6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Portland Trail Blazers -2

The Key: The Memphis Grizzlies are in trouble right now without their best player and one of the most underrated players in the NBA in Mike Conley.  He is out with an Achilles injury, but the list of injuries for this team doesn't stop there.  Both Brandan Wright and Wayne Selden are out, and Tyreke Evans is questionable.  The Blazers will be hungry to avenge their 97-98 home loss to the Grizzlies on November 7th in their first and only meeting this season. They should take advantage of these vulnerable Grizzlies, who have now lost 4 straight and are coming off a 22-point home loss to Houston.  Memphis is 4-16 ATS in its last 20 home games off a home loss.  The Grizzlies are 2-11 ATS in their last 13 games off a loss to a division opponent.  The Blazers are 8-1-2 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.  The Grizzlies are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  Take Portland.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Brooklyn Nets +2

The Key: This is a revenge game for the Brooklyn Nets, who just lost 106-114 in Utah on Saturday.  Now they get the chance to beat the Jazz just 6 days later.  And this will be just their 2nd game in 6 days, so they are rested and ready to go.  They also catch a vulnerable, beat up Jazz team that is already playing without Rudy Gobert, Joe Johnson and Dante Exum, and they could be without Ricky Rubio who is nursing an Achilles injury.  Take Brooklyn.

6* Warriors/Celtics Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Boston +7.5

The Key: The Boston Celtics have won 13 straight games heading into this showdown with the Golden State Warriors.  They have gone 11-1-1 ATS in the process.  They continue to lack the respect they deserve from oddsmakers tonight as 7.5-point home dogs to the Warriors.  Take Boston.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on New Orleans Pelicans -2.5

The Key: The New Orleans Pelicans should be bigger favorites tonight over the Toronto Raptors given the situation.  It's a tough spot for the Raptors as they'll be playing their 3rd game in 4 days after beating the Rockets on the road last night.  And the Pelicans will be hungry to avenge a 118-122 loss at Toronto just 6 days ago.  Now they get them at home and should be able to pull it off, especially with how well they are playing right now in winning and covering 5 of their last 6.  Take New Orleans.

7* Raptors/Rockets Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto +6.5

The Key: The Toronto Raptors have failed to cover the spread in 4 straight games.  The Houston Rockets have covered the spread in 5 of their last 6. Because of these recent trends, we are getting a couple too many points with the Raptors here as 6.5-point dogs to the Rockets.  Houston is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 home games.  The Rockets are 4-13 ATS in their last 17 non-conference home games.  Toronto is 14-3 ATS after failing to cover 4 of their last 5 against the spread over the last 3 seasons.  Take Toronto.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on New York Knicks +6

The Key: The New York Knicks have been one of the most underrated teams in the NBA.  They have gone 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games overall, including 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last 7 home games.  Now they're catching 6 points at home against one of the most overrated teams in the NBA in the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are 6-7 SU & 4-8-1 ATS this season.  The Knicks actually won 114-95 in Cleveland as 10.5-point dogs in their first meeting on October 29th.  Cleveland is 1-8 ATS as a favorite this season.  Take New York.

6* Nets/Blazers NBA *BAILOUT* on OVER 221

The Key: The Brooklyn Nets play at a faster pace than anyone in the NBA this season.  That should lead to a shootout tonight in Portland against one of the best backcourts in the NBA in Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum.  The OVER is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.  In their two meetings last year, the Nets and Blazers combined for 246 and 238 points.  The books have set the number too low tonight.  Take the OVER.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Toronto Raptors -5.5

The Key: This is a good situation to fade the New Orleans Pelicans.  They will be playing their 4th straight road games here.  They actually won their first 3, but all 3 were against suspect competition in Dallas (by 5), Chicago (by 6) and Indiana (by 5).  Now they take a big step up in class and I expect that winning streak to come to an end against the Toronto Raptors tonight.  The Raptors are 3-1 at home and outscoring opponents by 11.3 PPG.  The Pelicans are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.  The Raptors are 11-3-1 ATS in the last 15 meetings.  Take Toronto.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons -7

The Key: The Detroit Pistons have been off since Saturday, giving them a full 3 days to get ready for this game against the Pacers.  It has given them a chance to hone in things from an impressive 7-3 SU & 7-2-1 ATS start to the season.  The Pacers are a tired team right now, playing the second of a back to back and their 6th game in 9 days.  Indiana is 5-17 ATS in its last 22 road games when playing on back to back days.  Detroit is 40-22 ATS in its last 62 games as a home favorite.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Indiana Pacers +1.5

The Key: The Indiana Pacers are better than they get credit for.  They have opened 5-5 with wins over the likes of the Spurs, Cavs and Timberwolves already to show they can play with the good teams.  The Pacers are 3-1 SU & 3-1 ATS at home this year.  Off a 3-game road trip, they return home and should get in the win column against the Pelicans.  The Pelicans are 5-5 also, but 4 of their wins came against the worst teams in the NBA in the Lakers, Kings, Mavs and Bulls.  Indiana has a healthy Myles Turner back in the lineup after he missed most of the season up to this point, and he is probably the best player on the team, which just shows what their potential will be moving forward.  The Pelicans are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings.  The Pacers are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 games overall.  Take Indiana.

6* Celtics/Hawks Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Boston -7.5

The Key: The Boston Celtics are 8-0 SU & 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  They should make that 9 in a row tonight against the Atlanta Hawks, who have gone 1-8 in their last 9 games with 6 losses by 10 points or more.  The Hawks won't even show up tonight after pulling off a shocking upset in Cleveland on Sunday.  Take Boston.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Philadelphia 76ers -4.5

The Key: The Philadelphia 76ers are 4-1 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  They still aren't getting any love, and I like this -4.5 price we are getting with them at home here against the Indiana Pacers.  The Pacers have been a great covering team too, but I think they are the frauds while the 76ers are the real deal. And if the Pacers were going to have a letdown, it would be in this game because they are coming off a 124-107 win over Lebron James and the Cavaliers in Cleveland.  The 76ers are 14-2 ATS after having won 3 of their last 4 games over the last 2 seasons.  The 76ers are 40-19 ATS in their last 59 games overall.  Take Philadelphia.

7* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month on New Orleans Pelicans -2

The Key: The Minnesota Timberwolves are close to being 0-7 this season.  They are 4-3, but all 4 wins have come by 3 points or less.  They will take their medicine today against a Pelicans team that has owned them.  The Pelicans went 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS against the Timberwolves last season, winning by 14, 16 and 21 points.  Expect more of the same tonight.  Take New Orleans.

