6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Los Angeles Lakers +6

The Key: I like the spot for the Los Angeles Lakers.  They will be playing just their 2nd game in 5 days here.  They are coming off a 108-96 home win over the Pacers on Friday and will certainly be fresh for this game.  The Mavericks will be playing their 3rd game in 4 days after an overtime home loss to the Jazz on Friday that followed up a trip to Miami on Thursday.  The Lakers will also be in revenge mode here after losing each of their first 2 meetings this season at home to the Mavs.  Take Los Angeles.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Memphis Grizzlies +1

The Key: Talk about a tough situation for Houston here.  The Rockets will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, their 4th game in 5 days and their 11th game in 17 days.  And they just played the Warriors last night and lost, so they'll likely suffer a hangover effect from that defeat and not get up to face the Grizzlies.  Memphis will also be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back here, but this will be just its 3rd game in 6 days.  And the Grizzlies made easy work of the Kings 107-91 last night, so they should still be fresh for this game.  The Grizzlies clearly have the Rockets figured out as they won 115-109 at home and 110-105 on the road in their first 2 meetings this year.  They are as well-equipped to stop the Rockets as any team in the NBA because they actually play defense.  The Rockets are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 Saturday games.  The Grizzlies are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Saturday games.  The Rockets are 3-9 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Memphis.  Take Memphis.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Utah Jazz -6

The Key: The Utah Jazz have played since Monday, so they have had 3 days off to rest and ready ready for the Mavericks tonight.  Dallas hasn't had the same luxury as this will be the 2nd of a back-to-back and its 3rd game in 4 days here tonight.  The Mavs lost 95-99 in Miami last night, and they won't have much left in the tank for the Jazz here Friday.  I look for the Jazz to continue to roll because of it after going 9-3 in their last 12 games and 4-0 in their last 4 contests coming in.  Dallas has gone just 2-11 ATS in its last 13 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  Take Utah.

7* T'Wolves/Clippers TNT *BAILOUT* on Minnesota PK

The Key: The Minnesota Timberwolves are playing up to their potential now as they are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall.  I look for them to take advantage of a short-handed Clippers team that is now without both Chris Paul and Blake Griffin.  It's well documented that they have been terrible without Paul, and that is amplified when either Griffin or DeAndre Jordan are also out.  Minnesota is 26-11 ATS in road games revenging a loss vs. opponent over the last 2 seasons.  The Timberwolves are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  The road team is 23-7-1 ATS in the last 31 meetings.  Take Minnesota.

7* OKC/GS ESPN *BAILOUT* on Oklahoma City +13.5

The Key: This is a great spot to fade the Golden State Warriors.  They are coming off an emotional 126-91 win over Cleveland in which they put everything into that game to end a 4-game losing streak to the defending champs.  I don't expect them to show up nearly as focused for the Thunder, who will be hungry after losing badly to the Clippers last time out.  They'll also be out for revenge from an earlier blowout loss at Golden State in their first meeting this season.  OKC is 8-1 ATS after playing 2 consecutive road games this season.  Bets on road dogs of 10 or more points after a blowout loss by 15 points or more against opponent after a combined score of 215 points or more 2 straight games are 29-9 ATS since 1996.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Los Angeles Lakers +1

The Key: The Los Angeles Lakers are 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games overall.  But that makes them a 'play on' team today because the Lakers have gone 21-8 ATS in their last 29 home games when entering on at least a 4-game losing streak.  The Nuggets played yesterday in a home win over the Magic.  But the Nuggets are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 during the 2nd of a back-to-back.  This is a great situation for the Lakers to get a win Tuesday.  Take Los Angeles.

7* Thunder/Clippers TNT *BAILOUT* on UNDER 215.5

The Key: This is an inflated total tonight between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers.  These are two of the better defensive teams in the NBA.  The Clippers rank 6th in the league in defensive efficiency, while the Thunder are 8th in the same category.  These teams have already played 3 times this season and this will be their 4th and final meeting, so they are obviously familiar with one another.  They have averaged just 196 combined points in those 3 meetings.  OKC is 11-0 UNDER offf 3 straight games with 55 or more rebounds this season.  The UNDER is 6-0 in Clippers last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Clippers last 7 home games.  The UNDER is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings in Los Angeles.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Dallas Mavericks -1.5

The Key: The Mavericks are well-rested and ready to go.  They will be playing just their 2nd game in 6 days here after their trip to Mexico City and win over Phoenix.  And they want revenge from a 92-101 loss to the Timberwolves on January 9th.  So they obviously don't have to wait long to exact that revenge here as they face them less than a week later.  The Timberwolves are starting to get too much credit from the books because they have won 3 straight while going 4-0 ATS in their last 4.  The Mavs basically just have to win this game at home to cover.  The Timberwolves are 5-13 SU & 6-12 ATS in their 18 road games this year.  The Timberwolves are 0-8 ATS in their last 8 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.  Take Dallas.

6* Saturday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Lakers/Clippers UNDER 216.5

The Key: It's clear that when you look at the series history between the Lakers and Clippers that this total has been set too high Saturday.  The UNDER is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings and they haven't combined for more than 213 points in any of those 8 contests.  They have averaged just 192.1 combined points per game in their last 8 meetings.  Enough said.  Take the UNDER.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Orlando Magic +7.5

The Key: We are getting a great price on the Orlando Magic today because they have lost 6 of their last 7 games.  I think they have a great shot to pull off the upset here against a Blazers team in a bad situation.  The Blazers put a lot into their win over the Cavaliers on Wednesday, and I think they come out flat here tonight against a Magic team that will want this game more.  The Magic will be the fresher team as this will be their 2nd game in 5 days, while the Blazers will be playing their 3rd game in 4 days and 6th game in 10 days.  Orlando is 10-1 ATS in its last 11 road games against Northwest opponents.  Portland is just 7-19 ATS in its last 26 games following a straight up win.  Take Orlando.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Dallas Mavericks -2

The Key: I like this situation for the Mavs.  They will be hungry for a win after losing 3 straight.  And adding to that hunger is the fact that they just lost to the Suns 7 days ago 95-102, so they'll be in revenge mode here.  The Mavs had won 4 straight over the Suns prior to that defeat by 13, 10, 16 and 3 points.  Phoenix is 1-10 ATS in road games when playing only its 2nd game in 5 days over the last 2 seasons.  Dallas is 25-11 ATS after losing 3 of its last 4 games over the last 2 seasons.  The Mavericks are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games following a straight up loss.  The Suns are 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 vs. Western Conference.  The Suns are 18-37 ATS in their last 55 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.  Take Dallas.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Memphis Grizzlies +5

The Key: I like catching 5 points here with the Memphis Grizzlies as this is clearly the value side tonight.  The Grizzlies thumped the Thunder 114-80 as 1.5-point home favorites on December 29th.  Now they're catching 5 points in the rematch.  Certainly the Thunder will be hungry for revenge, but I think it is adjusted too much.  The Grizzlies rank 2nd in the NBA in defensive efficiency and they have the formula to stop Russell Westbrook with one of the best PG defenders in the NBA in Mike Conley.  He frustrated Westbrook so much so that he was ejected with two technical fouls in their recent meeting.  The Grizzlies are 13-4 ATS in their last 17 vs. Western Conference.  Take Memphis.

