4*Indiana Pacers +4.5

Both teams are red hot, with the Pacers 8-2 in their last 10 games and the Knicks 7-3. While the Knicks are favored at home, Indiana's up-tempo style and strong fourth-quarter performances—second-best in the NBA—make them a dangerous underdog tonight. Pascal Siakam's rebounding and the Pacers' fresh legs could exploit New York's shorter rotation. Both teams are healthy, but Indiana's recent playoff road wins and offensive efficiency suggest they can hang with the Knicks at Madison Square Garden or even win outright. My betting model has the Knicks favored by 1.2 points, so getting 4.5 seems juicy.

3*Houston Rockets -2.5

Houston's younger players and deeper rotation have influenced the series, with their double-big lineup neutralizing the Warriors' offense. Golden State appears fatigued, dealing with minor injuries to key players, while Houston has maintained strong team chemistry all season. They've outscored the Warriors 639-615 through six games. My model favors Houston by five points. I like the Rockets to advance.

3*Detroit Pistons +5.5

The last three games in this series have been decided by six points or fewer, including Detroit's close 94-93 loss in Game 4. Despite the Knicks'  home record of 28-15 in the regular season, their victories in this series have been nail-biters. Teams on the brink of elimination often play with increased urgency, and Detroit has demonstrated the gap between these teams is slim. This series could easily be tied if not for a fourth-quarter collapse by the Pistons in game one. Play Detroit plus the points.

3*Detroit Pistons +7.5

After a remarkable turnaround from a 14-68 record in 2024 to a 44-38 playoff team, the Pistons enter with momentum. Their underdog mentality and first playoff appearance in years could fuel a gritty performance in game one. The Pistons play with a "tenacious spirit" and aggressive defense that has disrupted New York's rhythm. They rank fifth in possessions, while the Knicks are 25th. With better defensive efficiency, rebounding, and turnover stats, I like the points in this spot.

3*Chicago Bulls -1

Since trading Jimmy Butler to the Warriors on February 6, 2025, the Miami Heat went 12-17 in the remainder of the regular season, including 4-7 on the road. The Miami Heat struggled offensively after the trade, ranking 23rd in offensive rating and lacking a clear focal point. The Bulls swept the Heat 3-0 during the regular season, including two wins at home. Josh Giddey and Coby White have outperformed the Miami guards, while the Bulls' Nikola Vucevic has played better than Bam Adebayo. The Bulls' youth and speed will out-match the older Heat, as the Bulls rank 9th in average age at 25.5 years, while Miami is 27th at 27.5 years. My model has the Bulls favored by 4.1, with Josh Giddey good to go.

3*Houston Rockets +5.5

Both teams are coming in with two big wins against Conference foes. This will be the third game in four days for the Warriors facing a team that has lost three of four meetings this season (0-4 ATS). The Rockets will be highly motivated in this game. Houston ranks first in scoring defense since March 6, allowing just 107.8 points per game, while also sitting third overall in offense, averaging 121.4 points per game. The second game back at home after a long road trip can sometimes be a sleepy spot. I like the road dog.

4*Phoenix Suns +5.5

This will be Boston's third road game in four days and their fourth in six days. Jayson Tatum, the Celtics' leading scorer, is doubtful for the game due to a left ankle sprain. Phoenix ranks in the top three for effective field goal percentage, with a rate of 56.8%. Boston has struggled with offensive rebounding, posting a 27% rate and low free-throw rate of 17.4%. Phoenix is riding a six-game home winning streak dating back to March 4 as they look to remain playoff-relevant. Grab the points.

3*Phoenix Suns +3

The LA Clippers are coming off two consecutive games against their cross-town rivals, the LA Lakers. In their recent home loss to Minnesota, the Phoenix Suns only scored 98 points while committing 22 turnovers. This season, the Suns have a perfect record of 3-0 against the Clippers. Norman Powell scored 63 points in those three matchups with a plus/minus of +24. However, he has been ruled out for this game. I like the home dog in this spot, with or without Bradley Beal. My model has this game at a zero-point spread.

