Milwaukee at San Antonio 8:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Bucks- Milwaukee has won nine of their past 12 and with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the way in scoring and defense. This is the second meeting of the season between these two with the Bucks winning and covering the first meeting in Milwaukee on January 8. San Antonio is 2-8 SU in their last 10 games and now at a season worst 4-games under the break-even mark. The Spurs who had a pair of contests played in Paris split the two games with Indiana and have been back long enough to combat any jet lag. Take SAN ANTONIO!  

Minnesota at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Timberwolves - Wow, just look at all these trends lining up behind Minnesota. Not only are the Timberwolves playing their best basketball of the season having won four straight including last night’s 121-113 win over the Suns in Phoenix but Utah enters on a seven game slide and have dropped 10 of the last 11 games. Now looking at the season series this is their first encounter of the year but the Wolves have won the past five meetings. Enough of the trends because the biggest one is the ‘action’ coming in on Minnesota…take UTAH!

Dallas at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Mavericks - This will be the third meeting of the season between these two clubs and they have both posted home wins as hosts. The first meeting in Dallas had the Mavericks posting a 132-91 victory and the Pelicans held serve two weeks ago with a 119-116 win to even the season series. New Orleans has dropped their last three outings but the Mavericks are starting a five-game road trip where they have lost six of their past seven games. Zion Williamson is back on the floor again and the Mavericks’ Luka Doncic is still out. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Sacramento at Philadelphia 7:30 ET

Kings (-) over 76ers - Talk about ‘numbers’ that seem out-of-whack (what is whack anyway?) as Sacramento is a strong favored on the road against a team that has won three in-a-row defeating the Lakers, Bulls and Cleveland who was so shocked they dropped their next two games adding to their longest losing streak this season (3-games). Philadelphia had won eight straight meetings but the Kings managed to breaks the losing streak to the 76ers but are still just 2-7-1 ATS in the past 10 meetings. So, seeing the Kings favored by this huge a margin make me believe that the Sixers are done after three wins. Philly will be without Embiid, Paul George and Drummond. Take SACRAMENTO!

Brooklyn at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Nets (+) over Hornets - The actual truth that one of these teams will be favored here is sort of a mean trick to pay on us as one of these clubs will end up with a win tonight. The fact that neither of these two squads should ever be favored make me run to the underdog. As a matter of fact Brooklyn was favored by -1.5 at home when they met in November and could not cover the point and a half winning 116-115. Another oddity is that the Nets have more road wins than the Hornets have home victories. Take BROOKLYN!

Atlanta at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Timberwolves - It appears the Hawks have a wounded wing as they have lose for straight and never came close to covering the number. It looks like Minnesota has gained some foot hold with a pair of wins over Dallas and Denver but they have a history of struggling against Atlanta no matter where the game is being played. The Hawks are 7-3 SU in the past 10 meetings and 9-1 ATS with their lone ‘cover happening almost two years ago. Take ATLANTA!

LA Lakers at Charlotte  7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Lakers - The Charlotte Hornets have had that kind of year, the kind that no team or coach ever wanted to happen. It has been a nightmare of injuries to a club that has so much potential as this young guard heavy club was physically taken out of the game. But, now the injured are returning to action and it shows on the court as the Hornets have won 4 of their last six. Take CHARLOTTE!  

Toronto at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Hawks - What I see Toronto’s record in the standings I smile a bit as most publications don’t print the ATS records and the Raptors are one of the better money makers at 25-18-1 ATS on the season. Atlanta has dropped three in a row, the last of which was to these same Raptors, and my first thought is that they are going to beat them again. They have won their last two and four of five outright. Take TORONTO!

Houston at Cleveland 7:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Cavaliers - Okay, Cleveland has lost their last two games, the first to the Rockets in Houston and then shockingly two days later were beaten outright by Philadelphia who had dropped seven straight. I believe that most would think that the Cavaliers are seeking revenge against Houston and will step up here, but. The Rockets want to prove Thursday’s win was not a fluke. Take HOUSTON!

Denver at Minnesota 3:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets - The Nuggets are gathering no moss as they run over NBA opponents and have won four straight and eight of their past nine. Nikola Jokic has five straight triple-doubles and ties a feat only accomplished by Wilt Chamberlain, attaining 35 points, 22 rebounds, and 17 assists. He had two more assists and rebounds than the ‘Big Dipper.’ But, tonight, will be the guard play of the home Wolves that will make the difference. Take MINNESOTA!

Cleveland and Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (+) over Cavaliers - The last I saw of the 76ers the were getting routed in Denver and, according to Stan Van Gundy played without any effort, allowing 144 points while losing their seventh straight game. Cleveland also played on Wednesday, losing a heartbreaker 109-108 at Houston. The Cavaliers have defeated Philly in the past three meetings including a 126-99 victory this season in December. No surprise Embiid is not playing tonight but the surprise comes with the final score. The 76ers show improved effort tonight against one of the NBA’s best squads. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Miami at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Heat (+) over Bucks - These two played a game during Thanksgiving week in Miami when the Heat were favored by 5.5 points, and Milwaukee won the game 106-103. What I am trying to convey is that amidst the issues surrounding the Heat with Jimmy Butler and recurring injuries to Tyler Hero. So, in this meeting, the Bucks have been made a 7-point favorite, and I believe the price is a bit inflated. The Bucks had difficulties with their travel plans as the weather in New Orleans has them askew. Take MIAMI!