6* Thunder/Bucks Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Milwaukee +2

The Key: Wrong team favored here.  The Oklahoma City Thunder haven't found their chemistry yet with the new faces in Paul George and Carmelo Anthony.  The Thunder are just 3-3 on the season with their 3 wins coming against the Knicks, Pacers and Bulls.  They have lost to their best teams they've faced, and now they take another step up in class against a Milwaukee Bucks team that will challenge for supremacy in the East.  The Thunder are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Take Milwaukee.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Philadelphia 76ers +7

The Key: The Philadelphia 76ers just lost to the Houston Rockets on a buzzer-beater 105-104 on October 25th this past Wednesday.  Now they get their shot at revenge less than a week later.  I love backing the team with revenge in mind in these spots.  Take Philadelphia.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Denver Nuggets -7

The Key: The Denver Nuggets have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA thus far with their 1-3 start.  They are loaded with talent and are better than they've shown.  Now they have a chance to get right against arguably the worst team in the NBA in the Atlanta Hawks, who just lost last night 86-91 in Chicago and will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 4th game in 6 days.  The Hawks were without Dennis Schroeder and Ersan Ilyasova last night and both are questionable again tonight.  Given the line, I'm assuming Shchroeder is out, and the Hawks really have nothing without him.  He is far and away their best player.  The Nuggets are 12-2 ATS in road games after failing to cover 3 of their last 4 against the spread over the last 3 seasons.  The Nuggets are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  The Nuggets are 17-6 ATS in their last 23 games following a loss.  The Hawks are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  Take Denver.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Chicago Bulls -2

The Key: The Chicago Bulls are 0-3 this season, but they were competitive in losses to the Spurs and Cavaliers.  And their other loss came to the Raptors, so their three defeats have come against three of the best teams in the NBA.  Now they'll be hungry for their first victory, and they have an excellent chance to get it against the only team in the NBA that may be worse than them in the 1-3 Atlanta Hawks.  The Hawks are going to be without their best player in Dennis Shroder, who is listed as doubtful.  And Ersan Ilyasova is questionable and may be their second-best player.  Bets against dogs (Atlanta) average team from last season that won between 45-55% of their games, after 2 or more consecutive losses are 24-7 ATS over the last 5 seasons.  Take Chicago.

6* Spurs/Heat ESPN *CA$H COW* on Miami +4.5

The Key: The Miami Heat were one of the best teams in the NBA in the second half last year.  They have been grossly underrated, and they're being overlook again here as 4.5-point home dogs to the San Antonio Spurs.  This is a Spurs team that has been able to get by without Kawhi Leonard, going 3-0, but two of their games were close at home, and their only road win came against the awful Chicago Bulls.  This will be their stiffest road test yet.  The Heat are 11-2 ATS after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games over the last 2 seasons.  The Heat are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Take Miami.

6* Tuesday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Pacers/Timberwolves UNDER 219.5

The Key: The Minnesota Timberwolves will play defense this season with the additions of Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson, who were defensive stalwarts in Tom Thibodeau's time in Chicago.  They will demand defense from the likes of Andrew Wiggins and Karl Anthony-Towns.  Indiana will be missing its best player in Myles Turner, who opens up their offense with his ability to stretch the floor.  They will also be without floor stretcher Glenn Robinson III tonight.  I just don't see how the Pacers contribute enough points in this game to push this game over this 219.5-point total.  Indiana is 12-3 UNDER after allowing 105 points or more in 3 straight games coming in.  Take the UNDER.

6* Monday NBA *Total* Annihilator on 76ers/Pistons UNDER 214.5

The Key: The last 6 meetings between the 76ers and Pistons in Detroit have all seen 209 or fewer combined points.  They have averaged 199 combined points in those 6 meetings.  The Pistons are 13-3 to the UNDER in their last 16 home games.  Take the UNDER.

6* Saturday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Magic/Cavs UNDER 215.5

The Key: Both the Cavs and Magic will be missing their starting point guards in this game.  Elfrid Payton is doubtful for Orlando, while Derrick Rose is doubtful for Cleveland.  Without their point guards, I expect both offenses to struggle more than normal here.  So we'll take a shot with the UNDER 215.5.  Both teams will be fatigued after playing last night as well, so the pace of this game should be slow.  Take the UNDER.

6* Cavs/Bucks ESPN *Total* Annihilator on OVER 208.5

The Key: This has clearly been an OVER series between the Cavs and Bucks.  The OVER is 20-7 in the last 27 meetings, including 8-2 in the last 10 meetings.  And the OVER is 12-2 in the last 14 meetings in Milwaukee.  This total has been set too low tonight.  Take the OVER.

6* Lakers/Clippers Western Conference *BAILOUT* on Los Angeles Lakers +6

The Key: The Los Angeles Lakers will start showing some progress this season and make a run at the final playoff spot.  The Los Angeles Clippers are headed the other direction after trading away their franchise player in Chris Paul to Houston.  I think we are getting a nice price on the Lakers here as 6-point dogs.  They want to establish that they are the best team in L.A. once again, and it starts against the Clippers in their opener.  Take the Lakers.

7* Timberwolves/Spurs ESPN *HEAVY HITTER* on Minnesota +2

The Key: The Minnesota Timberwolves will be one of the better teams in the Western Conference this season.  They added Jimmy Butler and Jeff Teague to go along with Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns.  This is now one of the best starting lineups in the league.  And the Spurs are going to be missing their best player and MVP in Kawhi Leonard tonight.  There is now a huge talent mismatch here in favor of the Timberwolves, and they should not be dogs.  Take Minnesota.

6* Western Conference *CA$H COW* on New Orleans Pelicans +2

The Key: The Grit 'n Grind era is starting to fall apart in Memphis.  The Grizzlies lost Zach Randolph and Tony Allen in the offseason.  They still have Marc Gasol and Mike Conley, but the talent around them is underwhelming to say the least.  The Pelicans are a team that will be improved this season.  DeMarcus Cousins was traded there midseason last year.  Having an entire offseason to implement the new systems surrounding Cousins and Anthony Davis will do wonders for this team, starting with Game 1 tonight.  Take New Orleans.

6* Celtics/Cavs Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Cleveland -3.5

The Key: I think the fact that Lebron James is showing up on the injury report is keeping this line lower than it should be.  JR Smith said Lebron will play, and I have no doubt he will as he wants to beat down the Celtics and former teammate Kyrie Irving.  I think the whole Cavs team feels that way and will rally around him here. And the Celtics won't have much chemistry in the early going with all of the new faces in the lineup as they'll have four new starters this year.  Take Cleveland.

7* Cavs/Warriors Game 5 *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -8.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors were just humbled in Cleveland by a final of 137-116.  They let their guard down after taking a 3-0 lead, but now they'll be focused on closing out this series in Game 5.  They remember blowing their 3-1 lead last year all too clearly, and they aren't about to let it happen again.  The Cavs made a whopping 24 3-pointers in Game 4 and that's obviously not going to happen again, either.  The home crowd will be a huge edge here as the Warriors are 44-5 at home this season and winning by 16.2 points per game.  Golden State is 7-0 ATS in home games against Central division opponents this season.  The home team is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.  Take Golden State.

7* NBA Finals Total of the Year on Warriors/Cavs UNDER 229

The Key: This total of 229 is the highest of the four games thus far in the NBA Finals, so that fact alone shows that there's value with the UNDER.  And the 10 meetings between the Cavs and Warriors prior to Game 2 all saw 217 or fewer combined points.  Cleveland is 18-3 UNDER as a dog of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last two seasons.  The UNDER is 39-17 in Warriors last 56 games playing on 1 days rest.  Take the UNDER.