3*Houston Rockets -3

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Houston Rockets 127-114 at home on February 6th. At the end of the third quarter, the Rockets were leading 98-92 but outscored 35-16 in the fourth quarter. The Rockets are healthier now and should be motivated after entering the All-Star break with a 3-7 straight-up and a 2-8 against-the-spread records of late. According to my model, the Rockets are favored to win by 4 points.

5*Golden State Warriors +6.5

Both teams are playing on the second night of a back-to-back. Houston is dealing with significant injuries to key players. Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. are both out for this game, while Alperen Sengun is questionable with a back injury. The Warriors are a veteran team and want to end the “first half” on a high note. Golden State is 2-1 since trading for Jimmy Butler. My model has Houston favored by four points. I really like the road dog in this spot.

3*Denver Nuggets +3 (-105)

The Denver Nuggets are looking for revenge after losing 145-118 at home on Thanksgiving in a nationally televised game. The New York Knicks have scored 143 points in each of their last two games and have a high-profile matchup against the LA Lakers on deck. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have lost two consecutive games but are undefeated in their previous four games after such defeats this season. Denver has faced the sixth most demanding schedule, while New York ranks twenty-sixth. I like the road dog.

3*Houston Rockets +3

The Rockets boast one of the NBA's top defenses this season, ranking 4th in points allowed at 107.8 per game and 5th in field goal defense at 45.1%. This elite defensive unit, anchored by Alperen Sengun's rebounding prowess (10.5 per game) and complemented by strong perimeter defense, matches up well against Cleveland's offense. He also chips in 19.2 points per game on a 48.9 FG percentage. Cleveland will be without star forward Evan Mobley, who is OUT with a calf injury. This is a tough travel spot for the Cavs, having played three road games than one home game and now hitting the road again to a different time zone. Houston ranks 6th in strength of schedule, while Cleveland is ranked 20th. Grab the points.

3*Dallas Mavericks +4.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves had an emotional comeback against the Nuggets at high altitude in game seven. Although Minnesota won 3 out of 4 games against Dallas this season, it's important to note that all four games were played before the trade deadline, after which Dallas significantly improved their roster. Minnesota is ranked 8th in average height, while Dallas is close behind at 13th. I like the Mavericks plus the points in game one!

4*Minnesota Timberwolves -2

The Minnesota Timberwolves are heading home after losing three consecutive games for the first time this season. Denver has shot at least 54% from the field in all three victories. Minnesota will be motivated, as the Nuggets have won both games in Minnesota. Closeout games are challenging on the road. I believe Minnesota will extend this series with a strong performance at Target Center.

3*Denver Nuggets -4

Both teams will be playing their fifth game within ten days. The high altitude of the venue will likely benefit the defending champions, especially since they will only have one day of rest. The Nuggets have improved their efficiency, shooting over 50% from the field in their last two victories. Mike Malone and his team have made the necessary offensive adjustments. Denver should be highly focused, given the outcome of the first two games in their home arena.

3*Indiana Pacers +5

After dropping the first game, the Indiana Pacers bounced back with a vengeance in game two against the Milwaukee Bucks in round one. The New York Knicks played three starters for over 40 minutes on Tuesday, but they need more depth and could be playing with "heavy" legs. The road team has a great chance to win outright, so let's take the points!

3*Philadelphia 76ers -3

The New York Knicks had three players (Brunson, Hart, and Anunoby) log over 50 minutes in game five. Closeout games are extremely difficult on the road, and the 76ers will have the added benefit of feeding off energy from the home crowd. Joel Embiid had just 19 points on 7-for-19 shooting, and Philadelphia was -5.5 in that crucial game three, which they won by 9 points. I think there will be a game seven at MSG on Saturday.

3*Orlando Magic -1.5

This will be the Cavs' first road game in just over two weeks, and they have lost 8 of their past ten games away from home. We all know that role players perform better at home, and the Magic went 29-11 at Kia Center. Their road/home splits are very telling, as they rank fifth in point differential at home (+7.8) compared to -3.8 in away games. The sold-out crowd of 18,846 will be fired up for Orlando's first home playoff game since 2019. Play the Magic in this must win game!