6* Pistons/Kings Tuesday NBA *BAILOUT* on Sacramento -2

The Key: The Kings come in hungry for a victory after losing 5 of their last 6 contests.  They have played a very tough schedule here of late, but it lightens up tonight against the Pistons, and I look for them to take advantage.  The Pistons are just 8-12 SU & 8-12 ATS on the road this year.  The Kings are 8-0 ATS after playing a game as a home underdog this season.  The Pistons are 8-19 ATS in their last 27 road games against Western Conference teams.  The Pistons are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up win.  The Kings are 13-4 ATS in their last 17 games following a straight up loss, and 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games off a loss by more than 10 points.  Take Sacramento.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Chicago Bulls -1

The Key: The Chicago Bulls have really started playing up to their potential here of late since benching Rajon Rondo.  They have gone 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last 3 games overall with a 118-111 win over Charlotte, a 106-94 win at Cleveland and a 123-118 victory over Toronto.  Now they take on Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder at home here tonight.  The Bulls are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning record, so they have upped their level of play against the better teams in this league.  The Thunder are 1-9 ATS as a road underdog of 3 points or less over the last 2 seasons.  Oklahoma City is 1-10 ATS in road games vs. Central Division opponents over the last 3 years.  Take Chicago.

7* NBA Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Houston Rockets -2.5

The Key: The Toronto Raptors just played an overtime game in Chicago last night.  They won't have much left to give in this 2nd of a back-to-back Sunday.  Now they have to face the hottest team in the NBA in the Houston Rockets, who are 18-2 in their last 20 games overall.  The Rockets will run them out of the building here.  The Rockets are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 road games.  Take Houston.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Toronto Raptors -2

The Key: The Chicago Bulls are coming off their biggest win of the season, a 106-94 road win at Cleveland.  But keep him mind that Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love both sat out that game.  Still, they are feeling good about themselves for beating Lebron James.  I think they have a letdown here in their next game against the Toronto Raptors, who may well be the best team in the East.  They are 24-11 on the season, but they will be focused here after dropping 3 of their last 5 games coming in.  Chicago is 4-14 ATS off a road win by 10 points or more over the last 3 years.  The Raptors are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 vs. Eastern Conference.  The Bulls are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games following a straight up win.  Take Toronto.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Brooklyn Nets +13.5

The Key: The Brooklyn Nets will be amped up to face the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers tonight.  And they catch the Cavs at a good time as they are as banged-up as they have been all season.  Both Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love sat out last game and are questionable to return tonight.  Lebron James is dealing with an ankle injury, and JR Smith remains out.  It's no wonder they lost at home to the Bulls 94-106 last time out.  Now they're being asked to go on the road and beat the Nets by 14-plus points to cover this number.  The Nets upset the Cavs 104-95 as 9.5-point home dogs in the last meeting in Brooklyn.  The Cavs are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 road games after four straight games where they forced 14 or fewer turnovers.  The Cavaliers are 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a double-digit loss at home.  Cleveland is 16-33-2 ATS in its last 51 games vs. a team with a losing record.  The Nets are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.  Take Brooklyn.

7* NBA Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto Raptors -4.5

The Key: The Toronto Raptors just finished a brutal road trip in which they lost three of their final four games, including two to the Warriors and Spurs.  Now they'll be hungry to get back in the win column as they return home to face the Utah Jazz tonight.  The Raptors are 11-5 at home this season and outscoring their opponents by nearly 12 points per game.  The Jazz are still without starting point guard George Hill and will be playing their 3rd game in 4 days here after losing to the Celtics 104-115 on Tuesday.  The Raptors are 6-1 SU and a perfect 7-0 ATS in their last 7 meetings with the Jazz.  Look for the one-sided nature of this series to continue Thursday night.  Take Toronto.

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

The Key: The Miami Heat are in a very tough situation here.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They have now lost 6 in a row and are starting to wear down.  They have been crushed by injuries too as Hassan Whiteside, Justise Winslow and Josh McRoberts will miss tonight's game.  Not to mention, James Johnson, Dion Waiters, Tyler Johnson and Goran Dragic are all dealing with injuries right now.  The Kings played last night as well, but they had two days off before that game and will be the fresher team by far.  They won 120-113 in Denver last night.  And that makes them fit into a nice trend this season in which they've gone 7-0 ATS in their following game after allowing 110 points or more this year.  Take Sacramento.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Boston Celtics -5.5

The Key: The Utah Jazz are in a tough situation here as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days.  They were tied with the Nets on the road last night at the end of 3 quarters before outscoring them 31-19 in the 4th to pull away for a 12-point win.  Now they won't have much left in the tank to face the Boston Celtics, who haven't played since Friday, giving them 3 days off in between games.  The Jazz are 10-23 ATS in their last 33 games as road underdogs.  The Jazz are 7-17 ATS in their last 24 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Celtics are 7-2-2 ATS in the last 9 meetings, including 5-0-2 ATS in their last 7 home meetings.  Take Boston.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Washington Wizards +9.5

The Key: The Houston Rockets have won 15 of their last 17 games overall, and as a result backers are paying a premium to bet on them moving forward.  They failed to cover as 12.5-point favorites in a 7-point home win over the Knicks last time out, and now they're being asked to lay 9.5 points to the Washington Wizards.  The Wizards will stay within the number tonight and have a chance to win this game in the closing minutes.  They have turned the corner but don't get any respect from oddsmakers.  The Wizards are 7-2 SU & 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games overall.  They have scored at least 105 points in 8 of those 9 games, so they have the firepower to keep up with the Rockets.  A whopping 9 straight meetings between the Wizards and Rockets have been decided by 8 points or fewer.  The road team has won 5 straight meetings outright, and the road team is 7-0 ATS in the last 7 meetings.  Take Washington.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Oklahoma City Thunder -5.5

The Key: The effects of missing Blake Griffin and Chris Paul are starting to show for the Clippers.  They are 0-5 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  Now they're in a brutal situation as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  Making matters worse is that they got in a shootout with the Rockets last night, who put up 140 points on them.  That makes this back-to-back even tougher.  The Thunder had yesterday off and will be hungry to bounce back from a bad loss in Memphis on Thursday in which Russell Westbrook was ejected.  The Clippers are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 road games.  The Thunder are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.  The Thunder are 27-10-2 ATS in their last 39 Saturday games.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Brooklyn Nets +8

The Key: It's time to fade the Washington Wizards, who are 8-3 SU & 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games overall.  Now they find themselves laying a big number here against the Brooklyn Nets.  You can count on three fingers how many times the Wizards have won a game by more than 7 points this season.  That's right, in their 31 games, they have only won by 8 or more 3 times.  The Nets are playing well right now themselves as they beat the Hornets 120-118 as 7-point dogs and then only lost 99-101 at Chicago as 9.5-point dogs in their last two games.  Washington is 10-26 ATS off a win by 6 points or less over the last 3 seasons.  Star SG Bradley Beal is doubtful to play for the Wizards tonight.  The Nets are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.  Brooklyn is 8-1-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on 1 days rest.  The Nets are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up loss.  Take Brooklyn.

7* NBA Non-Conference Game of the Month on Phoenix Suns +9

The Key: The Toronto Raptors are in a bad spot here.  They will be playing their 4th straight road game, the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days.  And they are coming off a 111-121 loss to Golden State last night.  They rallied from 25 down in the first quarter and got within 5 in the 4th, using a ton of energy to make that comeback.  Now they won't be nearly as excited to face the Suns tonight on the road.  The Suns are also playing the 2nd of a back-to-back off a loss to the Spurs last night.  But this is one of the deepest teams in the NBA and they can handle these back-to-backs better than most.  All they have to do is stay within single-digits for us to get the cover, and I don't think that's asking too much given the tough spot for the Raptors.  Phoenix is 15-4 ATS in home games off a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 years.  The Suns are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games following a ATS loss.  The Suns are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 meetings with the Raptors.  Take Phoenix.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Denver Nuggets -3.5

The Key: The Denver Nuggets just recently got fully healthy and are playing up to their full potential because of it.  They are 4-2 in their last 6 games overall with three double-digit home victories.  They blew an 8-point lead in the final two minutes to Atlanta, otherwise they'd be 5-1 during this stretch.  This is a pretty short number when you consider the Minnesota Timberwolves are 5-10 SU & 5-10 ATS on the road this season.  The Nuggets score 112.6 points per game at home, while the T'Wolves give up 107.2 points per game on the road.  Minnesota is 3-14 ATS off a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.  The Nuggets are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.  Take Denver.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Orlando Magic +2.5

The Key: These teams just played earlier this month with Memphis erasing a double-digit lead in the 4th quarter to beat the Magic 95-94 at home.  The Magic have not forgotten, and they've played much better since that defeat.  They've gone 7-6 SU & 8-5 ATS in their 13 games since.  The home team has won 4 straight meetings between these teams now.  The Magic won 119-107 at home last year against the Grizzlies.  Orlando is 13-3 ATS versus good defensive teams who allow a shooting percentage of 43% or less over the last 3 seasons.  The Grizzlies are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 2 days rest.  The Magic are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games playing on 2 days rest.  The Magic are 15-5 ATS in their last 20 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Take Orlando.

