all 8 times. 25* NBA Northwest Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (723) and the Utah Jazz (724). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (711) and the Indiana Pacers (712). Cleveland (51-33) raced out to a 16-1 lead in the opening minutes of Game Two of this series on Wednesday — and they held on to win that game by a 100-97 score as an 8.5-point favorite. The Cavaliers have then played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win. Cleveland has also played 11 of their last 15 games after a win on their home court where they failed to cover the point spread as a favorite. The Cavs shot 50.7% from the field while nailing 11 of their 28 (39.3%) shots from behind the arc — yet they scored 10 points below their 110.4 PPG season scoring average. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 5 of their last 7 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. The Over is also 4-0-1 in Cleveland’s last 5 games against teams with a winning record.

Indiana (49-35) has played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 12 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Pacers have played 14 of their last 18 games Under the Total when attempting to avenge a loss on the road against their opponent. Furthermore, the Under is 24-7-1 in Indiana’s last 32 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now this team returns home where they have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total. And in their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%, the Pacers have played 7 of these games Under the Total. 25* NBA Central Division Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (711) and the Indiana Pacers (712). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (527) and the San Antonio Spurs (528). Golden State (60-24) seized a 2-0 lead in this series on Monday with their 116-101 win as an 8.5-point favorite. The Warriors made 52.6% of their shots in that game after making 54.3% of their shots in Game One of this series fueled by them nailing 15 of their 31 (48.4%) of their shots from behind the arc. Golden State is likely to get a visit from the Regression Gods tonight in regards to their shooting — especially with them playing on the road where they see their 3-point shooting drop to a 37.7% clip as compared to their 39.3% 3-point shooting mark for the season. The Warriors have played 16 of their last 24 games Under the Total after playing two straight games where they made at least 50% of their shots. The Under is also 19-7-1 in Golden State’s last 27 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. The Warriors have also played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. Golden State won the opening game of this series by a 113-92 score — and they have then played 35 of their last 57 games Under the Total after winning their last two games by double-digits. Now the Warriors go back on the road where they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total — and they have also played 4 of their last 5 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court.

San Antonio (47-37) has now lost three games in a row as well as five of their last seven contests. The Spurs have then played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after losing five or six of their last seven games. Game Two finished well above the 205.5 point total — and San Antonio has also played 13 of their last 18 games on their home court Under the Total after game that finished Over the Total. Additionally, the Spurs have seen the Under the Total go 12-5-1 in their last 18 games when playing with two days of rest. San Antonio has also played 4 of their last 5 games when avenging two straight double-digit losses to their opponent. Now the Spurs return home where they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total. San Antonio has also played 4 of their last 5 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. And in their last 21 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. 25* NBA 1st Round Western Conference Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (527) and the San Antonio Spurs (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Utah Jazz (519) plus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (520). Oklahoma City (49-34) has won four straight games with their 116-108 win over Utah as a 4.5-point favorite on Sunday. The Thunder not only shot 48.2% from the field in that contest but they also converted 14 of their 29 (48.3%) of their shots from behind the arc. That is number that is due for regression — Oklahoma City makes only 35.1% of their 3-point shots when playing on their home court. The Thunder are likely to suffer a letdown tonight as they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a point spread win. And while Oklahoma City has scored at least 115 points in each of their last three games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 110 points in three straight games. The Thunder stays at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games. Additionally, Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range — and this includes them failing to cover the point spread in ten of these last thirteen situations when these games are played in OKC. Furthermore, the Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 18 games against fellow Northwest Division opponents.

Utah (48-35) looks to get back to their winning ways having now lost two straight games. This is the Jazz’s third straight game on the road — but they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after playing their last two games on the road. Utah has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after losing their last two games on the road. This is the Jazz’s fourth game in the last ten days — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 road games when playing no more than their fourth game in ten days. Utah has also covered the point spread in 12 of their last 15 road games when playing a team with a winning record at home. Lastly, while the Jazz have lost their last four meetings with the Thunder, they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when playing with the dreaded quadruple revenge. 25* NBA Northwest Division Playoff Game of the Year with the Utah Jazz (519) plus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (520). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Portland Trail Blazers (710) minus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (709). Portland (49-34) has lost five of their last six games after losing the opening game of this series by a 97-95 score despite being a 5-point favorite. The Trail Blazers could not hit the side of a barn on Saturday as they went into halftime with just a 31.9% field goal percentage. They made only 3 of their 17 shots from behind the arc in the first half as well and entered the locker room trailing by a 45-36 score. Portland was much better in the second-half as they outscored the Pelicans by a 59-52 score but the first-half foibles were too much for them to overcome. Look to the Trail Blazers to play much better tonight as they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a point spread loss. Portland has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games when playing with two days of rest. And while the Trail Blazers have played three straight games Under the Total, they have then covered the point spread in 13 of their last 15 home games after playing their last three games Under the Total. Portland should play much better on their home court tonight when considering that they are 19-6-5 ATS in their last 30 home games — and this includes them covering the point spread in five of their last seven home games again teams with a winning record on the road. Furthermore, the Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games against teams with a winning record.

New Orleans (49-34) has now won six games in a row but a letdown looks likely for this team now they have seized the home-court advantage in this series. The Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a close win by 3 points or less. New Orleans has also failed to cover the point spread in 24 of their last 35 games after winning five or six of their last seven games — and this includes failing to cover the point spread in twelve of these last eighteen situations. And while the Pelicans have covered the point spread in all six of the games on their current winning streak, New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after covering the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. 25* NBA 1st Round Western Conference Playoffs Game of the Year with the Portland Trail Blazers (710) minus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (709). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (701) plus the points versus the Philadelphia 76ers (702). Miami (44-39) looks to bounce-back from their blowout 130-103 loss to Philadelphia on Saturday in the opening game of this series. The Heat were 5.5-point underdogs in that game — and they have now lost four of their last five contests. But the Heat have rebounded to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a double-digit loss. Miami has also covered the point spread in 22 of their last 29 road games after a loss by at least 20 points. Additionally, the Heat are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games after allowing at least 125 points in their last contest. And while this team has failed to cover the point spread in six of their last eight games, they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Expect Erik Spoelstra ready to have his team play much better tonight against a Sixers’ team that was on fire in the second-half from behind the arc. Miami is 17-6-3 ATS in their last 26 games against teams with a winning record. The Heat has been capable road warriors this season who have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games with the Toal set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. Miami is also 26-10-2 ATS in their last 38 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, the Heat have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 road games as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points.

Philadelphia (53-30) has now won seventeen straight games with their win on Saturday. They shot 47.4% from the field but also made a remarkable 18 of their 28 shots from from behind the arc for a red hot 64.3% shooting mark. That will not be sustainable tonight. The 76ers did go into halftime trailing by a 60-56 score. Expect an emotional letdown from this team that still lacks significant playoff experience after years of going through the “process.” Philadelphia has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 125 points in their last game — and they have lost 3 of their last 4 games after scoring at least 130 points in their last contest. The 76ers out-rebounded the Heat by a 60-50 margin after outrebouding their previous two opponents by 10 and 15 boards each — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after outrebounding their last three opponents by at least 10 boards. And while the Sixers have played three straight games Over the Total, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 27 games after playing at least three straight Overs. 25* NBA 1st Round Eastern Conference Playoff Underdog of the Year with the Miami Heat (701) plus the points versus the Philadelphia 76ers (702). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:35 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Utah Jazz (513) plus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (514). Utah (48-34) saw their six-game winning streak snapped on Wednesday with their 102-93 loss in Portland as a 2-point underdog. The Jazz allowed the Trail Blazers make 46.1% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort in their last four games. Utah has still held their last five opponents to just a 42.5% field goal percentage. The Jazz stay on the road where they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games away from home — and they have also covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Additionally, Utah has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 8 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals, the Jazz have covered the point spread 6 times.

