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!

Dallas at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (-) over Mavericks- Atlanta returns home after a four game road trip that saw them win just once a 109-108 victory at Sacramento. This will be the Mavericks third straight road game where they split and just lost in OT Sunday at Miami (Power Play winner) 123-118. Dallas won both meetings last year but the Hawks won both the previous season. It’s the Hawks turn! Take ATLANTA!

Dallas at Miami 6:00 ET

Heat (-) over Mavericks- Dallas has won and covered their last four games including a win Friday night at Denver 123-120 as a 5-point underdog. The Mavericks had lost and failed to cover any of their four previous games be fore their current win streak. Miami has had six days to rest after a win over the 76ers Monday night. Dallas took both game last season but they have split the past 10 each winning and covering five wins apiece. The Heat’s Jimmy Butler is questionable while the Mavericks Luka Doncic is out and he leads the Nuggets in points, assists and rebounds, he will be missed. Take MIAMI!

Golden State at San Antonio 10:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Warriors- Victor, Victor, Victor triple-doubles equal victories. Really he’s just a skinny kid and younger than Lew Alcindor is still just a 20 year old that is not allowed to drink in certain states. Golden State (12-3) is off to a quick start (nothing like the Cavs) but have returned to playing like a member of the NBA having lost two of their last three road games. Stephen Curry and Wembanyama both average 22.7 PPG with Curry shooting 48.9% and ‘The Alien’ shooting 47.2% from the field. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Brooklyn at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (-) over Nets- These two clubs started the season moving in opposite directions as Brooklyn was winning and covering the spread while Philadelphia without Embiid struggled. Well, water seeks its level and so does talent in the NBA as the Nets have dropped 5-of-7 and are now 6-9 whereas the 76ers have yet to recover and at 2-12 still have enough time (with Embiid) to make the play-in or even playoffs. Joel is back and even without him and limited service the Sixers will show big tonight. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Orlando at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Magic (+) over Lakers- After seven straight losses to the Lakers Orlando pulled some magic and finally defeated Los Angeles a year ago at home. This is the second game in as many nights for the Magic to be playing in Los Angeles as they dropped a 104-93 decision to the Clippers last night. These two have not met in over a year and the Lakers are 7-0 at home this year and the Magic 0-7 on the road. Magic had won six in-a-row prior to last night’s loss. They get it done tonight. Take ORLANDO!

Orlando at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Magic over Clippers- Both of these clubs are on winning streaks as Orlando has won six straight five of which were at home and they held all six opponents under 100 points. LA has a five game winning streak at home and defeated (Money Game winner) rival Golden State 102-99 on Monday. The Clippers as usual will be without Kawhi Leonard and the Magic without Paolo Blanchero and each squad picks up the slack. Take ORLANDO!

Charlotte at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Hornets (+) over Nets- Neither of these squads are expected to make a big splash this season but they both are point spread winners at this time with the Nets leading the NBA along with Cleveland with 11 ATS wins in 14 games. In head-to-head action Charlotte has won the past two meetings but Brooklyn had won the previous four meetings. The  Hornets has finally seen their investment in LaMelo Ball after two injury filled seasons has emerged as their leader in scoring and assists. Ball is averaging 29.7 PPG and the Nets Cam Thomas will try and counter him with his own scoring and defense. Nets have dropped theIr last three and five of six SU. Take CHARLOTTE!

Golden State at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers (+) over Warriors- Last season these two clubs met five times with the Warriors capturing the first win and then surprisingly enough the Clippers won the next four.Golden State is off to a great start at 10-2 going 9-3 ATS. Golden State’s Draymond Green was up to his old tricks and has been suspended for tripping Zach Edey and picking up two more technical fouls. James Harden duels with Stephen Curry...take LA CLIPPERS!

Atlanta at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Kings- Atlanta is off a loss at Portland where the were favored and now face Sacramento who took down the Hawks (+6) 123-115 in Atlanta three weeks ago. Now the Kings are just 4-point favorites at home..that does not make any sense  especially after DeAndre Fox set a franchise record 60 and 49 points on consecutive nights. For the Hawks Trae Young will counter Fox. Take ATLANTA!