6* Bulls/Spurs Christmas Day *CA$H COW* on Chicago +9

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs aren't putting teams away at home this season.  They are only outscoring their opponents by 3.0 points per game on average at home.  The Chicago Bulls are the type of team that plays well against good teams, and poorly against bad teams.  That is indicated by the fact that they are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. teams with a winning percentage above .600.  They are also 18-8 ATS against teams who have at least a +3 PPG differential on the season over the last 2 years.  The Bulls have covered 4 of their last 5 meetings with the Spurs, including an outright upset in their first meeting this season.  Take Chicago.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons +6.5

The Key: This is a great spot to fade the Golden State Warriors.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after a come-from-behind 117-101 victory over the Nets last night.  They were down 11 points at halftime and had to exert a ton of effort in the 2nd half to get the win.  Now they have a huge game on deck against Cleveland on Christmas Day, and you know they're going to want revenge against the defending champs.  I fully expect them to have a flat effort here as they look ahead to that game.  Expect the Pistons to put their best foot forward to try and end a 4-game losing streak, which has them undervalued.  And the Pistons beat the Warriors 113-95 as 7-point home dogs last year.  The Warriors are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 0 days rest.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Brooklyn Nets +15.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors come in overvalued off 5 straight victories, including two blowout home wins over the Jazz and Blazers.  But they have struggled on the road recently, going 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games with their largest victory coming by 8 points.  The Nets are fully healthy now and will be amped up to face the Warriors at home.  All they have to do is stay within 15 points to cover this massive spread, and I think they are more than capable of that.  The Warriors are 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  The Nets are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games following a straight up loss.  The Warriors are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 trips to Brooklyn.  Take Brooklyn.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Oklahoma City Thunder -2

The Key: This is a good spot to back the Oklahoma City Thunder, who will be hungry for a win after losing 3 of their last 4 games coming in.  They will be playing just their 4th game in 9 days here and will be ready to go.  The same cannot be said for the Pelicans, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 8th game in 12 days after a win in Philadelphia last night.  The Thunder are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a losing record.  The Pelicans are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning record.  The Thunder are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 meetings in New Orleans.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on San Antonio Spurs +1

The Key: The Houston Rockets have won 10 in a row and are starting to get a lot of love from oddsmakers.  But they just lost starting center Clint Capela, who averages 12 points, 8 boards and nearly 2 blocks per game, to a broken leg.  Look for the Spurs to capitalize on his absence and for LaMarcus Aldridge and Pau Gasol to dominate inside.  The Spurs will get a ton of layups in this game with no resistance since Capela is no longer in there.  San Antonio has won 4 of its last 5 meetings with Houston.  The Rockets are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games on 2 days rest.  Take San Antonio.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Denver Nuggets -8

The Key: The Denver Nuggets are finally fully healthy and playing up to their potential now.  They have won their last two games by double-digits over both Portland (132-120) and New York (127-114).  I think they make it 3 straight double-digits wins against a Dallas Mavericks team in a bad spot tonight.  The Mavs will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 7th game in 11 days.  They have plenty of injuries and are short-handed, making this spot even tougher.  Plus they have to play in the altitude in Denver tonight, only worsening matters further.  I don't expect much of an effort from them here tonight.  The Nuggets are 38-16-1 ATS in their last 55 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.  Denver is 19-6-1 ATS in its last 26 games after scoring more than 125 points in its previous game.  Take Denver. 

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Philadelphia 76ers -2.5

The Key: I like this spot for the 76ers, who will only be playing their 4th game in 10 days.  They are rested and just returned Nerlens Noel to the lineup last time out against the Lakers, though he only played 8 minutes and voiced his frustration.  After he and coach Brett Brown hashed things out, I expect a big performance from Noel here.  He and Joel Embiid will dominate the paint in what will be a sign of things to come for years moving forward.  This is a very winnable game for the 76ers against the Brooklyn Nets, who are just 7-18 on the season, including 1-11 in road games.  They are giving up a ridiculous 118.5 points per game on the road this year.  The Nets are 6-14-2 ATS in their last 22 road games.  The 76ers are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following a double-digit loss at home.  The 76ers are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games following a ATS loss.  Take Philadelphia.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Los Angeles Lakers +16

The Key: The Lakers finally ended an 8-game losing streak that prompted Luke Walton to call his players 'soft' heading into the Philadelphia game last night.  His players responded well with a 100-89 road win over the 76ers.  Now the Lakers will be amped up for a showdown with the defending champion Cavaliers, who are laying too many points here with this 16-point spread.  The Lakers are as healthy as they have been all season, and they have the depth to play well again despite this being the 2nd of a back-to-back.  Cleveland is 2-12 ATS after covering 5 or 6 of its last 7 against the spread over the last 2 seasons.  Bets on underdogs who have failed to cover 12 or more of their last 15 against opponent who covered 4 or 5 of their last 6 against the spread coming in are 81-38 ATS since 1996.  Take Los Angeles.

7* NBA *Situational* Game of the Month on Chicago Bulls -5

The Key: I like this situation here for the Chicago Bulls.  They lost 97-108 in Milwaukee last night.  Fortunately, they only have to wait 24 hours for their chance at revenge.  And they get the Bucks at home tonight.  Look for a hungry effort from them to get the win and cover here.  The Bucks are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 0 days rest.  Milwaukee is 3-10 ATS in its last 13 road games.  The home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.  The Bulls are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home meetings with the Bucks.  Take Chicago.

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

The Key: The Pelicans are in a great situation here.  They are getting healthier and nearly beat the Warriors on Tuesday at home.  Now I expect them to beat a gassed Indiana Pacers team here tonight.  The Pacers are on the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They lost in Miami last night, and they'll lose in New Orleans tonight.  The Pacers are just 3-9 SU & 3-9 ATS on the road this year.  They are allowing 113.6 PPG away from home on the season.  Indiana is 1-10 ATS in its last 11 Thursday games.  Take New Orleans.

7* NBA Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Dallas Mavericks +5.5

The Key: The Dallas Mavericks are getting healthier and starting to play a lot more competitive basketball.  They are coming off a 20-point home win over the Denver Nuggets.  They have gone 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games overall.  They are lacking respect from oddsmakers tonight once again as 5.5-point dogs.  Detroit should not be favored in this game after losing 79-97 to the 76ers last time out.  The Pistons also shouldn't be favored considering they are 5-9 SU & 5-9 ATS on the road this season.  The Mavs are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 home games.  Take Dallas.

6* Thunder/Blazers ESPN National TV *Annihilator* on Oklahoma City +1.5

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers put a lot into their game against the Clippers last night.  They wound up losing 120-121 in an absolute shootout.  Now the Blazers are gassed as they will be playing their 5th game in 7 days here.  That fatigue has clealry shown as the Blazers have lost 4 straight coming in.  The Thunder are rested and will be playing just their 3rd game in 8 days.  And the Thunder are playing very well, going 7-1 SU & 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  The Blazers are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 0 days rest.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* Monday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Bucks/Raptors UNDER 212

The Key: Just looking at the head-to-head history between the Bucks and Raptors shows that the books have inflated this 212-point total.  Each of the last 13 meetings between Toronto and Milwaukee have seen 210 or fewer combined points.  That equates to a 13-0 angle backing the UNDER in this game.  You have to go all the way back to 2013 to find the last time they combined for more than 212 points.  Take the UNDER.