3*New York Knicks +3

The New York Knicks have a record of 5-3 after losing two or more games in a row. They have managed to defeat the Miami Heat in their two meetings, even though they were eliminated by the Heat in the playoffs last year. The line for this game seems high, especially considering that the Knicks have a point differential of +4.7, while the Heat's point differential is +1.4 this season. Furthermore, the Heat will play with a roster suffering from injuries and have a big revenge game against Philadelphia on deck. I will gladly bet on the Knicks as the road underdogs in this spot!

3*Houston Rockets +6.5

The Sacramento Kings have scored 130+ points in their last two games. Houston is ranked 11th in defensive efficiency while the Kings are ranked 22nd. The Kings could be looking ahead to their games against Milwaukee and the LA Lakers on Tuesday & Wednesday respectively. Sacramento is allowing 121 points per game at home. I think the Rockets can keep this within the number and possibly win outright!

3*New York Knicks +6.5

Both teams are dealing with injuries to key players. The Cavs are 1-7 ATS in their last eight games, while the Knicks are 1-10 ATS in their last eleven. After scoring under 100 points in consecutive games, New York is due for some positive scoring regression. Cleveland has a big revenge game against Boston on Tuesday. I like the points with the road team!

3*Oklahoma City Thunder -2.5

The Thunder are younger and quicker than the Warriors right now. They are 2-1 vs. Golden State this season. OKC is ranked sixth in offensive efficiency and seventh in defensive efficiency, while the Warriors are ranked 14th in offense and 14th on defense. Golden State is 2-8 straight-up as an underdog, while OKC is 8-3 SU and 8-3 ATS as chalk this season. I like the home team in this spot!

4*LA Lakers +6

The Lakers function better with extended rest, and this team has the best record since the trade deadline. The Nuggets did not play this new version of the Lakers. All four meetings were before the trade deadline. LA is ranked No. 8 in defense efficiency, while Denver is ranked No. 15 this season. I like the Lakers in this spot!

4*Phoenix Suns -4

The Suns are 30-14 at home, with a +5 point differential. Denver is 20-23 on the road, with a -3 point differential. Chris Paul is out and that's reflected in the line. Cameron Payne has proven his ability to step up in clutch moments. During the Suns' 2021 playoff run, he filled in admirably for an injured Chris Paul, notching a career-high 29 points in a Game 2 victory over the LA Clippers during the Western Conference Finals. Take the hungry host!

Kentucky Derby (May 6th)

We like #6 Kingsbarns (12/1) to win, place, and show!

Owns the fastest early and middle pace speed figures in the race. He won the Grade 2 Louisiana Derby from Post 6. His last work (4f in 48.4) was off the charts (33/150) at Churchill Downs. The progeny of Uncle Mo have won 20% in all dirt routes over the past 5 years and have hit-the-board 50% as well. The track is expected to be on the wet side, which should help his front-running style.

3*Denver Nuggets -2.5

The Nuggets have extra motivation after getting swept by Phoenix in this round last season. The Suns play their starters heavy minutes and that doesn't bode well at high-altitude. Kevin Durant did not play in Denver this season. I like this cohesive Nuggets' team that has been playing together all season. Take the hungry host!

4*Memphis Grizzlies -4

Memphis shot poorly in game four and still almost won the game. I think the Lakers are a tired team and closeout games are tough to win on the road. The earlier start time favors the Grizzlies. Take the home team in this spot!

4*Golden State Warriors +1

The extra time between games should benefit the Warriors in game one. Since 2013, NBA defending champions are 8-0 SU in their first playoff game. The Raptors and Lakers didn't make the playoffs after winning the Title. The Warriors should be super focused after not playing great on the road during the regular season. Andrew Wiggins is back and ready to go. Take Golden State!