Toronto at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Hawks - On the heels of a five-game losing streak, Toronto has won 3-of 4 while Atlanta has dropped their last two games after a mini win streak of three. The Hawks are having trouble getting off the ground as they are going 3-7 ATS in their last 10. This is the second meeting of the season with Atlanta taking down the Ratpors in Toronto 136-107. This is the first of back-to-back games in Atlanta. Raptors get a jump on low-flying Hawks! Take TORONTO!

San Antonio vs Indiana 2:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Pacers - Victory Wembanyama is an international figure, and he returns to his native France, Paris to be exact, as the NBA expands globally during the regular season. Mature well beyond his 21 years, 'The Alien,' as he is referred to, will be hounded by media seeking his return home, and he shall graciously handle it and then go put on a show for all of Europe. Indiana 8-1 since the New Year but will be done in here. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Cleveland at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Cavaliers - This is the first meeting of the season between these two upstarts who are making a serious push for their division titles. Cleveland is running away with the Eastern Conference, not to mention the Central Division, with a seven-game lead over Boston in the loss column. Houston is seven games behind Oklahoma City for the top seed in the Western Conference, but they are leading the Southwest Division by one game in the loss column over Memphis. After playing 5-of 6 games on the road, the Rockets returned home Monday and were beaten by Detroit 107-96 a game that they were not ready to play... they will be ready tonight. Take HOUSTON!

Minnesota at Dallas 7:30 ET

Mavericks (-+) over Timberwolves - These two have split a pair of meetings, winning on each other's floor back on Christmas Day and three days later. Minnesota enters this fray having dropped its last two games and 4-of 6. After defeating Oklahoma City, the Mavericks lost at Charlotte Monday and have dropped 4-of 5 and are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games overall. The Timberwolves have yet to adjust to playing without Karl-Anthony Towns and with a pair of additional guards to go with Anthony Edwards. However, when you base your team on three-point shooters, the final result will be inconsistent. Take DALLAS!

Orlando at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Magic- Orlando when healthy can beat anybody anywhere at anytime but they are not have not had all their assets working at the same time. The Magic have lost their last three and 5-of-6 with Franz Wagner sidelined. The Raptors are off of a beating Friday at Milwaukee and have dropped the last four meetings with the Magic but had won their previous two. Take TORONTO!

Chicago at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Bulls (+) over Clippers- This is the first meeting of the season between these two and Los Angeles swept the two-game set in each of the past two years and Chicago got the sweep the season before that. The Clippers have won and covered four straight after dropping 4-of-5 while the Bulls have lost their last five games as coach Billy Donovan says after their loss at Portland yesterday that it is ‘time to reflect’...Take CHICAGO!

LA Lakers at LA Clippers 9:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Clippers- These two Los Angeles teams are meeting for the first of four season encounters for the first time in the Clippers new home about a mile from the Forum which they shared with the Lakers for 32 years. The Clippers have won their last three games entering this battle including a 59 point win over Brooklyn while the Lakers managed to beat the Nets by one-point. Anthony Davis is back and the Lakers took 3-of-4 last season. Take LA LAKERS!

Cleveland at Minnesota 9:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Cavaliers- Can it happen? Can Cleveland be beaten twice in a row? Well they have lost 2-of-3 and are up against Minnesota who has defeated the Cavaliers four of the past five meetings although this is their first encounter of the season. The Timberwolves have come to life winning five of their last seven with their losses which were by 1-point against Golden State and 2-points against Memphis. Take MINNESOTA!

Utah at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (-) over Jazz- In the you’ve got to kidding category, New Orleans who has won only 10 games of 42 played and have the worst record in the NBA and yet they are a double-digit favorite at home where they are 4-16 straight-up. Utah, I must admit is just 3-15 on the road but does that justify a double-digit price against the Pelicans. This is the first meeting of the season between the two and I am forced to give the favorite here. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Denver at Miami 8:00 ET

Heat over Nuggets- It is difficult for me to grasp just why Miami is favored here as they are playing without their superstar Jimmy (Playoffs) Butler who has appeared in his final game in South Beach. Straight-up Denver has won six straight meetings and 9-of-10 straight up and 8-2 ATS. So, why are the Heat favored here? It just doesn’t look right and bookies don’t make this kind of mistakes. Take MIAMI!

Minnesota at New York 7:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Knicks- Intriguing matchup between a pair of clubs that made a blockbuster trade before the season began and neither of them have shown their previous form. Minnesota send Karl-Anthony Towns to New York and the big guy has delivered for the most part, but parting with a pair of shooting guards has left a bit of a void for the Knicks. The Timberwolves who were blown out at home by New York in late December are looking to even the season series against a struggling Knicks squad that has lost five of seven with their wins over lowly Toronto and Philadelphia. Take MINNESOTA!

LA Clippers at Portland 10:00 ET

Blazers (+) over Clippers- These two have already met twice this season splitting a pair in Los Angeles with the Clippers being 8-point favorites each time. Now, the venue has changed to Portland and the line is close to where it was in LA. Too much of an overlay for a team that is 8-11 SU on the road against a team that is 8-10 at home. Take PORTLAND!

