10* NBA - Sharp Money VEGAS INSIDER: Chicago Bulls +3.5

I'll take my chances with the Bulls as a 3.5-point road dog against the Pelicans tonight. I really like the rest advantage for Chicago in this one, as well as the revenge angle for the Bulls in this matchup. These two teams just played last Wednesday with New Orleans going on the road and beating Chicago 115-111. The Bulls only other game they have played since that meeting is a game against the Nuggets on Sunday, so this will be just the 2nd game in 7 days for Chicago. 

As for the Pelicans, they will be playing on no rest after a big game last night against Ja Morant and the Grizzlies. It will be New Orleans' 4th game in 7 days. Pelicans didn't have Zion last night and it's unclear if he will play in this one. The line here certainly suggest that he and maybe some others might not suit up for New Orleans. Either way, I like Chicago to cover in this spot. Give me the Bulls +3.5! 

9* NBA - Late Night ATS NO-BRAINER: Brooklyn Nets +3

I'll take my chances with the Nets bouncing back from Sunday's ugly loss to the Lakers with a big road win over the red-hot Kings. Prior to losing 103-116 to the Lakers, Brooklyn had gone 4-1 SU and 5-0 ATS over their previous 5 games. They just didn't have much left in the tank for the Lakers playing on no rest after a big effort the night before against the Clippers. They also had to play that game shorthanded with Seth Curry and Ben Simmons both sidelined. Curry had scored 23 and 22 points in his previous 2 games. Curry is probable to play tonight and Simmons has been upgraded to questionable. 

You also have to tip your hat to the Lakers for making shots. LA shot an uncharacteristic 40% (11-27) from behind the 3-pt line. THis is a Nets defense that had been playing really well prior to that game, holding each of their previous 5 opponents under 100 points. I like them to get back to defending at that level in this game. 

The other big thing here is the Kings don't play a lot of defense. Sacramento is giving up 116.7 ppg and allowing opponents to shoot a ridiculous 50% from the field on the season. Give me the Nets +3! 

10* NCAAB - Sharp Money VEGAS INSIDER: Duke Blue Devils PK

I'll take my chances with Duke as a Pick'em against Kansas in Tuesday's big Top 10 showdown in Indianapolis. I think there's some value with the Blue Devils to start the year, as people are a little hesitant to fully back this team without Coach K on the sideline. I don't see Duke slipping at all this year. Not with the amazing young talent they have brought in. 

As for the Jayhawks, I think they are a bit overvalued coming into the 2022-23 season after winning it all last year. Kansas lost three starters and give key contributors from last year's team, including a couple of first round picks. Yes, they added in some nice transfers and some great freshmen of their own, but I just like what I've seen out of Duke a little more in the first couple games of the season. Blue Devils will be out to make a statement in this one. Give me Duke PK! 

10* NBA Vegas Insider TOP PLAY: Milwaukee Bucks -4

I'll take my chances with the Bucks as a 4-point home favorite against the Hawks. I like the revenge spot for Milwaukee in this one, as these two teams played in Atlanta last Monday. A game the Hawks won going away 117-98. You also got the Bucks coming in off an ugly 93-111 loss at San Antonio. 

Milwaukee is still 9-3 ATS on the season. With Antetokounmpo expected to play, I think that's more than enough to back the Bucks in this spot. Keep in mind that the Bucks were a 4-point road favorite in the last meeting, so despite the change in venue, there's been no adjustment to the line. 

Atlanta will also be without talented backup big man Onyeka Okongwu. He had a +22 +/- in 22 minutes in the first meeting with Milwaukee. Not having him inside against a guy like Giannis is a huge loss. Bucks are 7-0 at home, outscoring their opponents by 13.0 ppg. Give me Milwaukee -4! 

