Phoenix at Denver 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Nuggets - The collapse of the Phoenix Suns this season is a total surprise to almost all of ’us’ as most were thinking that the combination of Durant, Beal and Booker would produce more winners. Denver is battling for the second seed for the NBA Playoffs while the Suns are fighting for their playoff lives as they still are on the outside looking in with 20 games left in the regular season. Nuggets who have won two of three meetings this season including a win at Phoenix on Feb. 8 and the Suns even it season series here. Take PHOENIX!

Portland at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Blazers (+) over Thunder - Oklahoma City has dominated the series between these two winning the last 15 meetings including three wins this season. The Thunder have won five straight, seven of eight and 14 of 16 and are 24-7 as hosts including 19-9-2 ATS at home. On the year they are 51-11 and are exactly one full game behind Cleveland for the NBA’s best record. Portland who has been a major surprise by turning their season around and had won five of six on the road before falling to Boston last time out. Considering who is rated what this line in way too low and it appears to me the ‘Books’ want to suck you in with OKC but with this line the odds makers are telling us that these two would be a Pick-em on a neutral site. It ‘don’t make sense.’ Take PORTLAND!

Utah at Toronto 7:30 ET

Jazz (+) over Raptors - Utah has just 15 wins on the season and are just 7-23 on the road but for some reason have had their way head-to-head against Toronto. The Jazz who have lost 10 straight on the road have won the past four meetings and seven of the last eight including two wins and covers this season. The Raptors had dropped five of six before winning a pair at Orlando and just hate facing the Jazz. The beat goes on…take UTAH!

New York at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Lakers - Since Los Angeles made the trade for Luka Doncic they have gone 8-2 SU and they are 17-3 in their last 20 games overall. New York enters off of a home loss to Golden State as Karl-Anthony Towns miss the encounter for personal reasons and will be well rested for this match up. The Knicks are 19-10 on the road and this price is way too inviting. Take NEW YORK!

Houston at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Rockets - Most teams use the All-star break to correct their flaws and make a push in the second half of the season to the playoffs. But, for Houston things are falling apart as they are 3-4 since the break and have lost their last three games as well as their  last five road games. The Pelicans will have Zion Williamson and when healthy he makes a difference. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Indiana at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Pacers - It is approaching two years since Atlanta posted a win against the Pacers as they have dropped the last five meetings including a 132-127 loss at Indiana five weeks ago. The Pacers won their last two games at home and now take to the road as a favorite. The Hawks have lost six of their last eight games overall with Trae Young scoring 23.5 points and leads the league in assists with 11.5 a game. It is time for the hawks to soar. Take ATLANTA!

Sacramento at Denver 9:00 ET

Kings (+) over Nuggets - Sacramento rolls into Denver off of four straight wins and the last three of which were on the road. The Kings surprisingly have a better record on the road than they have at home and are the only NBA that can say that. The Nuggets have defeated the Kings twice this season making it three straight wins over the Kings who had won the three previous meetings. Domantas Sabonis will be out for the Kings but Zach LaVine has picked up the slack. Take SACRAMENTO!

Brooklyn at San Antonio 8:30 ET

Nets (+) over Spurs - Brooklyn has won 21 games this season and are a respectable 31-28-1 ATS and San Antonio has been a bit over rated even with Wembanyama healthy they are 26-33 ATS. The Spurs have won the last two meetings with Wemby playing but the Nets had won seven of the previous eight meetings. Brooklyn has dropped their last four games while the Spurs have dropped five of their last six and are 2-7 ATS in their last nine overall. Take BROOKLYN!

Golden State at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Warriors - New York enters this contest off of three straight wins and six of eight but are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games. Golden State has to make me laugh as their only loss in the past nine games was to Philadelphia at home. The addition of Jimmy Butler has boosted the Warriors spirits and play. Curry has been just plan silly of late, but his status here is up in the air. The Knicks have won 13 of 17 although their ATS record is not so hot. Still…take NEW YORK!

Houston at Indiana 7:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Pacers - Indiana who was ranked second in offense last season hasn’t quite reached that level yet this season while Houston is truly banged up. The Rockets ended a nine-game losing streak to the Pacers in November winning 130-113 at home. Indiana has six players averaging double digits while the Rockets are looking for six healthy players. But, every Rockets is now giving 110% effort to close the gap…take HOUSTON!

