After dropping their first two games at home, everyone, including myself, seemed to write the Nuggets off. They proved us all wrong and won three in a row and are now poised to close out the series with the Timberwolves. The Timberwolves had not lost three straight games all season. Jokic has been the man, putting up 37.5  points over the last two games. Anthony Edwards has been a stud for the T’’Wolves but the Nuggets are making others beat them which has proven to be successful over the last couple of games. The Nuggets are the more experienced team and it is starting to show. Denver knows how to close things out and they don’t want to go to a game seven.

Play on Denver. This is a 2% play. 

The offenses have picked up and the over has hit in three straight.  The Nuggets have picked it up on the offensive end and that is without Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. playing at their best. Minnesota's offense has not played as well since the first two games of the season. It is a must win game at home and I expect them to play better. Denver has scored 112 or more in each of the last three wins over the top-ranked defense.

Play on the under. This is a 2% play.

Dallas let one get away in game four and now find themselves tied at 2-2 going into a pivotal game five game against OKC. Dallas had a 14 point lead but poor free throw shooting (52.2%) and 14 turnovers led to the loss. Dallas has had a huge rebounding advantage the last three games and that needs to continue going forward. I am looking for another close game in this one as Dallas has an edge in playoff experience.

Play on Dallas. This is a 2% play

With the series tied 1-1 OKC would like to get home court advantage back as soon as possible. I am looking for them to get it back today. Doncic is not 100% with a sprained knee for Dallas and they got 29 points from PJ Washington in their game two win but I don’t expect another game like from Washington, who averaged under 13 points a game this season. OKC has depth and plays a lot better on the defensive end. The Thunder were ranked fourth in defensive efficiency, allowing just 109.5 points per 100 possessions while the Mavericks were 16th, at 112.4 points per 100 possessions.  OKC has covered the spread in two of the last three between these two teams, while covering in eight of their last ten overall. I like OKC to win outright but will take the points in what could be a close game.

PLay on OKC. This is a 3% play

Oklahoma City Thunder looks to take a 2-0 lead in the series while Dallas is looking to even t up before heading home.  OKC won the first game 117-95. Dallas will need to get more out of their big two as Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic were held to just 39 combined points. Doncic is playing with a sprained knee which hampered him on both ends of the court. The Thunder have not lost a game yet in the postseason. The Thunder have covered the spread twice in the last month against Dallas, in four-straight overall, and in eight of their last nine. Without a healthy Doncic I see the Mavs struggling in this one.

Play on OKC. This is a 4% play.

The Eastern Conference Semifinals see the Indiana Pacers take on the New York Knicks. Indiana took down the Bucks in six games while New York took care of the Sixers in six. Against the Bucks they put up 113 points a game and shot 47.9% from the field and 34.4% from beyond the arc. On the defensive end, they allowed 110.2 points per game. The Knicks put up 108.3 points per game, and they shot 44.1% from the field and 37% from deep. On the defensive end, they gave up 108.2 points per game. The Pacers went 2-1 SU and ATS in three regular-season games against the Knicks. New York played a short rotation against the 76ers and may have to expand it against the Pacers. Both teams played banged-up teams in the first round but Indiana is playing slightly better on both ends of the floor. The Knicks struggled at the line to close out games and that could be important in a close game. I like Indiana to keep this one close and get the cover if not the win. Play on Indiana. This is a 3% play.

Orlando had to dig deep and come from behind in Game 6 to stay alive and force game seven back in Cleveland. Cleveland has a lead going into the fourth but once again shot poorly from deep and ended up losing the game. Cleveland has been putting up 112.3 points per game. In the playoffs so far, they have not scored more than a hundred points. On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.7 points per game.They have been playing a lot better on the defensive end during the playoffs. The Magic outscored the Cavs 13-6 over the final four minutes to pull out game six. Orlando put up 110 points a game this season. On the defensive end, they are giving up 107.9 points per game, and have been even better in the playoffs. Home court has ruled the day in these playoffs with the Cavs winning every game at home but they've lost ATS in the last four. The Magic are young, and very talented and have been able to slow down Cleveland on the offensive end. Orlando has had a huge advantage on the boards all series and that should continue in this game. This game has final shot vibes all over it so I will take the points.

Play on Orlando. This is a 3% play.

The sixth-seeded Indiana Pacers look to close out their series with the injury played Milwaukee Bucks on the road. In the playoffs the Pacers are second Indiana is 2nd in scoring at 116.5 points a game on the defensive end, they are giving up 112 points per game. Even without their two best players the Bucks are still third in playoff scoring at 112 points a game. On the defensive end, they are giving up 116.5 points per game. Antetokounmpo is doubtful and Lillard is listed as questionable. The Pacers have momentum and better depth. Without their two best players Milwaukee will struggle to extend this series. Indiana wants to close this out now and give Giannis and Lilliard a chance to come back.

Play on Indiana. This is a 4% play.

`After getting lucky in game one, the Thunder have rolled and are on the verge of a sweep on the New Orleans Pelicans. Without Zion Williamson in the lineup. The Pelicans are limited on the offensive end. The Thunder have done a good job attacking away the next best players and no other Pelican has stepped up to take up the slack. The Pelicans have failed to score more than 92 points in any game of the series. Oklahoma City has too many weapons and different players have stepped up in different games. The Pelicans don’t have that and without Williamson they have no chance. The Thunder get the sweep.

Play on OKC. This is a 4% play..

The Oklahoma City Thunder go on the road to take on the New Orleans Pelicans. The Thunder have won the first two games of the series. The Thunder are putting up 109 points per game in the series and shooting nearly 51% from the field and 31% from 3-point range. They are giving up just 92 points per game and holding the Pelicans to just 41% shooting overall. The New Orleans Pelicans nearly stole game one but are now in a must win situation and are still without Zion Williamson. The Pelicans are scoring just 92 points per game in the series and are shooting 41% from the field overall. Without Williamson, the Pelicans lack scoring. Ingram has been a disappointment in Williamson’s absence and must step up if the Pelicans are going to win.  The Thunder were 24-17 on the road this season while the Pels were just 21-20 at home.  New Orleans isn’t the same team without Williamson and the on the floor and the Thunder have been playing great since the first half of game one. The Pels are in a must win game but I don’t feel they have enough to get the job done.

Play on OKC. This is a 3% play

The Orlando Magic will look to even their series with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Cleveland is putting up 112.3 points per game, but have been held to less than a hundred points in the first three games of this series. On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.7 points per game this season. Orlando put up 110 points per game this season and on the defensive end, they are giving up 107.9 points per game. The Orlando defense held the Cavs under 100 points for the third straight game of the series and their offense finally showed up at home.  They were once again able to keep the Cavs under their average from deep but what was more important in game three was that the Magic was able to hold their own on the glass. By controlling the glass, they were able to keep the Cavs from getting easy points. I am not looking for an easy win but I do expect the magic to win this game.

Play on Orlando. This is a 3% play

The Nuggets have not played well in the first half of both games so far. They had to come back from 20 down in the second half of game 2 and have come back from double-digit second-half deficits in both games. The Lakers have done a good job of defending Murray and have made things difficult for him on the offensive end. The Denver Nuggets are great on the road, posting a 24-17 record on the season. Anthony Davis has been in beast mode, scoring 32 points in each game along with 25 rebounds but he needs to step up in the fourth quarter, unlike in game 2. The Lakers should have won one of the first two games and that will give them confidence going home James won’t let the Lakers get pucked and swept at home and this is the game they need to win. Play on the LA Lakers, This is a 3% play.

The New York Knicks got away with one in game 2 in more ways than one.  New York is holding Philadelphia to 43.6% shooting overall and 35.2% shooting from 3-point land. New York is also outrebounding Philadelphia. The Knicks have won two straight with their best player not playing well. Saying all that, this is a must-win game for Philadelphia and I look for them to come out angry in this one. They were stripped literally and figuratively in game 2 and will look for revenge in this one. The Sixers' defensive strategy against Brunson has worked and the Sixers have held the Knicks offense in check overall but their offense needs to be better, especially from deep. I expect Philly to shoot better from deep at home and they will play with a little extra fire early.  Philly rolls at home in this one.

Play on Philly. This is a 3% Play.

Orlando is coming back home down 0-2 and in a must win situation. If there is a bright spot it is that their defense has been stellar as they have held the Cavs to under 40% from the floor. Jalen Suggs missed most of game 2 and he should be ready to go in this one. He will give them a lift on both ends of the floor. Suggs and Harris will need to slow down Mitchell and keep him form getting easy baskets. Cleveland has not been shooting well from deep and I don’t see that getting better on the road. I feel this will be a different Magic team at home and I like them to get a win in this one. 

Play on Orlando. This is a 3% play.

OKC is a young team without a lot of playoff experience and it showed in Game 1. They came out tight, shot poorly and played sloppily in the first half. They played better in the second half and were able to battle back and get the win. I look for them to shake off game 1, especially after a win and come out sharper on the offensive end. If the Thunder can play like they did during the regular season this game should be a lot easier, considering the Pelicans will be playing without Williamson once again. The Thunder should be able to hold their own on the boards and limit the Pelicans chances at easy points. You can only play at a high level without your star and I look for the Pelicans to stumble a bit in this game.

Play on OKC. This is a 2% play.

The Phoenix Suns and Minnesota Timberwolves  play Game 2 of their first-round Western Conference series. Minnesota took Game 1 120-95. Nothing went right for the Suns in game 1. The Suns dominated the Timberwolves during the regular season. Including the regular season, they have won 10 of 12 against the Wolves. Minnesota put up the most points they have scored against the Suns all season. The Suns had held the T’wolves to under 103 points their last three games.  Kevin Durant was  his consistent se;f but both Booker and Beal had under 20 points. I expect Both beal and Booker to have better games and the defense to step up and play better, Minnesota played the perfect game and I am not sure that happens again. I am looking for Phoenix to even the series but take the points. 