Oklahoma City (48-34) has won three straight games entering the postseason after their 137-123 win over Memphis on Wednesday. The Thunder shot 55.3% from the field in that game which was their best offensive effort in their last ten games. Expect a letdown from Oklahoma City as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. The Thunder have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with at least three days of rest. And in their last 21 games after winning three of their last four games, Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 16 times. They seized home court advantage for this series with that win over the woeful Grizzlies — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 home games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. Lastly, the Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 16 games against fellow Northwest Division opponents. 25* NBA Sunday Night Special Feature with the Utah Jazz (513) plus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (514). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Portland Trail Blazers (508) minus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (507). Portland (49-33) snapped their four-game losing streak on Wednesday with their 102-93 win over Utah as a 2-point favorite. The Trail Blazers should build off their momentum as they are 38-16-4 ATS in their last 58 games after a straight-up win — and they are 23-9-1 ATS in their last 33 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Portland has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games when playing with two days of rest. They have been very tough at home where they are 20-6-1 ATS in their last 27 games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. And in their last 17 games against teams with a winning record, the Trail Blazers have covered the point spread 14 times.

New Orleans (48-34) enters the NBA Playoffs on fire with five straight wins after their 122-98 victory over San Antonio as a 4-point favorite on Wednesday. The Pelicans made 59.1% of their shots in that game which was their best offensive performance of the season. But now this team enters unchartered waters by entering the postseason — and a letdown looks likely. New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 31 of their last 45 games after a win on their home court by at least 20 points which includes failing to cover the point spread in seven of these last nine situations. The Pelicans have also failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 29 road games off a double-digit win against Southwest Division rivals. Additionally, New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games after winning five or six of their last seven games. And in their last 8 trips to Portland, the Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread 6 times. 25* NBA Saturday Night Special Feature with the Portland Trail Blazers (508) minus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (507). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (502) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (501). Golden State (58-24) limps into the playoffs having lost three of their last four games after a listless 119-79 loss in Utah on Tuesday as an 8.5-point favorite. With the team missing Stephen Curry indefinitely, some NBA insiders consider Oklahoma City or Utah an easier first round opponent than the defending NBA Champions. That is absurd. Maintaining focus and intensity has been the biggest issues for the reigning champions — but the beginning of the NBA Playoffs should be enough to inspire this team that remain the most talented overall team in the league with Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green still in the mix. The Warriors have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 32 games in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs — and this includes covering the point spread in seven of their last nine games in Round One of the playoffs. Golden State shot only 34.9% from the field on Tuesday which was their worst offensive effort of the season. Expect a strong effort from this team as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after a loss by at least 15 points — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after a double-digit loss on the road. The Warriors will also be looking to avenge an 89-75 loss to the Spurs in San Antonio back on March 19th — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 33 games when avenging a loss on the road. to their opponents.

San Antonio (47-35) played their worst defensive game of the season on Wednesday when they allowed the Pelicans to shoot 59.1% from the field in their 122-98 loss in New Orleans as a 4-point underdog. That effort is much more concerning for head coach Gregg Popovich when considering that the Spurs were still playing for positioning in the Western Conference playoff seeding fight. That loss dropped San Antonio down to 7th and an unappealing matchup with the defending champs as opposed to other possible matchups with Portland or Oklahoma City. Unfortunately for Popovich, his team has not proven to be as resilient as the Warriors when coming off a bad loss. The Spurs have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after a loss by at least 20 points on the road. And while they entered halftime with a 61-43 deficit, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after trailing by at least 15 points to begin the second-half of their last game. The team begins the playoffs without Kawhi Leonard who does not appear likely to return at all this season with his quad injury. San Antonio has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 road games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. The Spurs have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight road games against teams with a winning record at home. 25* NBA 1st Round ABC-TV Playoff Game of the Year on the Golden State Warriors (502) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (501). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508). Phoenix (20-61) has lost two straight games after their 117-100 loss to Golden State on Sunday as a 12.5-point underdog. The Suns allowed the Warriors to make 52.2% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort in their last three games. Phoenix has then played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 7 straight games Under the Total after a double-digit loss at home. Additionally, the Suns gave played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 5 straight games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on their home court. And in their last 16 games against teams with a winning percentage below 40%, Phoenix has played 14 of these games Under the Total.

Dallas (24-57) has lost three straight games with their 109-97 loss in Philadelphia on Sunday as a 13.5-point underdog. The Mavericks allows the 76ers to make 50.5% of their shots in that game which was their worst defensive effort in their last nine games. Dallas has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss. The Mavericks have also played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record. Dallas returns home where they have played 22 of their last 32 home games Under the Total with the number set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. The Mavs will be looking to avenge a 102-88 loss to the Suns in Phoenix back on January 31st — and they have played 18 of their last 28 games Under the Total when attempting to avenge a double-digit loss on the road. Lastly, in the last 16 meetings between these two teams in Dallas, the game finished Under the Total 13 times. 25* NBA Western Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Portland Trail Blazers (715) plus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (716). Portland (48-32) has lost three straight games with their 116-105 loss in San Antonio on Saturday. The Trail Blazers have should bounce-back with a strong effort as they remain motivated to hold on to the 3rd seed in the Western Conference playoff race. Portland has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a double-digit setback. Additionally, the Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. Portland has dropped four of their last six games with this three-game losing streak — but they usually play very well in the face of such a bad spell. The Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after losing four or five of their last six games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after losing at least three straight games. Furthermore, Portland is 17-5-1 ATS in their last 23 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now this team stays on the road where they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 21 games against teams with a winning record overall, the Trail Blazers are 15-5-1 ATS.

Denver (45-35) has won five games in a row after they crushed the Clippers in Los Angeles on Saturday with their 134-115 victory as a 4-point favorite. The Nuggets shot 62.4% from the field in what was their best field goal percentage in their last 64 games. But the pressure remains very much on this team who are tied with the Timberwolves for 8th place in the Western Conference playoff race. Denver has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a game where they shot at least 55% from the field. The Nuggets have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have all failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit victory. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 29 of their last 43 games after a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 125 points in their last contest. Furthermore, while Denver has won seven of their last nine games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games after winning two straight contests — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after winning six or seven of their last eight games. The Nuggets remain without their top scorer Gary Harris who is out indefinitely with a knee injury. Denver returns home to the Pepsi Center where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games. 25* NBA Northwest Division Game of the Year with the Portland Trail Blazers (715) plus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (716). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (708) plus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (707). Oklahoma City (46-34) needs a victory tonight to clinch a spot in the Western Conference playoffs — but I expect this task to be much easier said than done for this group that continually underachieves relative to their talent. The Thunder enter this game feeling pretty good about themselves after their 108-102 upset win in Houston on Saturday as a 4-point underdog. We had the Under in that game with the Rockets playing without Eric Gordon and Ryan Anderson — and a letdown is likely from Oklahoma City with the pressure on to win this game with them just one-game up on Minnesota and Denver who are tied for 8th place in the Western Conference race. The Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after an upset win as a road underdog. Oklahoma City has also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread victory. The Thunder have won two of their last three games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 26 games after winning two of their last three games. They have also played three straight Unders — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games on the road after playing at least thee straight games that finished Under the Total. Offensive efficiency remains an issue for this team as they have not shot better than 44% from the field in eight straight games. The Thunder are just 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 21 games as a road favorite, Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 14 times. 