6* Sunday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Celtics/Thunder UNDER 207

The Key: The Celtics are without Isaiah Thomas right now and it really makes them a much less efficient offensive team.  That was evident last time out as they scored just 94 points on 37.3% shooting against the Raptors.  It does make the Celtics a better defensive team without him in there because elite PG defender Marcus Smart has to play more minutes.  The Celtics only allowed 87 points and 37% shooting to the Magic and 101 points and 41.5% shooting to the Raptors in their last two games without Thomas.  Smart should make things difficult for Russell Westbrook, just at Patrick Beverly did on Friday when the Rockets beat the Thunder 102-99.  The UNDER is 22-7 in Celtics last 29 games playing on 1 days rest.  The UNDER is 12-5 in Celtics last 17 overall.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Celtics last 7 vs. Western Conference.  The UNDER is 5-1 in Thunder last 6 overall.  Take the UNDER.

7* NBA Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Portland Trail Blazers -1

The Key: We'll fade the Indiana Pacers tonight because they are a very tired team.  They are coming off a 5-game road trip that concluded with a 103-111 loss at Dallas last night.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days now.  After blowing a big lead at Memphis on Thursday to lose by 2, the Blazers will come back hungry here for a win.  Indiana is 3-13 ATS after scoring 100 points or more in 4 straight games over the last 3 seasons.  The Pacers are 7-19 ATS in their last 26 games playing on 0 days rest.  The Blazers are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings, winning by 22, 9, 13 and 10 points.  They are 5-0 straight up in the last 5 meetings as well.  Take Portland.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Washington Wizards -4

The Key: John Wall called out his teammates for their lack of effort following a 116-124 home loss to Orlando on Tuesday in which Wall scored 52 points, yet they still lost.  These players seemed to respond well, allowing a season-low 85 points to the Nuggets on Thursday in a 92-85 victory.  I look for them to build some momentum here with another win and cover as 4-point favorites over the Milwaukee Bucks.  The Bucks are in a much tougher spot as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after a 110-114 home loss to Atlanta last night.  The Bucks have only played 7 road games all season and have gone 3-4, scoring just 94.7 points per game on the highway this year.  Milwaukee is 4-16 ATS after having won 5 or 6 of its last 7 games over the last 3 seasons.  The bucks are 7-21 ATS after playing a game as a favorite over the last 2 years.  The Bucks are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 0 days rest.  The favorite is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.  The Wizards have won 7 of their last 9 meetings with the Bucks, including 4 straight home meetings all by an average of 14.5 points per game.  Take Washington.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Boston Celtics -1.5

The Key: We're going to fade the Toronto Raptors tonight in this tough spot for them.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 8 days.  They just beat the Timberwolves 124-110 at home last night.  But now they have to go on the road and take on a very tough Boston Celtics team that is coming off a 117-87 road win at Orlando despite playing without Isaiah Thomas.  They will likely be without Thomas again, and that's the reason they are only 1.5-point favorites here, which has only added to the value.  Bets against any team in a game involving two teams who score at least 102 points per game, after scoring 110 points or more in 4 straight games are 36-12 ATS since 1996.  The Raptors are 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 trips to Boston.  The home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Take Boston.

6* Spurs/Bulls TNT National TV *Annihilator* on Chicago Bulls +4.5

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs are getting way too much credit from oddsmakers because of their 13-0 road record this season.  But the Bulls are the value play here because they have lost 3 straight coming in and will be hungry for a victory and to end this Spurs streak.  The Bulls have actually won their last 2 home meetings with the Spurs outright as underdogs, winning 92-89 as 4.5-point dogs last year, and 104-81 as 5.5-point dogs the year before.  The Spurs are 3-13-1 ATS in their last 17 Thursday games.  The Bulls are 24-9 ATS in their last 33 Thursday games.  The Bulls are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Take Chicago.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Atlanta Hawks -8.5

The Key: There's a good reason the Atlanta Hawks are favored by 8.5 tonight despite losing 7 straight and 10 of their last 11 overall.  It's because they will be hungry for a victory to end the skid, and they are fully healthy now, which wasn't the case during the losing streak.  And also because the Miami Heat are not healthy and in a tough spot.  The Heat are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back here after losing at home to the Knicks 103-114 last night.  They are expected to be without several key players in Justise Winslow, Josh Richardson, Luke Babbitt, James Johnson, Dion Waiters and Chris Bosh.  The Hawks are 30-15 ATS in their last 45 home games following 5 or more straight losses.  Take Atlanta.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Boston Celtics PK

The Key: The Orlando Magic will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back here and their 5th game in 7 days.  That's one of the toughest situations you will find in the NBA.  The Boston Celtics should take advantage here despite likely being without the services of Isaiah Thomas.  The Magic won't have anything left in the tank here, especially after playing in a 124-116 shootout in Washington last night.  The Celtics are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 road games.  The Magic are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 home games.  Orlando is 0-7 ATS in its last 7 Wednesday games.  Take Boston.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Minnesota Timberwolves +4.5

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after their 97-96 win in Milwaukee last night kept their road record a perfect 12-0 on the season.  But I believe that perfect record comes to an end tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have had 2 days off since beating the Hornets in overtime on Saturday.  I'll take these young rested Timberwolves against the veteran Spurs on no rest every time.  The Spurs are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. a team with a team with a winning percentage below .500.  Take Minnesota.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Boston Celtics +5.5

The Key: This is a great situation to fade the Houston Rockets.  They are coming off a 4-1 road trip and this will be their first game back home.  Players get distracted with duties at home in their first game back from a long road trip. We saw that last night with the Clippers losing outright to the Pacers as 12.5-point favorites (we had the Pacers) as they returned from a long trip themselves.  I think the Celtics win this game outright as they catch the Rockets in a flat spot, especially off back-to-back road wins over the Warriors and Nuggets.  The road team is 4-1 SU in the last 5 meetings, including a 111-95 Celtics win as 4.5-point dogs in Houston last season.  The Celtics are 18-4 ATS in road games vs. teams who score at least 103 points per game over the last 3 seasons.  The Rockets are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when playing on 2 days rest.  Take Boston.

6* Pacers/Clippers NBA *BAILOUT* on Indiana +12.5

The Key: I always like fading teams off a long road trip in their first game back home.  The Los Angeles Clippers just completed a 6-game road trip with back-to-back wins over the Cavs and Pelicans on consecutive nights.  Now they've only been home for one day, and players usually have a bunch of family priorities when they get back from these long trips.  Their focus isn't on basketball.  The Clippers are going to need to be focused to cover this huge 12.5-point spread against the Pacers.  The Pacers will be fresh and ready to go as they're working on 3 days rest right now having last played on Wednesday.  Indiana is 21-7 ATS when playing 4 or fewer games in 10 days over the last 3 seasons.  The Pacers are 19-6-2 ATS in their last 27 games playing on 3 or more days rest.  The Clippers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 vs. Eastern Conference.  The Pacers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings in Los Angeles.  Take Indiana.

6* Suns/Warriors NBA *BAILOUT* on Phoenix +16

The Key: The Phoenix Suns are once again catching too many points against the Golden State Warriors.  The Suns are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings with the Warriors, losing all 4 meetings by 8, 7, 6 and 13 points.  They have already faced the Warriors twice this season, so it's not like Golden State is going to be all that motivated to beat them for a 3rd time.  And it's going to take a motivated Warriors team to cover this massive 16-point spread.  The Suns are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  Take Phoenix.