Play on Phoenix. This is a  3% play.

The Thunder are the number one seed but are not getting the respect that top seeds normally get. The Pelicans will be without their best player in this game and possibly the series. Zion  Williamson could be able to go on May 1st. But unfortunately for New Orleans, the series could be over by then.  The Thunder likes to play fast and score on the break. Without Zion controlling the glass the Pelicans will struggle to slow down the Thunder break. Ingram did not play well in the first play-in game but played better in the second. He needs more consistency if they want to have a chance. The Thunder went 33-8 at home this season and they rack up another win in Game 1. 

Play on OKC, this is a 3% play.

The sixth-seeded Indiana Pacers are on the road to take on the third-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of their best-of-seven series. The Pacers took four of the five meetings this season. Indiana finished the season winning four of their last five games. Indiana finished 1st in the league in scoring offense with 123.3 points per game. On the defensive end, they were 27th allowing 120.2 points per game. Milwaukee finished the season losing two in a row. The Bucks finished 4th in the league in scoring at 119 points per game. On the defensive end, they were 21st at 116.4 points per game. Antetokounmpo is doubtful for this contest while Lillard  and Green  are both questionable. The Pacers are a high scoring offense and the Bucks struggle at the defensive end. Without Giannis on the floor I see the Bucks having problems keeping pace with the Pacers. Milwaukee was 4-6 in games that Antetokounmpo missed this season. Dame Time is not 100% and that is another problem for the Bucks. I am taking the Pacers in this one.

Play on Indiana, this is a 4% play.

The Los Angeles Lakers meet the Denver Nuggets in game one of the NBA Western Conference quarterfinals. The Nuggets swept the Lakers in the conference finals last year and won this year's season series 3-0. The Lakers have won five straight on the road covering in three. They are putting up 118 points a game this season and on the defensive end, they are giving up 117.4 points. Denver finished the season by winning and covering four of their last five. Denver is  putting up 114.9 points a game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 109.6 points a game. The Lakers have won seven of their last ten games. The Lakers lost three of the four Western Conference Finals games by six points or less. Davis is healthy but the Nuggets are the one team that can match up well against Davis. The key in this game will be Denver’s bench as it is not the same as last season and after the top six players I don;t have a lot of trust in the rest. The Nuggets have had a week off so rust could play a part early in the game. I like the Lakers to keep this one close.

Play on LA. This is a 3% play.

The Pelicans have won five straight over the kings but the loss of Zion Williamson changes the complexion of this game. Zion ws playing like the man we all expected him  to be when he was drafted. He had 40 points with 3 minutes left and LA had no answers to stopping him. The injury probably cost the Pelicans the win as they were on a roll at home. New Orleans won and covered all five games this season. They covered those games by an average of 19.2 points. Domantas Sabonis should have an easier time in the post for the Kings without Zion in the lineup. Ingram and McCollum played awful against the Lakers and will need to step up in this one. The Pelicans were 7-5 in games without Zion this season. Sacramento has the momentum in this one and unfortunately the Zion injury will be a huge factor.

Play on Sacramento. This is a 2% play.

The eighth-seeded Miami Heat take on the seventh-seeded Philadelphia 76ers in an Eastern Conference play-in game. They split their four games this season with Philadelphia taking the last two games. The Heat finished the regular season 46-36. The Heat finished the season 26th in scoring at 110.1 points per game this season. On the defensive end, they finished 3rd in points allowed at 108.4 points per game. Philadelphia finished the season strong, winning their last eight games in a row. They finished the regular season 47-35. They finished the season 15th in scoring at 114.6 points per game. On the defensive end, they were 9th, allowing 111.5 points a contest. The 76ers were 25-16 at home this season. Embiid is back and it looks like he has something to prove. He is a huge matchup problem for the Heat and Philly has the players to slow down Butler if needed. I look for Philly to take control early with Embiid and Maxey taking control.

Play on Philadelphia. This is a 3% play.

The #10 Golden State Warriors square off against the #9 Sacramento Kings. The loser of this game will go home, while the winner takes on the loser of the 7 vs. 8 game. Golden State finished strong to c;ose out the season, winning four of their last five games. The Warriors 44-38 ATS this season. Sacramento struggled down the stretch, losing five of their last seven. The Warriors closed the season by winning 10 of their final 12 games. The Warriors have struggled with post defense this season. Sacramento is young, and I look for Sabonis to have a big game inside. The Warriors rely on Steph Curry for their offensive production, De'Aaron Fox is one of the better perimeter defenders in the NBA. I am taking the points with the home team in this one.

Play on Sacramento. This is a 3% play

The eighth-seeded in the Western Conference, Los Angeles Lakers take on the seventh-seeded New Orleans Pelicans. The Lakers defeated the Pelicans in the last game of the regular season. The Lakers finished the season 39-44 ATS. New Orleans had their four-game winning streak snapped in the loss to the Lakers. New Orleans finished the regular season going 43-37-2 ATS. Los Angeles is 5-1 both SU and ATS in their last six games against New Orleans. The Lakers won three of four matchups against the Pelicans this season. Davis should be able to go after leaving the last game with back spasms. I can’t see LA losing this game in order to avoid Denver. James will not let the Lakers lose this game. 

Play on the LA Lakers, This is a 3% play.

The Detroit Pistons and the San Antonio Spurs close out their seasons Sunday. The Pistons are 14-67 and are coming off a 107-89 win over Dallas. The Spurs are 21-60 and are coming off a one point win over Denver. The San Antonio Spurs put up 112 points per game while shooting 53.1% from the field. On the defensive end, they are giving up 118.9 points a game. San Antonio Spurs have posted a 43-38 ATS record this season and a 21-19 ATS at home. They have covered eight of their last ten. The Pistons put up 110.1 points per game while shooting  52.7% from the field.On the defensive end, they are giving up 118.9 points a game. Detroit is 40-40-1 ATS this season and 22-19 ATS on the road. They have covered just three of their last 10 games. With this being the last game of the season you could see a lot of players sitting out. I expect to see Wemby to play at least some minutes in this one and he is the best player on either team. I like San Antonio to win and cover in this one.

Play on San Antonio. This is a 2% play,

The New York Knicks square off against the Boston Celtics. New York is 47-32, good for third in the East, while Boston is first in the East with a 62-17 record. The Knicks are one game behind Milwaukee for second and 0.5 games above Cleveland. The Knicks are 43-35-1 ATS. The Knicks have won two in a row. Boston has had the Eastern Conference locked up for months. The Celtics had their five game winning streak snapped last time out. The Celtics are 40-35-4 ATS this season. Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, and Jayson Tatum are all listed as questionable with injuries, while Kristaps Porzingis is listed as questionable for “possible rest.” Boston has been resting players for a while now and are still winning games. They will want to get everyone back to playing together soon. Boston is 35-3 SU at home this year. Even if not at full strength, Boston has a lot of offensive firepower to pull this game out.

Play on Boston. This is a 2% play.

The Denver Nuggets host the Minnesota Timberwolves Minnesota has won four of the last five games and are putting up 113 points per game. On the defensive end they are giving up 106 points per game, which is the best in the NBA. Denver comes into this game also having won four of their last five. Denver is putting up 114.7 points per game. On the defensive end, they rank sixth in the NBA, giving up 109.7 points per game. Denver has won four of the last five at home against Minnesota, by an average of 12.4 points. Minnesotaloves to shoot from deep and shoots it well but Denver has one of the best 3-point defenses in the league. Both teams are on the second leg of a back-to-back so the altitude in Denver could play a roll in the second half. I am taking the home team here.

Play on Denver. This is a 3% play.

The New York Knicks will face the Chicago Bulls in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Bulls came away with a 108-100 win on Friday. The season series is tied at 1-1 with two games remaining. New York is in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. With four games remaining the Knicks can still get to second in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks are putting up 112.5 points a game and are shooting 46.4% from the field and 36.6% from deep. On the defensive end, the Knicks are giving up 108 points a game. The Bulls are putting up 111.7 PPG on 46.8% shooting from the field and 35.8% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 113.4 points a game. The Knicks are fighting for playoff position as they could drop into the Play-In Tournament with a couple of losses. Chicago is basically playing for who hosts the play in game, them or Atlanta. New York has more to play for and Chicago is too inconsistent for me.

Play on New York. This is a 3% play.

The Orlando Magic are on the road to take on the Houston Rockets. Orlando is 46-32 this season and is third in the Eastern Conference. Houston is 11th in the Western Conference at 38-40. The Magic have been getting it done all season on the defensive end, allowing just 108.3. On the offensive end, they won’t overpower anyone as they are scoring just 110.6 points per game.  Houston is putting up 114.2 points per game, and on the defensive end, they are giving up 113.3 points per game but over their last five, they have given up 127.4. Orlando is playing for playoff position while Houston has nothing to play for. Orlando is also 4-1 against the spread in their last five meetings against the Rockets.

Play on Orlando. This is a 3% play. 

The top two seeds in the Eastern Conference meet up when the Milwaukee Bucks take on the  Boston Celtics. Milwaukee is second in the East but have lost four in a row. The Magic and New York Knicks are only one game behind Milwaukee. The Celtics come in on a five game winning streak. The Celtics are 2nd in scoring with 120.8 points a game. . The Celtics are shooting 48.7% from the field and 38.9% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.2 points a game. Milwaukee is putting up 119.7 points per game on 48.8% shooting from the field and 37.2% from deep. . Giannis is questionable, while Khris Middleton and Patrick Beverly are probable. Boston has been on a roll while Milwaukee is heading in the opposite direction. The injury to Antetokounmpo will be an issue. Even if he can play, he will not be 100%. The Celtics are much better defensively. Boston has beaten Milwaukee in seven of their last ten meetings. Boston is 40-34-4 ATS while Milwaukee is 33-44-1 ATS. Boston will rise their depth in this one to a win.