Detroit at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Pistons - After their loss Sunday to New Orleans, Utah coach Will Hardy stated that the Jazz will be focusing on using those that want to play. They have lost eight of their last 11 games and are hosting their ninth straight home game having won three of the eight so far. Utah defeated the Pistons in December 126-119 at Detroit and have won the past four meetings and 8-of-10. Take UTAH!

LA Clippers at LA Lakers 9:30 ET

Clippers (+) over Lakers- This is the second of consecutive games played by these two against each other with the Lakers taking the match up Friday night 106-102 as a 1-point underdog. The Clippers have lost four of five and are 0-6 ATS since the All-star break but once again are favored on the road against a team with a better record. Humm…take then CLIPPERS!

New Orleans at Utah 9:30 ET

Pelicans (+) over Jazz - These two stand a half game apart in the standings and the winner of this encounter will still have no shot of making the playoffs. New Orleans has won the past four meetings including a pair of wins at home in January. Utah is getting ready to play their 8th straight home game and are coming off of a 117-116 win over Minnesota. Both of these clubs have 44 losses with just Washington and Charlotte having more defeats. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Denver at Boston 1:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Celtics - These two have met one time this season on January 7 in Denver and the Celtics prevailed as a 10 point favorite winning 118-106 on the road. That game was tied at 93 all before the Boston went on a 15-0 run. The Nuggets had won the previous three games ending a six game winning streak in the series by Boston. The Celtics have dropped their last two when Detroit won by 20 points on Wednesday and then they blew a 25-3 lead at home against Cleveland on Friday and they have not lost three straight this season until now. Take DENVER!

Milwaukee at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Bucks - Milwaukee has picked up the pace a bit winning five of their past six and has defeated Dallas the past four times that they have met including a pair of wins this season. To the surprise of many the Mavericks are 4-3 since they got rid of Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic. The Mavericks are 19-11 SU at home while the Bucks are just 12-16 on the road. Take DALLAS!

LA Clippers at LA Lakers 10:ET

Clippers (+) over Lakers - These two Los Angeles clubs have alternated wins and losses since November of 2023 splitting a pair if meetings this season. The Clippers ended a three game slide with a win at Chicago which was their final game on a five game road trip that started 14 days ago, a trip that ended 0-5 ATS. The Lakers are 4-2 with Luca Doncic on the court and the Clippers are 13-11 when Kawhi Leonard plays. The energy should be high here as thisone could come down to the final possession. Take LA CLIPPERS!

New York at Memphis 8:10 ET

Knicks (+) over Grizzlies - For some reason New York has had its way against the grizzlies winning the last three meetings including a 143-108 beat down at Madison Square Garden.exactly four weeks ago. The last time Memphis defeated the Knicks was in November of 2022 before the Knickerbockers had dropped four straight to the Griz. New York has won 11 of their last 15 games overall although they are a beat up a bit. Karl-Anthony Towns is questionable and yet the price is very low. Take NEW YORK!

Portland at Brooklyn 7:40 ET

Nets over Blazers - Who are these guys…first we have to deal with the upstart Detroit Pistons and now Portland has set the league a blaze. If the Trailblazers win tonight at Brooklyn they will have had three winning streaks of four games or more in the past six weeks. Brooklyn meanwhile gave up a 14-point 4th quarter lead to Oklahoma City and have just 21 wins. But, with those 21 wins came 32 ‘covers.’ The Nets defeated the Blazers on their floor six weeks ago 132-114 and they are only 10-19 on the road. The Nets will do it again here…take BROOKLYN!

Denver at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Nuggets - These two clubs are meeting for the first time this season and have split their past eight meetings over the past four seasons. Milwaukee has won four straight since the All-star break until Tuesday’s defeat at Houston while Denver has won 10 of their last 11. But, the ‘Greek Freak’ is ready to go head-to-head with Jokic and lead the inconsistent Bucks to a win here. Take MILWAUKEE!

Golden State at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Warriors - Golden State made a huge move at the trade deadline and it has proven to be a blessing so far. Jimmy (Playoffs) Butler has injected new life into a squad that was dead in the water. The Warriors have won their last four games and six of their past seven games and have three straight wins over the Magic including a 104-99 victory on Feb. 3rd. Orlando is coming off of their worst loss of the season a 40-point blowout at the hands of the NBA’s best in Cleveland. Professionals have a way of rebounding after a embarrassing loss. Take ORLANDO!