2*Chicago Bulls +5.5

The Bulls went 3-0 vs. Miami this season and were short-handed in one of those games. Miami is 9-24 ATS vs. teams with a losing record. That is very telling. The Bulls and Hawks are built similarly, and Atlanta had very little trouble against Miami's older roster. This line seems a tad inflated. Take the road dog!

3*Atlanta Hawks +5.5

The Heat eliminated Atlanta from the playoffs in five games last season. I think this Hawks' team has more talent than last year's squad. The Heat are "nicked" up for this play-in game. Miami is 19-36 ATS as a favorite and 2-9 ATS after a win by 10 or more points. I think the Hawks will be extremely motivated in this spot. Take the underdog!

4*Philadelphia 76ers -2

The Celtics hit the road for the last time this season after having three days off. Boston has a revenge game against Toronto on Wednesday. Doc Rivers called out his team after their non-effort against the Bucks. Philadelphia is 0-3 vs. the Celtics and should be super motivated at home. Jaylen Brown has a 50% chance of playing after injuring his back. Robert Williams is Out for Boston. Take the hungry host!

3*Toronto Raptors +5.5

Philadelphia shot 47.2% from 3-point land in their win against Dallas on Wednesday. This will be the 76ers' second game after playing in Denver. Teams are cashing under 40% in this role. Tobias Harris is doubtful. He's only missed six games this season. Toronto is 10-4 ATS playing with two days of rest. The 76ers are just 1-5 SU and 1-5 ATS before playing the Milwaukee Bucks over the last two seasons. Take the road dog!

3*Charlotte Hornets +3.5

The Knicks are coming off two straight games allowing less than 90 points. They are 6-10 straight-up in this role of late. The Hornets were competitive against the Knicks in their only meeting this season. I think they match-up quite well so lets take the home team in this spot!

3*Washington Wizards -4.5

Third road game in four nights for the Thunder. The Wizards get Bradley Beal back which should only help a team that has won four in a row. Washington plays much better defense so lets swallow the points in this spot!

5*Dallas Mavericks -2

The Warriors should incur a natural letdown after that second half comeback win on Friday night. The Mavs bench should be much better at home. Dallas should be super focused in this spot!

4*Dallas Mavericks +1

The Suns shot the lights out (62.5%) from the field in Wednesday's victory. Phoenix is just 1-3 in game No. 3 of NBA postseason series of late. Dallas should be able to get better bench production at home. I think just one day rest instead of two benefits Dallas more. Take the hungry host!

3*Dallas Mavericks -2.5

The Mavericks are now 4-3 vs. Utah this season, with two losses by 7 points combined. I think the Mavs will play much better in Luka's second game back. I don't think the Jazz with get 42 free throw attempts either. Dallas 16-4 this season after scoring less than 100 points. Take the home team!

5*Atlanta Hawks +1.5

The Hawks return home after committing 37 turnovers in both games combined at Miami. I have no problems fading Butler and the Heat after two very impressive wins at home. The Hawks play much better at home and would expect a top-notch effort in this spot. Take the hungry host!

4*Toronto Raptors +4.5

Toronto defeated the 76ers 119-114 as 3.5-point home dogs on April 7th. The game was telling in my opinion. The Raptors were able to switch every pick & roll with their length. Philadelphia shot 52.8% from 3-point land and still lost. Don't fall asleep on this Raptors' team. Toronto owns a +2.3 point differential, while Philadelphia is +2.6 this season. Toronto has really good team chemistry and I love their head coach. Take the Raptors (plus the points) and for the series at a nice price.

5*Golden State Warriors +2

The Utah Jazz were on the road for six games, home for one game, and now hit the road again. Not an ideal spot, especially playing four games in six days. They shot 51% in their win over the LA Lakers. Big revenge game. The Warriors lost 111-85 on Feb. 9th in Utah. Golden State played really well against the Suns. No Steph. No problem tonight. Take the hungry host!