Play on Boston on the money line. This is a 4% play.

 The Cavaliers lost against the Lakers on Saturday while the Clippers won big on Friday over Utah. The Cavaliers are 1-3 on their five game road trip and 3-7 SU over their last ten games. They are third in the Eastern Conference, a game and a half behind second place Milwaukee. The Clippers have won two straight and five of their last six games. They are in fourth place in the Western Conference, four games out of first place. The Cavaliers have been struggling down the stretch, losing 12 of their last 19 games. The Clippers have won seven of their last ten straight up. The Clippers are putting up more than 115 points per game at home and are shooting 49%. The Cavaliers have given up more than 120 points per game in their last three games. This will also be the second game of a back-to-back so their defense could be a bit slow do to fatigue. The Cavaliers have lost six of their last nine games and five of their last six road games. Over their last three games, they are putting up 110 points a game. The Clippers have held their last three opponents under 105 points. Leonard is questionable but even if he can’t go, I like the Clippers in this one.

Play on LA Clippers. This is a 3% play.

The Oklahoma City Thunder head to Indy to take on the Indiana Pacers. OKC is finishing off a five game road trip and are in a tight battle for the top spot in the division with Minnesota and Denver. They have lost two in a row and need to turn things around and have covered just once in their last five games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has missed the last three games and is questionable for the Pacers. Jalen Williams is also questionable. Oklahoma City is only 2-3 in their last five road contests. OKC is putting up 119.9 points per game and are giving up 113.3 points. The Pacers are seventh in the east, 2.5 games out of fourth place. They have covered the spread in three of their last five games.  Myles Turner did not play on Wednesday and is questionable for tonight. The Pacers are 3-2 in their last five home games. Indiana is putting up 122.7 points a game and are giving up 120.3 points a game but have been playing better on the defensive end lately. The Thunder are finishing off a five-game road trip and probably can’t wait to get back home. Without SAG and Williams the Thunder are a different team on both ends of the court. Over the last five games the Pacers defense has been better than their season average and the Thunder are a lot worse. I will take the home team against a mentally and possibly physically tired team.

Play on Indiana. This is a 2% play.

The Phoenix Suns and New Orleans Pelicans will face each other twice this week. The Suns are in seventh place in the Western Conference, a game and half behind Dallas in sixth. They have gone 4-2 in their last six games. Phoenix is putting up 116.7 a game and are shooting 49.5% from the field and 38.1% from deep. On the defensive end, Phoenix is giving up 114.1 points per game. The Pelicans are in fifth place in the West. They have gone 3-2 SU over their last five games. They are putting up 115.2 points a game on 48.7% shooting from the field and 37.8% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 110.3 points. They have met once this season, with Phoenix winning by 14. Both teams are fighting for playoff position with Phoenix trying to get above the play in line and New Orleans trying to stay above it. Ingram being out hurts the Pelicans offense as he is the second leading scorer. The Suns are 5-2 SU and ATS in the last seven games versus New Orleans. The Suns are in a position where they can’t rest players unless they are winning by wide margins. Without Ingram, I like the Suns to come away with an important win.

Play on Phoenix. This is a 3% play.

This could be a preview of a Play-In Tournament game  with the Atlanta Hawks being 10th in the East going against the ninth seeded Chicago Bulls. This will be the second game of a back-to-back for Chicago, after taking down Minnesota yesterday. The Bulls won the first two games of their three game season series. The Hawks have been without Trae Young but they still maintain a five game lead over the Nets for 10th. The Hawks rank 8th in offensive efficiency and 27th in defensive efficiency and play at the 7th fastest pace. The Bulls have lost four of their last five games, but are six games ahead of Brooklyn. Chicago ranks 19th in offensive efficiency and 21st in defensive efficiency and are 28th in tempo. Atlanta has won four of their last five, while the Bulls have lost four of five. This is the second game of a back-to-back for the Bulls and they have two starters battling injuries. Atlanta has played well without Young as shown in their two wins over Boston in the last week. If Caruso and or Dysoumo cannot go for the Bulls it will limit their wing defenders. Atlanta is in a good spot here to get the win.

Play on Atlanta. This is a 3% play.

The Sacramento Kings take on the Dallas Mavericks in a hotly contested Western Conference playoff battle. The Kings beat the Mavericks in Dallas twice earlier this season. Dallas has won three in a row and eight of their last nine. The Kings hold the sixth seed over Dallas bases on head-to-head so far this season. Trey Lyles, Sasha Vezenkov, and Kevin Huerter have all been hit by injuries. The Kings have 11 games in the next 19 games. Dallas is 22-12 on the road this season. They are also 8-1 ATS over their last nine games. The Kings are 14-20 ATS at home this season. Doncic and Irving will carry the Mavs over an injury plagued Kings team.

Play on Dallas. This is a 3% play.

The Miami Heat are on the road to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers. Miami is in eighth place in the East and are coming off a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Miami is putting up 109.8 points a game on 46.4% shooting from the field and 37.1% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.3 points a game. Miami will be without Tyler Herro, Kevin Love, and Josh Richardson while Duncan Robinson and Jimmy Butler are listed as day-to-day. The Cavaliers are riding their defense, which is allowing just 109.5 points a game. On the offensive end, they putting up 113.5 points a game. Cleveland will be missing the services of Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Max Strus, and Evan Mobley. Both team are dealing with injuried to key players. I am looking for a low scoring game as both teams play well on the defensive end. Cleveland is at home and has the better offense. I like Cleveland to win and cover at home.

Play on Cleveland on the money line. This is a 3% play.

The New York Knicks will be in San Francisco to take on the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors won back in February 110-99 as a 3.5-point favorite. The Knicks are in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. New York has won three straight and four of their last five games. They have been outstanding on the defensive end over the last five games as they have not allowed over 93 points in that stretch. On the offensive end, they are putting up 111.9 points on 46.1% shooting from the field and 36.2% from deep. Golden State is putting up 118.4 points a game on 47.2% shooting from the field and 37.8% from deep. On the defensive end, they allow 116.8 points a game. You can make the arguement tha the Knicks are playing better than th Warriors. If Anonoby plays, he's going to be limited offensively. These are starting to be must win games for Warriors as they try to stay out of the play in games. Golden State won the last game two weeks. I like Golden State and the old men to get the job done today.

Play on Golden State. This is a 3% play.

The Philadelphia 76ers are at home to take on the Miami Heat. Miami will be playing on the second game of a back-to-back after getting by Detroit yesterday. The Philadelphia 76ers are coming off a dominating win over Charlotte on Saturday and will have a day's rest. The Miami Heat are putting up 110.1 points a game and are shooting 53.6% from the field. On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.6 points a game. The Heat are 32-34-1 ATS this season but are 20-14-1 against the spread on the road. The Philadelphia 76ers are putting up 115.1 points and are shooting 53% from the field. On the defensive end, they are giving up 112.6 points a game. They are 35-32  ATS this season. I like the 76ers in this one as Miami will be on the back end of a back-to-back.

Play on Philadelphia. This is a 3% play

The Cleveland Cavaliers are on the road to take on the Indiana Pacers. The Cavaliers come into this game having lost three of their last four, while the Pacers have won three of the last four. The Cleveland Cavaliers are fourth in points allowed at 109.6 points a game and on the offensive end, they are putting up 113.6 points per game on 47.9% shooting from the field and 36.6% from deep. Indiana is first in the NBA in scoring at 123.1 points a  game on 50.5% shooting from the field and 37.4%very porous on the defensive end, allowing 121.1 points a game which ranks 26th. Cleveland has struggled with injuries but has all its regulars with the exception of Evan Mobley. Cleveland has a nice backcourt duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland which will be a lot for the Pacers defense to handle. Cleveland has the better defense and I think they will be able to make enough stops to get the cover.

Play on Cleveland. This is a 3% play.

The Denver Nuggets have climbed back to the top of the Western Conference. They will take on the Dallas Mavericks,who sit eighth in Western Conference. The Nuggets are riding a five-game winning streak,while Dallas is coming off a loss to OKC.  Denver is putting up 114.8 points a game on 49.6% from the floor and 36.9% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 110.3 points per game. Dallas is putting up 119.0 points per game on 48.3% shooting from the field and 37.1% from deep. On the defensive end, the Mavericks are giving up 117.7 points per game. The Nuggets have beaten the Mavs twice this season by 11 and 26. Luka Doncic is a game time decision. Even if Luka plays I still like the Nuggets to take care of business.

Play on Denver. This is a 3% play

The Denver Nuggets head to South Beach to take on the Miami Heat. Denver is 45-20 this season and is  second in the Western Conference while  Miami is eighth in the Eastern Conference with an overall record of 35-29. Denver took the first meeting this season by 6. Denver has been getting it done on the defensive end, where they are giving up 110.7 points a game, which ranks seventh. On the offensive end, they are putting up 115 points per game. The Heat are coming off a bad loss to the Washington Wizards. Miami is putting up 110.5 points per game, which ranks 27th overall  On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.9 points against per game. The Denver Nuggets are 15-8 as road favorites this season. The Miami Heat are 1-6 against the spread as underdogs at home this season. The Nuggets are 7-3 against the spread versus the Hea over the last 10. The Nuggets have won nine of their last ten games. The Heat have lost three in a row. The Nuggets' last five road wins have come by at least five points. Denver is better on both ends of the courts and they way Miami has struggled to score, I have to ride with the Nuggets this season. 