Miami (46-37) had won four of their last five games before they were crushed in Madison Square Garden on Friday by a 122-98 score despite being a 7.5-point favorite. The Heat shot just 39.8% from the field in that game which was their worst shooting effort in their last ten games. They also allowed the Knicks to make 50.6% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort in their last eleven games. Miami has clinched their spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs but they are still playing to secure their most advantageous seeding position. Expect the Heat to play much better tonight as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after an upset loss by at least 15 points. Miami has also covered the point spread in 27 of their last 39 games after an upset loss which includes them covering the spread in eight of their last eleven games in that situation. The Heat have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a loss on the road by at least 20 points — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit loss. Furthermore, while Miami has failed to cover the point spread in five of their last seven games, they have then rebounded to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. This Heat team plays up and down to their competition — and they play much better on their home court where their nine players that average double-digits in Points-Per-Game tend to play better. Miami is a decisive 35-17-1 ATS in their last 53 games against teams with a winning record. The Heat have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games on their home court. And in the last 14 games with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range, Miami has covered the point spread in 10 of these games. Lastly, the Heat are looking to avenge a 105-99 loss to the Thunder back on March 23rd — and they have covered the point spread in 34 of their last 54 games when playing with same-season revenge. 25* NBA Non-Conference Game of the Month with the Miami Heat (708) plus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (707). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (513) minus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (514). Phoenix (20-60) has lost sixteen of their last seventeen games as well as twenty-six of their last twenty-eight games which is why they are a double-digit underdog even on their home court tonight. Usually taking that many points in the NBA is too good to pass up — but the smart play tonight is to swallow hard and lay the points with a motivated road favorite. As it is, the Suns have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as an underdog getting at least 12.5 points. This is an injury riddled unit playing with a bunch of second and third-tier players  as they try their best to look like they are not trying their best to earn the most ping-point balls for the upcoming NBA lottery for the top pick in the 2018 draft. Starters Tyson Chandler and Elfrid Payton have been out indefinitely with starters Devin Booker and TJ Warren missing the last 10 games and 9 games respectively. Defensive stalwart Alan Williams is also out. The followers players are listed as questionable for tonight: Josh Jackson, Marquese Chris, Troy Daniels. In their 122-103 loss at home to New Orleans on Friday, Jackson and Chris were in the starting lineup with Tyler Ulis, Dragon Bender and Daniel House. Feelin’ better about laying 12 or so points yet? This is not a team likely to respond with an inspiring effort after that loss as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a double-digit loss at home. Phoenix has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games on their home court — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. The Suns have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 home games with the number set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. And in their last 13 games against teams with a winning record, Phoenix has failed to cover the point spread in 10 times.

Golden State (57-23) should be very motivated to get back to playing good basketball after suffering their second straight upset loss yesterday in their 126-120 loss to New Orleans as a 6-point favorite. That loss came on the heels of their 126-106 upset loss at Indiana back on Thursday. The Warriors need to play harder on defense after seeing the Pacers make 53.8% of their shots followed up by the Pelicans shooting 56.3% from the field. That was their worst defensive effort in their last 29 games going back to January 30th where they allowed the Jazz to make 58.2% of their shots in Utah. Golden State has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after an upset loss as a home favorite. The Warriors have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after a loss by 6 points or less. Additionally, Golden State has covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after losing two straight games. And while both those losses went Over the Total, the Warriors have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after playing at least two straight Overs. Golden State is a bit undermanned right now with Stephen Curry out through the first round of the playoffs along with Andre Iguodala and Patrick McCaw nursing injuries — but Shaun Livingston is listing as probable with his knee. This team needs to get into rhythm with the knowledge they will be playing the at least their first playoff series without Curry. Kevin Durant is doing his part as he is scoring 28.0 PPG with an 8.2 Rebounding Per Game and 5.8 Assists Per Game average over his last six games since returning from his March Madness injury. The Warriors have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 26 games in the month of April. And in their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on their home court, Golden State has covered the point spread all 5 times. 25* NBA Pacific Division Game of the Year with the Golden State Warriors (513) minus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (514). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (510) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (509). Boston (53-25) will be playing their first game since getting the official news that they will be without Kyrie Irving for the entire NBA playoffs with his knee injury. So while Celtics are pretty much locked-in to at the 2nd seed for the Eastern Conference playoffs, head coach Brad Stevens will want his team to start building confidence and momentum with the group that will be enlisted to make this year’s playoff run. As it is, Boston will be looking to get back to playing good basketball after losing their second game in a row with their 96-78 loss in Toronto on Wednesday as a 7-point underdog. The Celtics shot only 33.3% from the field which was the worst offensive effort in their last 65 games going all the way back to November 16th against Golden State. Boston should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games after a loss on the road. Additionally, the Celtics are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a double-digit loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread loss. Boston returns home where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games. The Celtics have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against fellow Eastern Conference opponents. 

Chicago (27-51) had been on a seven-game losing streak but now they find themselves on a three-game winning streak after their 120-114 win over Charlotte on Tuesday as a 5.5-point underdog. The Bulls tried to tank that game with head coach Fred Holberg did have his star rookie Lauri Markkanen play at all in the 4th quarter of that game — yet they still pulled the upset. Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of the last 19 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last contest. Now the Bulls go back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 road games against teams with a winning record at home. This team is severely undermanned at this point of the season with Kris Dunn and Zach Levine out the season with injuries and big man Noah Vonleh questionable with a calf injury. They were already lacking in talent even at full strength — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Month with the Boston Celtics (510) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (509). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (701) and the Indiana Pacers (702). Golden State (57-21) has won three straight games with their 111-107 upset victory at Oklahoma City on Tuesday as a 4.5-point underdog. The Warriors flexed their muscles on defense by holding the Thunder to just a 37.6% field goal percentage. This Golden State team is still playing without Stephen Curry but they do have their other Big Three players in Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green back healthy and on the court. The results have been lower scoring games with the team seeming to emphasize defense as they prepare for the playoffs. They have held their last five opponents to just 103.6 PPG as compared to their 107 PPG they allow for the season. The Warriors are also scoring just 105.6 PPG over those last five games which is far below the 113.9 PPG scoring average for the year. Golden State has played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total after a win on the road. Additionally, the Warriors have played 21 of their last 28 games Under the Total Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now Golden State stays on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total — and they have played 5 of their last 6 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. The Warriors have also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against fellow Eastern Conference opponents. They will be looking to avenge a 92-81 loss at home to the Pacers just back on March 27th — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a loss in the Oracle Center.

Indiana (46-32) saw their five-game winning stream snapped on Tuesday with their 107-104 loss in Denver as a 4.5-point underdog. The Pacers have played 16 of their last 21 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have also played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a loss on the road. Additionally, Indiana has played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a point spread win. And in their last 29 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game, the Under is 21-6-1. Now this team returns home where they have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total — and they have played 6 straight home games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. The Pacers have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total against Western Conference opponents. Lastly, in their last 8 opportunities to host the Warriors, the game finished Under the Total 6 times. 25* NBA Non-Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (701) and the Indiana Pacers (702). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (706) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (705). Miami (41-36) needs a win tonight to clinch their spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs after they blew their opportunity to accomplish that task on Saturday with their 110-109 loss in overtime to Brooklyn as an 8.5-point favorite. The Heat have then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after an upset loss as a home favorite. Miami has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 games after a point spread loss. The Heat are also 11-3-3 ATS in their last 17 games after scoring at least 100 points in that game. Hassan Whiteside was very upset after that game with head coach Erik Spoelstra because he only played 20 minutes in that game (although he is returning from an injury so his conditioning is an issue). Whiteside was fined for his profanity-laden tirade but he was not suspended and will play tonight. Miami stays at home where they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Additionally, the Heat are 4-1-2 ATS in their last 7 games against fellow Southeast Division opponents. Miami will not be taking this Hawks team lightly after losing to them by a 110-104 score in their last meeting back on December 18th — and they have covered the point spread in 34 of their last 53 games when avenging a same-season loss.

Atlanta (22-55) snapped their five-game losing streak on Sunday with their 94-88 win over Orlando as a 1.5-point favorite. The Hawks held the Magic to just a 34.4% shooting percentage in that game which was their best defensive performance this season. Atlanta has played their last two games Under the Total — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games after playing their last two games Under the Total. This Hawks roster was already one of the weakest in the NBA — but with starters Dennis Schroeder and Kent Bazemore out the season with injuries, their lineup is really thin at this point. They are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games against teams with a winning record. Atlanta is also just 0-3-1 in their last 4 games on the road — and they are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. 25* NBA Southeast Division Game of the Year with the Miami Heat (706) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (705). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans (505) plus the point versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (506). Cleveland (45-30) has won six of their last seven games with their 118-115 upset win in Charlotte on March 28th. The Cavaliers have then failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after a win on the road. Cleveland has also failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after winning five or six of their last seven contests. This team will still likely be without Kevin Love who is still dealing with the concussion protocol from getting knocked in the head earlier this week. The Cavaliers return home where they are just 16-37-2 ATS in their last 55 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Furthermore, Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 31 home games when the favorite. Additionally, the Cavs have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 25 games against teams from the Western Conference, Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 18 times. This team will be looking to avenge a 123-101 loss to the Pelicans back on October 28th — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 24 of their last 37 games when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed at least 110 points.