Houston at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Rockets- Sacramento tasted defeat for the first time in eight games under new coach Doug Christie and are now 7-2 under his leadership. The loss was at Milwaukee but the Kings have won four straight at home under their new regime after winning only six of 16 home games under dismissed coach Mike Brown. Houston enters town on a five game winning streak (Megabucks winner last night) while the Kings were crushed by the Bucks last time out. Reversal of fortune tonight. Take SACRAMENTO

Cleveland at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Thunder- The Cavaliers ended a three-game losing streak to Oklahoma City eight days ago in Cleveland. Of course most are expecting the Thunder at home to avenge the loss at home. Trouble river city as the Thunder lost their center last need for at least a week as Isaiah Hartenstein is out and they are already without Chat Holmgren and this will cost them here. The Cavs are No. 1 on offense scoring 121.9 PPG while OKC is No. 1 on defense allowing just 102.9...three pointers rule. Take CLEVELAND

Charlotte at Utah 9:00 ET

Hornets (-) over Jazz- I’m sorry I have to use this type of game with a pair of dregs playing each other but I smell a rat here. Would someone tell me why a team that has won only eight of 36 games would be favored on the road where they are 2-15 straight-up. Now, I understand that Utah is not so good (like I said a dreg) but they have more wins and are at home and the Hornets have dropped 19 of their last 21 overall. Take CHARLOTTE!

Houston at Denver 9:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Nuggets- As of right now the Nuggets still receive more respect than does Houston and actually at this time the Rockets are the better team. They have come a long way since have the most losses in the NBA a year and a half back. Houston has won four straight games and five of their past six games and have not lost two-in-a-row this season. Head up the Rockets have won four of the last five from the Nuggets. Take HOUSTON!

Dallas at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Mavericks- These two met earlier this season when Luca Doncic  was healthy and Kyrie Irving was of right mind Dallas destroyed the Pelicans 132-91. That was the Mavericks largest margin of victory of the season and the largest margin of defeat for New Orleans. The Pelicans have won four of seven after an 11-game losing streak. The Mavs are moving in the wrong direction right now having lost seven of their last nine games. Take NEW ORLEANS

New Orleans at Chicago 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Bulls- These are two clubs that started the season behind everybody else because of injuries and poor play. As both got healthy their play improved and I am looking for to playing them now that they are under-valued. Chicago has won 5-of-8 and with the return of Zion Williamson the Pelicans have picked up the pace and have played 500 ball in their 10. In an earlier meeting this season the Pelicans beat a short-handed Chicago club 123-111. They do it again. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Sacramento at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Kings (+) over Bucks- The Kings like the Pacers have finally started to play the kind of basketball that produces wins and that is being unselfish and playing defense. Sacramento has won their last seven games and they defeated the Bucks the last time they met. So, what you say Milwaukee had won the previous 15 meetings. That right the Kings had not won in Milwaukee for 10 seasons. But, the hex has been broken and  the Kings will rule. Take SACRAMENTO!

Cleveland at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers- Can lighting strike twice or will the Cavaliers get their revenge. (Ha revenge, (I hate that term). You see Indiana just handed Cleveland their first defeat after 12 straight wins and now it is the Pacers that are streaking. Indiana has win six straight and after a struggle starting the season but they have put themselves in playoff mode. Look for the red-hot Pacers to stay hot. Take INDIANA!

San Antonio at L.A. Lakers 10:30 ET

Spurs (+) over Lakers- The Los Angeles Lakers have won three last three meetings including twice already this season and eight of the past nine meetings. San Antonio has dropped their last three games and this will be their third straight road game. Both of these clubs are midland teams that will stay around the break even mark all season. The Lakers of course because of the fires in LA had one game canceled and of all things even with LA head coach JJ Riddick’s house turning to ashes the Lakers are playing in LA as opposed to some other venue. It doesn’t help today as distraction in the smog laden city  isnworse than ever. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Sacramento at Chicago 3:30 ET

Bulls (+) over Kings- This price seem a bit off to me but I could not turn down a play on Chicago as they are battling tough having won five of their last seven games. But, the hottest team in the NBA aside from the super teams has to be Sacramento who has won six straight which came on the heels of a six-game losing streak. The winning streak by the Kings influenced to number and I better understand the line. The Kings under new coach Doug Christie are playing their best basketball of the season as these two meet for the first time this year. Kings off of a road win at Boston on Friday and will not have the same intensity here. Take CHICAGO!

Oklahoma City at New York 7:3 0ET

Knicks (+) over Thunder- OKC has had their way with New York winning the last three meetings and six of the past seven including a home win and cover last Wednesday and are looking to even the score at MSG. The Thunder just had their 15 game winning streak end at Cleveland as the NBA’s best as of now took them down 129-122. NY is 12-5 at home and are rarely an underdog here. Take NEW YORK!

New Orleans at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over 76ers- Poor New Orleans it is either one thing or another that destroys the city and the basketball team and even come to think of it to the football team as well. The Pelicans are beginning to mend as they get healthy with the return of oft injured Zion Williamson. Philadelphia has also had to deal with injuries and have been very inconsistent. The Pels have dropped two straight at home but have defeated the 76ers the last two meetings. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Golden State at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Warriors- It seems that the more action I see being wagered on Golden State the larger the Pacers become as favorites. Indiana has beaten the Warriors the past two meetings and five of six including a win two days before Christmas 111-105 at Golden State. The Warriors have to be just that as they are a bunch of walking wounded and will be without Andrew Wiggins for personal reasons. Take INDIANA!