6* Rockets/Nuggets ESPN National TV *Annihilator* on Denver -4

The Key: The Rockets just played a double-OT thriller in Golden State last night and pulled off the upset as double-digit underdogs.  They aren't going to have much left to give tonight here on the road against the Denver Nuggets a night later.  While Houston should have an off game because of the circumstances, Denver should be primed for once of its best games of the season as it will be excited to play on National TV on ESPN.  Plus the Nuggets have lost 3 of their last 4 and need a win here.  Denver has won 3 straight meetings with Houston while covering the spread in all three.  The Nuggets are 9-0 ATS in their last 9 games after allowing at least 105 points in 5 straight games coming in.  Take Denver.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on New Orleans Pelicans +5.5

The Key: The Los Angeles Clippers are coming off a huge road win over the Cleveland Cavaliers last night.  Now they're in a prime letdown spot here against the New Orleans Pelicans, and they're a tired team playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after losing in double-OT to Brooklyn on Tuesday as well.  The Pelicans are 5-2 SU & 5-2 ATS since Jrue Holiday returned to the lineup.  Four of those wins have come by 12 points or more as well.  They are playing their best ball of the season and are primed to upset the Clippers here, especially since they've had 2 days off in between games.  New Orleans is 26-12 ATS as a home dog over the last 3 seasons.  The Pelicans are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games and 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning record.  The Clippers are 10-24 ATS in the last 34 meetings and 5-16 ATS in the last 21 road meetings.  Take New Orleans.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Atlanta Hawks -2.5

The Key: The Atlanta Hawks are hungry for a victory after losing 4 straight and 7 of their last 8 games overall against a brutal schedule where 7 of the 8 games were on the road.  It's safe to say they're happy to return home tonight, where they are 6-2 SU & 6-2 ATS and winning by 6.5 points per game.  They get to face a terrible road team in the Pistons, who are 3-8 SU & 3-8 ATS on the road this season and losing by 7.1 points per game.  The Pistons are coming off back-to-back road wins, which is rare for them and has them overvalued now.  The chances of them winning 3 straight on the highway are slim to none, especially against a hungry team like the Hawks.  Bets against any team off 2 or more consecutive upset wins as a road underdog; tired team playing 6 or more games in 10 days are 28-7 ATS over the last 5 seasons.  The Hawks are 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.  Take Atlanta.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Utah Jazz -9.5

The Key: The Utah Jazz have won 4 straight games by an average of 20 points per game.  Look for their domination to continue tonight against the Miami Heat.  The Heat are running on fumes right now as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They are also dealing with some injuries, and after playing in the altitude last night in Denver, they won't have a whole lot left to give tonight.  The Jazz are 17-4 ATS in their last 21 vs. a team with a losing record and 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.  The Heat at 12-27 ATS in their last 39 following a road win.  Take Utah.

7* Clippers/Cavs TNT *HEAVY HITTER* on UNDER 215.5

The Key: This is a battle between two of the best teams in the NBA.  Both squads will be laying it all on the line defensively tonight to get a win.  The Clippers are coming off 3 straight losses, while the Cavs are coming off an upset loss to the Bucks where both teams didn't play well defensively.  That will be the focus heading into tonight's game.  The Clippers rank 2nd in the NBA in defensive efficiency this season.  Clippers games have averaged roughly 207 combined points per game while Cavs games have averaged roughly 214.  I think there's some value with the UNDER tonight.  Bets on the UNDER in a game involving 2 very good teams who outscore their opponents by 7-plus points per game after a combined score of 205 points or more are 43-13 over the last 5 seasons.  Take the UNDER.

6* Wednesday NBA *Total* Annihilator on Spurs/Mavs UNDER 189.5

The Key: We have two of the slowest teams in the NBA matching up tonight in the Spurs and Mavs.  The Mavs rank 29th in the NBA in pace this season while the Spurs are 27th.  The Mavs haven't done much with those few possessions as they also rank 28th in offensive efficiency.  The Spurs have beaten the Mavs 96-91 in consecutive meetings for 187 combined points in each.  The most recent was on November 21st just over a week ago, so these teams are familiar with one another.  And I can't see them getting to 190 combined points here, which is what it would take to top this 189.5-point total.  The UNDER is 9-2 in Spurs last 11 vs. NBA Northwester Division opponents.  The UNDER is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings.  The UNDER is 5-1 in Mavericks last 6 home games.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons +3

The Key: The Detroit Pistons have owned up to their road woes as they are just 1-8 away from home this season.  They realize it's a problem if they want to be a playoff contender, and look for them to tackle it head-on tonight.  There's every reason they should win this game against Charlotte.  The Hornets will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 4th game in 5 days, one of the toughest situations you'll find in the NBA.  I expect a pretty weak effort from them here tonight as they just don't have much left to give.  The Pistons come in on 2 days' rest after last playing on Saturday.  This is a huge scheduling advantage that they must capitalize on tonight.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Charlotte Hornets -1

The Key: The Charlotte Hornets opened as 2.5-point dogs and are now 1-point favorites.  I completely agree with this move as they should beat the Memphis Grizzlies.  They'll be out for revenge from a home loss to the Grizzlies on November 21st exactly one week ago today.  And they should be able to get it because they are nearly 100% healthy, while the Grizzlies are battling several key injuries right now.  They are without two starters in Chandler Parsons and James Ennis, and they are also without the best 6th man in the NBA in Zach Randolph.  I can't see the Grizzlies even being competitive tonight this short-handed.  Memphis is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 home games.  The road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.  Take Charlotte.

6* NBA Dog of the Week on Indiana Pacers +10

The Key: The Indiana Pacers should not be catching double-digits at home to the Los Angeles Clippers today.  The Clippers are overrated right now because they have the best record in the NBA.  Bets on underdogs of 10 or more points after being beaten by the spread by 18 or more points total in thier last 3 games, with a winning percentage between 40% & 49% on the season are 25-5 ATS over the last 5 seasons.  Take Indiana.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Oklahoma City Thunder -3.5

The Key: This line has been bet down from -6.5 to -3.5 and I feel that we are now getting the right price to back the Thunder.  I get the move because the Thunder played on overtime game last night against the Nuggets.  But they showed a lot of fight in that game to end a 3-game losing streak.  And now they'll want revenge from an 88-104 loss in Detroit back on November 14th just less than 3 weeks ago.  They were in a bad spot there as they were on a back-to-back while the Pistons were not.  And the Pistons also played yesterday in a 108-97 home win over the Clippers, so it's not like they'll be much fresher than the Thunder here.  They'll be playing their 6th game in 9 days.  And they could have a letdown off such a big win over the Clippers, plus the fact that they've already beaten the Thunder once this season.  And the Pistons have been a terrible road game, going 1-7 SU & 1-7 ATS on the highway this season while losing by 11.3 points per game.  The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons +6.5

The Key: This is a very nice price for the Detroit Pistons at home tonight.  They have had one of the more underrated home-court advantages over the past few seasons.  They are 6-2 SU & 6-2 ATS at home this season with their only two losses coming to Boston (92-94) and Houston (96-99) by a combined 5 points.  They are actually outscoring opponents by 13.1 points per game at home this year.  The Los Angeles Clippers are getting too much respect from the books now after their NBA-best 14-2 start to the season.  The Clippers are 9-22 ATS in their last 31 games as a road favorite of 6.5 to 9 points.  The Pistons are 8-0 ATS in home games revenging a loss where they scored 85 points or fewer over the last 3 seasons.  The home team is 4-0-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.  Take Detroit.

