7* Raptors/Cavs Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland -11

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers have everything working in their favor heading into Game 1 Tuesday.  They have had 9 days off following back-to-back sweeps of the Pistons and Hawks.  Now they face a Raptors team that just played a grueling Game 7 against the Miami Heat on Sunday and has had only one day off to rest.  The Cavaliers throttled the Raptors by 22 in their only home meeting this season.  The Raptors are just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games and stand little chance of keeping Game 1 competitive given the situation.  They are also without Jonas Valanciunas, who is arguably their most important player.  Take Cleveland.

7* Thunder/Warriors Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -7.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors have owned the Oklahoma City Thunder this season, and I expect that to continue in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals.  The Warriors are 3-0 against the Thunder this season, winning by an average of 11.5 points per game in their two home meetings.  The beat the Rockets by 26 in Game 1 at home and the Blazers by 12 in Game 1 at home.  Considering the Warriors are 45-2 at home and winning by 14.6 points per game this season, getting them as only 7.5-point favorites is a reasonable discount.  The Warriors are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home games.  Take Golden State.

7* Heat/Raptors Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Miami +4.5

The Key: The Miami Heat are a veteran bunch with Dwyane Wade, Luol Deng and Joe Johnson among others.  They have played their fair share of Game 7's before, and they certainly won't crumble under the pressure.  I don't believe the same can be said for the Raptors, who are 4-13 ATS in their last 17 playoff games and just seem to fall short of expectations every year in the postseason.  The Heat already came back from a 3-2 deficit to beat the Hornets last series, and I believe they'll pull off the same feat here against the Raptors after dominating from start to finish in Game 6.  Take Miami.

7* Raptors/Heat NBA 2nd Round GAME OF THE YEAR on Miami -4

The Key: The Miami Heat are in must-win mode here in Game 6 to avoid elimination.  They were in the same predicament last series against the Hornets, down 3-2 needing to win their final two games, and that's precisely what they did.  They certainly have shown they have the intestinal fortitude to pull it off, and I look for them to win Game 6 and cover this small 4-point spread in the process.  The Heat have been great at home all season with a 32-15 record.  They are also a superb 10-2 ATS in their last 12 home games.  Take Miami.

7* Spurs/Thunder *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 195.5

The Key: This series continues to get lower-scoring as the series progresses and the Spurs and Thunder get more familiar with one another.  We've seen 3 of the last 4 games finish with 196 or fewer combined points, including a series-low 186 points in Game 5.  I look for a similar total in Game 6 tonight as this will be yet another defensive battle.  San Antonio is 27-12 UNDER off an ATS loss this season.  Oklahoma City is 8-1 UNDER in home games when playing 4 or less games in 10 days this season.  The UNDER is 14-3 in Spurs last 17 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The UNDER is 7-2 in Thunder last 9 vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  The UNDER is 9-3 in the last 12 meetings in Oklahoma City.  Take the UNDER.

7* Blazers/Warriors Western Conference *BAILOUT* on Portland +13

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers could easily be up 3-1 in this series instead of down 3-1.  They blew a double-digit lead in the 4th quarter of Game 2, won Game 3 by 12, and led most of the way in Game 4 before losing in overtime behind heroics from Steph Curry.  But after that Game 4 performance from Curry, the Warriors are way overvalued here heading into Game 5.  They will have a very hard time putting away the Blazers by 13-plus points, especially since I expect Curry to play more limited minutes here.  The only reason he played 36 minutes in Game 4 when he was supposed to play 25 was because Shaun Livingston got ejected in the 1st half.  Steve Kerr will be much more cautious with Curry tonight.  I also like the mindset of the Blazers and Damian Lillard, who has stated that the Blazers aren't going to just lay down now.  Portland is 8-1 ATS after playing 4 consecutive games as a dog this season.  The Blazers are 12-4 ATS after having lost 3 of their last 4 games this season.  Bets on any team after leading their last 2 games by 10-plus points at the half against opponent after scoring 105 points or more in 3 straight games are 52-21 ATS since 1996.  Take Portland.

7* Thunder/Spurs *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 199.5

The Key: After combined scores of 195 and 196 in Games 2 and 3, the Spurs and Thunder combined for 208 points in Game 4.  But the Thunder shot 50.6% in that contest and the Spurs 47.1%, and that won't happen again in Game 5.  The series is pretty much on the line in this game tonight, so look for the defensive intensity to be very high.  Also, these teams are now so familiar with each other that scoring will be at a premium.  The Spurs only give up 90.4 points per game at home this year.  The UNDER is 12-3 in Thunder's last 15 games off two straight games where they made 9 or more 3-point shots.  The UNDER is 5-1 in Spurs last 6 home games.  The UNDER is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.  Take the UNDER.

7* Raptors/Heat Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Miami -5

The Key: Miami is essentially in a must-win situation here in Game 4 to avoid falling behind 3-1 in this series.  The Heat got a huge break when arguably Toronto's most important player in Jonas Valanciunas got injured in Game 3 and will likely miss the rest of the postseason.  The Raptors don't have an inside presence to replace Valanciunas' scoring and he will be missed badly.  This game will be played small ball style, and the Heat have proven they can play small and be very effective.  Miami is 16-7 ATS after having lost 2 of its last 3 games this season.  The Heat are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 home games.  Take Miami.

7* Spurs/Thunder *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 198.5

The Key: The last two games in this series have gone UNDER 198.5 points.  The Spurs and Thunder combined for 195 points in Game 2 and 196 points in Game 3.  Now that they are even more familiar with one another, I look for Game 4 to actually be the lowest-scoring game of this series yet.  Oklahoma City is 8-0 UNDER in home games when playing 4 or less games in 10 days this season.  The UNDER is 14-2 in Spurs last 16 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Thunder last 7 vs. a team with a winning record.  The UNDER is 9-2 in the last 11 meetings in OKC, and 5-1 in the last 6 meetings overall.  Take the UNDER.

7* Raptors/Heat Game 3 *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 187.5

The Key: The Heat and Raptors have somehow managed to go to overtime in three straight games dating back to the regular season.  The first two games of this series were extremely low-scoring in regulation.  They combined for 180 points at the end of regulation in Game 1, and 172 points at the end of regulation in Game 2.  I look for Game 3 to take a similar pattern and to stay well UNDER the posted total of 187.5, obviously assuming they don't go to OT for a 4th consecutive time.  The UNDER is 6-0 in Raptors last six road games.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Heat last seven games overall.  Take the UNDER.

7* Spurs/Thunder Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on San Antonio -2

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs won Game 1 by 32 points before getting upset 98-97 in Game 2 thanks to some controversy for the refs.  I fully expect the Spurs to take Game 3 and regain home-court advantage in this series.  They are clearly the better team and have the Thunder figured out.  The Spurs are 9-1 ATS revenging a straight up loss vs. opponent as a favorite of 7 or more over the last 2 seasons.  San Antonio is 9-1 ATS off a close loss by 3 points or less over the last 2 seasons.  Take San Antonio.

7* Heat/Raptors Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto -4.5

The Key: The Toronto Raptors lost Game 1 in overtime at home and now are looking at this Game 2 against the Miami Heat as a must-win.  3-point shooting was their demise in Game 1 as they shot 23.8% while the Heat shot a scoring 72.7%.  That's unlikely to happen again.  After all, the Raptors were 3-0 in their final three meetings with the Heat in the regular season, outscoring them by a whopping 14.0 points per game in the process.  So I still believe this to be a great matchup for them, and I think that will show in Game 2 as they want this one more.  The Heat are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 road games in the 2nd half of the season against teams who outscore the opposition by 3 or more points per game.  Take Toronto.