Oklahoma City at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Thunder (+) over Cavaliers- A battle between the NBA’s best (Boston might have something to say about that before it is all said and done) who are head and shoulders about the rest of the field. Cleveland got off to that record setting start and at 30-4lead the NBA with Oklahoma City close behind at 30-6 SU. Both are stellar ATS with OKC 24-9-3 and the Cavaliers 24-10 ATS. The difference in styles comes from the Thunder playing defense while Cleveland is looking to outscore you. That 15-0 start by the Cavs has been met by the Thunder who will make it 16 straight with a win tonight. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Phoenix at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Suns- This has been a one sided series for a while now as Phoenix has won the past seven meetings and 9-of-10 and this will be the their first meeting of the season. he Suns ended a four game losing streak last night as our Power Play winner last night while the Hornets have dropped 10 straight games but have the return of two starters LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller who have been out over a week. Take CHARLOTTE!

Miami at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Heat (+) over Kings- Bye bye love...the Heat have cooled off with the suspension of Jimmy Butler but what did they expect? haven’t this happened everywhere he has been. Well Miami has dropped three in-a-row and the are off a mugging of Golden State 129-99 last night. The Kings return home after a one game road trip and have won their last four so the number is very inviting but I believe the Heat have more grit...Take MIAMI!

LA Clippers at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (-3) over Clippers- Wolves will be going for the series sweep as they have defeated LAC twice already with wins five days apart in Nov. 29 & Dec 4. This will be LA’s second game with the return of Kawhi Leonard and they won his debut 131-105 over Atlanta. The Wolves have dropped their last three and are off of a Saturday loss at Detroit. But, times is a charm...take MINNESOTA!

Phoenix at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Suns (+) over 76ers- I resisted giving this game so much that I realized it had to be a play (kinda twisted but it might work). Phoenix has lost seven of the last eight and it looks to be getting worse as players are moping around admitting their ‘vibes were low’. After a very slow start Philadelphia has won 11 of the last 16 as Ebiid increases his playing time. But, it is time for the Suns to shine...take PHOENIX!

Sacramento at Golden State 8:30 ET

Kings (+) over Warriors- These two met four times last year and Golden State  won the first meeting but Sacramento rallied and won the final three games between the two. Off of a six game losing streak the Kings have posted three straight wins and are a respectable 7-7 SU on the road. This line seem rather shallow as Golden State was a 6.5-point favorite over the Kings just over a year ago. Take SACRAMENTO!

LA Lakers at Houston 7:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Rockets- The Rockets are on the upswing and believe it or not so are The Los Angeles Lakers who have won four-in-a-row and 7-of-8 while also going 7-1 ATS. This is the first meeting of the season and these two split four games last season and in the last meeting Houston was a 1-point dog at home and won big 135-119. But now they are laying points and James and Davis will keep it close. Take the LA LAKERS!!

New York at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Knicks- New York went all out to win their game at Oklahoma City last night with every starter playing at least 40 minutes. The Knicks were on a nine game win streak and held a nine-point lead entering the final quarter and then tired legs gave out and they were out-scored by 37-19. The Knicks reserves were outscored 44-5. In today’s game they should be entitled to time off as a management break. These two have split their last six meetings with the Bulls capturing a win in mid November. Take CHICAGO!

New York at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Thunder- These two clubs have won 22 straight games between them as New York is on a nine-game win streak and the defending division champions have won 13 straight and one more win will equal the franchise high which was established while the team was in Seattle. The Knicks are the highest scoring team in the NBA averaging 117.9 points per game. Take NEW YORK!

Phialdephia at Saramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over 76ers- Philadelphia has now won four in-a-row and 10 of 13 after a 3-14 start. Sacramento made a coaching change after practice before boarding a plane and promptly went out and lost their sixth in-a-row. In his second coaching contest Doug Christie posted his first win Monday night over Dallas 110-100 and he has instilled a fresh attitude. Well, anyway the bookie’s believe that they are ready, just look at this ridiculous line. Take SACRAMENTO!

Atlanta at Denver 9:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Nuggets- Atlanta started slowly and at one time was 7-11 but have circled the wagons and have won 11-of-15 since November 1. The Hawks who have been streaky all season are currently on a six game win streak after dropping three in-a-row. Denver has won the last four meetings and seven of the past eight and were heavy favorites in all. The only time the spread was this low (Nuggets were always favored) thee Hawks won. Take ATLANTA!

Dallas at Houston 8:00 ET

Mavericks (+) over Rockets- Houston is starting to develop a bad habit and that is blowing late double-digit leads.  Twice in this five game home stand the Rockets gave up a 16-point lead ti Minnesota and a 12-point lead to Miami. Dallas has dropped three of four games as they have had to go with four starters out and it is something they will learn to live with because Luca Doncic is out a month. The Rockets won the only meeting thus far this season on Halloween in Dallas as a 6.5 point underdog 108-102. turnabout...take DALLAS!

Cleveland at LA Lakers 9:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Cavaliers- Cleveland is on another winning streak and at 28-4 they have had plenty of them. The Cavaliers are playing the second of back-to-back games as the defeated Golden State on the road last night and are in LA tonight. Los Angeles has won five of six and although just 17-13 on the season when Anthony Davis and LeBron James get it going the Lakers are very hard to beat. Take the points at home here. take LA LAKERS!

Kings (+) over Mavericks- Sacramento just return from a loss at the LA Lakers and after going 0-5 SU and ATS in a five-game homestand from Dec. 16-26. That make six straight losses and seven straight no covers. Mile Brown was fired Friday and Doug Christie is now the head coach and is looking to instill a fresh attitude.  Dallas will be with Luca Doncic but the 7-3 SU when he is sidelined. That is just the opening the Kings need. Take SACRAMENTO!