Boston at Detoit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Celtics - I know Detroit is playing way above what many though possible but here they are six game over .500. Boston has started to pick up the pace a bit but this ‘number’ is very telling as it is not double digits in over three years. The Celtics have won at least the past 10 meetings including three times this season but that all ends here. Take DETROIT!

Dallas at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Mavericks (+) over Lakers - Changes took place between these two on the first day of the month as we all know. As if it wasn’t bad enough for Dallas as they sent 26 year old Luka Doncic over for Anthony Davis, but Davis came up lame during his first appearance for the Mavericks. Los Angeles is 2-2 since the trade with Lebron James and Doncic on the floor together. Mavs off of loss to Golden State on Sunday were in a look ahead spot and it cost them. Take DALLAS!

Phoenix at Memphis 8:00 ET

Suns (+) over Grizzlies - Memphis at 37-20 is exactly 10 games better, according to their records then is Phoenix 27-30. It is a mystery to most how the Suns could be under .500 with the three stars Durant, Beal and Booker on their roster. But, injuries and egos have play a part in their dysfunctional play. The past three meetings were all in Phoenix and the Grizzlies won them all. Now, it is the Suns turn to shine. Take PHOENIX!

Cleveland at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Cavaliers - Cleveland is at it again having won seven straight games and at 47-10 have the best record in the NBA. These two met in November and of course the Cavaliers won and covered 120-110 as a 7-point favorite. Orlando who lost nine of 10 in January are off of a win over Washington and have won five of eight and trail Detroit by three games for one of he final of six playoff spots. The Magic have the slowest tempo in the league and can knock the Cavs a bit off of their game. Take ORLANDO!

LA Clippers at Detroit 7:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Pistons - The turn around for the Pistons is not an accident they are a competitive club that has posted 31 wins and is five game over .500. LA having played one less game is a half game ahead of Detroit record wise. Both clubs are in a virtual dead heat  when it comes to covering the number at 31-24. The Clippers have won the past 10 meetings and are 0-2 since the break. The Pistons scored 148 points their last time out against Atlanta but will return to ground level tonight. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Memphis at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Cavaliers- This is the first meeting of the season between these two high scoring clubs and they met twice last year with Cleveland sweeping the series. Memphis has split their two games since the break while the Cavaliers have won both of their encounters and six straight overall. The Cavs are off of a 37-point win over New York and they should return to earth for this one as center Jarrett Allen will be sidelined. Take MEMPHIS!.

Miami at Milwaukee 6:00 ET

Heat (+) over Bucks - Go figure this Bucks team out…go ahead! They enter this fray on a three game win streak and are 2-0 since the break. They have also defeated Miami four of the last five meetings while the Heat finally won a game against Toronto after having traded Jimmy Butler. But, in the long run Miami will make their adjustment with one of the better NBA coaches leading the way. Take MIAMI!

New York at Boston 1:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics - Many feel that Boston is the only team in the East standing in front of New York when it come to getting into the NBA Finals and the are right. The Celtics have beaten the Knicks like a red headed step child winning both contests this season ad 6-of-7 meetings. New York enters off of a 37-point beat down handed to them by the Cavaliers as they are 0-6 against the three top clubs. This time they get it done. Take NEW YORK!

Brooklyn at Philadelphia 7:30 ET

76ers (-) over Nets - I find one thing that seems a bit off in this match up of a pair of clubs with identical records. Both Brooklyn and Philadelphia are 20-35 straight up and I don’t believe that anyone thought that the Nets and 76ers would have the same record after the All-star farce. Their road and home records are also very similar as the Nets are 11-17 on the road while the Sixers are 10-17 at home. With their records almost exactly the same the bookies make this point spread extremely high, therefore the odds makers favor the 76ers and so do I. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Minnesota at Houston 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Rockets - One of the season’s mysteries has been trying to figure this Minnesota team out. Inconsistent is the work for Minnesota who can beat the best and fail against the league’s worst. For some unexplained reason the T’wolves have had their way against Houston winning the last two meetings and eight of the past 10 encounters. Anthony Edwards skipped the All-star game but he will shine here tonight. Take MINNESOTA!