7* Hawks/Cavs Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Atlanta +7.5

The Key: The Atlanta Hawks gave the Cleveland Cavaliers all they could handle in Game 1.  They even had the lead in that game down the stretch but couldn't close the deal despite shooting under 38% from the field for the game.  After an off shooting night, look for the Hawks to be more on target in Game 2.  They will take this game down to the wire and cover the 7.5 tonight.  Atlanta is 16-6 ATS revenging two straight losses where opponent scored 100 points or more over the last 2 seasons.  Cleveland is 10-19 ATS after 3 or more consecutive wins this season.  Take Atlanta.

7* Blazers/Warriors Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Portland +10

The Key: I expect the Portland Trail Blazers to rebound nicely following their 12-point loss in Game 1 to the Warriors. They were at a serious disadvantage in Game 1 because they were playing on just 1.5 days of rest, while the Warriors had four days off in between games.  But now it's much more even and the Blazers will stay within single-digits of the Warriors as a result in Game 2.  To only lost by 12 points despite shooting only 40.2% from the floor is actually quite an accomplishment.  Look for them to be more on target in Game 2 and to get off to a much better start than they did in Game 1.  The Blazers are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games after a loss by more than 10 points.  Take Portland.

7* Thunder/Spurs Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Oklahoma City +8

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder will show a lot more fight in Game 2 knowing that they do not want to go down 0-2 in this series if they want to win it.  The Spurs couldn't miss in Game 1 as they shot over 60% from the field behind a combined 34-of-43 shooting from the trio of LaMarcus Aldridge, Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.  These teams actually split the regular season series 2-2 with the Thunder not losing by more than 8 points in any of the four games, so their 32-point loss in Game 1 certainly came out of nowhere.  I look for the Thunder to make this game much more competitive and to have a chance to win in the end thanks to some key adjustments from head coach Billy Donovan.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* Blazers/Warriors Game 1 *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 208.5

The Key: With no Steph Curry, the Golden State Warriors have had to win with defense in the playoffs up to this point.  They held the high-octane Houston Rockets to an average of only 91.2 points per game last series.  Now they're going to make it tough on the Blazers in this series as well, starting with Game 1.  It's also worth noting the Blazers held the Clippers to 98 or fewer points in 3 of their 6 games.  This will certainly be a defensive battle today folks.  Bets on the UNDER on home teams when the total 200 or more, an excellent offensive team that averages at least 102 points per game against a bad defensive team that gives up at least 102 points per game, after scorign 55 points or more in the first half of 2 straight games are 74-33 over the last 5 seasons.  Take the UNDER.

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

The Key:  The Thunder have played the Spurs tough this season. The season series is 2-2 with the Thunder only lost once by more than this 7-point margin.  I think they'll give the Spurs a run today and stay within this 7-point spread in Game 1.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* Raptors/Pacers *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 194

The Key: When you look at how this series has played out, there's a lot to like about the UNDER in Game 6 tonight.  The UNDER went 4-0 in their first four games before going over the total in Game 5.  They have combined for 190 or fewer points in 4 of the 5 games thus far.  They have averaged only 189 combined points per game in this series, so there's clearly value with the UNDER in Game 6.  Indiana is 9-1 UNDER in home games when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 70%) this season.  Indiana is 10-1 UNDER after scoring 60 points or more in the first half last game this season.  The UNDER is 5-0 in Raptors last 5 road games.  Take this combined 24-2 angle backing the UNDER straight to the bank tonight.  Take the UNDER.

6* Hawks/Celtics Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Boston +2

The Key: The Boston Celtics are one of the most resilient teams in the NBA.  They got blown out on the road in Game 5, but I have no doubt they'll show tremendous character and find a way to win Game 6 at home.  After all, the home team is 5-0 in this series.  The Hawks haven't won a playoff series against the Celtics since 1958.  Atlanta has also dropped 10 consecutive postseason games in Boston dating back to 1988.  It has gone 2-27 in its last 29 trips to Boston in the playoffs.  Atlanta is 16-35 ATS in its last 51 playoff road games, and 10-24 ATS in its last 34 first round playoff road games.  Boston is 15-5 ATS revenging a road loss of 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.  The Hawks are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 road games overall.  Take Boston.

7* Blazers/Clippers Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Los Angeles +3.5

The Key: Doc Rivers is one of the few coaches who could get his team to respond following the loss of two stars like Chris Paul and Blake Griffin.  He's going to play the 'everyone is counting you out' card to his players, and I look for them to respond in a big way at home tonight.  The Clippers actually showed off their depth at the end of the regular season as they kept winning despite resting their starters.  ChrisPaul controls the Clippers' offense like few others in the NBA. However, they installed a motion offense for when Paul wasn't on the floor this season, freeing up Jamal Crawford and Austin Rivers while letting anyone else get the ball moving.  ''We were very effective at it,'' Doc Rivers said. ''Thank God we did that because now playing without him we'll be in motion for 48 minutes.''  Bets on home underdogs off an upset loss as a road favorite, good team winning between 60% and 75% of their games on the season are 23-5 ATS since 1996.  Take Los Angeles.

7* Celtics/Hawks Game 5 *TOTAL* Annihilator on UNDER 198

The Key: The Boston Celtics have shot 36.3% and 31.8% in their first two games in Atlanta in this series.  The Hawks have only been slightly better, shooting 40.7% and 39.0%, respectively.  Look for a very low-scoring contest in Game 5 similar to Game 2 when these teams only combined for 161 points.  Now very familiar with one another, this is sure to be a defensive battle.  Atlanta is 11-2 UNDER in home playoff games over the last 3 seasons.  The UNDER is 11-1 in Celtics last 12 games following an ATS win.  The UNDER is 11-5 in the last 16 meetings in Atlanta.  Take the UNDER.

7* NBA 1st Round TOTAL OF THE YEAR on Blazers/Clippers UNDER 205.5

The Key: After combining for 210 points in Game 1, the last two games of this series have been extremely low scoring as these teams have become more familiar with one another, which has clearly favored the defenses.  They combined for 183 points in Game 2 and 184 points in Game 3.  Now the total is set at 205.5 for Game 4, which is more than 20 points more than they combined for the past two games.  This is about as easy as it gets ladies and gents as this game will stay well UNDER the posted total as well.  Five of the last seven meetings have seen 193 or fewer combined points also.  The Clippers are 14-6 UNDER revenging a loss vs. opponent this season.  Los Angeles is 9-0 UNDER versus good 3-point shooting teams who make 36% or more of their attempts in the 2nd half of the season this season.  The Clippers are 10-1 UNDER versus teams who average 7 or fewer steals per game in the 2nd half of the season this season.  The UNDER is 35-17 in Clippers last 52 games following a straight up loss.  Take the UNDER.

7* Cavs/Pistons Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Detroit +6.5

The Key: It should be a crime that the Pistons are down 0-3 in this series.  They have had their chances in every game, but have ultimately come up short in the 4th quarter each time.  This is far from the blowout of a series that this 3-0 deficit would indicate.  I look for the Pistons to play with some pride and avoid the sweep today and win outright, but we'll take the points for some insurance.  Detroit is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in home games revenging a loss vs opponent of 10 points or more this season.  Cleveland is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) after 2 straight wins by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.  Take Detroit Sunday.

7* Raptors/Pacers Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Indiana +1.5

The Key: This is a must-win game for the Indiana Pacers tonight as they know they cannot afford to fall behind 3-1 to the Raptors if they want to win this series.  Paul George was disappointed in his team's effort in Game 3, and look for him to now take it upon himself to lead this team to victory in Game 4.  The Pacers are a very good home team as they went 26-15 in Indiana during the regular season.  Toronto is 4-14 ATS after covering 5 or 6 of their last 7 against the spread over the last 2 seasons.  Indiana is 14-4 ATS after trailing in their previous game by 15 or more points at the half over the last 3 seasons.  The Raptors are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 Conference Quarterfinals games. The Pacers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up loss.  Take Indiana.