Cleveland at Golden State 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Cavaliers- I could say these are two teams moving in different directions but Cleveland has been moving in just one direction and that is i to the winners circle. The Cavaliers have won six straight and 9-of-10 while posting a fabulous 22-9 ATS record. Golden State has won just two of the past eight games and they are the same 2-6 ATS. In head-to-head action the Cavaliers have won the last three meetings including a 136-117 home victory the first week of November. But, tonight the Warriors even the season series. Take GOLDEN STATE!

LA Clippers at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Clippers- New Orleans lost nine of their last ten and 18 of 19 games and has only won a pitiful five games on the season while losing 27. Now, some teams with a losing record still manage to be competitive with the points and may actually have a decent ATS record. Not so much with the Pelicans. If you examine the ‘birds’ roster you will find plenty of talent, the trouble is getting them healthy. Not having a lead at any time in the last two games has the Pelicans anxious for a good start. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Atlanta at Toronto 3:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Hawks- Atlanta has won their last three all at home while Toronto has dropped their last nine games and it doesn’t really matter where they play. Oh, maybe not so much as they are 1-14 on the road whereas they have won six games out of 16 at home. These two have split their last 10 meetings with five wins each and it was the raptors that won the last meeting in Atlanta last February. Try this on the 17-15 SU Hawks are 14-18  ATS while the 7-24 Raptors are 19-11-1 ATS. Take TORONTO!

Brooklyn at Orlando 6:00 ET

Nets (+) over Magic- Orlando has defeated Brooklyn the last five times that they have met including three times this season all results covering the number. Meanwhile the Nets are 3-9 in their last 12 games overall and are off a home loss to San Antonio where they scored a season low 87 points. I expect a better performance on offense with the return of Ben Simmons and Cameron Johnson. Take BROOKLYN!

Sacramento at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Kings (+) over Lakers- Considering that the Los Angels Lakers opened the season with a 131-127 home win over the Kings and then won both December meetings in Sacramento this line seems awful short to me. The Kings had won five straight meetings until this year’s opener and now will have a new coach leading the way as Mike Brown was let go yesterday. Maybe that is the wake-up call the Kings needed to jump start their defensive attitude. At 13-18 SU and 10-20 ATS the Kings can use a spark that new coach Doug Christie can provide. Brown ran practice Friday and was informed of his firing before boarding the plane for LA. Take SACRAMENTO

Phoenix at Golden State 9:30 ET

Warriors (-) over Suns- Both of these clubs are at .500 have split their first 30 games with 15 wins and losses. Against the points Phoenix has yet to meet the odds makers level of confidence as they have ‘covered’ just 10 of 30 games. The Warriors are like their record at a break-even mark. Golden State has even split road and home games going 8-8 away and 7-7 at home. The Suns took the first meeting as hosts in late November and have won 8-of-10 meetings. In those 10 meetings the Warriors were never more than a -3.5-point favorite and now...why is the number this high. Take GOLDEN STATE

Milwaukee at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+)  over Bucks- On Monday when these two met in Chicago I went out of my way to let everybody know that I was releasing in a very ‘special’ Megabucks and I fell flat on my face with the Bulls getting pounded by 31 points. The Bulls have now lost three straight and are trying to even the season series at 2-2 as they showed that they can defeated the Bucks opening the season 133-122 in Milwaukee. Take CHICAGO!

Dallas at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Mavericks (+) over Suns - This will be the third meeting of the season between these two and Phoenix has posted a pair of victories winning 114-102 at home and posting a 114-113 in Dallas. The Suns will once again be without Devin Booker and one special Mavs guard will take advantage. The Mavericks are starting to pick up the pace and when they are healthy they are very tough to beat but they will be without Luca Doncic so expect Kyrie Irving to make up the difference. Take DALLAS!

Cleveland at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Cavaliers- Cleveland is starting a four game road trip and it is supposed to be the toughest stretch they have faced this season. The Cavaliers have won five in a row and come to Denver an underdog who has won five of seven and are righting the ship so to speak after a slow start. The Cavs post a home win over the Nuggets earlier this year and now turnabout is fair play. Take DENVER!

Minnesota at Houston 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Rockets- If this line doesn’t raise an eyebrow then you really do not under stand what is going on...right or wrong any ‘player’ would pick up on it. Here is Houston winners of four straight and 6-of-7 leading the Southwest with a 21-9 record returning home after a 3-game road sweep and they are barely favored against a struggling Timberwolves club. Minnesota a floundering 15-14 have yet to recover fully from the trading away Karl-Anthony Towns. Maybe their victory at Dallas will spurn them on. Take MINNESOTA!

Oklahoma City at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Thunder- It seems from what I hear Oklahoma City was upset that they were passed over on Christmas Day. Most would love that day off to spend time with family but last year’s No. 1 seed in the West feels disrespected. The Thunder have won eight in-a-row and are 12-1 in their last 13 games overall. Indiana is on a winning streak of their own pocketing six straight and are return home after a 3-game West Coast road trip defeating Phoenix, Sacramento and Golden State outright as underdogs. Pacers have won the past three meetings and 8-of-the-last-10.  Take INDIANA!

Miami at Orlando 7:00 ET

Heat (+) over Magic- Five days ago a meltdown of epic proportions took place in Miami when in the fourth quarter the Heat blew a 25-point lead and for good measure lost the game by seven points. The Heat scored just eight total points and just kept throwing up 3-pointers and lost their ‘mojo’ as they went cold and then it was Magic as they scored 37. Bad for Orlando as they lost their third started when Mo Wagner went down on Saturday and Jimmy Butler has sat out the past two games but should make an appearance tonight. Take MIAMI!