7* NBA Finals Game of the Year on Cleveland Cavaliers +4

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers will give everything they have in Game 3 tonight to try and get back in this series.  This is the exact same situation as last year when they lost the first two games in Golden State in blowout fashion, then won Game 3 in Cleveland 120-90.  I don't expect that big of a blowout this time around, but I do think they win this game outright, though we'll take the points for some insurance.  The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings in this series.  Take Cleveland.

7* Cavs/Warriors Game 2 *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -8.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors are playing with a massive chip on their shoulder after blowing that 3-1 series lead in the NBA Finals last season.  That's why they won't let up after winning 113-91 in Game 1.  We saw last year in the first two games of the NBA Finals that the Warriors won by 15 in Game 1 and came back and won by 33 in Game 2.  I think this will be another double-digit blowout for the Warriors, who are 28-1 in their last 29 games while winning 9 of their last 10 by double-digits.  They are the better defensive team here and held the Cavs to 34.5% shooting in Game 1. That is the difference in this series, and it will be the difference in Game 2 as well.  The Warriors are 21-6-1 ATS in their last 28 games overall.  Take Golden State.

7* Cavs/Warriors Game 1 *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -7

The Key: The Golden State Warriors will jump on the Cavaliers in Game 1 to make an early statement that this series isn't going to go like it did last year.  The Warriors just have too many weapons now with the addition of Durant, and they are the second-best defensive team in the NBA and have the players who can contain Lebron James.  This is a highly anticipated series, but the casual fan will be disappointed with Game 1 as the Warriors run away with it.  They are 27-1 in their last 28 games overall, including 12-0 in these playoffs with 9 straight double-digit victories.  Take Golden State.

7* Cavs/Celtics Game 5 *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 217

The Key: The Cavs shot 56.5% in Game 2 and it went UNDER.  The Cavs shot 59.5% in Game 4 and it went UNDER.  The Cavs can't shoot the ball any better, and yet the UNDER has cashed two of the last three games.  And I think Game 5 will be the lowest scoring yet after a previous low of 211 in Game 4.  The Celtics are worse offensively but better defensively without Isaiah Thomas.  Boston is 8-0 UNDER as a home dog of 6.5 to 12 points over the last three seasons.  The UNDER is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings in Boston.  Take the UNDER. 

7* Celtics/Cavs Game 4 *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 218

The Key: The Cavs and Celtics could not have shot any better in Game 3 and they STILL only combined for 219 points.  The Celtics went a ridiculous 18-of-40 (45%) from 3-point range, while the Cavs went 16-of-39 (41%) from distance.  The chances of that happening again are highly unlikely, thus we'll take the UNDER in Game 4.  The UNDER is 14-5-2 in Celtics last 21 road games.  Take the UNDER.

7* Warriors/Spurs Game 4 *HEAVY HITTER* on San Antonio +12

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs won't just quit even though this series is essentially over.  Greg Popovich will make sure his players give a big effort tonight in Game 4 to avoid the sweep.  And we're getting some serious line value here with the Spurs as 12-point home dogs with the books knowing that the public is just going to keep pounding the Warriors no matter how high they set the line.  We'll go against the public here tonight.  Bets against road favorites of 10 or more points (GOLDEN STATE) - top caliber team - outscoring their opponents by 9+ points/game are 70-27 ATS since 1996.  Take San Antonio.

7* NBA 3rd Round Total of the Year on Celtics/Cavs UNDER 217

The Key: The Celtics will now be without leading scorer Isaiah Thomas for the rest of the playoffs.  It will certainly hurt their offense moving forward, especially here in Game 3 as they are not used to playing without him.  He creates so much for them offensively.  Where they won't miss him is on the other end, where Thomas is one of the worst defensive point guards in the NBA.  I really love this UNDER in Game 3 as it's one of my strongest plays of the postseason.  They combined for 216 points in Game 2 and will certainly combine for less than that now that the Celtics are worse off on offense and better off on defense.  The UNDER is 5-1 in Celtics last 6 road games.  The UNDER is 81-38-3 in Cavs last 122 Sunday games.  The UNDER is 11-5 in the last 16 meetings.  Take the UNDER.

7* Warriors/Spurs Game 3 *HEAVY HITTER* on San Antonio +9.5

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs aren't the type of team that's just going to pack it in down 2-0.  They were deflated in Game 2 after losing Kawhi Leonard to injury in Game 1, and they did not play well as they shot just 37% while the Warriors hot 56% for the game.  Look for them to show some pride tonight.  After all, they are still 8-2 without Leonard this season, so they have the pieces to make this game competitive.  I always like backing home teams in the playoffs in Game 3 after losing the first two games of the series because you know they are going to give the effort with their season basically on the line.  The Spurs are 19-9 ATS in the last 28 home meetings.  Take San Antonio.

7* Cavs/Celtics Game 2 *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston +6.5

The Key: The Boston Celtics are in must-win mode here in Game 2.  They let the Cavs take it to them in Game 1 and won't make that same mistake again tonight.  The Cavs are clearly a public team right now as they have gone 4-0-1 ATS in their last five playoff games while winning all nine playoff games thus far.  The public is going to continue to back them blindly, and this line is up to 6.5 in some places today after being just 3.5 in Game 1.  That's a clear over-adjustment as the books know that the public is only going to back the Cavs.  This extra line value is a nice bonus in a game the Celtics will likely win outright.  Take Boston.

7* Cavs/Celtics Game 1 *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston +5

The Key: The Boston Celtics have only played 4 games in the past 10 days.  So I'm not buying the public perception that they are fatigued heading into this series.  The Cavaliers have had 9 days off in between games and I think that puts them at a disadvantage in Game 1.  The Celtics are favored by 4 at home in their final regular season meeting with the Cavaliers.  Now they are GETTING 5 points in Game 1.  That's way too big of an adjustment.  The Celtics are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games.  Take Boston.

7* Spurs/Warriors Game 2 *HEAVY HITTER* on San Antonio +14

The Key: There's no question that the loss of Kawhi Leonard is huge for the Spurs.  But I think the books have over-adjusted here in Game 2.  In fact, the Spurs are actually 8-1 this season without Leonard, which is remarkable.  They thumped Houston 114-75 on the road without Leonard in Game 6 last series.  Bets against home favorites (GOLDEN STATE) - when leading in a playoff series, a top-level team (75% or better) playing a good team (60% to 75%) are 32-9 ATS since 1996.  San Antonio is 8-0 ATS off a close road loss of 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons.  The road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.  Take San Antonio.

7* Wizards/Celtics Game 7 *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston -5

The Key: The home team has won all 10 meetings between the Wizards and Celtics this season.  The home team has gone 9-1 ATS in those 10 games as well.  The Boston Celtics have won 8 straight home meetings with the Wizards while going 8-0 ATS in the process.  I think they'll fee off their home crowd and run away with this Game 7, just as they have in all previous 8 home meetings with the Wizards.  Take Boston.