New Orleans (43-32) has lost two straight games after their 107-103 loss to Portland on Tuesday as a 2-point underdog. The Pelicans have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last contest. And while they have allowed at least 107 points in three straight games, they have then covered the point spread in 18 of their last 24 games after allowing at least 105 points in three straight games. Point guard Rajon Rondo is questionable for this contest with a wrist injury but they still have Jrue Holliday to handle those responsibilities. They go back on the road where they are 21-16 this season — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games contests. New Orleans has also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games on the road against Eastern Conference opponents. Lastly, the Pelicans have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after losing their last two games. 25* NBA Friday ESPN Game of the Month with the New Orleans Pelicans (505) plus the point versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (515) and the Los Angeles Lakers (516). Los Angeles (32-41) was eliminated from the Western Conference playoffs 112-106 loss in Detroit on Monday as a 4.5-point favorite. The Lakers have then played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Los Angeles is a bit of M*A*S*H unit right now with their leading scoring Brandon Ingram out along with Josh Hart and now Isaiah Thomas who has is dealing with a hip injury like Ingram. Now after playing their last four games on the road, the Lakers return home where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total. LA has also played 5 of their last 6 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. Additionally, the Lakers have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record.

Dallas (23-51) snapped their five-game losing streak with their 103-97 upset win at Sacramento last night as 3-point underdogs. The Mavericks have then played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when playing without a day of rest. Furthermore, Dallas has played 33 of their last 47 games Under the Total after an upset win — and this includes them playing eighteen of their last twenty-six games Under the Total after an upset win on the road. The Mavs have also played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a narrow win by 6 points or less — and the Under is a decisive 43-22-1 in their last 65 games after a straight-up win. Dallas is also dealing with a host of injuries with Wesley Matthews and Jose Barrea joining Seth Curry as being unavailable for this team. The Mavericks have played 28 of their last 42 games Under the Total when the Total is set in the 210 to 219.5 point range — and this includes them playing ten of their last fifteen games Under the Total when on the road with the over/under within this 210 to 219.5 point range. Dallas has played 13 of their last 19 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record. Lastly, the Mavericks are looking to avenge a 124-102 loss to the Lakers in the Staples Center back on February 23rd. Dallas has played 26 of their last 39 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a double-digit loss — and they have played 15 of their last 222 games when avenging a loss on the road. 25* NBA Western Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (515) and the Los Angeles Lakers (516). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (770) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (769). Miami (39-25) return home after losing their last two games on the road with a 113-107 loss in Indiana on Sunday as a 3-point underdog. The Heat have rebounded to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games after a point spread setback. Additionally, Miami is 6-1-2 ATS in their last 9 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. The Heat have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after losing their last two games on the road. Miami has also covered the point spread in 18 of their last 23 games after winning two of their last three games. This team remains with Hassan Whiteside who has missed the last eight games with a hip injury. This Heat is balanced with a good bench who do not rely on just one or two guys outside their star point guard Goran Dragic. The team expects to see head coach Erik Spoelstra back after he took a hiatus for the birth of his child. The Heat return home where they are 22-13 while covering the point spread in 6 straight games. Additionally, Miami is 15-3-3- ATS in their last 21 games against teams with a winning record.

Cleveland (44-29) has won five straight games with their 121-114 win at Brooklyn on Sunday as a 6.5-point favorite. The Cavaliers have then failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 36 games after a point spread win. Cleveland has also failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after winning five or six of their last seven contests. This team is playing better now that Kevin Love is back — but they will be without Kyle Korver who is away dealing with a death in his family. Yet the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 23 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 road games again teams with a winning record at home. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 29 road games with the Total set in the 220 to 229.5 point range. Furthermore, Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games against teams with a winning record. This team has just not been reliable as a favorite — they have failed to cover the point spread in 40 of their last 55 games as a favorite while also failed to cover the point spread in seventeen of their last twenty-four games as a favorite when playing on the road. Lastly, the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 trips to Miami to face the Heat. 25* NBA Tuesday TNT Game of the Month with the Miami Heat (770) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (769). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (809) and the Milwaukee Bucks (810). Philadelphia (34-27) has won two straight games with their 110-99 win over Charlotte on Friday as a 3.5-point favorite. The 76ers made 50.6% of their shots in that game — but they are still shooting only 44.8% over their last five games which a click or two below their 46.5% field goal percentage for the season. The 76ers have then played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a win by at least 10 points. Philadelphia has also played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread win. And in their last 14 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game, the 76ers have played 11 of these games Under the Total. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total. Additionally, Philadelphia has played 10 of their last 11 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home.

Milwaukee (33-29) has lost four games in a row with their 103-96 loss to Indiana as a 3.5-point favorite on Friday. The Bucks shot just 38.3% from the field in that game as they continued to struggle on offense while missing two important pieces in their rotation in the injured Matthew Dellavedova and Malcolm Brogdon. Milwaukee is making only 43.3% of their shots over their last five games which is far below their 47.5% season average. The Bucks have then played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. Additionally, Milwaukee has played 12 of their last 15 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now the Bucks stay at home where they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total. And in their last 21 games against fellow Eastern Conference opponents, Milwaukee has played 16 of these games Under the Total. 25* NBA Sunday Night ESPN Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (809) and the Milwaukee Bucks (810). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (701) and the Detroit Pistons (702). Detroit (28-32) has lost three straight games after their 123-94 loss at Toronto on Monday as a 10-point underdog. The Pistons allowed the Raptors to make 52.5% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort in their last twenty-one games. Detroit started out red hot after bringing Blake Griffin into tow — but things have gone south very quickly for this team. Head coach Stan Van Gundy has to get this team playing harder on the defensive end of the court when considering that their shots are not falling. The Pistons are making only 41.9% of their shots over their last five games. Now after playing their last two games on the road, Detroit returns home where the Under is 3-0-1 in their last 4 contests. Additionally, the Pistons have played 12 of their last 13 road games Under the Total after suffering at least two straight losses on the road. Additionally, the Under is 19-7-3 in their last 29 games after a straight-up loss — and the Under is 18-6-2 in their last 26 games games after a loss by at least 10 points.

Milwaukee (33-27) has lost two straight games after their 107-104 loss to Washington last night as a 3-point favorite. The Bucks have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when playing without a day of rest. Milwaukee has also played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 11 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total — and they have played 7 of their last 8 road games Under the Total against teams with winning records on their home court. Detroit launches 28 shots from 3-point land per game - -and the Bucks have played 13 of their last 18 games in the second-half of the season Under the Total against opponents that average at least 18 shots from behind the arc per contest. Lastly, in the last 9 meetings between these two teams, the Under is 6-2-1. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (701) and the Detroit Pistons (702). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Philadelphia 76ers (505) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Miami Heat (506). Philadelphia (32-26) saw their seven-game winning streak snapped on Sunday with their 109-94 loss at Washington on Sunday as a 1-point underdog. The 76ers played one of their worst games of the season. They made only 36% of their shots which was their worst offensive effort of the season. Philadelphia also allowed the Wizards to shoot 54.4% from the field which was the worst defensive performance in their last thirty-two contests. This young but talented 76ers team should bounce-back with a strong effort. Philadelphia has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. Furthermore, the 76ers have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games after a loss by at least 15 points. Additionally not only has Philly covered the point spread in 31 of their last 43 games after a loss on the road but they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games after a loss on the road by double-digits. And in their last 17 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game, the 76ers have covered the point spread in 13 of these contests.

Miami (31-29) snapped their three-game losing streak on Saturday with their 115-89 win over Memphis as a 9.5-point favorite. But the Heat have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a double-digit win — and they have failed to cover then point spread in 4 straight games after a double-digit win on their home court. But Miami is still struggling as of late having lost eight of their last ten games. This is a team that lacks superstars — and the rag-tag group of solid player has seen its depth hit with the season-ending injury to Dion Waiters along with the nagging shoulder injury to Kelly Olynyk that has him questionable again for tonight’s game. Miami stays at home where they are an ugly 8-21-1 ATS in their last 30 games. Additionally, the Heat have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 home games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Month with the Philadelphia 76ers (505) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Miami Heat (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (715) and the Dallas Mavericks (716). Indiana (34-25) has won four straight games with their 116-93 win over Atlanta on Friday as a 7-point favorite. The Pacers have then seen the Under go 7-2-1 in their last 10 games after a double-digit loss. Indiana has also seen the Under after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. And while that game finished just above the 208.5 point total, they have then played 18 of their last 24 games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Over the number. Now this team goes back on the road where the Under is 7-1-1 in their last 9 games. Furthermore, Indiana has played 13 of their last 17 road games in the second half of the season against opponents with a winning percentage in the 25-40% range. And in the last 10 games against Western Conference foes, the Pacers have played 8 of these games Under the Total.