Indiana at Toronto 7:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Pacers- Poor Toronto has dropped their last seven games and are just 1-9 SU in their last 10 games as they return home after an overtime loss to the Celtics. The Raptors have played six of their last seven games on the road while Indiana is just 2-5 SU on the road. Despite the loss AJ Barrett put up a triple-double and the Pacers are struggling with chemistry and injuries. Take TORONTO!

Brooklyn at New York 7:00 ET

Knicks (-) over Nets- This has been a one way series of late with the Knicks having won the past seven meetings SU although Brooklyn got the money the last two meetings. The Nets are along with Cleveland the point spread leaders of the NBA at 10-3 ATS. New York who is expected to make a run at the conference finals but their trade for Karl-Anthony Townes alter the team chemistry and they are trying to establish a new identity. This is the second of back-to-back encounters at Madison Square Garden with the Knicks winning on Friday 124-122 after blowing an 18-point fourth quarter lead. This time they give a full game effort. Take NEW YORK!

Denver at Memphis 6:00 ET

Grizzlies over Nuggets- Denver has won the past five meetings and seven of eight while going 6-2 ATS including a 126-111 victory in Memphis on Thursday. Once again the Grizzlies with be without Ja Morant and by now they are used to being without the electrifying All-star but, have had three of their other injured players returned this week. Denver’s Nikola Jokic missed Friday’s game for personal reasons and he is questionable for tonight. Take MEMPHIS!

Miami at Indiana 5:00 ET

Heat (+) over Pacers- Indiana has their last two games the second of which was to the Heat on Friday (Power Play winner) 124-111. Miami won that meeting without their main cog in Jimmy Butler who has missed the last three games due to a sprained ankle and it appears he will give a go tonight. The Heat are 6-4 SU and ATS in the past 10 meetings and get the money again. Take MIAMI!

San Antonio at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (-) over Spurs- A pair of Texas former NBA champions square off in Dallas and both clubs are under .500. As far as this rivalry is concerned it hasn’t been competitive as the Mavericks have won the last five meetings and 9-of-10 straight-up but just 3-6-1 ATS. In those meetings the total has gone over eight times. The Mavericks have dropped four straight the last three of which were on the road, they return home and take it out on the young Spurs. Take DALLAS!

LA Clippers at Houston 8:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Rockets- Houston has won the past two meeting including a 111-103 win as hosts two days ago. The Rockets have covered the past four meetings and the Clippers had won eight straight meetings prior the last two encounters. Los Angeles relies on the 3-ball and last time out they made five in the first quarter and only 5-of-19 shooting the remainder of the game. They catch the Clippers tonight. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Miami at Indiana 7:00 ET
Heat (+) over Pacers- Indiana is under .500 after 11 games because for the most part they have been inconsistent on offense especially their shooting star Tyrese Haliburton. The Pacers have had to play one of the more difficult early season schedules. These two have split their last 10 meetings with Indy winning the last two encounters. Miami blew a game their last time out against Detroit as Spoelstra made a major blunder calling a timeout when he had none with 1.1 seconds remaining. Rake MIAMI!  

Phoenix at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Suns- The Kings  took down Phoenix on Sunday as a 1-pint road favorite and now the prices has risen because Suns superstar Kevin Durant will be out for a least a week. Sacramento will also be playing a man short as Malik Monk (the supersub) is also sidelined. It seems a bit strange that the Suns would be this big a favorite against the Suns as the are just 2-7 ATS in the last nine meetings. Take SACRAMENTO!

LA Clippers at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (-) over Clippers- Los Angeles has been scoring at a high rate and that is a bit surprising as Kawhi Leonard and Paul Gorge are missing and they were the clubs two top scorers last season. The Clippers had a 4-game winning streak stopped at Oklahoma City on Sunday and after nine straight wins over the Rockets posted a road win over the Clippers in LA closing the 2023-24 season. Take HOUSTON!