7* Spurs/Warriors Game 1 *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -9.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors are chomping at the bit to get back on the court again.  They swept each of their first round series against the Blazers and Jazz while winning seven of those games by 11 points or more.  I think they get a double-digit win over the Spurs in Game 1.  The Spurs are banged up right now without Tony Parker and with Kawhi Leonard nowhere near 100%.  They have also only had two days off since beating the Rockets in Game 6, while the Warriors have had five days off in between.  San Antonio is 0-7 ATS off a road win over a division opponent this season.  The Warriors are 17-5-1 ATS in their last 23 games overall.  Take Golden State.

7* Celtics/Wizards Game 6 *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 217

The Key: The Over has gone 4-1 in this series thus far.  But I think Game 6 is primed to be the lowest scoring game yet as these teams clearly know one another very well now.  And with the pressure of an elimination game, I don't expect the Wizards to shoot lights out, but their defensive effort will be there for four quarters.  This one will be played at a much slower pace give the high stakes.  Boston is 7-0 UNDER in Friday night road games this season.  Boston is 13-2 UNDER in road games versus teams who allow 46% shooting or worse this season.  Take the UNDER.

7* Spurs/Rockets Game 6 *HEAVY HITTER* on Houston -6

The Key: I like the way the Houston Rockets responded the first time they trailed in this series.  Trailing 2-1, they blew out the Spurs 125-104 at home in Game 4.  After they gave away Game 5, I think the Rockets will respond with a big performance in Game 6 at home here again Thursday.  The Spurs are already without Tony Parker, and now Kawhi Leonard is nowhere near 100% as he's nursing ankle and knee injuries.  This is just a really bad spot for the Spurs here tonight.  Take Houston.

7* NBA 2nd Round Game of the Year on Boston Celtics -4

The Key: This one is really as simply as it gets.  The home team has been dominant when the Wizards and Celtics get together.  The home team has won 8 straight while going a perfect 8-0 ATS in the process.  The Celtics have won 7 straight home meetings with the Wizards while going 7-0 ATS as well.  They have won all 7 games by at least 8 points. Take Boston.

7* Rockets/Spurs Game 5 *HEAVY HITTER* on Houston +5.5

The Key: Not every game in this series is going to be a blowout.  After all, the four regular season meetings were all decided by 6 points or less, including three by exactly 2 points.  But each of the first four games in this series have been decided by 11 points or more.  The Rockets won by 21 and 27 points in their two victories.  I have a sneaky suspicion this Game 5 comes down to the final shot, and thus the price is a good one in getting the Rockets at +5.5.  The road team is 7-2 ATS in the last 9 meetings.  Take Houston.

7* Warriors/Jazz Game 4 *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 207

The Key: We cashed in the UNDER in Game 3 with a 102-91 final and a total of 207.5.  The oddsmakers have failed to adjust enough for Game 4 with another 207-point total.  The UNDER is 7-1-1 in the last 9 meetings between the Jazz and Warriors.  They have combined for 205 or fewer points in 7 of those 9 meetings.  The UNDER is 25-8-2 in the last 35 meetings, including 11-4-1 in the last 16 meetings in Utah dating back further.  The UNDER is 20-5-1 in Warriors last 26 vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  The UNDER is 26-10 in Warriors last 36 road games.  The UNDER is 7-1-1 in Jazz last 9 vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  The UNDER is 10-2 in Jazz last 12 games following a double-digit loss at home.  Take the UNDER.

7* Celtics/Wizards Game 4 *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 216

The Key: The Celtics and Wizards are getting more familiar with one another as this series goes on.  After two shootouts in Boston, these teams combined for just 205 points in Game 3 in Washington.  I think we see a similar result here with what's at stake, and especially now that the Wizards are without one of their biggest offensive weapons in Kelly Oubre in Game 4 due to suspension.  The UNDER is 13-3-2 in Celtics last 18 road games, including 5-0-1 in Celtics last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.  The UNDER is 4-1 in Wizards last 5 home games.  Take the UNDER.

7* NBA 2nd Round Total of the Year on Warriors/Jazz UNDER 208

The Key: The UNDER is 6-1-1 in the last eight meetings in this series.  The Warriors and Jazz have combined for 209 or fewer points in seven of those eight meetings, and 205 or fewer in six of them.  The Jazz play at the slowest tempo in the NBA, and they'll control the pace playing at home in Game 3.  The UNDER is 25-10 in Warriors last 35 road games.  The UNDER is 24-8-2 in the last 34 meetings, and 10-4-1 in the last 15 meetings in Utah.  Take the UNDER.

7* Spurs/Rockets Game 3 *HEAVY HITTER* on Houston -4.5

The Key: James Harden had one of his worst games of the season in Game 2 as he went just 3-for-17 from the field.  Don't expect another poor performance from him here in Game 3 as this series shifts to Houston.  This is where the Rockets take control of the series as they are clearly the better team.  The Spurs are now down their starting point guard in Tony Parker for the rest of the postseason.  They will be lost without him as Kawhi Leonard will have to take over more of the PG duties, which he's unaccustomed to.  Leonard has too much on his plate for the Spurs.  The Rockets are a complete team that can beat you with a number of different players.  Take Houston.

7* Jazz/Warriors Game 2 *HEAVY HITTER* on Utah +12.5

The Key: Gordon Hayward was basically a no-show in Game 1 and the Utah Jazz still managed to cover the 13-point spread.  Expect a much better game from him here tonight after he went just 2-for-9 for 12 points in Game 1.  Utah is 75-49 ATS when revenging a loss vs. opponent over the last three seasons.  The Jazz are 6-0 ATS in their last six road games.  Utah is 9-1-1 ATS in its last 11 games when playing on one days rest.  Take Utah.

7* Raptors/Cavs Game 2 *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto +7.5

The Key: The Toronto Raptors are tired of getting beat down in Cleveland.  They have lost their last four playoff games in Cleveland by an average of 25 points.  I think they come out with a chip on their shoulder tonight and play the Cavs close from start to finish.  They were at least competitive in Game 1, losing by 11 points.  They will stay within 7.5 tonight, possibly pulling off the upset.  Toronto is 10-2 ATS when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 70%) this season.  The Raptors are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 road games.  The Cavaliers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  The road team is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.  Take Toronto.

7* Jazz/Warriors Game 1 *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -12.5

The Key: Big advantage here for the Warriors in rest and preparation in Game 1.  The Warriors beat the Blazers in 4 games and have been off since April 24.  The Jazz needed 7 games to beat the Clippers and just wrapped up their series on Sunday.  Look for the Warriors to keep the foot on the gas in Game 1 and make a statement here.  The have had the Jazz number over the past couple seasons, going 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings at Golden State.  All 6 of those wins have come by at least 13 points, and that will get us a cover here in Game 1.  Take Golden State.