4*Dallas Mavs -2.5

The Nets scored 150 points on Tuesday and will now play without K. Irving who scored 60 points. This will be the Nets' third game in four days. New Jersey is 2-9 SU when playing back-to-back games this year. Dallas is 13-4 SU after scoring 100 points or less and 6-3 SU when playing with two days of rest. Take the toad team!

4*Charlotte Hornets +7.5

Both teams come in off losses to the New Jersey Nets. The Celtics beat the Nets 126-120 on Sunday, thanks in part to J. Tatum posting a season-high 54 points. The Hornets lost 132-121 as K. Irving posted 50 points in Tuesday's win. Charlotte has allowed two players score 50+ points in two straight games. Boston is just 2-5 ATS when playing with two days rest. This is a must play on the home team plus the points.

4*Memphis Grizzlies -2.5

The T-wolves have nobody on their roster that can stop Ja Morant. Very few teams do. The Grizzlies are 18-9 SU vs. winning teams while Minnesota is 12-17 this season. I like Memphis to get another win on the road!

5*Brooklyn Nets +2.5

The Nets will be getting some reinforcements, looking to end its 11-game losing skid. The Kings shot a season-high 56.6% from the field in their victory over Washington. I really like the Nets in this spot who are extremely motivated tonight.  

4*Washington Wizards +3

The Kings are coming off a two-game series against Minnesota. I love fading losing teams on the road after scoring 130+ points. Sacramento is 1-8 SU after scoring 130+ points, including 0-4 this season. The Wizards should have a lot of confidence after defeating the Nets. Take the home team!

4*Detroit Pistons +3.5

Detroit has lost three straight, including a home-and-home with Denver. The Pistons defeated the Magic earlier this month in Detroit while being short-handed. I just think it's a tough match-up for this Magic team right now. Detroit plays their best defense with two days of rest (18-12 ATS past three years). The Magic are a lowly 3-18 SU at home this season. Take the Pistons and the points!

4*Chicago Bulls +3

The Cavs are in a tough spot coming off what their coach called " a signature win" over the Nets. Cleveland was on the road for six games, played one home game and now hit the road again. Very tough spot. The Bulls are eager to end its four-game losing skid. Take the Bulls in this upset maker!

4*Sacramento Kings +6.5

Both teams played yesterday. Sacramento's Fox missed two free throws for the win. The Cavs had a season-high 7 players reach double figures in shooting over 52% from the field. This will be Cleveland's fourth game in six games. Very tough. The Cavs are 1-18 SU and 4-14 ATS vs. Pacific Division foes. The Kings are 20-10 ATS when playing the second of back-to-back games. I like the road team in this spot!

3*Sacramento Kings +8.5

Both teams will be playing its third game in four days. The Kings committed 19 turnovers and shot 20.6% from beyond the arc last night. I like the fact that Sacramento just played at Staples while defeating the LA Lakers. The Kings are 3-1 SU in their past four meetings against LAC at Staples. Take the road dog!

5*Milwaukee Bucks -4

The Bucks return home after allowing 118 points in both games at Phoenix. The Bucks are 3-0 SU in game 3's this postseason. Role players perform better at home and I would expect the Bucks to play much better defense after reviewing the tape. The Bucks are 10-5 SU when playing with two days of rest while the Suns are 5-3 SU. Milwaukee has more experience playing with two days off. The Bucks are 33-11 SU at home. Take the hungry host!

5*Phoenix Suns -5.5

The Clippers look exhausted to me. Paul George and Reggie Jackson are playing heavy minutes. I think not having Kawhi Leonard will really hurt the Clippers in this game. Also, this will be their 14th game in 26 days. Tough. Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Jae Crowder shot a combined 1-for-14 from beyond the arc. Look for a much better shooting performance in a convincing victory at home. Suns advance! 

5*LA Clippers +5.5

The Suns shot over 55% from the field in game one and won by just six points. The Clippers should make the necessary adjustments after seeing how the Suns played without Chris Paul. He's OUT again and the Clippers should keep this game close. I would not be surprised if the Clippers won outright.