Play on Denver. This is a 3% play

The Bucks go on the road to face the Lakers in NBA action. Milwaukee is in second place in the Eastern Conference with a 41-22 record. They had their six-game winning streak snapped last time out. The Lakers are 34-20 and in 10th place in the West. Los Angeles has won three of their last five games. The Bucks are putting up 120.9 points per game which ranks third. They are shooting 49.1% from the field and 37.5% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117 points per game. They are 7-3 against the spread in their last 10 games. The Lakers are putting up 117.2 points per game which ranks 11th. They are shooting 49.7% from the field and 37.4% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117.6 points per game. Los Angeles is 3-7 against the spread in their last 10 games. Milwaukee has been playing much better basketball since the All-Star break, especially on the defensive end. The Lakers are 1-5 ATS in their previous six home dates with the Bucks. The Lakers are dealing with injuries and James is listed as questionable. It won’t matter even if James does play. Take Milwaukee to get the job done.

Play on Milwaukee. This is a 3% play.

The Chicago Bulls are on the road to take on the Utah Jazz. Chicago is 29-32 and is ninth in the Eastern Conference. Utah is 11th in the Western Conference at  28-34.Chicago is putting up 111.7  points per game which ranks 25th. The Bulls are 23rd  in field goal shooting percentage as well as 23rd from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 113.1 points a game which is 12th in the NBA. The Utah Jazz are putting up 117.7 points per game which ranks ninth. On the defensive end, they are giving up 120.4 points against per game which ranks 26th. Chicago is 7-1 record as a road favorite and 6-2 ATS. They have won four of their last five against Utah. Lauri Markkanen is questionable for this game and it will be a big loss without him in the lineup as he leads the team in scoring. The Bulls are coming off a huge comeback win over the Kings to start this road trip and I like them to ride that momentum into this game.

Play on Chicago. This is a 3% play

The Chicago Bulls are on the road to take on the Sacramento Kings. The Bulls are 28-32 overall but have a 31-28-1 ATS record. The Kings are 34-25 overall and 30-28-1 ATS. The Bulls are ninth in the Eastern Conference, four games above the Play-in line. They have struggled recently, going 2-4 SU over their last six games. On the season, they are putting up 111.7 points a game on 46.3% shooting from the field and 35.6% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 113.1 points per game. The Kings are seventh in the Western Conference, a half-game behind sixth. The kings are 4-2 over their last six games. They are putting up 118.2 points per game on 48.4% shooting from the field and 37.1% from beyond the arc. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117.9 points per game. Sacramento won the first game between the two. In their last five victories, the Kings have won by an average of 11.8 points per game. Sacramento is 4-0 ATS in their last four games against the Bulls. The Bulls have been and are still dealing with injuries. The Kings have depth and will wear down a depleted Bulls team. I like the Kings to continue their ATS streak over the Bulls.

Play on Sacramento. This is a 4% play

The Los Angeles Clippers are on the road to take on the Milwaukee Bucks. This will be the second game of a back-to-back for the Clippers. The Clippers lost guard Russell Westbrook to a fractured left hand. Milwaukee comes in riding a five game winning streak after taking down the Chicago Bulls last time out. The defense is starting to come along as they have held six of their last nine opponents under 100 points. Things got off to a rocky start under Doc Rivers going 3-7 in his first 10 games but have now won five in a row. The Bucks are playing their best basketball of the season and will have the advantage of rest. The Bucks are second in the NBA in scoring this season. Being on the back end of a back-to-back, I wouldn't be surprised if they rest a couple of players even with Westbrook being out.

Play on Milwaukee. This is a 3% play.

The Oklahoma City Thunder take on the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference battle. OKC won the first game between the two teams 111-99. The Oklahoma City Thunder had their six-game winning streak snapped by the San Antonio Spurs. Oklahoma City is second in the Western Conference. The Suns had their two-game winning streak snapped by the Houston Rockets last night. The Suns are sixth in the West,  a half game behind the Pelicans and the same distance ahead of the Kings. This is the second game of a back-to-back so fatigue could be a factor for the Suns. They are still not at 100% as Bradley Beal returned after missing five games and gave them 20 minutes, but will he be able to go today and for how long. OKC is 6-1 SU and ATS in its last seven games overall and 2-1 SU and ATS in its previous three games with Phoenix. OKC has been one of the best two way teams this season and with the Suns playing the second game of a back-to-back I like the Thunder to pull this one out down the stretch.

Play on OKC. This is a 3% play.

The Denver Nuggets go on the road to take on the Los Angeles Lakers in a Western Conference battle. Denver is 41-19 and in third place in the West and have won four in a row. Denver is putting up 114.4 points per game on 49.2% shooting from the field and 36.7% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 110.2 points a game. Los Angeles is 33-28 and in ninth place in the West. They are putting up 117.2 points a game on 49.6% shooting from the field and 37% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117.6 points. The Lakers barely edged out the Wizards after a crazy comeback against the Clippers so a let down could be in store for the Lakers. The injury to Murray could be a concern in this one but we have seen over time that other players will step up. Both teams are playing their third game in four nights. James and Davis had to play a lot minutes over the last two games and play a roll in this one. With or without Murrray. I like Denver to get the win on the road.

Play on Denver. This is a 3% play.

The OKC Thunder go on the road to play the San Antonio Spurs. The OKC Thunder are 41-17 and in second place in the Western Conference. The Thunder are putting up 121.3 points a game on 50.2% from the field and 39.8% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 113 points. San Antonio comes on at 11-48 and in 15th place in the West. On the offensive end, they are putting up 111.9 points and are shooting 46% from the field and 34.3% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 120.6. The Spurs have lost five straight. This season the Thunder are 37-20-1 against the spread while San Antonio is 9-13 ATS as a home underdog. The Thunder have covered the spread in six straight in this series and six straight overall. OKC is well balanced on the offensive end with many weapons that can have a big night. OKC won by 30 earlier this season against the Spurs and I look for them to win this one easily. 

Play on OKC. This is a 3% play.

The Cleveland Cavaliers go on the road to take on the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls are on the second leg of a back-to-back after getting humiliated by the Detroit Pistons last time out.  Cleveland is in action Tuesday and will be on the second leg of a back-to-back. Cleveland is also on the second leg of a back-to-back but is coming off a win on a half-court shot at the buzzer to beat Dallas. The Cavs are second in the Eastern Conference, one game ahead of Milwaukee with a 37-19 record. Chicago is in ninth place in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls shot just 2-29 from deep against the Pistons. They will struggle to score against the Cavs' defense as the Bulls lack offensive threats especially from deep. Cleveland poses matchup problems in the frontcourt and I look for them to dominate an inconsistent Bulls team.

Play on Cleveland. This is a 3% play.

The Toronto Raptors take on the Indiana Pacers in an Eastern Conference battle. The Raptors are 12th in the East while the Pacers come in at 7th. The Toronto Raptors come into this game with a 21-36 record.  Toronto is putting up 114.2 points per game. They need to tighten up on the defensive end, as they are underwater, allowing 117.4 points per game. The Indiana Pacers have posted a 32-25 record. Indiana leads the league in scoring at 123.8 points a game. They need to score that many points as their defense allows 122.2 points a game. Indiana is 18-11 at home this season. The Raptors have lost seven of their last 10 on the road. The Indiana Pacers have won four of their last five games including a road win against the Raptors. The Raptors don’t have the offense to keep up and their defense has allowed at least 119 points in their last five games. That does not give you a lot of hope taking on the #1 offense. I like the Pacers at home to win and cover.

Play on Indiana. This is a  5% play

The Dallas Mavericks go on the road to take on the Indiana Pacers. Dallas has won seven in a row after taking down the Suns last time out. The Mavericks are second in the Southwest Division and sixth in the Western Conference. The Mavs are putting up 118.7 points a game. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117.2 points a game. Indiana is on a two-game winning streak and has won five of their last seven,  heading into their game with Dallas. The Pacers are third in the Central Division, and sixth in the Eastern Conference. Indiana has the best offense in the league with 123.8 points a game. Their defense is one of the worst in the league at 122.2 points a game. Indiana has an explosive offense but a subpar defense. Halliburton has been awesome and carried the Pacers this season but won’t be enough to overcome the one-two punch of Doncic and Irving. The addition of Gafford and PJ Washington has given the Mavs some defensive grit and strength. The Mavs will pull out a road win behind Doncic and Irving.

Play on Dallas on the moneyline. This is a  4% play.

The Milwaukee Bucks take on the Philadelphia 76ers in NBA action. Both teams are coming off wins their last time out. Milwaukee is 7-3 in its last 10 games against Philadelphia. The Bucks with their win over Minnesota were able to snap a two-game losing streak. Milwaukee is putting up 121.8 points per game. And on the defensive end, they are giving up 118.6 points per game. The 76ers also snapped their two-game losing streak with a win over the Cavaliers. Philadelphia is putting up 117.7 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 113.6 points per game. The Bucks have won three of their last five games. They are putting up more than 120 points a game on the road. The 76ers are giving up more than 112 points a game at home. The 76ers have lost two of their last three home games and have averaged less than 105 points over those five games. This game has lost a bit of the edge with Embiid not playing in this game. That will give a huge edge to the Bucks with 4-6 without Embiid in the lineup. The Bucks are 10-3 in the last 13 games against Philly, and I look for this dominance to continue with the Bucks having the best two players on the court. 

Play on Milwaukee. This is a 3% play.

Phoenix and Houston will play three games in nine days against each other starting tonight in Houston. The Suns lost at Dallas last night, to drop them behind the Mavs in the Western Conference. The Rockets are 24-31 this season.  Phoenix is seventh place in the Western Conference, The offense is putting up 117.6 points per game this season, but have scored 120 over their last 5. On the defensive end, they are giving up 114.3 points a game but that has jumped to 115.2 over the last five. The Rockets have lost 6 of their last 7 and are in 12th place in the Western Conference. They are putting up 113.3 points a game this season, but that has dropped to 108 points over the last five.On the defensive end, the Rockets are giving up 112.7 points a game but have allowed 116 points a game over their last five. Phoenix won the first meeting between the two, 129-113 as -3 favorites at home. In the Rockets six losses during this losing streak, they have lost by an average of 9.2 points. Phoenix has more offensive firepower and it has the ability to play better on the defensive end.Phoenic holds a big edge at the line, which could be important down the stretch in a close game. I look for Phoenix to bounce back and pick up a win in this one.