Dallas (18-42) has lost four straight games after their 97-90 loss at Utah on Saturday as a 10-point underdog. The Mavericks have then played 19 of their last 27 games Under the Total after losing at least two straight games. Dallas has also played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. Now this team returns home where they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total. The Mavericks have also played 16 of their last 23 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. And in their last 30 home games with the Total set in the 200 to 209.5 point range, Dallas has played 21 of these games Under the Total. Additionally, the Mavericks have played 23 of their last 35 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Lastly, while the Pacers average 106.9 PPG, Dallas has played 11 of their last 13 home games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams that score at least 106 PPG. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (715) and the Dallas Mavericks (716). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (806) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (805). San Antonio (35-25) limps into this game on a four-game losing streak while also losing six of their last seven games after a 122-119 loss at Denver. The absence of their best player on both ends of the floor in Kawhi Leonard is really hurting this team. Leonard has played only nine games this season and his future with the organization is now very much in doubt with the tension that exists regarding his quad injury. The team has medically cleared Leonard to play but he remains resolved in saying that he still does not feel healthy enough to take the court. Without Leonard, this Spurs team lacks a reliable go-to scorer along with a premier defender. This team now looks old and lacking in talent and athleticism. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Their cast of role players tend to play well at home where the team is 22-6 — but they are just 13-19 when on the road. Furthermore, San Antonio has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss as an underdog where they still covered the point spread as an underdog. The Spurs have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 115 points in their last game. This is a bad matchup for this team as they tend to struggle against good offensive teams. The Cavaliers are shooting 48.4% from the floor this season — and San Antonio has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games against teams with a field goal percentage of at least 46% on the season.

Cleveland (35-23) has won five of their last six games after they rebounded from their ugly loss to Washington on Thursday with a 112-89 win at Memphis on Friday as a 5-point favorite. The Cavaliers have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Cleveland has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with one day of rest. The Cavs dispatched of the Grizzlies despite making only 46% of their shots which was their worst offensive effort over their last six games. Their new four of Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr, Rodney Hood and George Hill combined to score 57 points and take much of the pressure off LeBron James. Cleveland flexed their newfound muscles on defense by limiting Memphis to just a 39.3% shooting percentage. These four new players have completely changed the dynamic of this team on the defensive end of the court. In their four games with the Cavs, the team is 4th in the NBA in Defensive Efficiency. They have held their last five opponents to just a 43.2% shooting percentage as compared to the 47% opponent’s field goal percentage this team has for the season. The fact is that James was going to get whatever group of teammates he had going after the dog days of January and subsided. Cleveland has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games in the second-half of the season. Lastly, the Cavaliers will be motivated by revenge after losing to the Spurs back on January 23rd despite being a 2.5-point road favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 26 games when looking to avenge a loss on the road as the favorite. 25* NBA ABC-TV Game of the Month with the Cleveland Cavaliers (806) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (805). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (515) and the Sacramento Kings (516). Los Angeles (24-34) snapped their three-game losing streak last night with their 124-102 win over Dallas as a 4-point favorite. The Lakers were buoyed by the return of Lonzo Ball to the court who helped them shoot 51.6% from the field. Los Angeles has scored at least 106 points in seven straight games — and they have then played 12 of their last 15 games Over the Total after scoring at least 105 points in three straight games. The Lakers also held the Mavericks to just a 40.7% shooting percentage in their best defensive effort in their last four games. But LA has then played 4 straight games Over the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. The Lakers have also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last contest. Now they go back on the road where they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total. And in their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on their home court, Los Angeles has played 4 of these games Over the Total. Furthermore, the Lakers have played 7 of their lsat 9 games Over the Total against Pacific Division rivals.

Sacramento (18-40) has lost two straight games — as well as four of their last five contests — with their 110-107 loss to Oklahoma City on Thursday as an 8-point underdog. The Kings have then played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Additionally, Sacramento has played 10 of their last 14 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest. The Kings stay at home where they have played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total. Sacramento has also played 6 of their last 7 home games Over the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. And in their last 10 home games as an underdog getting no more than 6 points, the Kings have played 9 of these games Over the Total. Furthermore, Sacramento has played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total against fellow Pacific Division rivals. Lastly, in their last 27 opportunities to host the Lakers, the Kings have played 19 of these games Over the Total. 25* NBA Pacific Division Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (515) and the Sacramento Kings (516). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (508) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (507). Golden State (45-14) has won four of their last five games with their 134-127 win over the Clippers as a 10.5-point favorite on Thursday. The Warriors shot 62.7% from the field in that game — and that hot shooting should carry over tonight as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after making at least 60% of their shots in their last game. Golden State has also covered the point spread in a decisive 37 of their last 62 games after a contest where they scored at least 120 points. The Warriors will be looking to tighten things up on defense tonight after allowing the Clippers to make 50% of their shots in what was their worst defensive performance in their last eight games. Golden State should be very motivated in this game after losing in their two previous meetings to the Thunder this season. After losing in November by 17 points, the Warriors then lost to Oklahoma City by a 125-105 score back on February 6th despite being a 10.5-point favorite in the Oracle Center. Golden State has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when playing with revenge from an upset loss as a double-digit home favorite. The Warriors ave also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with double-revenge.

Oklahoma City (34-26) has won two straight games — as well as four of their last six games — after their 110-107 win at Sacramento on Thursday. But the Thunder have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Additionally, Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in a decisive 32 of their last 46 road games after a win by 3 points or less. And in their last 19 games after winning two of their last three games, the Thunder have failed to cover the point spread 15 times. Furthermore, OKC has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing with one day of rest. Moving forward, the Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games against Western Conference opponents. Oklahoma City does not meet expectations in higher scoring games as well as they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games with the Total set at 230 or higher. The Warriors average 116.2 PPG — and the Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 33 road games against teams that score at least 106 PPG. Lastly, Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 trips to Golden State. 25* NBA Saturday Night ABC-TV Game of the Month on the Golden State Warriors (508) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (507). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (809) plus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (810). One of the things I look for after the NBA All-Star Break are teams with a good track record coming off extended hiatuses. Miami (30-28) has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing with at least three days of rest. The Heat need to get back to their winning ways after going into the break losing seven of their last eight games after a 104-103 loss in Philadelphia last Wednesday. They remain 1 1/2 games ahead of Detroit for the 8th and final playoff slot in the Eastern Conference. Miami is 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. The Heat have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games after losing two of their last three games. This team has been capable road warriors under head coach Erik Spoelstra due to their sound fundamental basketball with good team principles. They have covered the point spread in 36 of their last 52 games on the road — and they have also covered the point spread in 24 of their last 31 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, Miami has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning record. This team will be motivated with revenge after losing to the Pelicans at home by a 109-94 score back on December 23rd. The Heat have covered the point spread in 29 of their last 44 games when avenging a loss at home. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 meetings with New Orleans.