New Orleans at Dallas 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Mavericks - Two clubs that have been battling injuries the entire season. Dallas was without five players in the final game before the break and managed to defeat Miami 118-113 and three of those five remain sidelined. The Pelicans had dropped 10 straight prior to their final game before the break when the came from behind to defeat Sacramento 140-133 in overtime. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Memphis at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Grizzlies - Memphis allowed Indiana (Megabucks winner) to score 50 points in the second quarter of their first game back from the all-star break. A game in which Ja Morant was not invited to attend. Meanwhile, Orlando was a Money Game winner over Atlanta as they return to health as has the Grizzlies. But it is the squad from the swamps of Florida that has its mojo in order. Take ORLANDO!

LA Clippers at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Clippers (-) over Bucks- Milwaukee had won four straight meetings before they met this season 25 days ago in Los Angeles as the Clippers broke through with a 127-117 win as a 3-5 point favorite. Once again they are favored bu three but this time on the rod. That is telling…take LA CLIPPERS!

Memphis at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Grizzlies - Indiana has not played in eight days and in their final contest before the break the overcame a 19-point deficit and defeated the NBA’s worst team Washington in overtime 134-130. Memphis defeated the Pacers in December and that was their seventh win in the past eight meetings. Grizzlies star Ja Morant missed the game on the 12th and most likely will be sidelined. Take INDIANA!

Memphis at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers (-) over Grizzlies - The LA Clippers have won four straight games against Memphis including an outright win in December their only meeting thus far this season. The Grizzlies have won 11 of the last 13 and prepare for the Clippers and Kawhi Leonard who is healthy enough to play in only his 15th game of the season. With the recent play of James Harden the Clippers can get the win and cover. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Sacramento at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Kings - What a season New Orleans has had with injuries and roster changes that just have not produced they way the Pelicans had hoped. These two met four days ago in Sacramento where the Kings posted a non-cover victory 123-118 as an 8-point favorite and handed the Pelicans their ninth straight loss. But, the Kings have one of the worst ATS records in the NBA are 2-8 ATS in their past 10 games and have covered just 18 of 53 outings. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Atlanta at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Hawks - The Atlanta Hawks are one of the few teams that come into Madison Square Garden and give the Knicks fits. For the most part is because Trae Young seems to thrive in New York taunting the crowd while playing the game. The Hawks have won three straight games and are 6-0 ATS in their last six games overall and 8-1 ATS in their last nine games. The Knicks did manage to win and cover at home against the Hawks their first home win and cover in over three years. They win once again…take NEW YORK!

Memphis at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Grizzlies - Has there been anyone more disappointing this NBA season considering expectations then the Phoenix Suns! Memphis with or without Ja Morant in the lineup have out done expectations and had won 10 of 11 games before falling to Oklahoma City Saturday night. Kevin Durant has been part of the problem, and no his play, but when he’s not playing. Without Durant the Suns are 2-11 this season. He’s playing tonight. Take PHOENIX

Detroit at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Pistons - Detroit has certainly been the better storyline coming from their franchise low in wins last year which they have already surpassed in this season. Chicago holding ninth in the playoff race has lost 11 of 15 but have defeated the Pistons in seven of the last 10 meetings. Taake CHICAGO!

Sacramento at Dallas 8:30 ET

Kings (+) over Mavericks - Dallas was involved in one of the biggest blockbuster trade in NBA history and many think that the Mavericks got the worst of the deal sending Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis. With Doncic being 25 years old and Davis the Mav’s were think of the immediate effect as opposed to the long run. Davis’ debut was spectacular Saturday night scoring 26 points grabbing 13 rebounds with 5 assists and 3 blocked shot. But, unfortunately for them Davis had to be removed for the contest because of and injury and will be missing for up to a month. Take SACRAMENTO!

Atlanta at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (-) over Hawks - This is the first meeting of the season between these two midland clubs with Atlanta taking  3-of-4 meetings last season and are 7-2 over the Magic in the past nine encounters. Returning from a road trip where they went 1-5 Orlando posted a 112-111 win over San Antonio when they returned home Saturday night. Atlanta was active during the trade deadline acquiring four new player and it will take time for them to mesh together. Take ORLANDO!