Play on Phoenix. This is a 4% play.

The Cleveland Cavaliers go on the road to the City of Brotherly Love to take on the Philadelphia 76ers. Cleveland is 36-18 overall this season, good for second place in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are 32-23 overall and are in fifth place in the East. Philadelphia has lost six of their last eight games while the Cavaliers have won seven of their last nine games. The Cavaliers are putting up 114.9 points a game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 109.2 points a game. Philadelphia has struggled without Joel Embiid in the lineup. Philadelphia is putting up 118.3 points a game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 113.9 points. The last time these two teams met, Cleveland came away with the win by controlling the paint with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. They should be able to do the same in this game without Embiid in the lineup. Donovan Mitchell should also return for this game which will add to the Cav’s offensive firepower.Cleveland’s defense is one of the best in the league and should be able to control an Embiid less 76’ers team. 

Play on Cleveland. This is a 4% play.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are at home to take on the Los Angeles Clippers. The Thunder are just a half-game ahead of the Clippers in a battle for second and third place in the Western Conference. They have played twice this season, with the home team winning each game. The Thunder have won four of the last six between these two going back to last season. The Clippers had won six of weight before the break. OKC had won five of seven going into the break. The Thunder have a top notch defense that holds the top spot in many defensive categories. It will be this defense that carries the day in this one.They will be able to slow down the BIG 3 of the Clippers and have offensive weapons to take advantage of empty Clipper’s possessions. The Thunder have held the upper hand in this matchup, especially on their home court. I like the Thunder to hold onto second place and put some distance between the two teams.

Play on OKC. This is a 3% play.

The Boston Celtics head to the Windy City to battle the Chicago Bulls. Boston won the first meeting the two, 124-97 at home back in November. Boston is the top team in the Eastern Conference with a 43-12 record and a six-game winning streak. The Celtics are 5th in the league in scoring offense, and 1st in rebounding, On the defensive end, they are 5th in scoring defense. The Bulls come in with a 26-29 record and are 9th in the Eastern Conference. Chicago is 25th in scoring offense and 15th in rebounding. On the defensive end, they are ranked 11th in scoring defense. Chicago has been playing better basketball despite dealing with a ton of injuries. Boston is riding a six-game winning streak and has been explosive this season on the offensive end. The Bulls don’t have the firepower to keep up with Boston in this one. I look for Boston to roll in this one.

Play on Boston. This is a 3% play.

The Phoenix Suns head to Texas to take on the Dallas Mavericks in a  battle of Western Conference heavyweights. The Suns are 33-22 on the season and are in fifth place in the Western Conference while the Mavs are seventh. The Suns have won two straight and five out of their last six games, and seven of the last ten. The Sun’s  offense is 12th in points per game third in field goal percentage and sixth in 3-point shooting. On the defensive end, they are 15th in scoring defense,  eighth in field goal defense and 16th in 3-point defense. Dallas has won   six straight and 7-3 in their last ten games. The Mavs are seventh in points per game, 13th in field goal shooting and 10th in 3-point shooting. On the defensive end, they are 19th in scoring defense, 20th in field goal defense and 13th in 3-point defense. These teams have split the two games played this season with both winning on the other's home court. Dallas likes to play at a fast pace especially with Irving and Doncic in the lineup. The Mavs can move ahead of the Suns with a win in this game and they will do just that.

Play on Dallas. This is a 3% play.

The Sacramento Kings take on the Phoenix Suns in a divisional showdown. Sacramento leads the season series 2-1. The Kings are seventh in the conference, just 0.5 games out of fifth. They are 2-3 ATS on their last five. The Kings are 2-3 in their last five road games. Sacramento is putting up 118.6 points a game and giving up 118.1 points a game. The Suns had their three-game winning streak snapped last time out. They are fifth in the conference. The Suns have won five straight at home but are 2-3 ATS. Phoenix is putting up 117.4 points and giving up 114.4 points a game. Each of the Sun's last five wins has been by at least eight points.

Play on Phoenix. This is a 3% play.

The Oklahoma City Thunder go on the road to face the Orlando Magic in an inter-conference showdown. The Thunder are in a three-way battle for the top spot in the Western Conference. The Thunder have won six of their last ten games. The Thunder are fifth in scoring offense, this season. They are third in field goal shooting and third in 3-point shooting. The Thunder are 13th-scoring defense this season. The Orlando Magic are 25th in scoring offense, 20th in field goal shooting, and  29th in 3-point shooting. On the defensive end, the Magic are fourth in scoring defense. 

The Thunder are a well-rounded team, ranked in the top five in scoring offense and defense. The Magic rely more on their defense than offense and that will be their downfall in this game. Take the Thunder in this contest. 

Play on OKC on the money line. This is a 4% play

The Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat meet up before the Super Bowl in NBA action. Boston is first in the Eastern Conference and is riding a three game winning streak after a 5-2 homestand.  Boston is putting up 120.6 points a game on 47.9%  shooting from the field and 37.7% from deep. On the defensive end, Boston is  giving up 111.1 points a game this season. The heat have turned things around after suffering a seven-game losing streak. They have gone 4-1 and find themselves in 7th place in the Eastern Conference. They are putting up 110.5 per game on 46.2% shooting from the field and 37.2% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 110.8 points per game.  The Celtics have won the two previous games this season but are 1-1 ATS. Boston won 143-110 two weeks ago. Miami is just 11-16 ATS at home this season. There has been a lot that changed since the last meeting. Take the Celtics.

Play on Boston. This is a 3% play

The New Orleans Pelicans and the Los Angeles Lakers have split their first two games this season. Both teams won by blowouts on their home court. The New Orleans Pelicans are 30-21 overall and 29-21-1 ATS after a 117-106 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Pelicans are tied with the Phoenix Suns for the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference. The Lakers are  27-26 this season after a loss last night to the Nuggets. The loss snapped a three-game winning streak. Los Angeles is ninth in the West. This will be the second night of a back-to-back for the Lakers so it will be interesting to see if James or Davis sits in this one, Even if they play, what will you get out of them for a whole game? The Pelicans have won four straight. The Pelicans have been playing well on the defensive end and I look for them to pick up a win against a tired Lakers team.

Play on New Orleans. This is a 4% play.

The Denver Nuggets seek revenge for an earlier season loss to the Sacramento Kings. Denver is coming off a win last night over the Lakers and is tied for first place in the Western Conference. The Kings have lost two in a row and are 7th in the Western Conference. The Nuggets are on the second game of a back-to-back and despite that, I will be going with the Nuggets. The Kings are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Detroit Pistons by 26 points as they were finishing off a road trip. The Nuggets are 10th in effective field goal percentage and will face a defense ranked 28th. Denver is in a fight for the top spot in the Western Conference and they look to take over the top spot with a win tonight.

Play on Denver. This is a 4% play.

The Utah Jazz head to the desert to take on the Phoenix Suns.  Utah has won two in a row after taking down the Oklahoma City Thunder last time out. Utah is 10th in the Western Conference. Phoenix has also won two straight and four of their last five after picking up a win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Phoenix is sixth in the Western Conference. Utah is putting up 117.9 points per game and is shooting 47.2% from the field and 35.8% from deep. Utah's defense needs to improve as they give up 119.7 points per game. The Suns are putting up 117.3 points a game while shooting  49.8% from the field and 37.8% from deep. On the defensive end, they are going up 114.4 points per game. Phoenix has covered the spread in two straight and four of the last five. Utah is only 5-5 ATS over the last 10 games played. Utah holds a 2-1 ATS record against the Suns this season with both wins coming at home. When Durant and Booker are both healthy and on the floor together, the Suns offense is on a different level. They will be taking on one of the worst defenses in the league. I like the Suns to take control of this game and come away with the win and cover. 

Play on Phoenix. This is a 3% play.

The Memphis Grizzlies are 18-33 this season and will play at home against the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls are the model of inconsistency and come in with a record of 24-27.  Memphis has lost six straight games while the Bulls have lost four of their last seven. Chicago is in ninth place in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls are putting up 111.4 points a game and are shooting 46.5% from the field and 35.7% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 112.8 points per game.  The Bulls are 5-2 against the spread when they have been road favorites. 

Memphis is in 13th place in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies will be a man down, as they traded Xavier Tillman to the Celtics, and Derrick Rose and Jaren Jackson Jr. are questionable for the game.  Memphis is putting up 107 points a game which ranks dead last in the league. They are shooting 43.8% from the field, a league-worst, and 34.7% from deep, third worst. They are better on the defensive end, ranking 13th at 113.3 points a game. They are 8-15 against the spread when they have played at home. 

Neither team has played well over the last couple of weeks but Chicago has shown the ability to score when they have things going on offense. Chicago is 5-2 against the spread as road favorites. Chicago should be able to handle the worst offense in the league, an offense that will be short in quality depth for this game. Chicago won by 29 in January and even though it won't be that large, the Bulls will win and cover in this one.

Play in Chicago, This is a 3% play.

The Minnesota Timberwolves square off against the Chicago Bulls in NBA action. Minnesota comes in at 35-15 (1st in the West) while Chicago is 23-27 (9th in the East). Minnesota has won three of its last four games. The Bulls are just  2-4 in their last six games. Chicago has been dealing with injuries and was dealt a blow when Zach LaVine opted to have foot surgery and is out for the season.  For this game,  Alex Caruso is questionable, while Coby White is probable. Minnesota is 30-9 as favorites this season. Minnesota has an edge on the defensive end and a huge advantage on the boards with Towns and Gobert. With all the injuries the Bulls cannot match up in the frontcourt. Throw in the fact that the T’wolves have the best player in Edwards I like them to win against an overmatched Bulls team.