7* Raptors/Cavs Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto +7

The Key: The additions of Serge Ibaka and PJ Tucker make the Raptors the biggest threats to beat the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference.  They took the Cavs to 6 games last year and are capable of winning this series now.  The Cavs aren't as strong as they were a year ago, especially defensively as they ranked 22nd in efficiency during the regular season.  They gave up 111 points per 100 possessions against the Pacers last series.  While they swept the Pacers, that series was much closer than the sweep would suggest as all 4 games were decided by 6 points or less.  Ibaka and Tucker helped the Raptors limit the Bucks to just 93.2 points per game last series.  It's clear that they are by far the superior defensive team in this series.  Toronto is hitting its stride in winning its last three games over the Bucks by a combined 39 points despite playing two of those games on the road.  The Raptors are 10-1 ATS when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 70%) this season.  The Cavaliers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  Take Toronto.

7* Jazz/Clippers *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 191

The Key: The UNDER is 2-0 in the last two games of this series with combined scores of 188 and 191 points.  This comes as no surprise because as these teams get more familiar with one another, the harder it is to score points.  I think we'll see the lowest-scoring game of the series here in Game 7 Sunday with what is at stake.  The UNDER is 5-0 in Jazz last 5 road games.  The UNDER is 4-1 in Clippers last 5 home games.  The UNDER is 17-5-1 in Clippers last 23 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  The UNDER is 6-1 in the last seven meetings in Los Angeles.  Take the UNDER.

7* Celtics/Bulls Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston -3

The Key: The Chicago Bulls haven't been the same since losing Rajon Rondo.  They are 0-3 SU & 0-3 ATS in their last three games, getting outscored by a combined 37 points by the Celtics in the process.  They have been held to just 93.0 points per game without Rondo as well as their offense has stalled.  I think the Celtics close out the series here tonight, especially knowing that Isaiah Thomas and friends will be leaving for Washington for his sister's funeral after this game either way.  They'd rather not have the distraction of a Game 7 during the funeral, so they'll be 'all in' here to finish the deal.  Boston is 17-8 ATS when the line is +3 to -3 this season.  The Celtics are 17-8-2 ATS in their last 27 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The favorite is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings.  The road team is 4-1 ATS in this series.  Take Boston.

7* Raptors/Bucks Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Milwaukee -1

The Key: The Toronto Raptors play great with their backs against the wall.  They dug themselves out of a 2-1 deficit in this series to win the last two games.  But now that they know they have a home game in their back pocket for Game 7, they won't be nearly as hungry to win Game 6 tonight.  They just have a way of falling flat in games they don't need in the playoffs over the past two postseasons.  They were forced to go to Game 7 twice last year in the first two rounds.  Milwaukee is 8-0 ATS in home games off 2 straight losses by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.  Take Milwaukee.

7* Wizards/Hawks *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 213

The Key: The last 3 games in this series have finished right around this 213-point total.  They went for 210 points in Game 2, 214 in Game 3 and 212 in Game 4.  I expect the lowest-scoring game of the series tonight.  The more familiar teams become with one another, the harder it is to score.  The advantage goes to the defenses when they know what the opposing offenses are trying to do.  Atlanta is 9-0 UNDER in road games after 2 consecutive covers as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.  The UNDER is 8-0 in Hawks last 8 Wednesday games.  The UNDER is 11-4-1 in Hawks last 16 road games.  The UNDER is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Washington.  Take the UNDER.

7* Thunder/Rockets Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Oklahoma City +7.5

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder have led 128 of 192 minutes in series but trail 3-1.  That's the most minutes any team has led in any series in postseason through four games.  They just haven't been able to finish game late.  And this has been a closely-contested series all season.  In fact, 6 of 8 meetings this season have been decided by 4 points or less.  Dating back further, 11 of the last 13 meetings have been decided by 8 points or fewer.  Expect a big effort from the Thunder with their season on the line.  It also helps that James Harden has a bum ankle and isn't 100%.  The Underdog is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* Bucks/Raptors Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Milwaukee +6

The Key: The Milwaukee Bucks have been the better team in this series thus far.  They have outscored the Raptors by a combined 24 points through four games.  They played great in each of the first 3 games, but they committed an uncharacteristic 20 turnovers in Game 4 and lost by 11.  They are being undervalued now after that performance, and I look for them to possibly win this game outright, let alone stay within 6 points in Game 5.  Jason Kidd preached tempo after the Game 4 loss.  He said they were playing too slow, and that their energy level was too low.  Look for them to correct their mistakes and get back to playing the way they were when they took 2 of the first 3 games from the Raptors by a combined 35 points.  The Bucks are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.  The Raptors are 8-22-1 ATS in their last 31 Conference Quarterfinals games.  Take Milwaukee.

7* Rockets/Thunder Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Oklahoma City -1

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder picked up a huge win in Game 3 as they breathed a huge sigh of relief after James Harden missed a potential game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer.  Now they have the confidence that they can beat the Rockets, and I think that carries over into Game 4 here.  The Thunder have some of the best home fans in the NBA, which has led to a 29-13 record on their home floor this season.  This is a very generous -1 price as a result.  The Thunder are 8-0 ATS in home games after a combined score of 215 points or more 2 straight games this season.  The Rockets are 2-10 ATS in their last 12 games overall.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* Spurs/Grizzlies Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Memphis +5

The Key: Home-court advantage has meant everything when the Grizzlies and Spurs have gotten together this season.  In fact, the home team is a perfect 7-0 straight up in their 7 meetings this season.  I look for that to improve to 8-0 as the Grizzlies win outright tonight, so getting 5 points along with it is just an added bonus.  Take Memphis.

7* NBA 1st Round Game of the Year on Oklahoma City Thunder -2

The Key: It's now or never for the Oklahoma City Thunder.  They blew a 15-point lead in the 2nd half of Game 2 and lost to fall down 0-2 in this series.  They can't afford to go 0-3 or this series is over.  Look for them to play hungry tonight at home and to take this Game 3 from the Houston Rockets, who will relax after taking care of business at home.  The Thunder are 28-13 SU & 26-14-1 ATS at home this season.  OKC is 7-0 ATS in home games after allowing 115 points or more this season.  The Thunder are 13-2 ATS after having lost 3 of their last 4 games this season.  The Rockets are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games overall.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* NBA 1st Round Total of the Year on Cavs/Pacers OVER 210.5

The Key: The oddsmakers have failed to adjust this total high enough in Game 3 tonight despite the fact that the first two games in this series have gone well OVER the total.  In fact, the Cavs and Pacers have combined for at least 217 points in each of their last 5 meetings now dating back to the regular season.  Both teams play 'optional' defense this year and prefer to go small offensively, which is a recipe for overs.  The OVER is 20-5-1 in Cavaliers last 26 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.  The OVER is 30-12-1 in Cavaliers last 43 vs. Eastern Conference.  Cleveland is 32-12 OVER when the total is 210 to 219.5 this season.  Take the OVER.

7* Blazers/Warriors Western Conference *BAILOUT* on Portland +14

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers have gone 18-6 ATS in their last 24 games overall.  They have been undervalued down the stretch and continue to be in the postseason.  That's especially the case when you consider how tough they have played the Warriors, going 3-0 ATS in the last 3 meetings while losing by 2, 8 and 12 points.  Now Kevin Durant is dealing with a calf injury, and Shaun Livingston and Matt Barnes are also questionable with injuries.  I think the Blazers are live dogs tonight as they look to build on their 6-1 ATS run in road games.  Take Portland.