8* NCAAB - Sharp Money ATS SLAUGHTER: Richmond Spiders -3.5

I will take my chances with Richmond as 3.5-point road favorite against Charleston. The Spiders lost some key pieces from last year's 24-win team, but have a lot more talent coming back than people think. I also liked what they did in the transfer portal. They took care of business in their opener, beating UNI 68-55 as a 6.5-point home favorite. 

As for Charleston, they only returned 1 starter from last year's team that went just 17-15 overall and 8-10 in the CAA. The Cougars are also in what I think is a letdown spot, just two days removed from playing UNC on the road. Charleston lost by 16, but they put up a fight in a bit of a track meet, as the Tar Heels won 102-86. This is also a team that has not looked good defensively. They let UNC shoot 60.3% from the field and in their opener against UT-Chattanooga they let them shoot 49.2% from the field. Give me Richmond -3.5! 

9* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT: Brooklyn Nets -4.5

I'll take my chances with the Nets as a 4.5-point road favorite against the Lakers. The suspension of Kyrie and firing of head coach Steve Nash has completely flipped the script for the Nets. Brooklyn is 4-1 SU and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games. The only loss coming by 2-points on the road to the Mavs. The Lakers are a complete mess right now. LA has lost 5 in a row and failed to cover in all 5. I just don't get why this team continues to get so much respect from the books, especially with LeBron sidelined. Lakers are not a good offensive team at all and are facing a resurgent Nets defense that is giving up a mere 91.2 ppg on 37.7% shooting in their last 5 games. LA's not very good defensively either. They have allowed each of their last 3 and 4 of their last 5 opponents to shoot 50% or better from the field. Give me the Nets -4.5! 

8* NCAAB Sharp Money ATS NO-BRAINER: Iowa State Cyclones -18

I will take my chances with Iowa State as a 18-point home favorite against North Carolina A&T. No question the Cyclones lost a lot from last year's Sweet 16 team, but I'm not expecting any kind of regression from ISU this year. I love their head coach TJ Otzelberger, who did a remarkable coaching job last year. People forget that the Cyclones had just 2 wins the previous year. As for the talent lost, they more than made up for it in the transfer portal, adding some of the best players out of the A-10 to combine with the nice pieces they had coming back. We just saw this North Carolina A&T team lose by 41 points at Iowa on Friday. Its really not asking much for ISU to win here by 20+ at home. Give me the Cyclones -18! 

9* NBA Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR: Philadelphia 76ers -3

I'll take my chances with the 76ers as a mere 3-point home favorite against the Hawks on Saturday. I love the revenge angle here for Philadelphia, as these two teams just played in Atlanta on Thursday and the Hawks were able to come away with a 104-95 win. It's not easy beating the same team twice, especially when you go from playing at home to the road. Atlanta is 3-2 on the road, but two of those wins have come against the Pistons. The other was against a struggling Knicks team, where they had to rally from way behind. 

I know the offense has struggled of late for the 76ers, but I really love the intensity they are playing with on the defensive side of the ball. I expect that same effort on that side of the ball in the rematch and I got a good feeling about the offense performing much better at home. 

Hawks are 8-22 ATS last 30 road games with a total in the 220s, 5-16 ATS last 21 on the road when they come in having won 2 of their last 3 and 2-12 ATS last 14 on the road when playing their 3rd game in 4 nights. Give me the 76ers -3! 

8* NBA Late Night ATS ANNIHILATOR: Golden State Warriors -1.5

I'll take my chances with Golden State as a mere 1.5 point home favorite against Cleveland. I just think it's a great spot here to buy-low on the Warriors. Golden State is just 4-7 SU and 3-8 ATS. They have lost 5 of their last 6 and failed to cover in 8 of their last 10. 

Clearly this is not the same team that won it all last year, at least not yet, but I also think you have to look at the schedule as a reason for their slow start. Golden State is a dreadful 0-6 on the road, yet are a very good 4-1 at home. They will be well rested for this game, having not played since Monday. As for the Cavs, they are finishing up a 5-game road trip that started in Detroit and went out west for the final 4 games. This will be their 4th game in 6 days, all on the road. Give me the Warriors -1.5! 