Play on Minnesota. This is a 3% play.

The LA Clippers take on the Atlanta Hawks for the first time this season. Las Angeles is 32-15 overall this season and ATS.  Atlanta comes into this game with a 22-27 record and 14-25 ATS. The Clippers are finishing off a seven-game road trip with this game in Atlanta. After their win against Miami last night, they are now 5-1. For the season, the offense is putting up 118.5 points a game and on this trip, they are scoring 122..2 points. The Clippers are shooting 49.6% from the field and 39.4% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 112 points per game. The Hawks are riding a four-game winning streak and are in the 10th position in the Eastern Conference. The offense is putting up 121.2 points a game this season and 133.5 points over their last four games. They are shooting 46.6% from the field and 37.9% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 123.4 points per game. As productive as the Hawks' offense is, they are not that productive on the defensive end. They’ve given up at least 120 points in five straight games. Los Angeles is 4-1 ATS in the last five games versus the Hawks. The Hawks are 7-18-0 ATS at home. The Hawks will be without Capela in the paint, which should give the Clippers an advantage on the glass. I like the Clippers to close out their road trip with a win.

Play on the LA Clippers. This is a 3% play

The Sacramento Kings are on the road to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Kings have won the last three meetings between the two teams. Sacramento has won two in a row and six of the last seven. The Kings offense is 8th in the league with 118.5 points per game. They shoot 48.1% from the floor and 37% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117.5 points a game. Cleveland comes into this game riding a five-game winning streak and they have won 13 of their last 14. They are 31-16 and are second in the Central Division. The Cavaliers are putting up 114.3 points per game on 47.9% shooting from the floor and 35.7% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 109.7 points per game. Both teams have been playing winning basketball but someone has to lose this one. Sacramento is finishing off a seven-game road trip and has won five of the six played. The Kings have a 15-11 road record. Cleveland is 17-8 and has lost just 2 games in 2024. I like the Kings to keep this one close and cover the number. Play on Sacramento. This is a 3% play.

The Toronto Raptors are currently 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 17-30 record. They will take on the 11th Western Conference seed Houston Rockets, who are  22-25 this season. The Raptors offense ranks 18th in the league with 114.5 points per game. They are shooting 48.0% from the field and 35.8% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 116.6 points per game. Houston's offense ranks 21st in the league in scoring at 113.4 points per game. They are shooting 46.2% from the field and 35.0% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 112.5 points per game which is 10th. Toronto traded away Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby and may be close to giving up on the season. The Raptors are struggling and have been inconsistent. Houston is also not playing their best and has lost four of their last six games. The Houston Rockets are 17-9 at home this season. Houston is a more balanced team on both ends of the court and with the advantage of playing at home, I like Houston to get the win and cover. 

Play on Houston. This is a 3% play.

The Sacramento Kings continue their road trip in Indianapolis as they get set to take on the Pacers. Sacramento is 27-19 this season and is fifth in the Western Conference while Indiana is 6th in the Eastern Conference at 27-22. The Pacers won the last meeting 126-121. The Kings are coming off a loss to Miami on Wednesday. The loss snapped a four-game winning streak and the Kings are now 3-1 on their seven-game road trip. The Kings offense is putting up 118.1 points per game which ranks ninth. On the defensive end, they are giving up 117.4 points per game. The Indiana Pacers will be on the second game of a back-to-back after losing to New York last night. The Indiana Pacers have the top-ranked offense with 124.8 points per game. On the defensive end, the Pacers rank third to last in points allowed per game at 122.9 points. With this being the second game of a back-to-back for the Pacers, it will be interesting to see who plays and for how long, as they are dealing with injuries. The Pacers have four players dealing with injuries and combined, they score over 50 points a game. Haliburton played just 22 minutes last time out and we could see the same in this one. The Kings are at full health and and have been playing well on this road trip. The Pacers had a tough fight against the Knicks and will now take on a tough Kings team that is rested. 

Play on Sacramento on the money line. This is a 4% play.

The Phoenix Suns are on the road to take on the Atlanta Hawks. Both teams are coming off wins last time out. Phoenix is on a two-game winning streak. The Suns offense is ranked 12th in the league at 116.8 points per game. They are shooting 49.5% from the field and 37.9% from deep.  On the defensive end, they rank 15th, giving up 114.4 points per game. Atlanta comes into this game also having won two in a row. The Hawks have had no problems on the offensive end this season as they rank 3rd in scoring at 120.6 points per game. The same can’t be said on the defensive end as they rank 29th in the league in scoring defense at 123.3 points per game. When the Suns are healthy they have a dynamic three-headed monster in Durant, Booker, and Beal. The Sun’s problem is that they have not all been healthy at the same time.  Atlanta is fighting for a playoff spot, so will they be buyers or sellers at the upcoming trade deadline? The Hawks are just 10-13 at home this season. Phoenix is the better team in this one but Atlanta has the rest advantage. I trust the Phoenix defense to get more stops the the Hawks defense.

Play on Phoenix on the money line. This is a 4% play.

The Suns have been red-hot lately, winning seven of their last eight games overall and four of their last five road games. Over the last three games, they have scored over 125 points in each game of 56 percent shooting from the field and just over 40% from deep. The Magic have given up 124 points or more in two of their last three home games. The Magic have lost four of their last five games and three of their last four home games. Unlike the Suns, the offense has struggled over the last three games, scoring less than 105 points. The Suns are playing better basketball right now and it will be hard for the magic to keep up with Durant, Booker, and Beal.

Play on Phoenix. This is a 4% play

Both teams are struggling and are dealing with injuries to key players. Both teams are looking to snap a three-game losing streak. The Hawks will be missing two starters in Hunter and Young while Irving is questionable for Dallas. During their losing streak, Atlanta is giving up 124 points per game. Overall this season, Atlanta has the third-worst defense in the league. The Hawks are just 8-12 at home this season. The Mavericks are 23-21 against the spread while as a road favorite, they are 8-2 ATS. Atlanta, meanwhile, is 1-5 ATS as a home underdog, Dallas should be able to take advantage of Atlanta’s poor defense and come away with a win on the road.

Play on Dallas on the money line. This is a 3%  play

The Suns are on a roll and their three big guns of Durant, Booker, and Beal finally meshing together. When they are on, they are a deadly three-headed monster. This game could have been a scoring fest, but without Haliburton in the lineup, the Pacers will struggle to keep pace with the Suns. The Pacers are 3-6 when Haliburton is not in the line-up. This is the second game of a seven-game road trip for the Suns but more importantly, this will be the second game of a back-to-back for the Pacers. Even with Haliburton, this game would be a challenge, without him, the Suns roll.

Play on Phoenix. This is a 4% play

Boston goes on the road to meet the Heat. The Celtics are 34-10 and lead the Eastern Conference by three games against the Bucks. The Heat are just 24-20 his season and are in sixth place in the East 10 games back of the Celtics. The Heat have lost four straight games while the Celtics have won five of their last six games. Boston is putting up 120.3 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 110.6 points per game. Miami is putting up just 110.5 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 110.5 points a game. Both teams are top 10 in defense with Boston ranking 5th and Miami at 4th. The difference between the two teams is on the offensive end with the Celtics having the fourth-best offense and the Heat having the fourth-worst. Boston is 15-6-1 against the spread when they have been favorites by seven points or more. Miami is 0-4 against the spread as a home underdog. Make that 0-5 as the Celtics win and cover.

Play on Boston. This is a 4% play.

The Philadelphia 76ers head to Indianapolis to take on the Indiana Pacers. Philadelphia is 29-13 overall this season and is on a six-game win streak. The 76ers are third in the Eastern Conference. Philadelphia is fifth in scoring at 119.8 points a game. On the defensive end, they rank 8th, giving up 111.5 points a game. So far this season, Indiana is 24-20 and in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. They have the best offense in the NBA, as they are putting up 124.6 points a game. They also have one of the worst defenses in the league, ranking 28th with 122.9 points a game. Tyrese Haliburton is again out for the Pacers, which makes it hard on the offense. The 76ers are 27-15 against the number and will pick up the win as the Pacers won’t be able to keep pace on the offensive end.

Play on Philadelphia. This is a 4% play.

The Denver Nuggets are on the road in Indiana to take on the Indiana Pacers. Denver is 30-14 this season, good for third in the Western Conference while Indiana is seventh in the Eastern Conference with a 24-19 record. They have played once this season with Denver coming away with a 117-109 win. Denver has been getting it done on the defensive end, where they are the sixth-ranked scoring defense, allowing 110.9 points per game. They have the 14th-ranked offense, putting up 115.9 points per game. Indiana comes into this game with the best offense in the NBA. They are putting up 125 points per game. They need the offensive output as they are weak on the defensive end. They have the second-worst defense in the NBA, giving up 123.1 points a game. Tyrese Haliburton is listed as questionable for the game, and if he can’t go, the Pacers will miss his 23 points a game. The Nuggets have won the last seven games against the Pacers. I like the Nuggets in this one as they are a bad matchup for the Pacers. The Pacers are not a good rebounding team which will allow Jokic to control the paint and will offer a lot of second-chance opportunities for the Nuggets. The Nuggets are the better defensive team and that will make the difference down the stretch.

Play on Denver. This is a 4% play

The Suns come into their game versus the Bulls riding a four-game winning streak and they have won two of their last three home games. Over those four games, the offense has come alive, putting up over 120 points per game in their last four games. They should be able to find success against a Bulls team that is giving up over 115 points a game on the road. The Bulls have won two in a row. They will need to step it up on the offensive end, where they are putting up 110 points a game on the road this season. The Phoenix Suns have won 8 straight over the Bulls with six of those wins covering a 5.5 spread. I am taking the Suns at home in this one.

Play on Phoenix. This is a 4% play.