LA Lalkers at Golden State 8:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Warriors- Last season the Lakers won the first of four meeting last season 145-144 in overtime and then Golden State responded by winning the next three meetings  and going 3-0 ATS. The Warriors have dropped 4-of-5 and have gone 3-9 after a 12-3 start. James is back and playing as good as ever in the minutes he puts out. LeBron minutes believe it or not are increasing and so our chances. Take LA LAKERS!

Philadelphia at Boston 5:00 ET

76ers (+) over Celtics- Two of the worse points spread team in the NBA this season as Boston the defending champions who may just be sleepwalking until the playoffs or at last until the All-star game are 11-18 ATS awhile the beleaguered 76ers are 10-17 ATS. Philadelphia f course is with and without Joel Embiid who was tossed for the game Monday against San Antonio and will be seeing red on Christmas. Celtics have had control in the series but this a funky time for them. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Minnesota at Dallas 2:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Mavericks-What did they expect? Did the brass making the decisions actually think that they were improving their club by trading Karl-Anthony Towns away. We can understand financial decisions but the NBA is plenty rich and no club suffers because of all the international and USA TV contracts. Dallas has started to play the level of basketball expected with their talent level but every once in a while Kyrie Irving steps off the edge of the Earth (the flat part) and goes MIA. Sometimes he’s on the floor and he’s Missing in Action. Take MINNESOTA!

Detroit at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Pistons (+) over Lakers- Los Angeles has put together a three game winning streak (two of which were against Sacramento) with the return of LeBron James as they rebound from a 3 and 11 stretch. James with be 40 years old in seven days and his minutes are becoming fewer and fewer with each passing day. Detroit has shown vast improvement from their franchise worst record last season and they broke a 7-game losing streak to the Lakers in early November. The Pistons are off their season high in points in their 133-125 win at Phoenix and will be ready. Take DETROIT!

Milwaukee at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Bucks- ‘There is something wrong in Mudville’ and Casey is swinging the bat for the Milwaukee Bucks. Explain to me hoe the Bucks the NBA Cup Champions can be a virtual pick-em against the Chicago Bulls who just lost to the Celtics by 25-points 123-98 on Saturday while the Bucks were cruising against the Wizards. Even if the ‘Greek Freak’ doesn’t play this line seems bogus to me. Take CHICAGO BULLS!

LA Clippers at Memphis 8:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Grizzlies- This is the first meeting of the season between these two with Memphis taking the first meeting and LA winning the last three. The Grizzlies have won the last two and 6-of-7 and 8-of-10 entering this contests. But, they once again will be without Ja Morant while LA has yet to see Kawhi Leonard on the floor. These are two of the better point spread teams with the Griz at 20-9 ATS and the Clippers are 17-11-1 ATS. Take the LA CLIPPERS!

Indiana at Sacramento 6:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Kings- After the was Indiana closed the 2023-24 season much more has been expected then what they have delivered this year. The Pacers are under .500 but are starting to reach their expected level of play winning their last three and 4-of-5. Sacramento has dropped their last three and are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall. Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton returns to play against the club that drafted him No.1 and then traded him to the Pacers. In his second trip back to Sacramento and he’ll get a small measure of revenge. Take INDIANA!

LA Clippers at Dallas 8:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Mavericks- These two met Thursday in Dallas and the Clippers toyed with them for a quarter and then took over the rest of the way out scoring them 94-64. I don’t expect Dallas to respond to the loss and most likely are going to drop a pair of games at home to the smooth sailing Clippers. Take the LA CLIPPERS

Golden State at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Timberwolves- hey how about those Warriors...Stephen Curry and Draymond game just finished playing a game against Memphis where neither of them scored a field goal. After a game like that these veteran professionals will respond like the true champions they are. The Timberwolves have yet to put it together since unloading Karl-Anthony Towns and the Warriors rebound. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Memphis at Atlanta 7:00  ET

Hawks (+) over Grizzlies- Memphis has been lurking in the shadows but quietly are 19-9 and must lways be considered a they as long as Ja Morant is able to step on the court. The Grizzlies are the NBA’s top scoring club and Atlanta’s defense is the fourth worse. These grizzlies held both Steven Curry and Draymond Green without field goal their last time out. The Grizzlies are a little too pleased with themselves. This is the first meeting of the season between these two  with them splitting their last eight meetings.It’s the Hawks turn tonight. Take ATLANTA!

Milwaukee at Cleveland 8:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Bucks- The Milwaukee Bucks have won 4-in-a-row and are fresh off their NBA Cup victory over Oklahoma City in Las Vegas. These two are meeting for the third time this season with Cleveland winning both and have now won the last three meetings and six of eight meetings. The Cavaliers were off to their best start in franchise history and have kept up the pace even against the number where they are 19-8 ATS. The Cavaliers are a heavy price here but it will be worth it. Take CLEVELAND!

New York at Minnesota 9:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Timberwolves- Neither of these clubs have hit their stride as of yet but Minnesota has won and covered their last two games and six of seven. New York has alternated wins and losses their last four games but are 7-3 SU and ATS in their last 10  outings. These two have split their season series one win apiece in each of the past four seasons. Karl-Anthony Towns returns to Minnesota where he spent nine seasons and must keep his emotions in tact. The Knicks since ‘Tibs’ came over have been known for defense but now have transformed and are No. 2 in offense. Take NEW YORK!