7* Cavs/Pistons Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Detroit +5

The Key: The Detroit Pistons have largely outplayed the Cleveland Cavaliers for the majority of this series, but they find themselves in an 0-2 hole.  They held the halftime lead in Game 1 and led by 5 in the 3rd quarter of Game 2, but lost both contests.  The Cavs made 20 3-pointers in Game 2, which isn't going to happen again.  Now the Pistons get to play at home in Game 3 and will get a victory to get back in this series.  The Pistons went 26-15 SU & 24-15-2 ATS at home this season, outscoring opponents by 5.0 points per game.  Cleveland is 3-15 ATS in its last 18 road games after scoring 100 points or more in 5 straight games.  The Pistons are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss.  Take Detroit.

7* Thunder/Mavs Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Oklahoma City -8.5

The Key: After getting upset in Game 2 and losing home-court advantage, look for the Oklahoma City Thunder to gain back that home court in a big way tonight.  They could not have played worse in Game 2, particularly Kevin Durant, who went 7 for 33.  His 26 misses shots were tied with Michael Jordan for the most ever in a playoff game.  He and his teammates have been seeing all of the negative headlines in the media, and that's only going to fuel their fire heading into Game 3.  This one will be over after the first quarter folks as the supremely talented Thunder play up to their potential off that loss.  The Thunder have won 3 of their last 5 meetings with the Mavs by 13 or more points.  They have outscored the Mavs by a total of 72 points over those 5 games, or by an average of 14.4 points per game. Take Oklahoma City.

7* Pistons/Cavs Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Detroit +10.5

The Key: The Detroit Pistons have played the Cleveland Cavaliers extremely tough this season.  After winning the season series 3-1, they held their own in Game 1 while only losing by 5 points.  Now they are a double-digit underdog once again when they shouldn't be, and we'll take advantage.  Cleveland is 26-54-1 ATS in its last 81 games vs. division opponents.  The Cavs are also 1-11 ATS this season against teams who average 7 or less steals per game.  Take Detroit.

7* Grizzlies/Spurs Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Memphis +18

The Key: Without question, Game 1 of Spurs/Grizzlies was not pretty for Memphis.  They lost 106-74 and looked like they never stood a chance.  However, I have little doubt they'll put forth a much better effort in Game 2, and it will be enough to stay within this massive 18-point spread.  We saw the short-handed Mavs pull the upset over the Thunder as 14-point dogs yesterday.  I'm not calling for the upset here, but definitely see it going down to the wire.  Memphis is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 road games when revenging a road blowout loss of 20 points or more.  Take Memphis.

7* Pacers/Raptors Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto -7

The Key: After losing Game 1 to the Pacers, the Raptors are now desperate for a win in Game 2.  I look for them to put the pedal to the metal for four quarters and to blow the Pacers out of the building.  I also expect the Pacers to take their foot off the gas after winning Game 1 and earning home-court advantage, which had to be their goal leaving Toronto.  Indiana is 1-11 ATS in its last 12 games following two or more consecutive upset wins as road underdogs.  Take Toronto.

6* Grizzlies/Spurs Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Memphis +15.5

The Key: Everyone is writing the Grizzlies off in this series, which has created some nice line value in Game 1 against the San Antonio Spurs.  They are getting 15.5-points, making them the biggest underdogs in all of the Game 1's.  The Grizzlies were swept by the Spurs in the regular season, but they played a lot tougher in both meetings in San Antonio.  They lost both those meetings by 8 and 6 points.  They've only lost one of their last seven meetings in San Antonio by more than 14 points.  Memphis is 7-0 ATS in road games off a combined score of 215 points or more this season.  The Grizzlies are 11-2 ATS off two or more consecutive ATS losses this season.  The Grizzlies are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games playing on 3 or more days rest.  The Spurs are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games overall, and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games.  Take Memphis.

7* Pistons/Cavs Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Detroit +11

The Key: The Detroit Pistons showed during the regular season that they could hang with the Cleveland Cavaliers.  In fact, they went 3-1 against Cleveland this season and won both road meetings outright as underdogs.  That's why it makes no sense that the Cavs are laying 11 points in Game 1.  The Pistons present all kinds of matchup problems for the Cavaliers, and it starts with Andre Drummond, who Cleveland simply does not have an answer for inside.  He'll dominate the boards as he always does and create extra, crucial possessions for the Pistons all series long.  Cleveland is 26-53-1 ATS in its last 80 games against division opponents.  The Pistons are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 trips to Cleveland.  Take Detroit.

7* Mavs/Thunder Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Dallas +12

The Key: The Thunder did sweep the season series with the Mavericks, but I believe that has them overvalued coming into Game 1.  They won those four meetings by an average of 9.5 points per game.  Now we're getting 12 points with the Mavericks, who should put up more of a fight than oddsmakers and the betting public are anticipating.  Dallas is 19-6 ATS vs. teams who outrebound opponents by 3-plus boards per game over the last 3 seasons.  The Mavs are 277-208 ATS in their last 485 games as a road underdog.  Dallas is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games following an ATS loss.  The Mavs are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games.  The road team is 35-16-2 ATS in the last 53 meetings. The Mavericks are 19-7-1 ATS in the last 27 meetings in Oklahoma City.  Take Dallas.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Sacramento Kings +15

The Key: This is a must-win situation for the Houston Rockets, who would clinch a playoff spot with a win today.  The oddsmakers know that the betting public is only going to back the Rockets in this game, so they have simply been forced to inflate this number.  I believe there's a ton of value with the Kings, who have not quit.  That is evidenced by the fact that they are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall despite resting some of their starters here down the stretch.  Take Sacramento.

7* Thunder/Spurs Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Oklahoma City +9.5

The Key: The San Antonio Spurs are in a huge letdown spot here tonight.  They are coming off a home loss to the Golden State Warriors, their first home loss of the season.  They will now suffer a hangover against the Oklahoma City Thunder today.  Yes, the Thunder are resting their starters, but they're still good enough with what they have to stay within this 9.5-point spread.  San Antonio is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) versus up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots/game - 2nd half of the season this season.  Take Oklahoma City.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Minnesota Timberwolves +3.5

The Key: The Timberwolves are playing their best basketball of the season right now and making life very difficult for playoff contenders.  They are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three games overall, all three of which came on the road.  They even beat the record-setting Golden State Warriors, while also topping the Kings and Blazers.  Now they have their sights set on wrecking Houston's season.  I like their chances to do so considering they come in on a day of rest, while Houston will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and its 4th game in 6 days.  The Rockets lost back-to-back games to the Mavs and Suns before beating the terrible Lakers yesterday.  Houston is 10-21 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.  The Rockets are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up win.  The Rockets are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.  The Timberwolves are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games playing on 1 days rest.  The Rockets are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 0 days rest.  Take Minnesota.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Dallas Mavericks +5.5

The Key: The Dallas Mavericks have won a season-high six straight to play their best basketball of the season down the stretch.  Now they find themselves just one win away from clinching a playoff spot, and they'll be hungry to do so tonight against the Clippers. Los Angeles has rested its starters in recent games and won't be interested in playing its starters here either given that it is locked in to the No. 4 seed in the West.  That's why I believe the wrong teams is favored here in a game that the Mavs clearly need more.  The Clippers are 13-27 ATS in home games off 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons.  The Mavericks are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.  The Mavs are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 road games.  Take Dallas.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Phoenix Suns -1.5

The Key: The Phoenix Suns had yesterday off following their 124-115 win over the Houston Rockets on Thursday.  The same cannot be said for the New Orleans Pelicans, who played last night in a 110-102 home win over the Lakers.  So not only will the Pelicans be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, they'll also be playing their 4th game in 5 days.  That's a tough spot for a team that is missing the likes of Norris Cole, Anthony Davis, Ryan Anderson, Eric Gordon, Tyreke Evans, Jrue Holiday and Alonzo Gee.  The Suns will put it to the short-handed Pelicans tonight in this awful spot for New Orleans.  The Pelicans are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 Saturday games.  Take Phoenix.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Philadelphia 76ers +2

The Key: The Philadelphia 76ers are coming off a 107-93 win over the New Orleans Pelicans.  Now they are a home underdog to the New York Knicks, who appear to have quit on their season.  The Knicks have lost five of their last six coming in with their only win coming at home over the Nets.  They lost 97-111 at home to the Hornets in their last contest.  The 76ers are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall and will continue to be a nice bet tonight.  The 76ers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  Take Philadelphia.