Indiana at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Pacers- Indiana is coming off of their best shooting game of the season as the crushed the Knicks 132-121 with Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin who had career and season highs in points scored. This is already the third meeting of the season between the two both holding serve on their home court but the Pacers have covered both contests. The Magic are 5-0 SU at home and have won their last three games without Paolo Banchero and look to do it again. Take ORLANDO!

Phoenix at Utah 10:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Suns- Utah was off to a 0-6 start and have managed to win two-of-three and are off of a 111-110 win over San Antonio on Saturday just their second win and the Suns are off just their second loss 114-113 to Dallas Friday. Phoenix has dominated the series winning the past six meetings and 8-of-10. But, the Suns will be without Kevin Durant and he was having one of his best starts to the season. Take UTAH!

New York at Philadelphia 7:30 ET

76ers (+) over Knicks- Both the Knicks and 76ers are off to slow starts and to tell the tru it should have been expected as Philadelphia is without Embiid and New York has change their chemistry and are still adjusting. But, Embiid is expect to suit up for tonight’s battle and his impact can not be understated. Some of Philly’s walking wounded are returning to action tonight. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Miami at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Heat- Miami has won seven straight in the series between these two and 9-of-10 but believe it or not they are only 2-7-1 ATS in those last 10 meetings. After three straight losses the Heat came up with a 95-94 win at Minnesota on Sunday while Detroit was falling at home 101-99 to Houston on the same day. This is the opening game of the NBA’s silly in season NBA Cup which was won by the Lakers last season. The Heat will most likely be without Jimmy Butler and that hurts. Take DETROIT!

Sacramento at San Antonio 8:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Kings- The growth and improvement of Victor Wembanyama can be witnessed on a daily basis as his production is seen on so many levels. From his scoring, to assists, to rebounds. to steals and blocked shots and before it is over he will have a quint-double. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Memphis at Portland 9:00 ET

Trail Blazers (+) over Grizzlies- Memphis has gone from having one of the more promising NBA futures to a club that pulls up lame way too often. Led by the number one guy missing games the spectacular Ja Morant is out once again and one has to start to wonder is he is gong the route of Deshaun Watson. The Grizzlies have won 4-of-5 by 23, 17, 17 and 24 points and come up a short favorite on the road her against Blazers who went 3-1 against Memphis last season. Take PORTLAND!

Dallas at Denver 8:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Mavericks- Dallas has been alternation wins and losses since the season opened while Denver who dropped their opening two games at home to the Clippers and Thunder. But, the Nuggets have rebounded with six wins in seven games including wins in their last four and 3-of-4 meetings. The season is only two weeks old and Irving and Doncic have already taking breaks because of fatigue. Take DENVER!

Boston at Milwaukee 3:30 ET

Bucks (+) over Celtics- These two squads met the first week of the season when the Celtics were steamrolling their opposition and Milwaukee was in a funk. This funk may not be over but the Bucks despite injuries have shown some life and should be ready for their second meeting. Milwaukee ended a six game losing streak with a 123-100 win over Utah on Thursday but fell by 22 points to the Knicks on Friday. Bucks are 1-5 on the road and are looking forward to getting a shot Boston at home. Take MILWAUKEE!

Miami at Denver 9:00 ET

Heat (+) over Nuggets- Oh how the mighty have fallen...the Denver Nuggets have been down-graded by the bookmakers as the lines they post involving the Nuggets is vastly different then what we have seen in recent season. Denver has won three straight at home while Miami has dropped their last two and 3-of-4 and yet the home team here is just a 3-ball long goal favorite.  When these two last meeting in the Mile High City Denver was minus -8.5 and minus-9. Add that Denver has won the past five meetings and 9-of-10 and the price has been lowered by a half dozen points. Beware...take MIAMI!