LA Clippers at Dallas 8:30 ET

Clippers (+) over Mavericks- A contrast in styles will be on display in Dallas as the high power Mavericks offense ranked No. 4 in the NBA will be facing one of the tougher defenses in the league ranking No. 5 defensively allowing just 107.8 points per game. Starting slow the at 5-7 the Mavs have picked up the pace and have won 12 of 14. LA rebounded from a three game losing streak by scoring 144 points a season high with a win over Utah. Still waiting for Kawhi Leonard’s 2024 debut but, James Harden has taken over the offensive leadership. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Utah at Detroit 7:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Pistons- Detroit is just three wins shy of meeting the number of wins that they posted lat season which was the franchise worst season ever with just 14 wins. The Pistons are off of a win over Miami but have put together back-to-back wins just twice this season. Utah looks like last years’ Pistons and have lost 12 of 14 including the last three. But the Jazz have Detroit’s number having beaten them in the last three meetings and 8-of-10. Take UTAH!

Milwaukee vs. Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Bucks (+) over Thunder- Great match-up for the NBA Cup in Las Vegas where NBA Superstars will face each other in this contrived in season tournament. Milwaukee started the season slowly but have picked up momentum winning 12 of their last 15. The Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo can dominate any game anytime and the Thunder will try and counter with their own superstar in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Bucks had won six straight in the series between the two but the Thunder won the last meeting in April but have dropped eight of 10 overall to the Bucks.Take MILWAUKEE!

Philadelphia at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over 76ers- The way things look to me, the 76ers are having a mirror season to what the 49ers are going through in the NFL. Injuries and a general drop off in production have hampered any chances of getting thing moving forward. For Philly there is no Joel Embiid or rookie sensation Jared McCain. Each team has seven wins with two of the Sixers’ victories have already come against Charlotte. These two will meet for a fourth time Friday in Philadelphia with the Hornets playing the Wizards Thursday night. But, tonight...take CHARLOTTE!

Memphis at LA Lakers 9:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Grizzlies- This will already be the third meeting between these two with each club holding serve at home with the Grizzlies collecting the money each time. With or without Ja Morant Memphis has won four in-a-row and 9-of-10 while LA has dropped 4-of-5. LeBron James has taken some personal time but is expected to return tonight. If he does or does not return may affect the line but not the side. Take LA LAKERS!

San Antonio at Portland 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Spurs- Portland has dropped four games in-a-row and failed to cover the number in all four games and 6-of-the-last-7. In head-to-head action San Antonio has won the last two meetings including a 118-105 victory at home back in the first week of the season. The problem here  for the Spurs is the availability of Victor Wembanyama who has been missing time due to back issues. Aside from ‘The Alien’ being questionable the Spurs have three others who will be sidelined leaving them short handed. Take PORTLAND!

Sacramento at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Kings- New Orleans has dropped 13 of their last 14 and 20 of the past 23 but have livened up ATS going 5-4 in the last nine games. Now, here is the freaky part...the Pelicans have beaten the Kings six straight times and 8-of-10 going 8-2 ATS. Sacramento comes into town have scored 141 and 140 points in their last two games against Utah and San Antonio. This one should come down to the final buzzer. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Dallas at Oklahoma City 9:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Mavericks- Dallas has had the best of this series between these two winning the past three and five of the last six meetings including a 121-119 win three weeks ago in Oklahoma City. This is the first round of the NBA Cup Knockout stage and last season the Mavericks knock off OKC in the playoffs 4-2. Isaiah Hartenstein is back and and producing in Chat Holmgren’s spot. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Cleveland at Miami 6:00 ET

Heat (+) over Cavaliers- After suffering a pair of road losses to Boston and Toronto Miami has returned home and posted victories over Phoenix and the Lakers. Cleveland who was off to a record setting start has recovered from a pair of losses to Atlanta with four straight wins and covers. The Cavs average 121.8 points per game and have not scored less than 101 points in any single game. The Heat turn up the defensive pressure and get the cash here. Tame MIAMI!

Memphis at Boston 8:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Grizzlies- This game may very well be a game that is worth the price of  admission. There is exceptional talent on both side of the court on both offense and defense and that is even with Ja Morant once again having personal issues. Still, without their super nova star they are still 15-8 both SU and ATS but have always struggled against Boston. The Celtics have won six straight meetings and 9-of-10 although only going 3-7 ATS. The upstart Grizzlies are No. 4 on both offense and defense in points scored and points allowed but the still can’t match the Celtics desire ti win. Take BOSTON!  

Phoenix at Miami 8:00 ET

Heat  (-) over Suns- I sort of feel about this game the way a doctor speaks to his patient who says ‘it hurts when I do this...and the doctor responds well don’t do that.’ You see Phoenix is 8-2 when they have their big three of Durant, Booker and Beal are together but, only 1-7 when Kevin Durant is out. So, with the big guy out again the play is simple. The Suns have won the past three meetings including a non-cover victory on November 6 in Phoenix but they are out of the desert and stranded on the beach without KD. The Heat warm up to the Suns and burn them here. Take MIAMI!