Western Conference rivals meet on the court when the Phoenix Suns, who are 8th in the West, take on the New Orleans Pelicans, who are 5th in the West. The Suns have been dealing with injuries but have started to put things together and have won three in a row. The offense is 14th in the NBA and is putting up 115.9 points per game. They are shooting 48.3% from the field and 37.6% from deep. On the defensive end of the court, they are giving up 114.4 points which is 15th. New Orleans is in first place in the Southwest Division. Their offense is up 116.9 points per game on 48.7% shooting from the field and 38.7% from deep. On the defensive end, they are giving up 112  points per game.  New Orleans has been getting it done on the offensive end behind a three-headed monster of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCullen.Phoenix has three players of their own in Durant, Booker, and Beal who are all finally healthy and starting to mesh. New Orleans has covered in seven of its last 10, Phoenix has not covered in four of its last five, and just two of their last eight on the road. I am taking the Pelicans at home in this one.

Play on New Orleans. This is a 4% play.

The OKC Thunder are 27-13 this season and go on the road to play the Utah Jazz who are two games above 500 at 22-20. The Thunder are second in the West and is third in the NBA putting up 121.9 points a game. On the defensive end, they are giving up 113.7 points a game. The Jazz are in ninth place in the West and is putting up 116.8 points a game, which ranks 11th in the NBA. On the defensive end, they are giving up 115.9 points. The Thunder have one of the top offenses in the NBA, while Utah's defense has been a problem for them this season. The Thunder are 26-13-1 against the spread which is the best in the NBA while Utah is 25-16-1, I look for the OKC offense to be the difference in this one and I look for the Thunder to get the win and cover.

Play on OKC. This is a 4% play

The Detroit Pistons head to Washington, D.C. to face the Washington Wizards. Detroit is 3-36 this season, which is last in the Eastern Conference. Washington is 14th in the Eastern Conference with a 7-31 record. The Pistons are putting up 111.3 points per game and are shooting 46.9% from the field and just 34.4% from deep. On the defense end, they are giving up 122.7 points per game. Detroit is still without their two top players as Cade Cunningham is out with a knee injury until late January and Bojan Bogdanovic is questionable. The Wizards are coming off a win over Atlanta. The win snapped a six-game losing streak. Washington has struggled on the defensive end, giving up a league’s worst 125.2 points per game. On the offensive end, they are putting up 115.5 points per game. The Wizards have been playing better on defense only allowing 115.7 in their last three games. The Pistons traded Marvin Bagley to the Wizards, it is unclear if he will play but if he does, he could be looking to do something special. I can’t trust Detroit without Cunningham in the lineup.

Play on Washington. This is a 3% play.

The Orlando Magic head south to take on in-state rivals the Miami Heat. Orlando is 21-16 and is ranked eighth in the Eastern Conference. Miami is also 21-16 and they are ranked seventh in the Eastern Conference. Orlando has been inconsistent on the offensive end this season putting up 113.3 points per game. On the defense end, the Magic are giving up 112 points per game which is ninth in the NBA. The Magic will be without Franz Wagner due to an ankle injury. The Heat are putting up 112.8 points per game. On the defensive end, they rank tenth in points allowed at 112.1. The Miami Heat will be without Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro is questionable with a shoulder injury. At even strength, this is a pretty even matchup at least on paper. With the injuries factored in this is still a pretty even game but I like the Magic to win so give me the points and the Magic.

Play on Orlando. This is a 3% play

The Los Angeles Clippers take on the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night. The Clippers have won two straight games and are 8-9 on the road this season and are fourth in the Western Conference.  Memphis is 4-1 in January and has won three straight but will be without Ja Morant for the season after he had shoulder surgery this week. The Grizzlies are 3-13 at home this season and are currently 13th in the Western Conference. The Clippers are putting up 117.4 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 111.8. The Memphis Grizzlies have been bad on the offensive end where they rank dead last in points per game, field goals made per game, and three-point percentage. On the defensive end, they are giving up 113.2 points. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard have been healthy and have played in almost every game this season and surprisingly to many Harden has seemed to fit nicely into the mix. The Clippers won the last game between the two by 11 and Memphis had Morant and Smart in the lineup for that one.  Jaren Jackson Jr. is also questionable for Memphis. I like the Clippers in this one,

Play on the LA Clippers. This is a 3% play.

The Houston Rockets head to the Motor City to face the Detroit Pistons. Houston is 18-18 this season and sits tenth in the Western Conference. Detroit is 3-35 and remains last in the Eastern Conference. The Houston Rockets is ranked second overall in points allowed per game at 110.6. On offense end, the Rockets are putting up just 112.7 points per game. Detroit has lost six in a row, Detroit is putting up 111.3 points per game. On the defensive end, they are giving up 123 points per game. Cade Cunningham, the team's leading scorer,  is listed as out until late January. The offensive output between the two teams is pretty even but the Pistons will be without their leading scorer and the one guy you could count on in the Piston’s offense. Detroit struggles on the offensive end in the best of times and now they have to face the second-best defense in the league.  Houston will find success against a defense that has allowed 123 points allowed per game this season and 130.7 in their last three games.

Play on Houston. This is a 3% play.

The Boston Celtics head to Milwaukee to take on the Milwaukee Bucks. Boston is 29-8 this season and is number one in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee is second in the Eastern Conference with a 25-12 record. The Celtics won their meeting against the Bucks earlier this season 119-116. Boston is putting up 121.3 points a game which is fifth in the NBA. They rank number one in both three-pointer attempts and three-pointers made per game. On the defensive end, the Celtics are giving up 111.0 points per game. Milwaukee is putting up 124.1 points per game. On the defensive end, they are giving up 119.9 points per game. Damian Lillard is probable due to personal issues. The Boston Celtics have played five back-to-back games in which they have won the first game. In the second game after a win, the Celtics won four out of the five games. Boston's defense is far better than Milwaukee's defense while the offenses are pretty even. Milwaukee has struggled on the defensive end all season and I like the Celtics and the points in this one.

Play on Boston. This is a 4% play.

The Sacramento Kings head to Charlotte to take on the Charlotte Hornets in non-conference action. The Kings are 21-14 and are fifth in the Western Conference. The Hornets are 13th in the Eastern Conference with an 8-26 record and have lost two in a row. The Kings are eighth in scoring at 117.7 points per game. Their defense is 22nd with 118.0 points per game allowed per game. The Hornets' offense is struggling to score as they are putting up 109.5 points per game. The Hornets' defense is ranked 25th, giving up 120.0 points per game, The Kings are 18-17 against the spread while the Charlotte Hornets are just 14-20 against the spread. Over the last three games, the Kings are putting up 124.3 points in their last three games while the Hornets are scoring just 101.8 points in their last four games. The Kings took care of the Pistons last night coming back from a 20 points deficit to win easily. The Kings are better on both ends of the court and should come away with an easy win and cover.

Play on the Sacramento Kings. This is a 3% play.

The Philadelphia 76’ers are 23-10 this season and are 13-4 home record. They have won five of their last seven games. The. New York Knicks come into this matchup at 19-15 and in eighth place in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks have won two two in a row but have lost four of their last seven  heading into this one. New York is putting up 115.3 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 113.3 points per game. The Knicks are 17-15-2 against the spread this season but just 9-10-1 against the spread on the road. Philadelphia is putting up 120.7 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 110.5 points per game. Philadelphia is 23-10 against the spread overall and 13-4 against the spread at home. The 76ers are 12-3 against the spread when they have been home favorites. Joel Embiid will be a tough matchup for the Knicks. The Knicks have struggled on the road as an underdog. The Philadelphia 76ers are tough at both ends of the court.  New York is 2-4 ATS in the last six games versus Philadelphia. The 76ers have covered the spread in 10 of their last 13 games overall and in seven of the last eight games they have played at home. 

Play on Philadelphia. This is a 3% play.

The Indiana Pacers are at home to take on the Atlanta Hawks. Atlanta has the third-best scoring offense in the NBA at 122.8 points per game. On the defensive end, they are as bad as the offense is good, as they allow 123.2 points per game, which is 28th. Indiana is coming off back-to-back wins over the Bucks. The Pacers are getting it done on the offensive end, where they have the best-scoring offense, putting up 126.4 points per game. Like the Hawks, they are not great on the defensive end, where they allow 124.6 points per game. We have to explosive offense and two poor defenses going head-to-head.  Indiana is at home and has more weapons with their offense and on their bench. Atlanta has been inconsistent this season. Despite their offense, they have lost four of their last six games. The Indiana Pacers have won five straight. The Hawks have given up more than 120  points in eight of their last ten games and the Pacers have the offense to do just that. The four of the Pacers' last five wins. I am laying the points with the home team.

Play on Indiana. This is a 3% play.

The Denver Nuggets go on the road to take on the Golden State Warriors. Denver is 24-11 this season and sits third in the Western Conference. Golden State is 16-17 and is 11th in the Western Conference. The Warriors have lost both games against the Nuggets this season. The Nuggets are getting it done on the defensive end, where they are giving up 109.8 points per game. On the offensive end, the Nuggets are putting up 115.1 points per game. The Warriors are putting up 116.9 points per game while on the defensive end, they are giving up 116.3 points per game. Both of these teams have averaged 115 points over their last three games. The big difference is on the defensive end, where over the same three games, Denver has allowed just 105.7 points per game compared to Golden State’s 120.3 points. The Warriors will struggle to match up against Jokic. Denver is 5-2 ATS in its last seven games with the Warriors and 8-4 ATS in its previous 12 games overall. Denver has won the first two games this season and they make it a third tonight.

Play on Denver on the money line. This is a 4% play.