7* Spurs/Warriors TNT *HEAVY HITTER* on Golden State -7

The Key: After losing two of their last three home games, the Golden State Warriors need to win out to beat the Bulls' record of 72 wins.  It starts tonight against the San Antonio Spurs.  You know the Warriors will be going all-out to try and get the win, but the same cannot be said for the Spurs.  Greg Popovich has already hinted at resting his starters in both meetings with the Warriors left because the Spurs simply have nothing to play for as they are locked into the No. 2 seed.  They also don't want to show the Warriors anything for the playoffs.  Golden State is 22-10 ATS revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.  The Spurs are 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games following a straight up win.  The Warriors are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 Thursday games.  Take Golden State.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Los Angeles Lakers +10

The Key: This is a great spot to back the Lakers.  This is a home-and-home situation after these teams just played last night with the Clippers jumping out to a 20-2 lead and rolling to a 103-81 victory.  But look for the Lakers to fight back tonight, and for the Clippers to rest their starters as they have nothing to gain by winning this game.  They certainly won't be motivated to play it after beating the Lakers last night.  The Clippers are 6-19 ATS in their last 25 games off a division win by 20 or more points.  The Lakers are 15-5 ATS off a game with 15 or fewer assists this season.  The Lakers are 8-1 ATS off a game where they made 35% of their shots or worse this season.  Take the Lakers.

7* Lakers/Clippers Western Conference *BAILOUT* on Lakers +15

The Key: The Los Angeles Lakers will give the Los Angeles Clippers a run for their money tonight.  The thing is that the Clippers have nothing to play for since they are locked in to the No. 4 seed.  So to make them favored by 15 points here is absolutely insane.  The Lakers have shown some nice fight here of late with a 102-100 victory over Miami as 10.5-point dogs and a 100-107 loss to Boston as 9-point dogs in their last two games.  The Clippers rested their starters against OKC two games ago and barely beat the Wizards 114-109 at home with their starters last game.  They won't be pushing their starters in this one, though.  The Clippers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.  The Clippers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.  The Clippers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.  Take the Lakers.

7* NBA Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Washington Wizards +7

The Key: The Washington Wizards are showing solid value as 7-point underdogs to the Los Angeles Clippers Sunday.  They are still holding out slim hopes of making the playoffs as they are 3 games back of No. 8 Indiana.  They will continue to fight until they are eliminated.  Meanwhile, the Clippers have nothing to play for as they are locked in to the No. 4 seed in the West.  They even rested all of their starters last time out and are not interested in winning any of the remainder of their games.  The Wizards are 19-6 ATS in April games over the last 3 seasons.  Take Washington.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Chicago Bulls -1.5

The Key: The Chicago Bulls are showing solid value as only 1.5-point favorites over the Detroit Pistons today.  The Bulls are only one game behind the Pacers for 8th place in the East.  They also trail the Pistons, who just lost to the Mavs yesterday and now will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  The circumstances make this a great spot to back the Bulls at this short number at home.  Take Chicago.

7* NBA TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Celtics/Warriors UNDER 222

The Key: The Celtics and Warriors both have a lot to play for right now, so the defensive intensity should be high in this game.  These teams met earlier this season with the Warriors winning 124-119 in double-overtime.  But that game was tied 103-103 at the end of regulation for 206 combined points.  That's about the same output I expect tonight at the end of regulation as this game stays well below the 222-point total.  Boston is 14-3 UNDER in road games revenging a loss where opponent scored 110 or more points over the last 2 seasons.  The UNDER is 5-0 in Celtics last 5 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.  Take the UNDER.

7* Celtics/Blazers Non-Conference *BAILOUT* on Boston +3.5

The Key: The Boston Celtics come in fresh and ready to go tonight.  They have had two days off, and now they are looking for a strong finish to the season to try and secure home-court advantage in the first round.  The Celtics are currently in 4th place, tied with 5th place Charlotte and 6th place Miami at 43-31.  They are also one game behind 3rd place Atlanta.  So, essentially there's one game separating the 3-6 seeds.  The Celtics want home court in that first round.  Bets on road dogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points who score 103 or more points on the season, after trailing in their previous game by 15 points or more at the half are 38-13 ATS since 1996.  The Celtics are 10-1 ATS vs. teams who win 51% to 60% of their games in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.  Take Boston.

7* NBA Situational GAME OF THE WEEK on Utah Jazz +4

The Key: The Utah Jazz have gone 8-2 in their last 10 games overall to put themselves in position to make the playoffs.  They are clinging on to the one of the final two spots in the West, only one game ahead of 9th place Dallas, though.  They still have work to do, and now they're next victim will be the Golden State Warriors.  This is an awful spot for the Warriors, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days.  They are struggling to live up to expectations here of late as they've gone just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games overall.  Utah lost by 3 at home to Golden State in its last meeting.  Bets on underdogs who are revenging a loss where opponent score 110 or more points, off two straight covers as a favorite are 32-8 ATS over the last 5 years.  Take Utah.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Phoenix Suns +7

The Key: With the way the Bucks are playing right now they should not be 7-point favorites against anyone.  They are 0-5 in their last 5 games overall and clearly appear to be giving up on the season.  They lost by 24 points to the Hornets at home in their last game, which is evidence of that.  The Suns actually continue to play out the string and be competitive.  They are 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games overall, and they've only lost twice by more than 7 points during this stretch.  Phoenix is 6-0 ATS in its last 6 games following a loss.  Milwaukee is 0-4 ATS in its last 4 home games.  The road team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings, and the Suns are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 visits to Milwaukee.  Take Phoenix.

6* Wizards/Warriors TNT *BAILOUT* on Washington +13

The Key: The Washington Wizards are fighting for their playoff lives as they are currently tied with the Chicago Bulls for 9th place in the East.  They trail the Detroit Pistons by 2.5 games and the Indiana Pacers by 3 games for the final two playoff spots.  They will be giving max effort tonight to beat the Warriors, and I believe it will be good enough to cover this massive 13-point spread.  The Warriors have consistently been overvalued here of late as they chase down the Bulls' record.  They are just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games with only one of their wins coming by more than 12 points.  They only beat the 76ers by 12 as 22-point favorites at home last time out.  Bets on dogs of 10 or more points after being beaten by the spread by 18 or more points total in their last 3 games, with a winning percentage between 40% and 49% on the season are 29-8 ATS over the last 5 years.  Take Washington.

7* Rockets/Cavs TNT GAME OF THE MONTH on Houston +2

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers are more worried about being healthy and rested going into the playoffs than getting the No. 1 seed in the East.  That's why they are resting Lebron James tonight.  They should not be favored without James against a Houston Rockets team that is fighting for their playoff lives.  The Rockets are tied for 8th place with the Mavericks in the West.  Houston is 14-3 ATS on Tuesday nights over the last 2 seasons, and 37-15 ATS in its last 52 Tuesday games overall.  The Rockets are 84-54 ATS in their last 138 road games off a loss by 6 points or less.  Cleveland is 27-38 ATS as a favorite this season.  The Cavaliers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win.  Take Houston.