7* Bulls/Celtics TNT *Total* Annihilator on UNDER 206.5

The Key: The Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics have been playing in some defensive battles of late.  They have combined for 208 or less points in each of their last 5 meetings.  Game 1 saw 208 combined points, but they went off in the final two minutes with fouls as the Celtics were mounting their comeback.  That isn't likely to happen again.  The UNDER is 5-1 in Bulls last 6 games overall.  The UNDER is 22-7 in Bulls last 29 games when playing on 1 days rest.  The UNDER is 8-0 in Celtics last 8 home games against a team with a winning record.  The UNDER is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.  Take the UNDER.

7* Grizzlies/Spurs NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Memphis +11

The Key: The Memphis Grizzlies are a prideful team that won't go down without a fight.  They were swept by the Spurs in the playoffs last season and want revenge.  They played horrible in the 2nd half of Game 1 after it was close in the first half.  They'll come back swinging for the fences in Game 2 tonight.  The Grizzlies and Spurs split the season series 2-2 with the largest margin of victory by the Spurs of 7 points.  The Grizzlies actually outscored the Spurs by 10 points in their 4 meetings during the regular season.  Now they're catching a whopping 11 points in Game 2 tonight.  San Antonio is 0-7 ATS in home games off a win over a division opponent this season.  Take Memphis.

7* Blazers/Warriors NBA *Total* Annihilator on OVER 219.5

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers are forced to go small ball with the injury to Jusuf Nurkic.  The Golden State Warriors prefer to play small ball and do for the majority of their games.  This Game 1 has the makings of an absolute shootout.  And the Blazers and Warriors are certainly used to shootouts.  In fact, each of the last 7 meetings in this series have seen at least 225 combined points.  That makes for a 7-0 angle backing the OVER when comparing it to the 219.5-point total in Game 1.  The OVER is 18-6 in the last 24 meetings.  Take the OVER.

7* Grizzlies/Spurs Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Memphis +9.5

The Key: The Memphis Grizzlies want revenge on the Spurs from getting swept by them in the playoffs last year.  But the Grizzlies were banged up and playing without several key players, including Mike Conley.  Now they're almost fully healthy entering the playoffs with the exception of Tony Allen, but he is at the end of his career and won't be missed much.  The Grizzlies limped in to the postseason because they were locked in to the No. 7 seed down the stretch, so they were more worried about getting healthy.  Now I think you see them play their best basketball in the postseason, starting with Game 1 tonight.  The Grizzlies went 2-2 against the Spurs this season with the home team winning all 4 meetings.  But the Grizzlies only lost by 6 and 7 points in their 2 meetings in San Antonio.  Memphis is 14-6 ATS as a dog of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.  The Spurs are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.  The Grizzlies are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.  Take Memphis.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston Celtics -14

The Key: The Milwaukee Bucks are locked in to the 6th seed in the Eastern Conference.  As a result, they have decided to rest all of their starters tonight in Giannis Anetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, Tony Snell and Matthew Delavedova.  They clearly don't care about this game.  Boston can clinch the 1st seed in the East with a win, so this is a huge game for the Celtics.  Bets against road dogs of 10 or more points after allowing 90 points or less in 2 straight games against opponent after allowing 105 points or more are 26-5 ATS since 1996.  This is a big number for a reason, but it's not big enough tonight.  Take Boston.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Los Angeles Lakers -2.5

The Key: The Los Angeles Lakers are finishing strong despite cries from their fans to tank it.  The have covered the spread in 5 straight while winning 4 straight outright.  Now they'll only 2.5-point home favorites against a New Orleans Pelicans team that is tanking, going 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games overall.  That is clear by the fact that they are sitting both Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins.  The Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 road games.  The Lakers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  Take Los Angeles.

7* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Month on Indiana Pacers -8.5

The Key: The Indiana Pacers are on the brink of clinching a playoff spot.  They've done so by winning three straight games games by at least 15 points each over the Raptors, Bucks and Magic.  They are also 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall.  This is a team that nobody wants to face right now.  The 76ers are a team that everyone wants to face.  They are 0-6 SU & 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games coming in and have rarely been competitive.  Their laundry list of injuries has something to do with it, but they also don't want to hurt their chances of a better draft pick.  The Pacers have owned the 76ers by going 7-1 SU & 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.  In fact, 6 of those wins have come by at least 11 points.  Take Indiana.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Phoenix Suns -2.5

The Key: The Dallas Mavericks have clearly given up at the end of the season.  They are without Harrison Barnes, Jose Barea and Seth Curry today.  They are just 1-7 in their last 8 games overall coming in.  The Suns have gone a profitable 5-3 ATS in their last 8 games as they have remained competitive.  They just blasted Russell Westbrook and the Thunder 120-99 at home.  This young team is looking to finish strong.  The Mavericks are just 11-28 on the road this season and getting too much respect from oddsmakers here given their situation.  Take Phoenix.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Indiana Pacers -4.5

The Key: The signing of Lance Stephenson has really given the Pacers a spark.  They have played two of their best games of the season coming in, beating the Raptors 108-90 and the Bucks 104-89.  Of course, they are clinging on to the 8th seed in the East, just one game ahead of the Miami Heat.  That has them playing hungry basketball right now.  The same cannot be said for the Orlando Magic, who are 1-5 in their last 6 games with their only win coming at home against the league-worst Brooklyn Nets.  The Pacers are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last 3 meetings with Orlando, winning by 10, 13 and 19 points, all of which have come this season.  Look for that domination to continue tonight as the Pacers get the win and cover.  The Magic are 11-25-1 ATS in their last 37 home games.  The Pacers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 trips to Orlando.  Take Indiana.

7* NBA Situational Game of the Month on Utah Jazz -9.5

The Key: The Utah Jazz have gone 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as they try and secure the 4th seed in the West and home court in the first round.  They're up against a Timberwolves team that are just 3-9 SU & 3-9 ATS in their last 12 contests.  I like this spot for the Jazz, who have had 2 days off coming in.  The Timberwolves won't have anything left in the tank as this will be their 4th game in 5 days.  Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns rank in the Top 10 in minutes played this season and have to be wearing down right now.  The Timberwolves are 1-7-1 ATS in their last 9 road games, while the Jazz are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 home games.  Take Utah.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Chicago Bulls -5.5

The Key: The Chicago Bulls are hungry to make the playoffs.  They are in a 3-way tie at 38-40 on the season with the Pacers and Heat, and only two of them can make the postseason.  The Bulls have gone 4-1 in their last 5 games coming in and are playing well.  The 76ers are in full-blown tank mode right now to try and get a better pick in the draft.  They have lost 4 straight, including a 23-point home loss to the Nets last time out in which they gave up a ridiculous 141 points.  They are essentially playing with 7 players right now due to all of their injuries to the likes of Robert Covington, Jahlil Okafor and Sergio Rodriquez.  Bets against home teams who are coming off a blowout home loss by 20 points or more in April games are 39-11 ATS since 1996.  The Bulls are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up loss. Take Chicago.