 Oklahoma City is 23-9 this season and is in second place in the Western Conference. Atlanta is 11th in the Eastern Conference at 13-19. They have played once this season, with OKC coming away with a 126-117 win. The Thunder are on the second game of a back-to-back after beating Boston at home 127-123. The Thunder have won four in a row. OKC is ranked fourth in points per game, at 121.5 points per game. On the defensive side, they are giving up 113.1 points per game. The Atlanta Hawks have struggled, winning just once in their last five games. Atlanta hasn’t had a problem on the offensive end, where they are putting up 122 points a game this season. The defense has been a problem for the Hawk. They are giving up 122.7 points per game on the defensive end. The Thunder have been playing better basketball around and have been doing it against tougher competition. Atlanta has a strong offense but the Thunder are not far behind on the offensive end the Thunder are a lot better on the defensive end. OKC will be traveling to Atlanta but I don’t see that as a big thing as it is not that far and Atlanta does not play great defense.

Play on OKC on the money line. This is a 4% play.

The Toronto Raptors are traveling to Detroit to face the Detroit Pistons. Toronto will be playing the second game of a back-to-back and has a record of 12-19 this season. Detroit is last in the Eastern Conference and has a record of 2-29. Toronto is putting up 113.2 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 114.5 points per game. The Detroit Pistons have lost 28 in a row. Detroit is ranked 28th in points per game at 109.7. On the defensive end, they are giving up 121.0 points allowed per game. Detroit has proven there is no lead too big for them to give up. No matter how good they look early you always have a chance to get back in the game. Toronto is putting up 113 points per game this season but has put up 123 in their last three. Detroit’s defense is worse than the Toronto’s and that will be the difference in this one.

Play on Toronto. This is a 2% play

The Miami Heat head to Utah to take on the Utah Jazz. Miami is 19-12 and is fourth in the Eastern Conference. Utah is 12th in the Western Conference at 13-19. Last season the Miami Heat won both games against the Jazz. The Heat have won three in a row. The Miami Heat are getting it done with their defense as they rank seventh overall in points allowed at 111.5. On the offensive end, they are putting up 113.4 points per game. in their last game. The Utah Jazz have been struggling on the defensive end where they are giving up 119.1 points a game. Utah is putting up 113.3 points per game. With or without Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat are playing well right now. Both teams have covered the spread in four straight. Both offenses are about the same and Miami has the better defense. Miami loves to shoot the three and Utah struggles to defend the three.

Take Miami on the moneyline. This is a 3% play.

Both the Atlanta Hawks and Sacramento Kings are looking to right their respective ships. The Hawks are on a three-game losing streak and have lost seven of their last ten while the Kings have lost two in a row and three of their last four games. Sacramento ranks eighth in the league in points per game but just  22nd on the defensive end in points allowed. Like the Kings, the Hawks have a high output offense which ranks third in the league in points per game but like the Kings, they are poor on the defensive end where they rank 27th in points per game. Both teams have struggled as of late. Both teams can score but their play on the defensive end has been terrible. The Hawks have the worst record in the league against the spread and are four games under 500 at home this season. Atlanta has only covered seven of their 30 games this season. The Kings have a more balanced attack on offense which will be enough for them to get the win in this one.

Play on Sacramento. This is a 3% play.

The Milwaukee Bucks square off against the Cleveland Cavaliers in NBA action. Milwaukee is 23-8 this season while Cleveland is currently 18-13. The Bucks have won eight of their last night games while Cleveland has won five of their last six. Milwaukee is 8-1 in their last nine games, with an average margin of victory of +12.2. Cleveland has won two straight and five of their last six games. Cleveland is dealing with a lot of injuries at the moment. Mobley and Garland are out and Mitchell is still a question mark.  If Mitchell does go. Cleveland will still be without two starters and this Bucks team is starting to put things together with their new pieces. The Bucks have too much offense in this one.

Play on Milwaukee. This is a 4% play.

The Brooklyn Nets go on the road to take on the Washington Wizards. Brooklyn lost to the Milwaukee Bucks after winning two straight games against the Pistons. Washington is on a three-game losing streak after losing to the Toronto Raptors by 30. The Nets are putting up 116.2 points. The Nets are giving up 116.3 points a game. The Wizards are putting up 116.6 points a game and on the defensive end, they are ranked last in points allowed per game. 

The Nets have been good on the offensive end this season and with their best players being rested yesterday they should have a huge night against the Washington defense. The Wizards have given up the most points in the NBA. The Wizards have been struggling all season long and have not played consistently on either end of the court. The Nets have more depth and more scoring options. They blew out the Wizards the last time these two teams met and I look for the same in this one.

Play on the Brooklyn Nets. This is a 4% play.

The San Antonio Spurs are just 4-25 this season and 11-18 ATS. They go on the road to take on the Portland Trail Blazers who are 8-21, 14-15 ATS. The Spurs have lost five in a row after a loss to Utah while Portland is coming off a win against Sacramento. The Trail Blazers are the better team overall playing at home and will have some mismatch advantages. The Trail Blazers have covered in three of their past four matchups. The Spurs have won just once in their 24 games and would be the joke of the league if it weren’t for the Pistons. Take the Balzer at home.

Play in Portland.  This is a 3% play.

The Indiana Pacers head to the Windy City to take on the Chicago Bulls. Indiana is coming off a 123-117 win over the Rockets on Tuesday. The Pacers are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference. Indiana is putting up 125.8 points per game and is shooting 50.2% from the field and 37.8% from three. On the defensive end, they are giving up 125.4 points per game. Chicago is in 10th place in the East and fourth in the Central Division. The Bulls are putting up 110.2 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 112.4 points per game. The Pacers have not played as well since the in-season tournament but they continue to make shots at a high level. Chicago's offense has not been great this season but has been playing better, but the Bulls don't have a lockdown defense, and will not be able to keep up offensively. The Pacers are the most efficient team in the league. Chicago's offense is inconsistent in hitting open shots. I like the Pacers in this one. 

Play on Indiana. This is a 4% play

Milwaukee stays in New York City to take on the Brooklyn Nets after dropping their Christmas Day game to the Knicks. Brooklyn won their game last night against the Detroit Pistons but came away with a push after missing 5 of 6 free throws in the last 26 seconds. The Buck's loss snapped a seven-game winning streak. The Bucks have played well over the last week or so, putting up 132 points per game over their last 8. For the season, they are putting up 124.5 points per game this season. They are shooting 49.9% from the field and 38% from three-point range. On the defensive end, they are giving up 119.1 points per game. The Nets have won two in a row, against the Pistons, after losing five straight. For the season, Brooklyn is putting up 116 points per game. They are shooting 46.8% from the field and 38.5% from three. On the defensive end, they are giving up 115.5 points per game this season. Milwaukee is 8-2 SU and 6-4 ATS over their last games versus Brooklyn. The Nets have the ability to light up the scoreboard but can and will struggle on the offensive end against the Bucks. 

Play on Milwaukee. This is a 4% play.

Two of the top teams in the Western Conference meet up when the Minnesota Timberwolves go on the road to take on the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Timberwolves are a 1/2 game behind Boston for the best record in the NBA at 22-6. The Thunder are 18-9 so far this season. The Wolves are 10-5 on the road this season. The Wolves have the 18th-ranked scoring offense and the first-ranked scoring defense. Karl Anthony Townes is listed as questionable for this game with a knee injury. The OKC Thunder are currently 18-9 on the season and are in third in the conference. The Thunder has the fifth-ranked scoring offense and the 14th-ranked scoring defense. Josh Giddey has an ankle injury and is listed is questionable for this game. Minnesota took the first-ranked game between the two, 106-103. These teams are evenly matched and i am looking for a close game. I am going to take the points with Minnesota in this one.

Play on Minnesota. This is a 3% play.

The Utah Jazz are go on the road to take on the San Antonio Spurs. Utah has won two straight and five of their last seven. The Jazz are 12-18 on the season and are in fourth in the Northwest Division. The Jazz are putting up 113 points per game this season. On the defensive end, they are giving up 119.4 points per game. San Antonio has lost four in a row and 22 of their last 23. They are just 4-24 on the season. The Spurs are putting up 110.6 points per game and on the defensive end, they are giving up 123 points per game. Wembanyama has missed two of the last three games and is questionable for this contest. Utah has won two straight, both on the road, and five of their last seven games. The Spurs have lost 22 of their last 23. I like the jazz in this one, with or without Wemby in for the Spurs the Jazz still have an edge.

Play on Utah. This is a 3% play.

The Brooklyn Nets take on the dreadful Detroit Pistons. The Nets took care of the Pistons 126-115 at home on Saturday. The Nets had lost five in a row before beating the Pistons. The Nets have covered the spread in just one of their last five games. The Nets have struggled on the road lately going 1-4 overall and ATS in their five games on the road. Brooklyn is putting up 116 points and on the defensive end, they are giving up 115.5 points. The Pistons are the worst team in the league, and they are on a 26-game losing streak. The Pistons have covered in one of their last five games. There is no home-court advantage for the Pistons as they have won just once on their home floor. They have covered in just one of their last five home games. Detroit is putting up just 109.2 points and on the defensive end, they are giving up  120.9 points. They have given up at least 124 points in four of their last five games. Detroit has lost by at least eight points in nine of their last ten games. The Pistons haven’t shown me that they can play a consistent four quarters.

Play on Brooklyn. This is a 3% play.

This will be a rematch from Saturday's contest won by the Bucks 130-111.  Milwaukee is second in the Eastern Conference at  22-7. New York is 16-12 and sits sixth in the Eastern Conference. The Bucks will be looking for their eighth win in a row. They are putting up 124.6 points per game this season, and on the defensive end, they are giving up 118.8 points per game.  New York is ranked ninth on the defensive end, allowing 112.0 points a game. On the offensive end, they are putting up just 114.6 points per game. The Knicks play solid defense but were unable to slow the Bucks down. Milwaukee has too much firepower and the Knicks don’t have the offense to match up.

Play on Milwaukee. This is a 3% play.