Milwaukee at New York 7:00 ET

Knicks (-) over Bucks- A pair of struggling playoff teams off to a slow start meet in New York where the 3-4 Knicks will host floundering Milwukee who is 2-6. The Knicks ended an eight game losing streak to the Bucks including their first three meetings last season before NYK posted won in the last two meetings. In their victory at Madison Square Garden they were 3-point underdogs and now they are huge favorites. The Bucks just ended a six-game losing streak by blowing out weak sister Utah 123-100. New York returns home after falling at Atlanta and allows only 101 points in their wins and 118 in their losses. After a four game road trip Coach will be stressing defense...take the NEW YORK KNICKS!

Oklahoma City at Denver 10:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Thunder- Oklahoma City was the No. 1 seed in the West lst sesson and they are out to show the rest of the NBA that they are the team to beat and right now no one has done that as the enter 7-0 SU and 6-1 ATS. After a slow 1-4 start Denver has won four-of-five including the last two at home against Utah and Toronto. The Nuggets won the first meeting last season at OKC but the Thunder came on and won the next four including a 102-87 win at Denver on opening night Oct. 24, 2024 this season. Nuggets even the season series tonight. Take DENVER!

Cleveland at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Cavaliers- Cleveland has been leading the way with an 8-0 SU and 7-1 ATS record and along with OKC are the only remaining undefeated clubs. New Orleans has to make a gut check as 4-of-5 starters din not suit up including Zion Williamson. The Pelicans are 1-6 ATS since their opening win over Chicago and this will be their four straight game at the Smoothie King Center. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Orlando at Indiana 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Pacers- Orlando opened the season on the road with a win at Miami and haven’t won away from home yet losing five straight and enter this fray with four straight losses with the last win 10 days against at home 119-115 over the Pacers a non-cover victory. Paolo Banchero had 50 points that night and now is sidelined for a month and the Magic are 0-3 SU and 0-3 ATS without him but make adjustments tonight. These two have split their last 10 meetings withe the Magic going 3-1 ATS. Take ORLANDO!

San Antonio at LA Clippers 10:35 ET

Spurs (+) over Clippers- Since starting the year winning just one of their first four games San Antonio has won their last two to even their record at 3-3 and they have covered the number in three straight. LA is on a 3-games ATS skid after covered their first three (winning twice). The Clippers have won seven straight meetings and swept the three game series last year with all three games being play with in 22 days and they were done playing each other on Nov. 22. What that means is that they were lucky enough to play the Spurs before Wembanyama even got his feet wet. The Clippers will mostly likely need shock therapy after they see his development. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Portland at New Orleans 9:30 ET

Trail Blazers (+) over Pelicans- Both of these clubs are struggling at the season’s onset and they are meeting for the third time already this year. They opened the season in the Northwest and split two games and now it is the banged-up Pelicans that are hosts. The Blazers have dropped their last two but New Orleans is without Zion Willamson and the line reflects his absence. Take PORTLAND!

New York at Houston 8:45 ET

Rockets (+) over Knicks- New York coach Tom Thibodeau is known for defense first and then score the ball second which has been very successful in his career. With Karl-Anthony Towns joining his already experience crew should aid the Knicks cause. But, now it is Houston that is playing better defense and they are playing it better than New York ranked No. 4 while the Knicks are No. 13. The Rockets ended an eight game series losing streak last time these two met in February. Take HOUSTON!

Atlanta at New Orleans 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Pelicans- On a day when basketball is an after-thought because the NFL takes the front row on Sundays. Atlanta is not expected to win any championship’s this year but we do expect them to cover at least one point spread this season. Considering that they are 0-6 ATS it is time for them to get off the schnide. The Hawks had won five straight in series but Pelicans have taken 3-of-last-5 meetings. But, New Orleans doesn’t have the offensive firepower needed to ground the Hawks as they rank near the bottom in most shooting stats. Take ATLANTA!

Detroit at Brooklyn 3:30 ET

Pistons (+) over Nets- Brooklyn who won only 32 of 82 games last season have won three straight and come u a rare favorite while hosting the lowly Pistons. Detroit dropped their first four games posted a win over the 76ers and then on Friday was blown away by New York 128-98 there worse loss of the year. The Nets have won 8-of-10 meetings but the pistons got the money in seven of those 10. Take DETROIT!