6* Celtics/Clippers NBA *BAILOUT* on Boston +4

The Key: The motivational edge is clearly with the Celtics in this game.  They are the No. 4 seed in the East right now, but only 0.5 games behind No. 3 Atlanta and 0.5 games ahead of No. 5 Miami.  They need to keep winning to assure they get home court in the 1st round.  The Clippers have lost 5 of their last 8 and are having a hard time focusing right now.  You can pretty much pencil them in the the No. 4 seed in the West because they aren't going to catch the Thunder, and the Grizzlies aren't catching them.  Los Angeles is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games overall and 0-7 ATS in its last 7 against a team with a winning record.  Boston is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 road games as a dog in the 3.5 to 6 price range.  Take Boston.

7* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Toronto Raptors +2.5

The Key: The motivational edge is clearly with the Raptors in this game.  They are chasing down the Cavaliers for home-court advantage in the Eastern Conference as they currently sit 2.5 games back.  You can pretty much pencil in the Thunder for the No. 3 seed in the West because they have a huge lead on the Clippers and can't catch the Spurs. The Raptors have a tremendous home-court advantage this season as they are 28-8 at home.  They are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 home games against teams who outscore the opposition by 3 or more points per game.  The Thunder are 0-9 ATS in their last 9 road games after covering the spread as a favorite of 10 or more points in their previous game.  Take Toronto.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Indiana Pacers -2

The Key: The Indiana Pacers are currently the #7 seed in the East.  They are just 2 games ahead of 9th place Chicago.  After missing the playoffs by 1 game last year, they are not going to let it happen again.  I really like the Pacers here as only 2-point favorites over the Rockets.  The Pacers are 22-13 at home this season, while the Rockets are just 16-21 on the road.  Indiana is 9-1 ATS after allowing 60 points or more in the first half of last game this season.  The Rockets are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games following a straight up win.  The favorite is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings.  The Rockets are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 visits to the Pacers.  Take Indiana.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Detroit Pistons -1.5

The Key: The Detroit Pistons are rolling right now and taking advantage of a long homestand.  They are 5-0 in their last five games overall and still have three more games on this homestand.  Now it's revenge time against the Hawks, who they lost to 114-118 to start this homestand on March 16 just 10 days ago.  The Pistons are 24-12 at home this season and have one of the most underrated home-court advantages in the league.  They are 22-12 ATS at home as well and should be more than just a 1.5-point favorite here.  Detroit is 37-18-2 ATS in its last 57 home games overall.  Both teams played yesterday, but the Pistons are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 0 days rest.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Washington Wizards -7.5

The Key: Sitting in 10th place in the East, 2.5 games behind the No. 8 Pistons, the Wizards cannot afford to lose many more games going forward.  They will give the Minnesota Timberwolves their full attention.  Washington has won 5 of its last 6 games coming in with 4 of those wins coming by 10 points or more.  Home-court advantage has been huge in this series.  The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.  Better yet, the Wizards are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home meetings with Minnesota.  Take Washington.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Chicago Bulls -5.5

The Key: This is a home-and-home situation where the Chicago Bulls actually lost at home to the New York Knicks last night.  Now, the Bulls sit in 9th place in the Eastern Conference needing to make up some ground.  They will come out determined tonight and will take down the Knicks, who won't be as interested since they are out of the playoff hunt and just beat the Bulls last night.  New York is 3-11 ATS as a home dog of 6 points or less this season.  Bets on road favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points when revenging a loss vs. opponent against an opponent after a road game where both teams scored 100 points or more are 60-26 ATS since 1996.  Take Chicago.

7* Clippers/Warriors ESPN GAME OF THE MONTH on Los Angeles +10

The Key: The Los Angeles Clippers are desperate for a win after losing four of their last five coming in.  They now take on a team that has beaten them five straight times in the Warriors, but not once were the Clippers overwhelmed.  In fact, all 5 losses came by 8 points or less, and now they're getting 10 points here.  This is too much, especially with the injuries the Warriors are dealing with to Andrew Bogut, Andre Iguodala and Festus Ezeli.  The Warriors have not played well of late with an 8-point loss at San Antonio and a 5-point win at Minnesota in their last two games.  Bets on road underdogs who allowed 105 points or more in 3 straight games against opponent off a win by 6 points or less are 29-8 ATS over the last 5 years.  Take Los Angeles.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Chicago Bulls -7.5

The Key: The Chicago Bulls are clinging on to the 8th seed in the East by mere percentage points over Detroit.  They gotta keep winning, and they're doing a good job of it since Jimmy Butler returned, winning 3 of their last 4 coming in.  Now they catch the Sacramento Kings in a very tough spot.  The Kings will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They will have nothing left to give tonight against a Bulls team that desperately needs this win.  The Kings are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.  The Bulls are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.  Take Chicago.

6* NBA *TOTAL* Annihilator on Jazz/Bucks UNDER 192

The Key: When the Jazz and Bucks get together, the end result is usually a low-scoring affair.  That will be the case again tonight when these teams meet up in Milwaukee.  Both teams are fighting to stay alive in their respective playoff races, which will add to the defensive intensity.  The last two meetings between these teams have seen 157 and 165 combined points.  That's an average of 161 combined points per game, which is 31 points below this 192-point total today.  The UNDER is 4-0 in Jazz last 4 games overall.  The UNDER is 14-3 in Bucks last 17 games following a win.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Bucks last 7 Sunday games.  Take the UNDER.

6* Warriors/Spurs ABC National TV *Annihilator* on San Antonio -3

The Key: I have a feeling the San Antonio Spurs are going to want to make a statement tonight against the Golden State Warriors.  They want to show the Warriors that they mean business if these teams were to meet in the playoffs, especially after getting embarrassed 90-120 at Golden State in their last meeting.  The Spurs didn't have Tim Duncan in that game, but it might not have mattered.  However, the Warriors are now without Andre Iguodala and Andrew Bogut, two key pieces whose absences are bigger than most realize, especially defensively.  The Spurs are 34-0 at home this season, and they aren't about to lose their first game tonight.  Take San Antonio.

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

The Key: Getting a healthy Jimmy Butler back in the lineup last time out helped the Bulls to a big road win over the Toronto Raptors.  There is a good chance Derrick Rose returns tonight, too, and the Bulls are going to be a very dangerous team going forward with these two.  Washington has lost 5 of its last 6 with three losses by 16 points or more.  The Wizards are coming off a blowout win over the Pistons, but they are just 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following a win by 10 points or more. The underdog is 25-10 ATS in the last 35 meetings in this series.  The road team is also 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings.  Take Chicago.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Toronto Raptors -2

The Key: The Toronto Raptors are 23-6 in their last 29 games overall.  Off a loss to the Bulls last night, I expect Toronto to come back focused tonight to take care of business against the Milwaukee Bucks, who are just 28-39 on the season.  The Raptors have owned the Bucks, going 9-1 in their last 10 meetings with them.  The Bucks are 2-15 ATS in their last 17 home games when coming off two or more straight wins.  Take Toronto.