New Orleans (31-26) saw the All-Star Break come at an inopportune time as they had won three straight games after their 139-117 win over the Lakers last Wednesday. They made 53.5% of their shots in that game which was their best shooting effort in their last nine games. The nine-day break may have stalled their momentum over a scorching stretch on offense where they scored at least 118 points in those three victories in games where they covered the point spread all three times. But the Pelicans have then failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games when playing with at least three days of rest — and this includes failing to cover the point spread in five of these last six situations. Additionally, New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in a decisive 30 off the last 43 games after a blowout win at home by at least 20 points — and this includes failing to cover the point spread in six of these last seven situations. Furthermore, the Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 110 points in three straight games. New Orleans has also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after covering the point spread in three of their last four games. The Pelicans stay in the Crescent City for this contest — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games on their home court. Together, these team trends produce our specific 207-74-1 ATS combined angle for this situation. The team is without DeMarcus Cousins for the rest of the season but Anthony Davis has stepped up in his absence by being more aggressive down low without his front court partner. But the Heat play very good defense led by Hassan Whitesode down low who will not let Davis run rampant on them. 25* NBA Underdog of the Month on the Miami Heat (809) plus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (810). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Minnesota Timberwolves (504) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (503). Los Angeles (23-33) was completely flat last night in their 139-117 loss in New Orleans as a 5.5-point underdog. We had a big play on the Lakers last night so that result was very disappointing — and head coach Luke Walton along with Isaiah Thomas getting ejected early in that game certainly did not help matters. This Los Angeles team now falls into a strong “play-against” situation for themselves after that awful effort. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 125 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after allowing at least 130 points in their last contest. Additionally, the Lakers have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a straight-up loss. Furthermore, LA committed 20 turnovers last night while only forcing the Pelicans to commit 11 turnovers — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after committing at least 7 more turnovers than their opponents. Moving forward, the Lakers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games when playing without a day of rest. LA stays on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home. And in the Lakers’ last 11 road games as an underdog in the 6.5 to 12 point range, they have failed to cover the point spread 7 times.

Minnesota (35-25) has lost three of their last four games with their 126-108 loss to Houston as a 3-point underdog on Tuesday in what the second most points they have allowed all season. The Timberwolves have bounced-back to go 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games after a double-digit loss at home. And while Minnesota has failed to cover the point spread in two straight games, they have then covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after failing to cover the point spread in two straight games. Now this team stays at home where they are 23-6 so far this season which amounts to the second most wins at home for any team in the NBA. They have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games on their home court. The Timberwolves have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. And in their last 9 home games with the Total set at 220 or higher, Minnesota has covered the point spread 7 times. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break TNT Game of the Year with the Minnesota Timberwolves (504) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (503). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Lakers (717) plus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (718). Los Angeles (23-32) saw their four-game winning streak snapped on Saturday with their 130-123 loss in Dallas as a 3.5-point underdog. The Lakers were hot from the field as they made 54.8% of their shots from the field but they saw the Mavericks make 53.9% of their shots in what was their worst defensive effort in their last five games. This team is playing better basketball as of late — and Isaiah Thomas is a nice addition for them if he warms to the role of offering them instant offense coming off the bench. Thomas did just that in his first game with the team on Saturday as he scored 22 points while adding 6 assists in 31 minutes of play. Expect head coach Luke Walton to use that loss to the Mavericks as an opportunity to preach the need to play harder on the defensive end of the court. The Lakers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. LA has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after scoring at least 115 points in their last contest. Now this team stays on the road where they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games away from home with the Total set at 220 or higher. And in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record, the Lakers have covered the point spread 4 times.

New Orleans (30-26) has won two straight games with their 118-103 upset win at Detroit on Saturday as a 3.5-point underdog. The Pelicans played one of their best defensive games of the season by holding the Pistons to just a 36.8% shooting percentage which was their best defensive effort in their last forty-six games. But New Orleans has then failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games after an upset victory by at least 15 points. The Pelicans have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a double-digit win. Now this team returns home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games. New Orleans has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Lastly, the Total is set in the sky-high 230.5 range — and the Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread in their last 3 games when the Total was set at 230 or higher. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Game of the Year with the Los Angeles Lakers (717) plus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (718). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (719) and the Memphis Grizzlies (720). Oklahoma City (32-260 has lost two of their last three games — as well as six of their last eight contests — with their 120-112 upset loss to Cleveland last night as 3-point favorites. The Thunder saw the new-look Cavs’ made 51.1% of their shots which tied for their worst defensive effort in their last six games. Oklahoma City has then played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after an upset loss as a favorite. The Thunder have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now this team now goes back on the road where the Under is 7-3-1 in their last 11 road games against teams with a losing record at home. Oklahoma City has also played 4 of the last games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% overall. Additionally, the Thunder have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against fellow Western Conference opponents.

Memphis (18-37) has lost six straight games with their 110-92 loss at Oklahoma City on Sunday as a 4-point underdog. The Grizzlies have then played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a double-digit loss. Memphis has also played 17 of their last 25 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Additionally, not only have the Grizzlies played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after losing three straight games but they have also played 7 straight games on their home court Under the Total after losing at least four straight games. This team is undermanned even more than usual right now given the season-ending injury to Michael Conley. Wayne Seldon is out for tonight with JaMychal Green and Chandler Parsons both being questionable — and these absences are having more of an impact for this team on the offensive end of the floor. Memphis made just 39% of their shots against the Thunder on Sunday. Now this team returns home where they have played 19 of their last 29 games Under the Total. The Grizzlies have also played 9 of their last 14 home games Under the Total as the underdog. Lastly, they will be looking to avenge that loss to the Thunder on Sunday — and not only have they played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on the road but they have also played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed at least 110 points. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Western Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (719) and the Memphis Grizzlies (720). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (705) and the Brooklyn Nets (706). Los Angeles (28-26) saw their three-game winning streaks snapped on Saturday with their 112-98 loss at Philadelphia as a 5-point favorite. The Clippers allowed the 76ers to make 47.8% of their shots in that game which was their worst defensive effort in their last six games. Los Angeles has played 6 straight games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. The Clippers have also played 4 straight games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. Additionally, Los Angeles has played 4 straight games Under the Total when on the road. They also have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total against Eastern Conference opponents. Furthermore, while the Clippers have played seven straight games Under the Total, they have then played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after playing at least three straight games Under the Total. And in their last 25 games in the month of February, LA has played 17 of these games Under the Total.

Brooklyn (19-38) has lost five straight games — as well as nine of their last ten contests — with their 138-128 loss in double-overtime on Saturday as a 2.5-point underdog. The Nets shot just 37.7% from the field in that game which was their worst shooting effort in their last eight games. This team really misses Rondae Hollis-Jefferson who has been declared out the season with a groin injury. Brooklyn will also likely be without Caris LeVert who has been downgraded to out with a knee injury — and this leaves the team very thin on the offensive end of the court. As it is, the Nets have played 8 of their last 11 home games Under the Total after a loss by 6 points or less. Brooklyn has also played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. And while the Nets have scored at least 106 points in three straight games, they have then played 15 of their last 18 games Under the Total after scoring at least 105 points in three straight games. Now this team stays at home where they have played 15 of their last 21 games Under the Total. Brooklyn has also played 7 of their last 9 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. Lastly, in the last 5 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Under the Total 4 times. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (705) and the Brooklyn Nets (706). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:35 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (804) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (803). Cleveland (32-22) will be debuting their new revamped team in this game after they traded away six players at the trade deadline this week. Usually, teams use all of training camp to incorporate a batch of new players while deciding on how they best fit with the existing group — but head coach Tyron Lue has to accomplish this on the fly. Even if LeBron James tries to take this team on his shoulders, it is too much to ask that their new unit can thrive immediately. While the Cavaliers got younger — and definitely got better on defense — they did not add a superstar. Yes, the team is better now — but that speaks to just how and the roster had become with aging stars of the past. This group is down to just two “superstars” — and Kevin Love is still on the shelf with his hand injury. Out of the new players, only George Hill will be inserted immediately into the starting lineup. While Hill is a quality veteran, he is the same point guard that the Pacers considered too much of a liability on offense to keep him around to compete against this same Cavaliers team. As it is, James has shown that he just does not care too much about these regular season games. The Cavs have won two straight games after their 123-107 win at Atlanta on Friday as a 2-point favorite. But Cleveland has then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a double-digit loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after a straight-up win. Furthermore, Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after scoring at least 115 points in their last game. And in their last 14 games after winning two of their last three contests, the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of those games. Now this team stays on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 17 games. Cleveland has also failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. And in their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% overall, the Cavs have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of these games. Additionally, Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. And in their last 5 games against the Celtics, the Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread 4 times.