7* Cavs/Celtics ESPN *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston -4

The Key: This game tonight is essentially for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.  It will be a rowdy atmosphere in Boston as they know that a win tonight will give them the best chance to make the NBA Finals.  The Celtics are 6-1 in their last 7 games overall, while the Cavs have struggled down the stretch.  And the spot couldn't be better for the Celtics.  They come in on 2 days' rest having last played on Sunday, while the Cavs will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  Cleveland is 1-9 ATS in road games when playing the 2nd of a back-to-back this season.  The Cavs are 0-7 ATS in road games off two or more consecutive home wins this season.  Take Boston.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Brooklyn Nets -1

The Key: The Philadelphia 76ers are back in tank mode with three straight losses coming in by 7 points or more.  They have a laundry list of injuries right now with Robert Covington, Jahlil Okafor, Sergio Rodriquez, Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons and Jerryd Bayless all out.  The 76ers would do themselves a favor by continuing to lose to increase their chance of a better draft pick.  It doesn't matter for the Nets because they already have to swap first-round picks with the Celtics, so they are continuing to try to win games.  And they're playing their best basketball of the season as a result, going 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games overall.  They have won 5 of their last 8 games outright.  Bets on favorites revenging 2 consecutive straight up losses to opponent as a favorite, off 2 or more consecutive home wins are 52-19 ATS since 1996.  Take Brooklyn.

7* Wizards/Warriors NBA *BAILOUT* on UNDER 222.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors have been an UNDER machine since losing Kevin Durant.  They are 17-2 to the UNDER in their last 19 games overall.  The oddsmakers continue to set their totals too high, which is the case again here tonight against the Wizards with a 222.5-point total.  The UNDER is 10-1 in Warriors last 11 home games.  The UNDER is 71-34-1 in Warriors last 106 Sunday games, including 8-1 on Sunday's this season.  The UNDER is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Golden State.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Brooklyn Nets -2.5

The Key: The Orlando Magic are in a very difficult spot here.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days.  They went to overtime against the Thunder and lost on Wednesday, and then last night they lost 116-117 in heartbreaking fashion at Boston.  After losing to both those playoff teams, the Magic will have a hard time getting motivated to face a Brooklyn Nets squad that holds the worst record in the league.  But the Nets continue to fight as they are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games overall.  Orlando is 1-10 ATS versus teams who allow 106 or more points per game in the 2nd half of the season this season.  The Nets are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a straight up loss.  Take Brooklyn.

7* Rockets/Warriors ESPN *BAILOUT* on UNDER 231

The Key: The UNDER is 16-2 in Warriors last 18 games overall.  It would be 17-1 against the opening lines as the Spurs/Warriors game was bet down to 207.5 and finished 208 from an opener of 209.5.  The Warriors just aren't the same offensive juggernaut without Kevin Durant, but they key has been an emphasis on defense as they've held 7 of their last 8 opponents to 100 points or fewer.  These Rockets and Warriors just played on Tuesday with Golden State winning 113-106 for 219 combined points.  I think we see a similar result here as this game stays well UNDER 231 combined points.  The UNDER is 7-1-1 in Rockets last 98 road games.  The UNDER is 7-0 in Warriors last 7 home games.  Take the UNDER.

7* Cavs/Bulls TNT *HEAVY HITTER* on Chicago +6

The Key: The Chicago Bulls have actually gone 18-0 in their last 18 Thursday TNT home games.  They haven't lost since 2013 in this spot.  And they are going to be hungry for a win here tonight to close in on the Pacers and Heat for one of the final two playoff spots in the East as they are 1.5 games behind both.  The Cavs aren't playing well enough to warrant being 6-point road chalk here.  They are just 7-10 SU & 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 games overall.  The Bulls have had 3 days off since winning 109-104 at Milwaukee on Sunday.  They are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings with the Cavs, winning the last two by double-digits both on the road.  Cleveland is 1-9 ATS after scoring 85 points or less over the last 2 seasons.  The Cavaliers are 16-33-2 ATS in their last 51 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.  The Cavaliers are 7-22 ATS in the last 29 meetings.  Take Chicago.

7* Wizards/Clippers Non-Conference *BAILOUT* on Los Angeles -6

The Key: The Los Angeles Clippers blew an 18-point lead with 5 minutes to go in their last game against the Kings on Sunday and lost 97-98.  They are going to want to wipe that bad taste out of their mouths here against the Wizards.  And they've had two days off since that game, while the Wizards will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after using a ton of energy to come back from 13 points down in the 4th quarter to beat the Lakers last night.  The Clippers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning record.  Take Los Angeles.

7* Warriors/Rockets Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Houston -1

The Key: The Houston Rockets are in a very favorable scheduling spot here.  They will be playing just their 4th game in 10 days with each of their previous three games being at home.  They have won 4 straight and 7 of their last 8 coming in, and now they're ready to show the Golden State Warriors that they are for real.  The Warriors have been feasting on an easy schedule during their 7-game winning streak, which has them getting too much respect from the books.  But now they take a big step up in class here tonight.  The Warriors are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 road games.  The Rockets are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 vs. NBA Pacific foes.  Take Houston.

7* Pelicans/Jazz TNT *BAILOUT* on Utah -7

The Key: The Utah Jazz have lost 4 out of 5, which will have them hungry coming into this game against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight.  This will be just the 2nd game in 5 days for the Jazz, so they'll be fresh and ready to go.  The same cannot be said for the Pelicans, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days.  Playing in the altitude in Denver last night is sure to take even more out of the Pelicans than normal.  And they could be without DeMarcus Cousins tonight.  The Pelicans are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games playing on no rest.  Take Utah.

6* Blazers/Lakers NBA *BAILOUT* on Portland -6.5

The Key: The Los Angeles Lakers are clearly trying to tank so they can keep their Top 3 protected pick.  They are 2-14 in their last 16 games overall with numerous blowouts along the way.  The Blazers have fought their way back into playoff contention as they trail the Nuggets by just one game for the 8th seed.  They've done so by going 10-3 SU & 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games overall.  The Blazers are 11-2 ATS in road games off two or more consecutive home wins over the last 3 seasons.  Portland is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 road games.  The Lakers are 4-11-1 ATS in their last 16 games overall.  The Lakers are 15-36-1 ATS in their last 52 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.  Take Portland.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Indiana Pacers -1

The Key: The Denver Nuggets are coming off a 4-game stretch in which they faced the Clippers, Rockets (twice) and Cavaliers.  Coming off their huge win over Cleveland, this is the perfect letdown spot for them.  Now they're up against an Indiana team that simply doesn't lose at home, going 25-10 at home this season.  The Pacers are a perfect 7-0 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss.  They have alternated wins and losses dating back to the All-Star Break, and coming off a loss, this is a good situation to back them.  The home team is 7-1 SU in the last 8 meetings.  Take Indiana.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Miami Heat -4.5

The Key: The Miami Heat continue to lack the respect they deserve from oddsmakers despite going 34-16-1 ATS in their last 51 games overall.  The Heat are also 38-18-1 ATS in their last 57 home games.  The Raptors are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following a win.  Toronto will be without two starters tonight in Kyle Lowry (injury) and Serge Ibaka (suspension).  The Raptors are also coming off a taxing 122-120 overtime win over the Bulls two nights ago.  The Heat are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  Take Miami.