Philadelphia at Milwaukee 2:10 ET

76ers (+) over Bucks - Believe it or not I think that the 76ers are going to make the playoffs. Embiid has taken virtually the entire first half off and their other oft-injured teammates are coming together for a second half push which needs to start soon. Sunday’s match up might be one that they might not rather have but you have to play the big boys at one time or another, the dilemma for Philadelphia is that the Bucks have beaten them six straight times and eight of the past 10 meetings The last Sixers win over Milwaukee came in March of 2023 in the Brew City. The Bucks have won just two of their past eight games and have had to deal with Giannis not always being available. The price is way too cheap for a home team (16-8) up against a club that is 11 games under .500.  Take PHILADELPHIA!

Denver at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Suns (+) over Nuggets- We are hearing some bad things coming out of Phoenix as the struggling Suns and most of it is locker room stuff which coach Mike Budenholzer denies. Denver is streaking and have won their last five games and 13 of 17. But, the Suns will have a chip on their shoulder and will be without Kevin Durant (which many say is the problem) but the Nuggets will be without Russell Westbrook, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter and Aaron Gordon is questionable. Take PHOENIX!

Oklahoma City at Memphis 6:00 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Thunder - Oklahoma City is out to prove that last year’s best of the west record was no fluke. This season they are once again leading the NBA winning 41 of 50 while only Cleveland has more wins (42) they also have one more loss so the Thunder have the highest winning percentage in the league. The Grizzlies have had a patch work season with injuries playing a large part and yet they are 34-17 ATS the best in the NBA. Take MEMPHIS!

Indiana at LA Lakers 4:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Lakers - Los Angeles is still waiting for the Lakers debut of Super star Luka Doncic as everyone anticipates the pairing of Doncic and James. Indiana has won five of six and will up against a rejuvenated LeBron James had a triple-double in New York scored 40 points not too bad for a 40-year old. Pacers playing well enough to pull off the upset here. Take INDIANA!

Philadelphia at Detroit 7:30 ET

76ers (-) over Pistons - Philadelphia has been just a shell of what they could be because of injuries to each of their big three as Embiid, George and Maxey have played together just 10 time out of 50 games this season. Well, they all appear healthy and will play and they are 7-3 when the trio play together. This will be Joel Embiid’s 15th game this season and the upstart Pistons have struggled against the Sixers winning just once in the past 20 meetings. Detroit has dropped their last two games and five of seven. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Sacramento at Portland 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Trailblazers - The Trailblazers have won 9-of-10 and are beginning to receive respect from the media and the rest of the league that any team should. Now, 22-29 on the season they are a very profitable 30-20-1 ATS and the bookmakers have moved the market to the point that they are now favored.The Kings got off to a quick start under new coach Doug Christie but have now dropped five of their last seven including a 130-111 home loss to Orlando. look for the Kings to give a solid effort and get the cash. Take SACRAMENTO!

Orlando at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Magic - This is the first meeting of the season between these two and until down the Kings have had their way against Orlando winning the last six encounters. Sacramento has won 12 of 18 games since Doug Christie replaced replacing Mike Brown. The Kings just acquired All-star Zach LaVine from the Bulls in exchange for All-star De’Aaron Fox was sent to San Antonio. The Magic need to pull off some tricks as they have lost their last four and 9-of-10 with their lone win and cover against the Pistons 11 days ago. Kings adjustment to LaVine will take time to mesh as their karma has been rocked. Take ORLANDO!

Cleveland at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Cavaliers- Detroit has been bad for so long we can’t keep track of the number of losses they have suffered by Cleveland. Actually, the streak is at 11 straight for the Cavaliers over the Pistons which includes two wins this season. But, this is a different Pistons’ club as they are 25-25 on the season after setting a franchise low in wins last season with 12. The Cavaliers are looking toward the All-star break and getting some rest for their weary legs. Take DETROIT!

Indiana at Portland 10:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Trailblazers- Indiana is starting to show what we saw at the end of last season as they have won four in-a row and six of seven entering this fray. Portland has also won four in-a-row and eight of nine as well raising a few eyebrows within the NBA. This game has a bit of a quirk as the Pacers have won a franchise record seven straight road games and yet they have lost 14 of 15 in Portland with their lone win coming when there were no fans allowed to see the games because of lock down bullshit. They earn this one…take INDIANA!