7* NBA TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Timberwolves/Suns UNDER 222

The Key: It's pretty easy to see that this total has been inflated when you look at recent meetings between the Timberwolves and Suns.  The UNDER is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings and none of those five games saw more than 220 combined points.  They have averaged a combined 209 points per game in those five contests.  As you can see, that's 13 points fewer than the 222-point total set today.  Minnesota is 21-3 UNDER in its last 24 road games off an upset win over a division opponent.  Phoenix is 9-1 UNDER in March home games over the last two seasons.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Washington Wizards +1

The Key: The Washington Wizards have lost four straight and are now 30-34 on the season.  They need to get it together in a hurry if they want to make the playoffs.  A date with the lowly Denver Nuggets should help their cause tonight.  Washington is 15-7 ATS after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games this season.  Denver is 15-28 ATS in its last 43 games games against a team with a losing record.  The Wizards are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record.  Take Washington.

6* NBA Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Oklahoma City Thunder -12.5

The Key: The Oklahoma City Thunder have won 10 straight meetings with the Minnesota Timberwolves.  They have won 12 straight home meetings with the Timberwolves as well.  Most have come via blowout, too, as they last two home meetings have resulted in 20 and 14-point victories.  The Timberwolves are giving up 112.6 points per game in their last 16 games and have lost 17 of 19 games away from Minnesota.  Minnesota is 2-14 ATS off a blowout loss by 20 points or more over the last 2 seasons.  Take Oklahoma City.

6* Cavs/Lakers TNT *BAILOUT* on OVER 209

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers have really gotten going offensively here of late.  They have scored 100-plus points in five straight games, and that trend will continue against one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA in the Lakers.  Los Angeles has also shown some life offensively in averaging 109.5 points per game in its last two.  But the Lakers have allowed 101-plus points in 9 of their last 11 games  and yield 106.9 points per game on the season.  The Cavs and Lakers have combined for at least 211 points in 5 straight meetings with the OVER going 5-0.  They have combined for 231, 225, 211, 227 and 238 points in those five.  Take the OVER.

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

The Key: The Mavs are coming off 3 straight losses, while the Pistons have won 5 of their last 7.  This recent poor play by the Mavs and recent solid play by the Pistons has made the oddsmakers set this line lower than it should be with the Mavs only 2-point home favorites.  But the Pistons are still just 13-20 on the road this season.  They shouldn't be getting this kind of respect from oddsmakers given that poor road record.  Also, the Mavs have lost lost 4 straight games all season.  They will give a big effort tonight to get back in the win column while also covering this generous 2-point spread.  The Mavericks are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.  Take Dallas.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Orlando Magic -3

The Key: The Los Angeles Lakers are in a massive letdown spot here Tuesday.  They are coming off a win over the Warriors as 18-point home dogs, and now they're not going to be motivated at all to face the Orlando Magic off such a huge victory.  The Magic had two days off before losing by 6 to the Warriors last night, so they will get back at it tonight and won't be as tired as most teams on a back-to-back.  The Magic are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games off a loss.  Orlando is 20-6 ATS in its last 26 road games vs. Western Conference foes.  Los Angeles is 11-24 ATS in its last 25 games following a ATS win.  Take Orlando.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Raptors/Rockets Under 214

The Key: Expect the Raptors to control the pace and slow this game down despite Houston's tendency to run the court on offense and try to force turnovers on defense.  The Rockets are on their second road game in a row after playing in Chicago Saturday and should fall into the Raptors more methodical pace.  Take the Under.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Cleveland Cavaliers -7.5

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers want revenge from a last-second loss to the Celtics in which it appeared they had the game in hand late.  They will have the game in hand this time around, and by 8 or more points to cover this 7.5-point spread.  The Cavaliers are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Take Cleveland. 

6* NBA *TOTAL* Annihilator on Jazz/Grizzlies UNDER 193

The Key: It's hard not to like the UNDER in this game when you look at recent meetings. The Jazz and Grizzlies have combined for 190 or fewer points in 8 consecutive meetings.  They've averaged 179.6 points in those 8 meetings.  That's 13.4 points fewer than tonight's posted total of 193, and it's an 8-0 angle when you consider this 193-point total.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Thursday Night *CA$H COW* on Miami Heat -13.5

The Key: The Miami Heat have gone 6-1 ATS in seven games since the All-Star Break.  They have won their last two games by 17 points over the Knicks and by 18 over the Bulls.  Now they're up against the Phoenix Suns, who are 1-14 in their last 15 games with six straight road losses by double-digits.  That includes a 34-point loss at Charlotte and a 40-point loss at the LA Clippers in their last two road games.  Miami is 11-0 SU in its last 11 meetings with Phoenix, including a perfect 7-0 ATS in its last seven meetings.  Take Miami.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Washington Wizards -2.5

The Key: The Washington Wizards have won three straight games all by 8-plus points to make a run at one of the final playoff spots in the Eastern Conference.  This team has a ton to play for right now, and it's nice to see them finally play up to their potential now that their backs are up against the wall.  Now they get to face another poor team in Minnesota, which is just 19-41 on the season and coming off a 27-point loss at Dallas.  The Timberwolves are 2-13 ATS off a blowout loss by 20 points or more over the last 2 seasons.  Minnesota is 1-9 ATS after covering the spread in 3 of its last 4 games this season.  The Timberwolves are 1-12 ATS in home games vs. poor defensive teams who allow 46% shooting or worse over the last 2 seasons.  Take Washington.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Atlanta Hawks +10

The Key: It's looking more and more like the Golden State Warriors are going to rest Steph Curry tonight.  That's going to make their job a lot more difficult in putting away Atlanta by double-digits if he does indeed rest.  But either way, this is a bad spot for the Warriors.  They are primed for a letdown after their huge overtime win over the Thunder on National TV Saturday night, which had the sports world buzzing with Curry's unreal performance.  But the Hawks are no pushovers, and they are going to want revenge from a 92-102 home loss to the Warriors on February 22 just over a week ago.  Atlanta has posted back-to-back blowout victories since with a 15-point win over the Bulls and an 11-point win over the Hornets.  The Warriors are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  Take Atlanta.

6* NBA Monday *TOTAL* Annihilator on Thunder/Kings UNDER 227.5

The Key: The Sacramento Kings are really banged up right now with DeMarcus Cousins, Rudy Gay and Rajon Rondo all nursing injuries.  They have managed just an average of 99.5 points per game int heir last two games and will find it hard to score on Oklahoma City as well.  When looking at recent meetings, it's easy to seotal has been set way too high tonight.  In fact, the Thunder and Kings have combined for 220 or fewer points in 13 straight meetings.  That's a 13-0 angle when factoring in this 227.5-point total set.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Dallas Mavericks -6.5

The Key: The Dallas Mavericks are coming off a character-building 122-116 overtime victory over the underrated Denver Nuggets.  They trailed by 25 points in the first half, fought back and took the lead in the 4th quarter, only to fall back behind by 14 points.  But they fought back again to tie it and force overtime, only to eventually win in the extra session.  This team will be full of confidence now coming into this game against Minnesota.  This is a tough spot for the Timberwolves, who are coming off a road win at New Orleans last night, so they'll be playing 2nd of a back-to-back.  The Mavs own the Timberwolves, going 5-0 SU & 4-1 TS in the last 5 meetings, winning by an average of 12.2 points per game in the process.  The Timberwolves are 6-15-1 ATS in their last 22 Sunday games.  The Mavericks are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 Sunday games.  Take Dallas.

7* NBA GAME OF THE MONTH on Atlanta Hawks -4

The Key: After losing 3 straight, the Hawks got back on track with a 103-88 home victory over the Bulls last time out. Now they get to face the red-hot Hornets, who are getting too much respect from oddsmakers here due to winning 6 of their last 7 games overall.  But the Hornets are set up for failure here as this will be their 6th consecutive road games, and they are certainly tired with all that travel.  The home team is 6-1 SU in the last 7 meetings and 6-1-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.  Atlanta has won 3 straight home meetings with Charlotte by an average of 19 points per game.  Take Atlanta.