7* Hawks/Wizards ESPN *HEAVY HITTER* on Washington -7

The Key: The Washington Wizards come in hungry for a victory after losing two straight and four of their last five.  Now they host an Atlanta Hawks team that is struggling even worse, going 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in thier last four games overall, losing by 8, 12, 16 and 15 points.  And the Hawks are without two starters tonight in Paul Millsap and Kent Bazemore.  I don't give them much of a chance of hanging with the Wizards as a result.  The Hawks are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up loss.  Take Washington.

7* NBA Situational Game of the Month on Dallas Mavericks +5.5

The Key: The Dallas Mavericks are 8-4 SU & 8-4 ATS in their last 12 games overall.  They are still trying to earn a playoff spot in the West and continue to fight.  Now they catch the Golden State Warriors in a good spot.  The Warriors will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after winning in Oklahoma City last night.  Look for Steve Kerr to limit his star players' minutes here.  The Warriors are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games playing on 0 days rest.  The Warriors are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.  The Mavericks are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Dallas is 14-3 ATS in its last 17 home games.  The Mavericks are 21-7 ATS revenging a same season loss this season.  Take Dallas.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Denver Nuggets +9

The Key: The Denver Nuggets will be hungry for revenge from a 105-109 home loss to Houston on Saturday night.  Now they get their shot at the Rockets just two days later and are catching a whopping 9 points in the rematch.  The Nuggets are 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games with all four of their wins coming by 13 points or more.  Denver is 6-0 ATS in its last six Monday games.  Houston is 4-10 ATS in its last 14 games following an ATS win.  Take Denver.

6* Sunday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Suns/Pistons UNDER 212

The Key: The Phoenix Suns are completely depleted right now.  They are without two of their best guards in Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight.  Both Tyson Chandler and Dragan Bender are out for the season as well, while Devin Booker and Leandro Barbosa are battling injuries themselves.  It's no surprise that the UNDER is 5-0 in Suns' last five games coming in.  The UNDER is 4-1 in Pistons' last five games as well.  They have been held to just 84.7 points per game in their last three games.  The UNDER is 5-0 in Pistons last five home games.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Oklahoma City Thunder -12.5

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder certainly won the trade deadline when they traded for Taj Gibson and Doug McDermott.  These two are starting to gel with their new teammates as the Thunder have gone 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games, winning by 10 against San Antonio, 8 against Utah, 18 at Brooklyn and 21 at Toronto.  Now they play arguably the least-talented team in the entire NBA in the Sacramento Kings without DeMarcus Cousins.  The Kings have won back-to-back games against disinterested Orlando and Phoenix, which has them overvalued coming into this game.  The Thunder will put them away early and hold on for the cover with ease as 12.5-point favorites here.  OKC is 25-9 SU & 23-10 ATS at home this season.  The Thunder are 7-0 ATS in home games after a combined score of 215 points or more 2 straight games this season.  The Kings are 25-55-2 ATS in their last 82 games playing on 2 days rest.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Miami Heat -4.5

The Key: The Miami Heat continue to get no respect in the market place despite the tremendous run they've been on.  They are 22-5 SU & 23-4 ATS in their last 27 games overall.  They have covered six straight coming in.  They will be playing just their 2nd game in 5 days here and will be fresh and ready to go.  The Timberwolves will be playing their 5th game in 8 days.  They are 0-3 SU & 1-2 ATS in their last 3 road games, losing by 7 at San Antonio, by 7 at Milwaukee and by 13 at Boston.  The Timberwolves are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 vs. Eastern Conference opponents.  The Heat are 11-1-1 ATS in their last 13 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.  Take Miami.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Toronto Raptors -2.5

The Key: I like this short price for the Raptors at home here Thursday.  They will be playing just their 2nd game in 5 days after having the past two days off following a 100-78 beat down of the Mavericks on Monday.  The Raptors are 22-11 at home this season, while the Thunder are just 13-20 SU & 14-19 ATS on the road.  Oklahoma City is 2-10 ATS in road games versus good offensive teams who score 106-plus points per game this season.  The Raptors are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games playing on 2 days rest.  The Thunder are 1-6 ATS in the last seven meetings.  Take Toronto.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Dallas Mavericks +7

The Key: The Washington Wizards return home following a 5-game road trip.  I always like fading teams who are coming off a long road trip because there are so many distractions at home when they get back.  And the Wizards will also be playing their 6th game in 9 days here, so they are running on fumes.  The Mavericks have had the Wizards' number, going 12-1 SU in the last 13 meetings, and 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.  Take Dallas.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on New Orleans Pelicans -4

The Key: The New Orleans Pelicans will be fresh tonight.  This will be just their 2nd game in 6 days.  The Portland Trail Blazers will be playing their 3rd game in 4 days.  The Pelicans have gone 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall.  Home-court advantage has been big in this series as the home team is 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.  Take New Orleans.

7* NBA Total of the Month on Clippers/Jazz UNDER 201.5

The Key: You don't have to dig too deep to find that this total has been inflated.  Just look at the first two meetings of the season between the Jazz and Clippers.  The Clippers won both meetings, 88-75 at home for 163 combined points, and 88-72 on the road for 160 combined points.  Now the total has been set at 201.5 for the 3rd meeting here tonight.  The Jazz only allow 93.9 points per game at home this season and play at the slowest pace in the NBA.  They will control the tempo at home tonight.  The Clippers are 8-1 UNDER when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 70%) this season.  The UNDER is 16-5 in Jazz last 21 games following a loss.  Take the UNDER.

6* Cavs/Rockets ESPN *CA$H COW* on Houston -6

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days here.  The had to fly to Detroit, Orlando and now Houston over this span.  The Cavaliers have not hesitated to rest starters in these situations, and we may catch a break and have them rest either Lebron or Kyrie, or both.  Either way, I still like the Rockets here because they had yesterday off.  And the Cavaliers are 0-8 ATS in road games when playing back-to-back days this season.  They are also 1-10 ATS in their last 11 meetings in Houston.  Take Houston.

6* Wizards/Blazers NBA *BAILOUT* on Portland -4.5

The Key: The Washington Wizards have to be out of gas.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, their 4th road game in 5 days, and their 8th game in 12 days overall.  The Portland Trail Blazers will take advantage and run them out of the gym tonight.  This will be just the 3rd game in 7 days for the Blazers.  They are coming on strong in going 4-0 SU & 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games overall.  Washington is 31-54 ATS in its last 85 when playing its 3rd game in 4 days.  The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.  The Wizards are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 trips to Portland.  Take Portland.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Sacramento Kings +8

The Key: The home team has dominated this series between Washington and Sacramento.  In fact, the home team has not only gone 7-0 straight up in the last 7 meetings, but also 7-0 against the spread.  And the Wizards haven't done well in the road favorite role, either.  Washington is 0-7 against the spread in its last 7 road games when facing a team with a losing home record.  Take Sacramento.