Oklahoma City at LA Clippers 10:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Thunder- Oklahoma City is off to a quick start at 5-0 and are just one point away from being perfect against the number as well going 4-1 ATS. LA got off quick a well be in a different manor as they won the money in their first three games but they have yet to win a game as hosts going 0-3 SU and this will be their third straight home game and they finally give the fans at the ‘Dome’ something to cheer about. Take the CLIPPERS!

Minnesota at San Antonio 8:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Timberwolves- He may be the tallest man in the NBA but Victor Wambanyama has one of the best all-round games in the league. last time out against Utah he had 25 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, five blocks and five steals. Minnesota is going through a transition as their big man Towns is gone and a pair of sharp shooters are now in place. The trouble is the T’wolves now have too many players that need to have the ball to be effective as Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle have to share the ball. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Golden State at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (-) over Warriors- I believe that Houston has turned the corner and can be very dangerous and can beat anybody anytime. The odds-makers must feel the same way as they now are a team that has caught their attention and is being installed as stronger and stronger favorites. Golden State has won 10 straight in the series and have gone 7-3 ATS. But there is one constant factor in all of the match ups and this is the Warriors were favored in every game, seven by double-digits and they were -7, -7 and -7 in the other three. Tonight, Houston opened minus-6...-6! I understand that there is no curry buy Golden State should be used to that, cuz they are 2-0 since he went down. Maybe I am being sucked in but this number is such an anomaly compared to all other meetings. Take HOUSTON!

Orlando at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Cavaliers- These two clubs have split the last 10 meetings winning five games each while alternated wins and losses the last six meetings at 5-0 Cleveland is off to their best start in eight years. Coach Kenny Anderson has the Cavaliers leading the NBA in scoring at 123.4 points per game and make 41.1% of their 3-pont attempts also leading the NBA. But, the Magic have enough talent to keep this one close if not pull off the outright upset win. Take ORLANDO!

Houston at Dallas 8:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Mavericks- Having used the Mavericks as my Megabucks winner against Minnesota on Tuesday I have no problem coming against them here in Dallas. This will be their third game i four night in this early part of the season . Houston was also a winner for us as a Power Play over San Antonio Monday night as a small road favorite. The Mavs have won 6-of-7 and 8-of-10 meetings although the Rockets were heavy dogs in those match-ups. Both teams are different now. Take HOUSTON!

Orlando at Chicago 8:00 ET

Magic (-) over Bulls- Everyone is starting to understand why the Magic selected Paolo Banchero No. 1 overall when there were so many high profile players the media was in love with. Banchero’s all-around game has him flirting with a triple-double nightly and he has led Orlando to a 3-1 start. The Magic have won and covered the last five meetings and are 8-2 ATS in the past 10 meetings. The Bulls come from 20-points down to defeat Memphis 126-123 on Monday. Not this time. Take ORLANDO!

LA Lakers at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Lakers- Great storyline surrounding this match-up as a pair of undefeated ATS (4-0) clubs that are connected in so many ways starting meet for the first of two meetings this season. Starting with LeBron James and his son Bronny as the thirty-nine year old James is scoring 20-points, is still a master at dishing the ball and getting his teammates involved. He returns to Cleveland where he is 19-3 as a visitor while averaging 28.5 points. Teammate Anthony Davis leads the league in scoring with 32.8 PPG but it’s the Cavaliers that are No. 1 in field goal percentage and averaging 123.5 PPG. Tonight it’s CLEVELAND!

Boston at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Celtics- The league’s best, the Boston Celtics are mowing them down one at a time and enter this fray having won five straight against the Pacers including a 4-game sweep in the conference finals.Indiana is off to a slow start after defeating only Detroit in their opener squeaking out a victory with a late push for the half-point (-5.5) 115-109 win and cove. They dropped their next three the last two of which were by two buckets and need a big effort here and they get it. Take INDIANA!