6* Thunder/Kings Western Conference *BAILOUT* on Sacramento -2.5

The Key: The wheels have fallen off in Oklahoma City.  The Thunder are 2-6 SU & 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  This is a tired team right now as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 7th game in 11 days.  The Sacramento Kings are rested as they have had 2 days off and will be playing just their 4th game in 12 days.  They only lost by 5 to the Spurs, by 6 to the Clippers and beat the Raptors by 3 in their last three contests, which are three of the best teams in the NBA.  The Thunder are 3-15 ATS in road games after playing 5 consecutive games as favorite over the last 2 seasons.  Oklahoma City is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 road games.  The Kings are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 home games.  Sacramento is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games vs. a team with a winning record.  The Thunder are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings.  Take Sacramento.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Cleveland Cavaliers -11.5

The Key: I think we're actually getting a discount on the Cleveland Cavaliers for once because they have gone 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  But Lebron James returned to the lineup last time out, and they rolled the Pistons 104-81 at home.  That was five days ago as they have had four days off in between games.  They will be primed for a big performance tonight.  The Blazers are running on fumes right now as they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They have gone 1-4 straight up in their last 5 games, and they are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games as they have been consistently overvalued.  Portland is 1-9 ATS vs. good offensive teams who score 99-plus points per game this season.  The home team is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.  Take Cleveland.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Atlanta Hawks -8.5

The Key: The Atlanta Hawks have lost two straight road games to the Hornets and Knicks to fall to 9-4 on the season.  It's safe to say they will be very hungry for a win tonight to get back on track.  The opposite is true for the Pelicans, who are coming off two straight home wins over the Blazers and Hornets to get to 4-10 on the season.  Now the Pelicans hit the road where they are 1-5 and losing by 7.3 points per game.  The Hawks are 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS at home this season, outscoring opponents by 10.0 points per game.  Take Atlanta.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Phoenix Suns +8

The Key: The Washington Wizards have only one win by 8 points or more this season in 12 games.  I like the Suns for that reason alone.  Plus the Suns have gone 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games in Washington.  They haven't lost to the Wizards by more than 7 points in any of their last 6 meetings.  The Suns are 17-4 ATS in their last 21 games following an ATS loss, and 16-4 ATS in their last 20 games following a loss by 10 points or more.  Take Phoenix.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Denver Nuggets -3.5

The Key: The Denver Nuggets have been one of the more underrated teams in the NBA as they are 8-4 ATS in their 12 games this season.  They had yesterday off following an OT loss to the Raptors, and they'll be hungry to bounce back and get a win at home against the Jazz.  And the Jazz have been overvalued, going 0-3 SU & 0-3 ATS in their last 3 games.  They are dealing with a plethora of injuries right now as starters George Hill and Derrick Favors are out, while key role player Boris Diaw is questionable.  Now the Jazz are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after a run-and-gun 102-111 loss at Houston last night.  They won't have much left in the tank for the Nuggets, who also like the push the pace like Houston.  The Nuggets are 8-0 ATS after allowing 100 points or more in 5 straight games over the last 2 seasons.  Take Denver.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons -3.5

The Key: The Detroit Pistons are 5-0 SU & 5-0 ATS at home this season, outscoring opponents by 17.4 points per game.  The Pistons are 24-8 ATS as a home favorite over the last 2 seasons.  Both the Celtics and Pistons played yesterday, but while the Pistons are relatively healthy, the Celtics are not.  They are expected to be without Al Horford and Jae Crowder again tonight, and those are two of their best players.  The Pistons are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 games playing on 0 days' rest.  Detroit is 37-17-2 ATS in its last 56 home games.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Denver Nuggets +4

The Key: The Toronto Raptors are in a very tough spot mentally here.  They just played two huge games on back-to-back nights against the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers, the two teams who played in the NBA Finals each of the past two seasons.  And now they face the Denver Nuggets and won't be able to emotionally get up for this game tonight.  The Nuggets want revenge from a 102-105 road loss at Toronto in their first meeting this season. The Nuggets are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.  The underdog is 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings.  The Nuggets are 35-16-1 ATS in their last 52 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.  Bets against favorites in a game involving two bad defensive teams who allow at least 102 points per game, after scoring 110 points or more in 4 straight games are 27-6 ATS since 1996.  The Nuggets are 14-1 ATS after allowing 100 points or more in 5 straight games over the last 3 seasons.  Take Denver.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Minnesota Timberwolves -11

The Key: The Philadelphia 76ers are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They will be missing two key players tonight in Jahlil Okafor and Nik Stauskas, who combined for 34 points last night against Washington.  I think the 76ers will show their fatigue here and fail to keep this game against the Minnesota Timberwolves competitive.  The 76ers are 0-4 on the road this season and getting outscored by 17.7 points per game.  The 76ers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following an ATS win.  Philadelphia is 0-4 ATS in its last four games playing on zero rest.  Take Minnesota.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Oklahoma City Thunder -2

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder will be hungry for a win following 4 consecutive losses.  I like the price we are getting here as they basically just have to win to cover the spread.  I like the fact that the home team has won 7 of the last 9 meetings between OKC and Houston, and the home team went 4-0 straight up at home in their 4 meetings last season as well.  The Thunder are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following a loss by double-digits.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* Bulls/Blazers Non-Conference *BAILOUT* on Portland -3

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers are 7-4 this season with two of their losses coming to the Los Angeles Clippers, who are the best team in the NBA right now.  The Blazers are 5-1 in their last 6 games overall.  But they have failed to cover the spread in 4 straight, which has them undervalued right now as only 3-point favorites over the Chicago Bulls.  With wins and covers in 3 of their last 4 games against the Magic, Heat and Wizards, the Bulls come into this game overvalued.  I think the Blazers are the far superior team on a neutral court, and home-court advantage should be worth more than 3 points for them here.  This is a discount.  Take Portland.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons -2.5

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder are a tired team right now.  They have lost 3 straight games coming in and now will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 8th game in 12 days.  I don't expect a very good effort from them here tonight off their 117-119 home loss to the Magic last night.  The Pistons are 4-0 at home this season.  Not only are they winning, they are dominating, beating opponents by over 17 points per game.  The Pistons are 24-8 ATS in their last 32 games as a home favorite.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Phoenix Suns -4.5

The Key: The Phoenix Suns have been competitive in almost every game this season.  They have won three of their last five overall and were competitive in the other two in road losses to the Lakers and Blazers.  The Brooklyn Nets have lost three of their last five with blowout losses to Chicago by 30 and New York by 14.  All three of the Nets' wins this season have come at home, but they are 0-3 on the road.  I look for the supremely talented Suns to put them away early and win this one going away.  The Nets are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 road games.  Phoenix is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 home games.  The Suns are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  Take Phoenix.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Portland Trail Blazers -6.5

The Key: The Sacramento Kings are in the midst of the toughest early schedule in the NBA.  They are being asked to play an 11th game in 17 days to open the season tonight.  This will be their 5th game in 7 days and the 2nd of a back-to-back after a home loss to the Lakers last night.  The Blazers have owned the Kings, going 6-0 SU & 5-1 ATS in the last 6 home meetings while winning 5 times by at least 11 points.  Given the tough spot for the Kings, another blowout win for the Blazers can be expected tonight.  Take Portland.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Milwaukee Bucks -5.5

The Key: The Milwaukee Bucks have won 3 of their last 4 games coming in.  They throttled the Pacers 125-107 and the Kings 117-91 in the process.  Their only loss came on the road in overtime at Dallas while playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  But the Bucks have had the last 3 days off to get ready for the Pelicans, who they already beat 117-113 on the road just over a week ago.  The Pelicans are a mess as they are 0-8 SU & 2-6 ATS this season.  They should be much bigger underdogs here to the Bucks on the road.  The Pelicans are 10-22 ATS in their last 32 vs. Eastern Conference.  Take Milwaukee.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Los Angeles Clippers -9.5