5*Denver Nuggets +3

The Suns have won six straight playoff games, including all three against Denver. Phoenix came out with a lot of energy after watching the Nuggets' big man receive his MVP trophy. Visiting teams have struggled when playing the second of back-to-back games at Pepsi Center. I think the Nuggets win outright with a much more aggressive game plan!

5*LA Clippers +3

The Clippers blew a 60-47 halftime lead in game one. The Clippers and company should make the necessary adjustments after some film study. The big two shot 13-for-36 from the field and should be better in this game. The Clippers are 6-1 SU after a loss of four points or less. I like the Clippers in this spot.

4*Utah Jazz -3

The Clippers just played a seven-game series against a team that doesn't play defense. Only one day rest now playing at high-altitude against a well-rested Jazz team that is very good on defense. The Clippers seem to play better when their is urgency. The big two played heavy minutes in game six and seven. I like the Jazz in this spot!

4*LA Lakers -2

The Lakers return home after a non-effort in game five. I have to believe the Lakers will bounce back with or without Anthony Davis. Frank Vogel called out his team and LeBron James is 4-1 after a 30+ point loss in his career. Closeout games are tough, especially for young teams. Take the hungry host!

3*Memphis Grizzlies +5.5

The Jazz scored 141 points and now must play on the road. Tough. The Grizzlies have played two very tight games against a healthy Jazz roster during the regular season. This shows me that Memphis does match-up well against the Jazz. The Grizzlies are 15-5 ATS after a double digit loss this season. I'll take a shot with the home underdog in this one!

4*LA Clippers -2

The Mavs have shot over 50% from the field in both victories. The Clippers should be able to make the necessary adjustments after dropping the first two games of the series. Kawhi Leonard's teams have always played well after losing two straight in the postseason. I like the road team in game three!

5*Memphis Grizzlies -3.5

The Grizzlies went 2-1 against the Spurs this season with the one loss back in December. In the past two victories, the Grizzlies covered the spread by a combined 55.5 points. Memphis shot 24% (6 of 25) from beyond the Arc in Sunday's loss at Golden State. Ja Morant shot 33.3% (7 of 21) from the field. I would expect a much better effort at home.The Grizzlies are 10-4 SU after a loss of 10-19 points this season. In the past five games, Memphis has a +5.8 point differential while San Antonio has a -6.8 point differential. I'm taking the home team in this one!

4*Memphis Grizzlies +4

Memphis was in a similar situation last year in the bubble, needing to win the regular-season finale over Milwaukee to earn a spot in the play-in game against Portland. The Grizzlies beat the Bucks 119-106 to get in. The winner of this game will secure the 8th seed in the West. I like the road team in this spot!

4*LA Lakers +8

These are important games for the Lakers as they try to avoid the play-in tournament. The Lakers are ranked third in defense. Big rivalry and I believe this one will be closer than the line suggests.

4*Dallas Mavericks +3.5

The Mavericks shot 17.1% from three-point point land in Sunday's loss against Sacramento. That's their lowest percentage since 2018. The Miami Heat have shot over 50% from the field in three straight games. I like the road team in this spot!

4*LA Lakers +4

The Lakers have lost three in a row while the Nuggets have won nine of their past 10 games. The Lakers have the size to match-up against Denver. I know the Lakers are pissed off and want to end its losing streak tonight. Getting four points at home seems like a gift even if James sits out. 

5*Dallas Mavericks -5

The Mavericks have already defeated the Wizards in Washington (109-87) this season back in early April, easily covering the 6-point spread. The Wizards will be playing back-to-back to games (6-9 SU) and fifth game in seven days. Tough. Washington is coming off two wins where they shot over 50% from the field. Dallas is 12-4 in the past 16 meetings and I expect more of the same in this one. Take the Mavs! 

4*New Orleans Pelicans +4

The Pelicans are coming off a big win against the Clippers. They are playing for their playoff lives with 11 games remaining. New Orleans has already won at Denver this season when the Nuggets were at full strength. Denver is coming off two wins where they shot the lights out. Take the Pelicans!