Boston at Cleveland 7:30 ET

Cavaliers over Celtics - It may seem that Boston has hit a rough spot in their schedule and that is due to their poor ATS record of 19-30 as they continue going 3-6 ATS in their last nine. Cleveland has also shown signs of slowing the pace as they dropped three straight for the first time this season. The Celtics handed the Cavaliers their first lost of the year after a 17-0 start and the Cav’s got it back at home 10 days later. This time it’s the Celtics turn…take BOSTON!

Dallas at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Mavericks over 76ers - Well, from what I am hearing the Mavericks just made the worst trade in NBA history…we shall see. But, for right now newly acquired Anthony Davis will be playing while Luca Doncic will not. Every Dallas player has had to endure a media onslaught that now gives them no chance, this is a team that made it to the NBA Finals last season, be it with Doncic but there is still huge talent around to create problems. The Mav’s have dropped 13 of 19 but have had their wake up call off of a 144-101 beat down by Cleveland. Philadelphia has  been making a playoff run believe it or not and they are without Embiid and George but just blew a 26-point late third quarter lead to Boston and lost 118-110. The Sixers are a bit disheartened they get out played here. Take DALLAS!

Sacramento at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Kings (+) over Timber Wolves - Sacramento is on the final leg of a six game road trip having lost four of five and their last time out Oklahoma City routed the Kings 144-110. Minnesota was defeated by Washington who ended a 16 game losing streak with the win as the Timberwolves were and are going to be playing short handed as both Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle are dealing with injuries and so is shooting guard Donte DiVincenzo. Too much firepower is sidelined for the Wolves. Take SACRAMENTO!

Atlanta at Detroit 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Pistons - It’s a brave new world for the Pistons this season as the NBA’s worst in 2024 has worked their way over the breakwater mark and have a winning record this season. Atlanta is on an eight game bummer and part of the problem is the loss of one of their best players in Jalen Johnson who is out for the remainder of the season. The Hawks Trae Young was kept off of the All-star team despite of posting some of his best career numbers. Detroit has already won the two meetings this season and the Hawks had won the previous seven and now it is now the Hawks that will suck it up. Take ATLANTA!

LA Clippers at Toronto 3:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Clippers- The Clippers come into Toronto having won their last two road games and four of five and will bring two former raptors stars from their lone championship season 2019. Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell were key contributors with Leonard leaving for Los Angeles after one season. The Clippers won the only meeting this season at home in early November winning 105-103 as a 6-point favorite. Meanwhile, (sort of Rocky & Bullwinkle-ish) ‘Hokey Smoke’ Toronto just has just had a five game winning streak, their longest of the season, end in the ‘Great White North’ at the hands of Chicago 122-106 Friday night. The Raptors had won 7-of-8 before getting gored by the Bulls but are on the upswing as players are maturing on the floor while others are returning to action after stints on the injured list. Take TORONTO!

Phoenix at Portland 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Suns - Portland who has received little respect from any NBA expects this season have won six of seven and covered all seven with the loss to Oklahoma City. Phoenix has been a disappointment to their backers to date covering just 17 of 47 games but have won 4-of-5 including a 130-105 blowout of Golden State Friday. The Suns, Durant, Booker and Beal put together 72 points and 21 assists between them a rare happening this season. Although Phoenix has won the past four meetings including a pair in November and December but, the Blazers are lying in wait and get it done tonight. Take PORTLAND!

Miami at San Antonio 8:00 ET

Heat (+) over Spurs - This is a natural sequence for me having posted San Antonio in each of their last two wins and the Heat in their win over the Spurs 13 days ago in Miami. n that meeting Jimmy Butler played like the dog he can be at times but the Heat were able to hold Wambanyama to just 20 points on 8-for-18 shooting. The Heat have won eight of the past nine meetings and the beat goes on here. Take MIAMI!   

Orlando at Utah 5:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Magic - neither of these clubs did themselves much good the past month as the New year have shown a major downturn for both Orlando and Utah since they last met January 5 a 105-92 Jazz win as a nine-point underdog. Utah is 1-11 since that win and have dropped their last eight games in a row while Orlando is about the same going 3-9 SU in their last 12 games overall. Jazz should have confidence entering this fray knowing that they have already beaten them on their own court. Take UTAH!

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

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!

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!

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!