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers are in a very tough situation here.  They are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 6th game in 9 days.  They used up a lot of energy in a 124-121 home win over the Phoenix Suns last night as Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum combined for 71 points.  The Clippers are 6-1 this season and outscoring teams by 14.9 points per game.  They have been the best team in the NBA thus far in point differential.  And they want revenge on the Blazers after getting knocked out of the playoffs by them last year once Chris Paul and Blake Griffin were lost to injury.  Los Angeles is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 home games.  That includes 20 and 21-points wins over the Blazers in Game 1 and 2 of the playoffs last year when they were healthy.  Take Los Angeles.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Phoenix Suns +7.5

The Key: The Phoenix Suns, with their terrific guard trio of Eric Bledsoe, Devin Booker and Brandon Knight, match up very well with the Portland Trail Blazers and their superb guard duo of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum.  That probably helps to explain why the Suns have had so much success against the Blazers recently.  Dating back to last season, the Suns have won 3 of their last 4 meetings with the Blazers outright.  Bets on road underdogs after allowing 105 points or more 3 straight games against opponent after a win by 6 points or less are 24-3 ATS over the last 5 seasons.  I think the Suns are catching too many points tonight.  Take Phoenix.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Oklahoma City Thunder -5

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder aren't missing Kevin Durant too much.  They are 5-1 this season with their only loss coming to Durant's Warriors on the road.  They also have a road win over the Clippers, and they are 3-0 at home this season with an average margin of victory of 13.4 points per game.  The Miami Heat are clearly taking a step back this season as their roster is one of the worst in the NBA now.  They have lost 3 of their last 4 with all 3 losses coming by at least 6 points.  The Thunder have won their last 2 home meetings with the Heat by 25 and 18 points.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Houston Rockets +3

The Key: The Atlanta Hawks will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after playing a road game against the Washington Wizards last night.  Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets come in on 2 days' rest and chomping the bit to hit the court.  The Rockets' up-tempo style will test the legs of the Hawks as they have to be tired right now.  The Rockets are scoring 110.2 points per game on 47.2% shooting.  Houston is 20-8 ATS in its last 28 games when playing on 2 days' rest.  Take Houston.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on San Antonio Spurs -4.5

The Key: I really like this spot for the San Antonio Spurs.  It's a home and home situation for them after losing to the Jazz at home on Tuesday night.  Now they've had two days off and will get their shot at revenge against the Jazz here on the road.  The Jazz don't have that same luxury as they came back and played the Mavs on Wednesday, so this will be their 3rd game in 4 days.  And the Jazz are short-handed right now playing without Alec Burks, Gordon Hayward and Boris Diaw.  The Spurs have still won 4 of their last 5 meetings with the Jazz with 3 of those wins coming by 18-plus points.  San Antonio is 19-6 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite of 10 points or more since 1996.  Utah has only covered in 3 of its last 15 games vs. a team with a winning record.  Take San Antonio.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Boston Celtics +10

The Key: I know the Boston Celtics will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back here, but this is one of the deepest teams in the NBA.  That depth allows the Celtics to play well on no rest.  They are actually 35-15-1 ATS in their last 51 games playing on 0 days' rest.  The city of Cleveland is down right now after losing the World Series.  I think that will carry over to their basketball team here tonight.  Either way, it's going to be hard for the Cavs to win by double-digits against these pesky Celtics.  Take Boston.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Dallas Mavericks +4

The Key: The Dallas Mavericks are hungry for their first win of the season.  They are 0-3 with an overtime loss to the Pacers and a 1-point loss to the Rockets.  But they've had two days in between games, which has helped Dirk Nowitzki get over his illness, and he should be good to go tonight.  This is an awful spot for the Jazz, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and 3rd game in 4 days.  They beat the Spurs on the road last night and will likely be in a letdown spot here.  The Mavs are 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games against a team with a winning home record.  Take Dallas.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Miami Heat -3.5

The Key: The NBA schedule makers did the Kings no favors to start the season.  They have to be gassed right now considering they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  I look for the Miami Heat to take advantage and put away the Kings early in a blowout victory.  The Heat have been solid this season with a 12-point win over the Magic on the road, and narrow 6 and 7-point home losses to the Hornets and Spurs, respectively.  The Kings showed signs of wearing down last night as they were outscored 14-27 in the fourth quarter in a 95-106 loss at Atlanta.  The Heat are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 home games, 21-7 ATS in their last 28 meetings, and 11-3 ATS in their last 14 home meetings.  Take Miami.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Brooklyn Nets +6.5

The Key: The Brooklyn Nets are a perfect 3-0 ATS in three games this season.  They are just 1-2 straight up, but they only lost by 5 on the road to the Celtics, and by 2 on the road to the Bucks.  They won their only home game, beating the Pacers by 9 as 6-point dogs.  I think they will give the Chicago Bulls a run for their money here tonight with a chance to win outright as 6.5-point dogs.  The Nets are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games vs. a team with a winning record.  The Bulls are 1-11 ATS in road games after scoring 105 points or more over the past 2 seasons.  Take Brooklyn.

6* T'Wolves/Kings Saturday NBA *BAILOUT* on Timberwolves/Kings UNDER 206

The Key: Tom Thibodeau has installed a defensive mindset into this Minnesota team that has been missing over the past couple seasons.  The Timberwolves held opponents to just over 94 points per game in the preseason.  They started the season with a 98-102 loss at Memphis, and I look for them to lock in defensively tonight against the Kings.  The Kings have shown defensive improvement under Dave Joerger as well as they are going all-out on that side of the court in the early going.  They held Phoenix to just 94 points in the opener and San Antonio to a respectable 102 points in their second game of the season.  The UNDER is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings with combined scores of 202, 217, 194 and 192 points.  Take the UNDER.

7* Warriors/Pelicans ESPN *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -10.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors have been steaming mad since their 100-129 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the opener.  Look for them to take it out on the hapless New Orleans Pelicans, who are the worst team in the Western Conference to open the season.  The Pelicans are missing two starters in Tyreke Evans and Jrue Holiday, and their lineup is one of the worst in the NBA as a result right now.  Even the Denver Nuggets beat them 107-102 in the opener despite committing 24 turnovers.  The Warriors should roll from start to finish and easily win this game by double-digits.  The Pelicans are 0-9 ATS after a game with 30 or more assists over the last 3 seasons.  Take Golden State.

6* Celtics/Bulls TNT *CA$H COW* on UNDER 211

The Key: Because the Celtics played a shootout against the Nets last night in a 122-117 win, this total has been inflated tonight.  The Celtics won't be playing with the same energy as they did last night, and the Bulls are a much better defensive team than the Nets.  The Bulls have plus-defenders in Jimmy Butler, Taj Gibson, Robin Lopez, Rajon Rondo and Dwayne Wade in their starting lineup.  They will be a great defensive team this year.  I worry about their offense, though, as they lack shooting in their starting 5.  This may be one of the worst 3-point shooting teams in the NBA this season.  All 3 meetings between these teams last season saw 211 or fewer combined points.  They combined for 211, 193 and 205 points in them.  The UNDER is 14-3 in Celtics last 17 games following a straight up win.  The UNDER is 40-18-3 in Celtics last 61 Thursday games.  Take the UNDER.

6* Rockets/Lakers ESPN *BAILOUT* on OVER 222

The Key: Mike D'Antoni was a perfect fit for Houston's roster.  That has proven to be the case in the preseason as the Rockets led the league with an average of 118.6 points per game, which was 6 points more than second-place Golden State.  Their defense leaves a lot to be desired as they gave up 108.1 points per game in the preseason.  The Lakers are going to be improved offensively this season with their young nucleus in Luke Walton's system, which he brings over from Golden State.  They average a solid 105.9 points per game in the preseason to finish in the Top 10.  But they had the fourth-worst scoring defense in allowing 107.2 points per game, and that will be the case all season.  Look for plenty of points in this opener as the combined scored of this game sails way OVER 222 points.  Take the OVER.