Oklahoma City at New Orleans 7:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Thunder- We just have to hope that the hungry Thunder dine late and over eat as well as party hard in the Crescent City with the knowledge that the Pelicans have won just five of 23 games. Oklahoma City has won six of their last seven and has seven straight wins in this series between the two going 6-1 ATS. The Pelicans broke a nine-game losing streak with a win over Phoenix Thursday and repeat the act tonight. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Orlando at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (+) over Magic- These two met in Philadelphia on Tuesday with Orlando winning 106-102 for their second win of the season over the 76ers. The Magic were a 6-point favorite two days ago and now the same two teams are at the same venue and the line has been dropped. I believe what the bookies are saying is that the 76ers will be ready. Joel Embiid and Paul George were both out on Tuesday’s meeting with George returning tonight and Embiid to remain in his own private Idaho. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Phoenix at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Suns- Man does this one stinks, reeks and is putrid to say the least. Both teams are dealing with injuries starting with Phoenix who once again is have health issues with Kevin ‘please don’t hurt my feelings’ Durant and New Orleans who has seen Zion Williamson fall to another set back. The Suns were 8-1 with their sensitive All-star forward and are 1-6 without him. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Sacramento at Memphis 8:00 ET

Kings (+) over Grizzlies- Sacramento who have been underachievers to date once again realize what happens when you share the basketball. After defeating Houston with 33 assists on 47 make field goal the Kings feel like royalty and want more of it. Memphis just had their six game win streak end on Tuesday and will see their five-game home winning streak end tonight. Take SACRAMENTO!

Denver at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Nuggets (+)  over Cavaliers- Cleveland who started 15-0 is back on track after dropping 3-of-5 they have rebounded for consecutive victories. Denver has been inconsistent and although 11-8 SU they are just 7-11 ATS with 12 of 19 games going over the total. The Cavaliers are a high scoring bunch having gone over the total 13-9. The Nuggets have won three of the past four meetings and should get the money once again. Take DENVER!

Indiana at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Pacers over Nets- After finishing the 2023-24 season with a flurry most expected more out of Indiana than their 9-13 start including 2-10 on the road. They have lost seven straight on the road and now come up favored at Brooklyn who is 4-5 at home and 13-8 ATS this  season. The Nets enter this contest with their major spark Cam Thomas sidelined and three other (two starters) are either questionable or out leaving Nets with a shallow bench. Take INDIANA!

Indiana at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Pacers- There is something really, really wrong with the Pacers. I don’t know what it is as of now and it is difficult to put my hands on, but...there is something going on and it is not positive. Toronto with just six SU wins on 21 tries is a stellar 14-7 ATS while Indiana has dropped their last two games and five of their past eight. Both clubs are 0-3 in the NBA Cup series but met three weeks ago in Toronto with the Raptors prevailing 130-119. Toronto born RJ Barrett has been a force at home scoring 37 and 39 points the last two home games averaging 30.4 points when hosting. Take TORONTO!

Milwaukee at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Bucks- Streaks are the name of the game when involving these two clubs as Milwaukee is on a six-game run and has won eight of nine. Detroit who has already matched last season franchise record low wins total has dropped 10 straight to the B8cks and 22 of the last 23 meetings. Piston’s star Cade Cunningham has missed the previous three games but is expected to play tonight. Take DETROIT

L.A. Lakers at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Lakers- Los Angeles is off of a win in Utah last night as they raised their record to 12-8 as LeBron James and Anthony Davis are playing like the All-stars that they are. Minnesota, on the other hand is 9-10 SU and a very disappointing 6-13 ATS. The Lakers opened the season with a home win over the T’wolves and the last time these two met in Minny the Wolves won at home. The ‘line’ tells me the Timberwolves are ready to play and the ‘Lake-men’ may have jet lag. Take MINNESOTA!

Oklahoma City at Houston 7:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Thunder- OKC who finished first in the West last season continue their stellar pace and once again are the leader of the conference.The Thunder handed Houston a 126-107 defeat three weeks ago and evened the series at 5-5 both SU and ATS in the last 10 meetings. That is the only double-digit loss among six defeats for the Rockets with the other five losses by a combined 21 points. OKC’s defense has suffered a bit with Chet Holmgren sidelined once again and the Rockets take advantage. Take HOUSTON!

Philadelphia at Detroit 7:00 ET

76ers (+) over Pistons- Philadelphia with the addition of Paul George and with their remaining cast expected to contend for the championship. But, Embiid has payed sparingly and and they have won just 3-of-17 games played. Detroit who had their worse record in franchise history last season posted their first win of the season against the 76ers. Look for a bit a payback here. Take PHILADELPHIA!

LA Clippers at Minnesota 7:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Clippers- Last season Minnesota made it to the Western Conference Finals and this season after making a trade sending Karl Anthony-Towns to New York (who hasn’t adjusted to the trade either). We played the Kings over the T-wolves before the holiday and had a power play winner. This time we look for them to rebound after their forth straight loss. Take MINNESOTA

Sacramento at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Kings (+) over Timberwolves- Having dropped the last couple of NBA releases I always get gun shy even when this is a strong play available. It is just the mind set of sports handicapping. But I do like the Kings here. Minnesota has lost three straight and 6-of-8 as it looks like the trade between the Wolves and New York has yet to pay off for either team. The Kings haven’t been so hot much of late having lost their last four. The Timberwolves already have a pair of wins over the Kings this season winning 130-126 in OT and 117-115 with both games in California. Kings rule here. Take SACRAMENTO!

Chicago at Washington 7:00 ET

Wizards (+) over Bulls- Chicago has had their way against the Wizards but who hasn’t?  They have won seven of the past 10 meetings. This pair of also-rans meet in the NBA Cup in season tournament with Chicago having lost four of their last six while Washington has dropped 11 straight games and have only two wins on the season. But, the Bulls have allowed 140 or more points three times in their last six games and allow a league worst 123.9 PPG. Take WASHINGTON!