Boston (40-17) has lost two of their last three games with their 97-91 loss to Indiana despite being a 4-point favorite on Friday. The Celtics made just 38.2% of their shots which was their worst shooting effort in their last fourteen games. But Boston is 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 games after a straight-up loss. The Celtics are also 14-6-1 ATS in their last 21 games after a points spread loss. Additionally, Boston has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after an upset loss as a favorite. And in their last 8 games after losing two of their last three games, the Celtics have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of these games. Moving forward, Boston has covered then point spread in 9 of their last 11 games with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. Lastly, the Cavaliers are looking to avenge a 102-88 loss to the Celtics back on January 3rd — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 20 games when playing with revenge from a loss by at least 10 points. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Television Game of the Year with the Boston Celtics (804) minus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (803). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Washington Wizards (507) and the Chicago Bulls (508). Washington (31-24) has lost two straight games with their 110-104 loss to Boston on Thursday as a 2-point underdog. The Wizards shot just 40% from the field in that game which was their worst shooting effort in their last five contests. Washington has made at lest 51.8% of their shots in four of the seven games they have played since the injury to John Wall. The Over is 9-1-1 in the Wizards’ last 11 games after a straight-up loss. Washington has also played 5 straight games Over the Total after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Wizards have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total. And in their last 8 games against fellow Eastern Conference opponents, Washington has played 7 of these games Over the Total.

Chicago (19-35) snapped a seven-game losing streak last night in their 114-113 upset win over Minnesota and their former teammate Jimmy Butler as a 7.5-point underdog. The Bulls’ five starters combined to play 169:44 minutes last night — and they have then seen the Over go 5-1-1 in their last 7 games after playing a game the day before where their five starters combined to play at least 160 minutes. Chicago has also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up win. And while that was the Bulls’ first point spread victory in their last eight games, they have then played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games. This team stays at home where they have played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total — and they have played 7 of their last 11 home games Over the Total as an underdog getting 6 points or less. Chicago will be looking to avenge a 114-110 win over the Wizards back on December 31st — and they have played 11 of their last 16 Over the Total when avenging a loss where they gave up at least 110 points. Lastly, in the last 6 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Over the Total 5 times. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Eastern Conference Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Washington Wizards (507) and the Chicago Bulls (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Clippers (803) plus the points versus the Detroit Pistons (804). Los Angeles (27-25) has won two straight games — as well as four of their last five contests — with their 104-101 win over Dallas on Monday as a 6-point favorite. The Clippers are then 13-4-1 ATS in their last 18 games after a straight-up win. Los Angeles is also an impressive 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 games when playing with three days of rest. These days off has offered head coach Doc Rivers the opportunity to fully integrate the two new players they acquired in their blockbuster trade with this Pistons team. I really like the additions that the Clippers made in Avery Bradley in Tobias Harris as they are both productive players on both ends of the court. They continue to fit Rivers’ evolving vision of his team which is one that is sound fundamentally with two cornerstones in rising superstar Lou Williams at guard and big man DeAndre Jordan down low. This entire team should be motivated with this being their first opportunity to defeat their former teammate Blake Griffin. The Clippers have been very reliable on the road where they are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games on the road. Los Angeles has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. Furthermore, the Clippers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against Eastern Conference opponents. LA will be looking to avenge a 95-87 loss at home to Detroit as an 8-point favorite back on October 28th. The Clippers have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games when avenging an upset loss as a home favorite — and this includes covering the point spread in five of their last six games in those situations when they were favored by at least 7 points.

Detroit (27-26) has won five games in a row since acquiring Griffin after their 115-106 win over Brooklyn on Wednesday as a 10-point favorite. But this Pistons team has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. Detroit has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Pistons have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last contest. Additionally, Detroit has failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 29 games with at two straight wins. While the addition of Griffin gives this team an interesting and formidable frontline with Andre Drummond, point guard and outside shooting remains big question marks for this team — especially with Reggie Jackson still out with his ankle injury. Now this team stays at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games. The Pistons have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Lastly, Detroit has failed to cover the point spread in 31 of their last 44 games when priced in the +/- 3-point range. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Friday ESPN Game of the Year with the Los Angeles Clippers (803) plus the points versus the Detroit Pistons (804). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (501) and the Orlando Magic (502). Atlanta (17-37) has won two games in a row with their 108-82 win over Memphis on Tuesday as a 3-point favorite. The Hawks are playing better defense as of late as they held the Grizzlies to just a 43% shooting percentage from the field after holding the Knicks to a 43.6% from the field in their last game. Atlanta also made 50.6% of their shots in that game which appears to be an outlier as that was their best offensive effort in their last eleven contests. The Hawks have then played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. Atlanta has also played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 18 of their last 24 games Under the Total against fellow Southeast Division rivals. The Hawks have also played 5 of their last 7 road games Under the Total against teams with a losing record at home. And in their last 27 games against teams with a winning percentage below 40%, Atlanta has played 20 of these games Under the Total.

Orlando (17-36) has won three of their last four games after registering their second-straight upset victory on Tuesday with their 116-98 win over Cleveland despite being a 6.5-point underdog. The Magic made 52.9% of their shots which was their best offensive effort in their last seventeen games. Orlando is also playing better defense as they held the Cavaliers to just a 42.9% shooting mark after limiting the Heat to just a 43% shooting mark despite that game being played in Miami in their previous game. The Magic have then played 4 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Orlando has also played 14 of their last 18 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. And in their last 12 games after winning two of their last three games, the Magic have played 10 of these games Under the Total. Now this team stays at home where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total. Orlando has also played 7 of their last 8 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. The Magic will be motivated to avenge a 117-110 loss in Atlanta back on December 9th — and they have played 14 of their 20 home games Under the Total when playing with revenge. Lastly, in the last 56 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Under the Total 39 times. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Southeast Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (501) and the Orlando Magic (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Washington Wizards (511) and the Philadelphia 76ers (512). Washington (31-22) is on fire since losing John Wall for six to eight weeks with a knee injury. They have won five games in a row since losing their point guard after their 111-102 win at Indiana last night. The Wizards are making 51.2% of their shots over this five-game winning streak while making at least 51.8% of their shots in four of those five games. The difference clearly seems to be a renewed commitment to passing the basketball. Washington is assisting on a whopping 73.9% of the field goals since the Wall injury. They have produced at least 27 assists in each of their last five games which is a franchise record. This is the Wizards third game in a row on the road — and they have played 7 straight games Over the Total after winning at least two straight games on the road. Washington has also played 28 of their last 39 games Over the Total when playing without a day of rest. Additionally, the Wizards have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 4 straight road games Over the Total against a team with a winning record at home.

Philadelphia (25-25) has lost four of their last five games with their 100-92 loss at Indiana on Saturday as a 1.5-point underdog. The 76ers have then played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total after losing four of their last five games. Philadelphia has also played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total when playing with two days of rest. And while that game finished Under the 210 Total in that contest, they have then played 38 of their last 63 games Over the Total after a game that finished Under the Total. The Wizards have played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total against an opponent that allowed at least 100 points in their last game. Moving forward, the 76ers have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record. And in their last 19 home games against teams with a winning record on the road, Philadelphia has played 13 of these games Over the Total. Lastly, in the last 5 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Over the Total 4 times. Together, these team trends produce our specific 122-52 combined angle for this situations. 25* NBA Pre-All Star Break Tuesday TNT Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Washington Wizards (511) and the Philadelphia 76ers (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (509) and the Denver Nuggets (510). Oklahoma City (30-21) saw their eight-game winning streak snapped on Tuesday with their 102-96 loss to the Wizards as a 3-point favorite. The Thunder did play one of their best defensive games of the season as they held Washington to just a 38.2% shooting percentage which was their best defensive effort in their last twenty games. That was a very encouraging performance for this team that will be without their best defensive player in Andre Roberson for the rest of the season with his leg injury last weekend. The Thunder stay on the road where they have played 7 of their last 10 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. Oklahoma City has also played 11 of their last 13 road games Under the Total against fellow Northwest Division opponents. Furthermore, the Thunder have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against Northwest Division opponents overall. Additionally, the Under is 5-0-1 in Oklahoma City’s last 6 games against teams with a winning record.