7* NBA Non-Conference *BLOWOUT* on Indiana Pacers -6.5

The Key: The Indiana Pacers made some nice moves this offseason in adding Jeff Teague, Thaddeus Young and Al Jefferson.  They already have their star in Paul George and an emerging star in Myles Turner.  Look for the Pacers to get off to a fast start in their opener and not let up at home against the Dallas Mavericks.  The Mavericks went just 2-5 in the preseason and were outscored by nearly 9 points per game.  They spent too much money on Harrison Barnes, and the rest of their roster are far past their primes.  The Mavs will be a mess this season as they finish as one of the worst teams in the West, while the Pacers finish among the East's elite.  Take Indiana.

7* Spurs/Warriors TNT *BAILOUT* on Golden State -8

The Key: The Golden State Warriors should hit the ground running tonight at home against the San Antonio Spurs in front of a hostile home crowd.  The Warriors are far and away the best team in the NBA, and they showed signs of that in the preseason by going 6-1, clearly not taking long at all to adjust to some new faces in Kevin Durant and Zaza Pachulia.  The Warriors will be favored by double-digits in most games this season.  They have gone 33-15 ATS as a home favorite of 6.5 to 12 points over the last 3 years.  I think we are getting a discount on them in the opener against the Spurs, who will take a few steps back this season.  Take Golden State.

7* Cavs/Warriors NBA Finals *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -4.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors will win the NBA Finals with a convincing victory in Game 7.  They have not played up to par their last two games, but a big reason was being without Draymond Green for Game 5.  Look for them to make a statement in Game 7 and come up clutch, which is what they have done all season.  They have only lost back-to-back games twice all year.  They are 50-4 at home and this is the smallest favorites they have been all year.  We're really getting them at a discount here tonight.  Take Golden State.

7* Warriors/Cavs NBA Finals *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland -2

The Key: After the home team dominated the first 3 games of this series in blowout fashion, the road team has escaped with victories in each of the last 2 contests.  I find it hard to believe that the road team can win 3 straight, so I'll side with the Cavaliers in Game 6 tonight.  They have to be brimming with confidence after winning by 15 points in Oakland in Game 5 thanks to a pair of 41-point efforts from Lebron James and Kyrie Irving.  Look for these two to get much more help from their supporting cast at home in Game 6.  The Cavs are 41-9 at home this season and 8-1 at home in the playoffs with 7 of those victories coming by 11 points or more.  The Cavs are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home games.  Take Cleveland.

7* Cavs/Warriors *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 205

The Key: The Golden State Warriors will no longer be able to go small with Draymond Green at center, which is their best lineup.  They will have to go bigger and give Andrew Bogut more minutes.  I believe that chance will make the Warriors' offense much less potent, and it will help lead to a low-scoring Game 5.  These teams are now very familiar with one another after playing four games already, which also favors the defenses.  Cleveland is 8-1 UNDER as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.  The UNDER is 7-1 in Warriors last eight vs. Eastern Conference.  The UNDER is 19-6-1 in Warriors last 26 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  Take the UNDER.

7* Warriors/Cavs NBA Finals *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland -2

The Key: We'll stick with the home team once again in Game 4.  The home team has won in blowout fashion in the first three games of this series, and I look for them to follow suit tonight.  Cleveland is 41-8 at home this season and has upped its game at home even more in the playoffs.  Indeed, the Cavs are 8-0 at home in the postseason with an average margin of victory of over 20 points per game.  Golden State has actually been outscored by over 13 points per game in its last six road games while going 2-4 in the process.  The Cavs are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 home games coming in.  Take Cleveland.

7* Warriors/Cavs NBA Finals *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland +1.5

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers will certainly be hungry for a win in Game 3 tonight after taking it on the chin both on the floor and through the media over the past week.  Now they get to return to the friendly confines of Cleveland, which is going to make all the difference.  The Cavs are 40-8 at home this season.  They are 7-0 at home in the playoffs with an average margin of victory of more than 20 points per game.  They are also a perfect 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games.  Golden State has lost 3 of its last 5 road games coming in while getting outscored by 10 points per game.  Take Cleveland.

7* NBA Finals GAME OF THE YEAR on Cleveland +6.5

The Key: It has been a very profitable move to back the losing Game 1 team in Game 2 throughout the NBA playoffs for years.  In fact, the Game 1 loser is 204-159 ATS since 1991 in Game 2.  I love the Cavaliers here catching 6.5 points.  They had the Warriors on the brink with a lead late, but the Warriors' bench exploded in the 4th quarter and they essentially won without Curry or Thompson needing a big game.  While some will look at that as the Warriors will be even better if Curry and Thompson perform, I look at is as the Warriors will never get another game like that from their bench again.  The Cavs' bench was nearly non-existent, but after getting their feet wet, I look for a lot more production from them in Game 2 so James, Irving and Love don't have to completely carry the load again.  Take Cleveland in a Game 2 that they will likely win outright.

7* Cavs/Warriors NBA Finals *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland +6

The Key: Cleveland is 12-2 ATS when playing just its 2nd game in 7 days over the past 3 seasons.  This team has proven it plays its best on rest, and that has been the case this postseason as well.  The Cavs covered the 8-point spread in Game 1 against the Hawks with an 11-point victory after sweeping the Pistons.  They also throttled the Raptors by 31 as 11-point favorites in Game 1 after sweeping the Hawks.  They will be their best version of themselves in Game 1 tonight against the Warriors, especially with revenge in mind from last year's NBA Finals.  The Warriors could be in a tough spot mentally here in Game 1 after what they accomplished in winning the final three games to beat the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals.  They are ripe for the upset here.  Take Cleveland.

7* Thunder/Warriors *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 219

The Key: The Thunder and Warriors have now squared off six straight times.  It's obvious that they are familiar with one another now, and that will lead to a low-scoring battle in Game 7 that favors the defenses with everything at stake.  These teams combined for 209 points in Game 6, and I look for a similar output tonight in Golden State.  The Warriors have been going with a bigger lineup to counter the Thunder, which also favors the UNDER.  The Under is 8-3 in Thunder last 11 Conference Finals games.  The Under is 7-2 in Warriors last 9 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  The Under is 8-3 in Warriors last 11 Conference Finals games.  The Under is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Golden State.  Take the UNDER.

7* Warriors/Thunder *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 221

The Key: The Golden State Warriors and Oklahoma City Thunder are obviously extremely familiar with one another as they've played five games in this series already.  That clearly favors the defenses and will lead to a low-scoring affair in Game 6.  The Warriors made an adjustment and decided to go bigger for longer stretches in Game 5, and it worked, so look for them to go big again.  That also favors the defenses as the Thunder prefer to play big anyways.  OKC is 13-3 UNDER after two straight games where it made 9 or more 3-point shots.  Golden State is 17-5 UNDER off two straight games where it made 85% or more of their free throws this season.  The UNDER is 8-3 in Warriors last 11 road games.  Take the UNDER.

7* Cavs/Raptors Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland -6

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers roll into Game 6 brimming with confidence after their 38-point statement victory over the Raptors in Game 5.  The Raptors come in deflated knowing that they really stand no chance of winning this series.  The Cavs want to prove that they can win on the road in Game 6 here tonight and I believe they roll to victory again.  They also do not want to have this series go to 7 games as they can take advantage of some extra rest if they win tonight.  I was mostly impressed with the Cavs' 57-38 rebounding edge in Game 5 where they held the Raptors to only 5 offensive rebounds.  Well, Toronto is 1-10 ATS off a game with 5 or less offensive rebounds over the last 2 seasons.  The Raptors are also 0-8 ATS after scoring 85 points or less in their previous game over the last 2 years.  Take Cleveland.