6* Spurs/Rockets Western Conference *CA$H COW* on Houston +6

The Key: The Houston Rockets have come out of the All-Star break guns-a-blazing and trying to prove their naysayers wrong.  They have gone 2-1 SU & 3-0 ATS with their only loss coming in overtime at Utah.  They won in Phoenix by 16 and put a halt to the red-hot Blazers with 14-point road win as 4-point dogs last time out.  Now they get to play their first home game since the break.  Home-court advantage has been huge between the Rockets and Spurs as the home team is 8-1 SU in the last 9 meetings with the only loss coming by 1 point.  Take Houston.

7* NBA TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Hornets/Pacers OVER 204

The Key: These teams recently played on February 10 with the Hornets winning 117-95 for 212 combined points.  I look for another shootout tonight between the Pacers and Hornets that easily exceeds this 204-point total.  The Pacers have topped 100 points in 8 of their last 12 games overall.  The Hornets have topped 100 points in 7 of their last 9 games overall.  Indiana is 9-1 OVER revenging a home loss vs opponent of 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons.  Charlotte is 17-7 OVER as a road underdog of 6 points or less over the last 2 seasons.  The OVER is 6-1 in Pacers last 7 home games.  The OVER is 8-2 in Pacers last 10 vs Eastern Conference.  Take the OVER.

7* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Orlando Magic +8.5

The Key: The Golden State Warriors aren't going to have much left in the tank tonight.  They played in a hard-fought 118-112 win at Miami last night that took a lot out of them.  This will now be their 5th road games in 7 days.  The Magic are going to bring more energy to this game.  They are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall and fighting to try and get into playoff contention.  They have gone 4-2 SU in their last 6 games with their two losses coming to San Antonio and Indiana by a combined 5 points.  They only lost by 1 to Golden State as 14.5-point road dogs in their last meeting.  The Magic are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Take Orlando.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Indiana Pacers -7.5

The Key: The Indiana Pacers are 17-9 at home this season.  They have played three straight road games coming out of the break, winning at Oklahoma City and Orlando, and losing in overtime at Miami.  New York is 2-12 in its last 14 games, and with an 11-point road loss to Brooklyn and a 27-point home loss to Toronto out of the break, it's clear that the Knicks aren't playing with any fire right now.  Now they have to take on an Pacers team that has won 7 of the last 8 meetings, including the last four by an average of 16.5 points per game.  They have won their last two home meetings with the Knicks by 23 and 21 points, respectively.  The Pacers are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 home meetings with New York.  Take Indiana.

7* NBA Situational GAME OF THE MONTH on Denver Nuggets -1

The Key: The Denver Nuggets want revenge from a 110-116 loss at Sacramento on February 19, which was their first game back from the break.  I expect them to get it tonight at home against the Kings this time around, and as only 1-point favorites, so they essentially just have to win the game to cover.  Bets on home teams with a line of +3 to -3 who have failed to cover the spread in 2 of their last 3 and are playing 5 or less games in 14 days are 26-7 ATS over the last 5 seasons.  Take Denver.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Detroit Pistons +9

The Key: I really like this situation for the Pistons.  We are buying low on the Pistons, who have lost 5 straight games while failing to cover the spread in 5 straight as well.  We are selling high on the Cavaliers, who are coming off five straight victories, including a 23-point win at Oklahoma City yesterday.  That win over the Thunder on National TV sets the Cavs up for a letdown here today.  After all, the Cavs are 6-15-2 ATS in their last 23 vs. a team with a losing record.  Detroit is 17-6 ATS in its last 23 off an upset loss as a favorite.  Take Detroit.

6* NBA Non-Conference *CA$H COW* on Memphis Grizzlies +7.5

The Key: Everyone is writing the Grizzlies off now that Mark Gasol may be out for the season, but this team is having none of it.  The Grizzlies came out of the All-Star Break with a win over the Timberwolves, and now I look for them to give the Raptors a run for their money tonight as 7.5-point dogs.  The Grizzlies are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 vs. Eastern Conference.  The Grizzlies are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.  Take this combined 15-0 angle backing the Grizzlies straight to the bank.  Take Memphis.

7* Pacers/Thunder ESPN *HEAVY HITTER* on Indiana +8.5

The Key: The Indiana Pacers won 5 of their final 8 games heading into the All-Star Break with two of their losses coming by 5 points to Cleveland and 6 points at Atlanta.  I believe they are catching too many points tonight on the road against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have been overvalued all season.  The Thunder are just 21-32 ATS in all games this season.  Oklahoma City is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 games after outrebounding its last opponent by 15 or more.  Indiana is 8-1 ATS versus teams who average 56 or more rebounds per game this season.  The Pacers are 18-6 ATS vs. teams with winning records this season.  The Pacers are 19-7-2 ATS in their last 28 games playing on 3 or more days rest.  The Thunder are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games following a ATS win.  Take Indiana.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Milwaukee Bucks +1.5

The Key: The Milwaukee Bucks won their final two games before the All-Star Break and need more where that came from if they want to make a run at the playoffs and get back like last year.  They have the talent to do so, and it starts with tonight's home game against the Charlotte Hornets.  The Hornets made a move to acquire Courtney Lee from the Grizzlies, but he won't be playing tonight, and they'll be short-handed after trading away starter PJ Hairston.  Milwaukee has won 15 of its last 19 home meetings with Charlotte.  The Bucks are 10-1 ATS in home games after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games this season.  Milwaukee is 13-2 ATS versus teams who average 83 or more shots per game this season.  Take Milwaukee.

7* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Jazz/Wizards UNDER 198

The Key: The Utah Jazz play at the league's slowest pace by a wide margin, averaging just 92.9 possessions per game.  They win their games with defense as they rank 14th in defensive efficiency and only yielding 96.4 points per game on the season.  Washington and Utah are used to low-scoring games.  IN their two meetings last season, they combined for 172 points in Utah and 177 points in Washington.  As you can see, those two outputs were 26 and 21 points less than this 198-point total.  The UNDER is 11-3 in Jazz last 14 vs. a team with a losing straight up record.  The UNDER is 11-4 in Wizards last 15 home games.  The UNDER is 6-1 in the last seven meetings in Washington.  Take the UNDER.

6* Wizards/Bucks Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Milwaukee -1

The Key: The Milwaukee Bucks have been a sneaky good home team this season.  They've gone 14-8 SU & 13-9 ATS at home, but unfortunately they've played a road-heavy schedule up to this point.  They are going to be a great team to back going forward.  The Bucks come in well-rested and ready to go as this will be just their 2nd game in 6 days, and knowing that the All-Star Break starts tomorrow, I look for them to put their best foot forward tonight.  That's especially the case considering they want revenge on the Wizards after losing each of their first 3 meetings this season, including two by exactly 5 points.  They don't want to get swept.  Washington is 0-7 ATS off a road win where it scored at least 110 points this season.  Milwaukee is 9-1 ATS in home games after having lost 4 or 5 of its last 6 games this season.  Take Milwaukee.

7* NBA Situational GAME OF THE MONTH on New Orleans Pelicans -2.5

The Key: This is an excellent opportunity to fade the Utah Jazz.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after their 121-119 (OT) win at Dallas last night.  Since the Jazz were forced to go an extra five minutes with OT, they will be even more tired than they normally would in a back-to-back situation.  Look for the New Orleans Pelicans to run them out of the gym tonight.  The Pelicans are 13-12 at home this season, while the Jazz are 9-15 on the road.  The home team is 8-3 SU in the last 11 meetings.  The Jazz are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Pelicans are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 vs. NBA Northwest opponents.  Take New Orleans.