Sacramento at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Kings- As of now these two are on the bottom rung in the West with Utah 0-3 and the Kings 1-2. Sacramento is also 0-2-1 ATS while despite their losses the Jazz are 2-1 ATS. Utah is due to break through into the win column (I hate saying a team is due) especially against the Kings who have won the past four meetings and six of the last seven. The Jazz get it done with their third chance at home and finally get that first win. Take UTAH!

Dallas at Minnesota 7:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Timberwolves- If you throw enough shit at the wall some of it is bound to stick and that has been the story of the Mavericks offense so far this season. Dallas’ field goal percentage is one of the lowest of the league at 42.1 ranking 29th in goals made, but they are also ranked No. 3 in overall shots taken at 97shots per game. The Mavericks have won and covered four of the past five meetings and that was in last years playoffs. The beat goes on...take DALLAS!

LA Lakers at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Suns- The Lakers have already taken down the Suns 123-116 at home in their second game of the year and are now 3-0 both SU and ATS. Phoenix has dropped six of the last eight meetings against LA covering just three times. They have won their other two games aaginst the Clippers and Mavericks and are 1-2 ATS. We played against the Suns and got the money with the Clippers opening night and we will do it again here. Take L.A. LAKERS!

Houston at San Antonio 8:00 ET

Rockets over Spurs- Neither of the Texas rivals has made the playoffs any of the past five seasons but their rivalry remains intense regardless of their records. San Antonio posted a 109-106 win over the Rockets two days ago and had to hold on after nearly blowing a 21-point lead. Houston had won five of the previous six meetings and will return to form here. Look for the Rockets to come out with strong defensive pressure after playing lax in their meeting on Saturday. Take HOUSTON!

Cleveland at New York 7:30 ET
Cavaliers (+) over Knicks- New York opened their season by getting hammered by the defending World Champion Celtics but rebounded in their second outing by blowing out Indiana. Tonight they meet the club that ousted them from the playoff last spring in seven games. Cleveland has opened the season with three straight wins and they have won by an average of 20.3 PPG. The Knicks had four players with 20 points or more in their win over the Pacers including newcomer Karl-Anthony Towns. New York had won 8-of-10 meetings before last year’s playoffs began. Now it’s the Cavaliers. Take CLEVELAND!

Dallas at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Mavericks- The Suns were in a perfect spot to open the season 2-0 and win ‘our’ first Highest-rated Megabucks winner but alas they blew a 22-point lead to the LA Lakers last night. Dallas with the addition of Klay Thompson may have added the piece they needed to help take pressure and attention now put on Lucka Doncic. Thompson set a Mavericks team record of 3-pointers in his debut as the blew away the Spurs. The Suns split twp game in Los Angeles and will be ready for they home opener. Take PHOENIX!

Phoenix at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Suns over Lakers- So, LA made their splash with their father/son night and opening game Vegas Hotline win 110-103 over Minnesota. The following night we had the Clippers (winner) against these Suns who won but just could not get the cover. Tonight, these rivals go at it with the in LA where the Lakers are still more concerned about the show then the game itself. Suns new coach Mike Budenholzer formerly of the Milwaukee Bucks will help this club focus on the big picture. Take PHOENIX!

Golden State at Utah 9:30 ET

Jazz (+) over Warriors- In their opening game rout of Portland the Warriors had seven players in double figures as they set a number of franchise scoring records for an opening season win. Golden State has won five straight against the Jazz including a four game series of last year’s season series. Utah coach Will Hardy says they will have to guard the perimeter while attacking the inside with center Lauri Markkanen. Take 

K

Indiana at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Pacers- New York was eliminated from the 2024 NBA playoffs in seven games by the Pacers as the injured Knicks were not able to overcome their late season issues. Indiana started the year with a come-from-behind win over Detroit who fell apart in the final minutes while the Knicks were totally wasted by the NBA Champion Celtics. New York has added what they think in the missing piece but they had to give up a pair of scoring guards. Karl-Anthony Towns should be able to take advantage of the Pacer’s center replacement for James Wiseman who left the Pistons game with injury. Take NEW YORK