4*LA Lakers +2

The Lakers dropped a tough one to the Mavs, committing 16 turnovers on Thursday. The Mavs will be playing their third game in four nights. The Lakers are 11-3 SU after allowing 115+ points this season. Frank Vogel has been excellent in same-season revenge games. Take the Lakers!

4*Sacramento Kings +2.5

The Wizards conclude their long road trip against a team that's desperate for a win. Wrong team favored. Take the hungry host!

4*Memphis Grizzlies -1.5

The Grizzlies return home after dropping two straight on the road. Miami shot the lights out in yesterday's home victory. The Heat will playing its third game in four days and Jimmy Butler has a very sore ankle. I like the home team!

4*Memphis Grizzlies +3

The Grizzlies have a game in hand as they played and looked impressive on Wednesday. The Nuggets haven't played since winning at Indiana on March 4th. Denver is 0-2 ATS when playing with three or more days of rest this season. Memphis is as close to full strength as they have been all season. The Grizzlies are 24-11 ATS against the Northwest division over the past three seasons. Take the home underdog in this one!

5*Portland Trail Blazers +6.5

This will be the Suns' third game in four days after crushing New Orleans on Friday and whipping Memphis on Saturday. Phoenix covered the spread by a whopping 39 points combined. The Suns made a franchise-record 24 3-pointers in defeating the Grizzlies. They also held Memphis to just 97 points. It's really tough to sustain that type of defensive effort especially with short rest. Portland is coming off a 118-111 home loss to the Wizards. Damian Lillard shot 10-for-30 from the field. I like the road dog in this spot! 

3*New Orleans Pelicans +3.5

Both teams are coming off tough losses. This will be the first road game in 16 days for the Suns. The Pelicans played one of their best games in defeating Phoenix on that night. The Suns have a -0.3 point differential on the road while New Orleans has a +4.2 point differential at home. I just like how the Pelicans match-up with these Suns right now. Take the points!

5*Portland Trail Blazers +5

The Dallas Mavs scored a season-high 143 points (58.3% from the field) against the Pelicans. It marked the second straight game shooting over 50% from the field. They also shot 55.6% from 3-point land making 25 of 45. They also committed just six turnovers. I always look to fade NBA teams that scored 140 or more points. Dallas is 6-10 ATS after scoring 130+ points over the past three seasons, including 0-1 this year. Portland keeps this one close!

4*New Orleans Pelicans +3

Both teams are playing good ball having won four of their past five. The Pelicans should be super focused knowing the Mavericks won all four meetings last season. New Orleans is coming off a loss in which the Bulls made a franchise-record 25 3-pointers (in 47 attempts). Dallas overcame a 13-point third-quarter deficit, holding Atlanta to just 27 points on 9-of-22 shooting in the final quarter. New Orleans has a big edge in rebounds and I really like them in this spot. Take the road dog! 

3*Toronto Raptors +5

The Nets are coming off an emotional bounce-back effort (shot 57% from the field) against the Clippers after having previously lost to the lowly Wizards. New Jersey is 0-4 ATS after covering the spread of late. The Public is backing the Nets in a big way based on Toronto sweeping the Nets in the bubble last August. I will take the points with the more efficient defensive squad. The Nets have a big game against Philadelphia tomorrow. Light play on the road team!

4*LA Lakers -4.5

The Lakers played a tougher schedule and had the much better road record. They also possess two of the Top 5 players in all of basketball right now. The Heat are a younger team in terms of postseason experience. I think the Lakers are the right side in game one.

3*LA Lakers -6.5

The Lakers didn't play well in game two evident by 23 turnovers for the game. I think the Nuggets are deflated after blowing that victory. The Lakers are 7-2 ATS after a close win (1-4 points) while the Nuggets are 3-5-1 ATS after a close loss. The Lakers are super focused and should win by margin tonight.

3*Boston Celtics -1.5

Miami has had a relatively easy journey in these playoffs while the Celtics are battle tested. The Heat have not played since 9/8/20. Advantage Boston in this first game. Lay it!