Denver (26-25) has lost two straight games after their 106-104 loss at San Antonio on Tuesday as a 6.5-point underdog. The Nuggets have then played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss. Denver has also played 5 straight games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Nuggets have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Now this team returns home where they have played 7 of their last 9 home games Under the Total. They have also played 20 of their last 26 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. Additionally, Denver has played 14 of their last 17 games Under the Total against fellow Northwest Division opponents. The Nuggets will be playing with revenge on their minds from a 95-94 loss to the Thunder back on December 18th — and they have played 15 of their last 22 games Under the Total when looking to avenge a loss to their opponents. Lastly, in the last 5 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Under the Total 4 times. Together, these team trends produce our specific 110-20-2 combined angle for this situation. 25* NBA Thursday TNT Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (509) and the Denver Nuggets (510). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (715) and then Phoenix Suns (716). Dallas (16-35) has lost four straight games — as well as seven of their last eight contests — with their 95-88 loss to Miami. The Mavericks have then played 20 of their last 27 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and the Under is 15-5-1 in their last 21 games after a point spread setback. Additionally, Dallas has played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a loss at home. Now the Mavs go back on the road — and they have played 13 of their last 19 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road. Furthermore, Dallas has played 21 of their last 29 games Under the Total with the number set in the 210 to 219.5 point range.

Phoenix (17-34) has lost five straight games — as well as eight of their last nine games — with their 120-109 loss at Memphis. The Suns allowed the Grizzlies to make 56.6% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort in their last 21 games. Phoenix has played 16 of their last 21 games Under the Total after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Additionally, the Suns have played 14 of their last 18 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. And in the last 10 games after a double-digit loss, Phoenix has played 8 of these games Under the Total. This team may be handicapped tonight if Devin Booker does not play given his ribs injury. Even if Booker plays despite being listed as questionable, his effectiveness has to be questioned since he is not at 100%. The Suns return home where he has played 5 straight games Under the Total. And in their last 4 home games against teams with a winning percentage at 40% or less, Phoenix has played all 4 of those games Under the Total. Together, these team trends produce our specific 136-42-1 combined angle for this situation. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (715) and then Phoenix Suns (716). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Brooklyn Nets (503) plus the points versus the New York Knicks (504). Brooklyn (18-32) is really struggling right now having lost three straight games as well as nine of their last twelve contests with their 111-97 loss at Minnesota on Saturday as an 11-point underdog. This Nets team is also undermanned with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Caris LeVert out tonight with injuries. So, it might be a little surprising that Brooklyn is just a 5 or so point underdog in this game. This fishy situation is compounded by the fact that the Knicks have won all three of their encounters with the Nets this season by an average winning margin of +14 PPG. But that is the fact that might compel New York to mail-in their performance tonight. These two teams last met on January 15th in what turned out to be a 119-104 win for the Knicks as a 4-point underdog. But Brooklyn has then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games when avenging a double-digit loss. The Nets have also covered the point spread in 30 of their last 48 games when playing with triple revenge against their opponents. Additionally, while Brooklyn has lost six of their last eight games, they have then covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after losing five or six of their last seven games. The Nets stay on the road where they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games. And in their last 22 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points, Brooklyn has covered the point spread 16 times.

New York (22-28) snapped their three-game losing streak with their 107-85 win at Phoenix on Friday as a 1-point favorite. The Knicks held the Suns to just a 35.1% shooting percentage in that game which is tied for their best defensive effort of the season. But this New York team looks primed to be rusty and not as focused for this contest. The Knicks have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a double-digit victory. Additionally, New York has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after a win on the road. And in their last 7 games when playing with at least three days of rest, the Knicks have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of those games. Now New York returns to Madison Square Garden where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight home games. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight home games against teams with a losing record on the road. And in their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage below 40%, the Knicks have failed to cover the point spread 5 times. Together, these team trends produce our specific 120-43 ATS combined angle for this situation. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Game of the Month with the Brooklyn Nets (503) plus the points versus the New York Knicks (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:35 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Chicago Bulls (804) plus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (803). Milwaukee (25-22) has won two straight games since head coach Jason Kidd was dismissed with their 116-91 victory over Brooklyn on Friday. The Bucks held the Nets to shooting just 37.1% from the field which was their best defensive effort in their last 33 games. Interim head coach Joe Prunty was tapped in part to have this team place more emphasis on the defensive end of the court. Of course, getting their best player back in Giannis Antetokounmpo after he missed the previous two games with a sore knee certainly helped. But Milwaukee is still not a full health with Jabari Parker out for this game with a knee injury and point guard Malcolm Brogdon questionable with a calf injury. As it is, the Bucks have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit setback. Additionally, Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. Furthermore, the Bucks are just 0-6-2 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage below 40%. And in their last 13 games against fellow Central Division rivals, Milwaukee is just 2-9-2 ATS.

Chicago (18-31) has lost three straight games with their 108-103 loss to the Lakers on Friday as a 4-point favorite. The Bulls shot just 37.6% from the field in that game which was their worst offensive effort inter last nine games. Chicago will likely still be without their starting point guard Kris Dunn who is recovering from a concussion — but that is still no excuse for their poor shooting night on Friday. They made only 38.3% of their shots in their previous game at Philadelphia — but they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after failing to shoot better than 39% in two straight games. The Bulls have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a loss at home. Better play on the defensive end of the court would be a good start for this team as they have allowed at least 108 points in three straight games. Chicago has then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after allowing at least 105 points in three straight games. The Bulls have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 100 points in their last game. Chicago stays at home where they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games on their home court. The Bulls are also 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Lastly, in their last 7 games against Central Division rivals, Chicago has covered the point spread in 6 of these games. 25* NBA Central Division Underdog of the Month with the Chicago Bulls (804) plus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (803). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Chicago Bulls (814) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (813). Chicago (18-30) has lost two straight games with their 115-101 loss at Philadelphia on Wednesday as a 5.5-point underdog. The Bulls shot just 38.3% from the field while allowing the 76ers to make 51.9% of their shots — and both marks was their worst respective efforts in their last eight games. Expect a strong effort from this Bulls team tonight — they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. Chicago has also covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after scoring at least 100 points in their last game. And while the Bulls had covered the point spread in their previous six games before the loss to Philly, they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Chicago returns home where they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games — and they are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. The Bulls have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as a favorite of 6 points or less. Furthermore, Chicago is 8-0-1 ATS in their last 9 games against teams with a losing record. Additionally, the Bulls are looking to avenge a 103-99 loss to the Lakers back on November 21st — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games when playing with revenge from a same-season loss.

Los Angeles (18-29) has won three straight games — all upset victories — with their 108-107 win over the Celtics on Tuesday. The Lakers out-rebounded Boston by a whopping 68 to 48 margin — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after out-rebounding their last opponent by at least 15 boards. Los Angeles has also failed to cover the point spread in 29 of their last 43 road games after playing a game on their home court. Now after pulling off three straight upsets on their home court, the Lakers go back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 road games against teams with a losing record at home. 25* NBA Game of the Month with the Chicago Bulls (814) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (813). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Houston Rockets (713) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (714). Houston (33-12) have won three straight games — as well as six of their last seven contests — after their 99-90 win over Miami on Monday as an 11-point favorite. This Rockets team is finally at full strength with no players injured nor suspended. Houston is a perfect 18-0 this season when James Harden, Chris Paul and their dunker Clint Capela down low are all healthy and playing together. Look for this Rockets team to build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 23 of their last 32 road games after winning four or five of their last six games. Houston has also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games after a victory at home where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. Now this Rockets team goes back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 5 straight road games against teams with a losing record at home. Additionally, Houston is 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage below 40%. Furthermore, the Rockets have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against Western Conference opponents. And in their last 7 trips to Dallas, Houston has covered the point spread in 5 of these games.

Dallas (16-31) snapped their three-game winning streak on Monday with their 98-75 upset win over Washington as a 2-point underdog. The Mavericks held the Wizards to just a 30.6% shooting percentage which was their best defensive effort of the season — but some of that needs to credit should go to that Washington team that could not hit the side of a barn in that game. Dallas is due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after an upset victory by at least 15 points as an underdog — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after an upset win by at least 20 points on their home court. The Mavericks have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win by at least 20 points in general. Dallas stays at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 home games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. And in their last 15 home games with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range, the Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of these contests. Lastly, Dallas looks to avenge a 107-91 loss to the Rockets in Houston back on October 21st — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when attempting to avenge a loss on the road where they allowed at least 100 points. Together, these team trends produce our specific 102-32-1 combined angle for this situation. 25* NBA Wednesday ESPN Game of the Month with the Houston Rockets (713) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (714). Best of luck for us — Frank.