6* NBA Eastern Conference *CA$H COW* on Indiana Pacers -3

The Key: The Indiana Pacers have been a tremendous home team this season.  They are 17-8 at home and have won 5 of their last 7 games overall coming in.  The Charlotte Hornets are just 7-17 on the road, yet they are only 3.5-point underdogs in this game.  Furthermore, the Pacers are 12-0 in their last 12 home meetings with the Hornets, including a 93-74 win in their last home meeting.  They are holding the Hornets to an average of 87.4 points per game during this 12-0 run.  Take Indiana.

7* NBA Western Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Dallas Mavericks -1.5

The Key: The Utah Jazz are simply getting too much respect from oddsmakers right now due to their 6-game winning streak.  However, you have to consider that five of those wins have come at home against suspect opponents, and the only road win came at Phoenix, which is playing worse than anyone in the NBA right now.  Now the Jazz must go up against a Mavericks team that has had their number to say the least.  The Mavs have won 9 of their last 10 meetings with the Jazz.  They are 10-0 in their last 10 home meetings, and 22-2 in their last 24 home meetings dating back further.  Take Dallas.

6* NBA *Total* Annihilator on Thunder/Suns UNDER 215.5

The Key: The Phoenix Suns are a mess right now, having lost 13 of their last 14 games overall.  Their biggest problem is that they are getting no offensive production due to injuries to three of their best scorers.  Eric Bledson, Brandon Knight and TJ Warren are all out.  The Suns have scored 98 or fewer points in 11 of their last 14 games.  Knowing that fact alone, it's easy to see why there is value with the UNDER 215.5 points in this game against the Thunder Monday night.  The Suns are 9-1 UNDER off 2 or more consecutive home losses over the last 2 seasons.  Take the UNDER.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Houston Rockets -5

The Key: The Portland Trail Blazers are overvalued right now because they have won five of their last six games overall.  But they are coming off a 7-game homestand, which was the biggest reason for their success.  Now the Blazers have to hit the road, where there are just 9-16 away from home this season.  They should be much heavier than only 5-point road dogs to the Houston Rockets here.  Houston is 14-4 ATS in its last 18 home games off a road win.  The 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Rockets are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.  Take Houston.

6* NBA *Total* Annihilator on Bucks/Jazz UNDER 189.5

The Key: The Utah Jazz and Milwaukee Bucks really prefer to play at a slow tempo.  The Jazz rank dead last in the NBA in pace at 93.0 possessions per game.  The Bucks rank 25th in pace at 96.1 possessions per game.  We saw this on display when these teams last got together.  The Jazz beat the Bucks 82-75 at home for 157 combined points.  While I don't expect this game to be that low scoring, I do see it easily going under this 189.5-point total.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Bucks last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The UNDER is 7-2 in Bucks last 9 road games overall.  The UNDER is 25-11-1 in Jazz last 37 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.  The UNDER is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Utah.  Take the UNDER.

7* NBA Eastern Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Cleveland Cavaliers -7

The Key: The Cleveland Cavaliers had won 5 straight games with 4 of those wins coming by at least 8 points prior to their loss at Charlotte on Wednesday.  That was only a small blip on the radar, and I look for them to get back on track with a win going away tonight at home against the Boston Celtics.  The Cavaliers are 19-3 at home this season and have one of the best home-court advantages in the NBA.  They also create matchup problems for the Celtics, which has been evident in recent meetings.  The Cavs are 5-0 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings with the Celtics. In fact, all 5 victories have come by at least 8 points.  Cleveland is 10-3-1 ATS in its last 14 vs. a team with a winning record.  Boston is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  Take Cleveland.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on New York Knicks +4.5

The Key: This is a bad spot for the Detroit Pistons.  They are coming off a hard-fought 95-102 road loss at the Boston Celtics last night.  So not only will they be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, they'll also be playing their 5th game in 7 days.  They are simply running on fumes right now and won't have much left to give against the Knicks, who had yesterday off and will be playing just their 2nd game in 4 days.  New York is 9-1 ATS vs. teams who outrebound their opponents by 3-plus boards per game this season.  The Knicks are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games playing on 1 days rest.  The Knicks are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 meetings with the Pistons.  Take New York.

7* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on New Orleans Pelicans +13.5

The Key: The New Orleans Pelicans haven't been 13.5-point underdogs or more the entire season.  That fact alone shows that there's value with the Pelicans tonight, especially with the way they have been playing.  They are 7-3 in their last 10 games overall and have been competitive in 12 of their last 13 games, only once losing by more than 5 points during that stretch.  Adding to my love for the Pelicans tonight is the fact that they are 4-1 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last 5 meetings with the San Antonio Spurs.  They may not pull off the upset tonight, but they certainly aren't going to lose by more than 13.5 points.  Take New Orleans.

6* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Dallas Mavericks -3.5

The Key: The Miami Heat are in a tough spot tonight.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after losing 102-115 at Houston last night.  They will also be playing their 13th road game in their past 15 games, so they have been on the road a ton here of late.  The Dallas Mavericks check in on one days' rest and will be motivated for a victory following their 97-112 loss at Atlanta on Monday.  The Mavs are 15-8 SU & 16-7 ATS at home this season, while the Heat are just 11-13 on the road.  Miami is 3-15 ATS after covering 3 of its last 4 against the spread over the last 2 seasons.  Dallas is 7-0 ATS in home games when playing 8 or more games in 14 days this season.  The Heat are 7-18 ATS in their last 25 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Mavericks are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.  Dallas is 16-5 ATS in its last 21 home games.  Take Dallas.

7* NBA Situational *SLAM DUNK* on Phoenix Suns +9.5

The Key: The Toronto Raptors are in a tough spot here tonight.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after losing 93-112 at Denver last night.  That loss snapped an 11-game winning streak which has had them overvalued for a few games now.  The Raptors are 0-3 ATS in their last 3 games overall and they are once again laying too many points to the Phoenix Suns here.  Yes, the Suns are struggling and injured, but they have played tough at home.  They only lost by 3 to Indiana as 5.5-point dogs and upset Atlanta by 3 as 10-point dogs in two of their last three home games.  They have only lost one of their last 11 home games by double-digits, which was against the Spurs.  That's a 10-1 angle supporting the Suns.  Take Phoenix.

7* NBA Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on Washington Wizards +9.5

The Key: The Washington Wizards are one of those rare teams that plays better on the road than at home.  They are 10-15 at home compared to 11-9 on the road this season.  They just upset the Houston Rockets on the road in their last game on Saturday night, and I look for them to give the Oklahoma City Thunder a run for their money tonight.  The Thunder have been overvalued quite a bit recently.  They are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  They won 4 of the 5, but all 4 wins came by 8 points or less over Dallas (by 3), New York (by 6), Minnesota (by 3) and Houston (by 8).  I look for the Wizards to stay within double-digits tonight as well.  Washington is 12-4 ATS as an underdog if 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.  Oklahoma City is 0-7 ATS vs. good 3-point shooting teams who make 36% or more of their shots this season.  The Thunder are 1-11 ATS vs. teams who allow 46% or better shooting to their opponents this season.  Take Washington.

7* Warriors/Knicks Non-Conference *HEAVY HITTER* on New York +10.5

The Key: I'll gladly fade the Golden State Warriors tonight.  They are overvalued due to having the best record in the NBA.  They needed a last-second 3-pointer to beat the lowly 76ers on the road 108-105 last night.  Now, they'll be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, putting them in a tough rest situation.  The New York Knicks have been undervalued all season and continue to be as double-digit dogs here.  They are 29-20 ATS in all lined games this season and on the verge of making the playoffs in the East.  New York is 7-0 ATS when playing against a team with a winning percentage of greater than 70% this season.  Golden State is 3-13 ATS when playing against a losing team in the 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.  Take New York.