3*Toronto Raptors +3 (+100)

The Raptors shot just 13 free throws in their game five debacle. I would expect the defending world champs to play with a "chip" on its shoulder to force a game seven. Take the Raptors!

10*Denver Nuggets +3

The Jazz have won two in a row while shooting the lights out. Utah shot 51.7% and 51.2% from the field respectively. The Jazz also shot close to 49% from 3-point land on Friday. Denver committed a bubble-high 17 turnovers and should benefit from the return of Gary Harris Jr. The Nuggets are ranked #1 in assist/turnover margin and these teams rarely drop three games in a row in the postseason. I'm all over the Nuggets in this spot!

4*Oklahoma City Thunder +2.5

Oklahoma City does have a modest history on its side in terms of a potential Game 3 turnaround. The Thunder have won Game 3 in each of the five previous instances in which they fell into an 0-2 series hole, even rallying to take the 2012 Western Conference Finals against San Antonio. The Thunder are also 9-2 SU after a loss of 10 points or more this season. Take the Thunder in this must win game!

5*Dallas Mavs +5.5

The Mavs have already defeated the Bucks earlier this season in Milwaukee. The Bucs shot over 50% in their last game while the Mavs allowed their opponent to shoot over 50% in their last game. Take the Mavs plus the points.

3*Indiana Pacers +1.5

5*Dallas Mavericks +3

The Nuggets have alternated wins and losses in their past 7 games. Denver is coming off a victory against the short-handed Bucks. Dallas is coming off two straight losses after two straight victories. The Mavs are currently in the 7th spot out West. Denver plays much better at home as their 0.0 point differential shows. Dallas plays well at home sporting a +6.0 point differential. Both teams won on the road in the previous two meetings, with both games decided by a combined 4 points. I like the Mavs in this spot!

5*LA Lakers -1

Giannis made a career high five 3-pointers in the first meeting which the Bucks won. Bench players play better at home. I love the Lakers in this rematch. I know they really want to avenge its loss at Milwaukee. The Bucks are leaking oil as they got crushed by Miami and fell behind Indiana by 24 points before making a comeback. Take the hungry host!

5*Portland T-Blazers -4.5

Detroit traded away former franchise center Andre Drummond prior to the All-Star break and reached a buyout agreement with veteran point guard Reggie Jackson during the break, leaving Derrick Rose, John Henson, Tony Snell and Langston Galloway as the only healthy veterans drawing regular minutes. They also released (buyout) Markief Morris (LA Lakers) and some size for rim protection. The Pistons are in full tank mode while Portland comes in off a poor defensive effort at home. Swallow the 4.5 points. Take the hungry host!

5*Oklahoma City Thunder -1

The Thunder were just 11-14 after losing at Denver 110-102 in December. They have since gone 22-8, having won 10 of 13 before the break. This is a completely different team schematically and the Nuggets won't be able to adjust tonight. Take the home team! 

3*Golden State Warriors +7.5

5*Portland T-Blazers +2

Seems like a great sport for Portland as they've been off for two days while the Rockets will be playing it's third game in four days. I like Portland!

4*Memphis Grizzlies -2.5

4*Washington Wizards +4.5

4*Dallas Mavericks -3

4*Sacramento Kings -2.5

4*Charlotte Hornets +6

4*Oklahoma City -4

4*Oklahoma City Thunder PK

4*Toronto Raptors -2

4*Memphis Grizzlies +8

4*Charlotte Hornets -1.5

4*Oklahoma City Thunder -3.5

4*Memphis Grizzlies +3.5

Santa Anita Park

Race 4 (BC Filly & Mare Sprint) #6 Bellafina for win, place, and show  ML: 6/1

Race 7 (BC Filly & Mare Turf) #7 Vasilika for win, place, and show  ML: 8/1

Race 9 (BC Mile) #6 Got Stormy for win, place, and show  ML: 7/2

Race 10 (BC Distaff) BEST BET #4 Midnight Bisou WIN only ML: 6/5