8* NCAAB No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT on Richmond -7.5

I got no problem laying single digits with Richmond at home against Northern Iowa. Both of these teams are coming off great seasons. The Spiders went 24-13, while the Panthers finished 20-12. Both lose some real key pieces from last year, but the losses will be felt much more for UNI, who has to replace 4 starters, including Missouri Valley Player of the Year A.J. Green. They have just two kids on their roster that are more than a sophomore and both have barely played in their tenure. 

Richmond has just two starters back, but both of those are good players in Tyler Burton and Andre Gustavson. They also have much better young talent ready to step up and unlike UNI they added some good players in the portal. 

Don't be fooled by UNI's 50+ point win over Wartburg in their opener. That's an awful non-DI opponent. Give me Richmond -7.5! 

9* NCAAB Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE: Florida Atlantic Owls +6.5

I'll take my chances with FAU as a 6.5-point road dog against Ole Miss on Friday. I think the Owls got a shot of winning this game outright. Ole Miss looks to still be in rebuilding mode. They only returned 3 starters from last year's 13-win team and one of those is star sophomore guard Deashun Ruffin, who didn't play in their opener Monday and figures to still be out as he continues to work his way back from ACL surgery last Feb. 

As for FAU, they figure to be one of the top teams in C-USA this year. The Owls have 4 starters back from a team that won 19 games last year. They have a really good backcourt duo with Alijah Martin and Michael Forrest. This is also a team that really gets after you on defense. Ole Miss shot just 37.3% from the field at home in their opener against Alcorn State. Give me FAU +6.5! 

9* NCAAB No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT: Cincinnati Bearcats -22

I'll take my chances with Cincinnati covering as 22-point home favorites against Cleveland State. I don't think the number here is near enough given the mismatch on the floor and at head coach. The Bearcats only two significant losses from last year were Abdul Ado and Mike Saunders Jr., who combined only averaged 9.7 ppg. They get back their star in senior guard David DeJulius and added in Memphis transfer Landers Nolley II to give them another scorer, something they desperately needed last year. This is also a team that is built on defense, behind second year head coach Wes Miller. 

They should have their way with a Cleveland State team that lost 3 starters, who were really their entire offense. The Vikings 3 starters lost combined to average 39.7 ppg (all 3 in double-figures). Cleveland State also lost head coach Dennis Gates and replaced him with Daniyal Robinson, who has no head coaching experience. I think we saw the writing on the wall for this team in their opener, which they lost outright 68-72 to Notre Dame (OH). Give me the Bearcats -22! 

8* NCAAB - Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE: Southern Illinois +9

I'll take my chances with the Salukis catching 9-points on the road against Oklahoma State. I think this Southern Illinois team has a chance to be at or near the top of the MVC this season. It's as deep and as talented as a team the Salukis have had in what is now year four under head coach Bryan Mullins. They got two of the top 3 returning scorers in the MVC back from last year and added in some really nice transfers. Their bench had over 50 points in their opener, which they won 94-63 over Little Rock as a mere 15-point favorite. 

As for Oklahoma State, they didn't impress me at all in their opener, sneaking out a 77-66 win at home against UT-Arlington. Something that really has to raise eyebrows given the Mavericks didn't have a single returning starter from a team that went just 11-18 last season. Keep in mind they only won by 11-points with UT-Arlington shooting just 35.6% from the field. I really think Southern Illinois has a shot in this game. Give me the Salukis +9! 

9* NBA - No Doubt ATS ANNIHILATOR: New Orleans Pelicans -1.5

I'll take my chances with the Pelicans as a slim 1.5-point home favorite against the Bulls on Wednesday. Chicago to me is a good but not great team. Much like they were a year ago, when they beat up on bad teams and struggled against the upper tier of the league. 

I know the Pelicans have lost 3 of their last 4, but I still think this is one of the better teams when at full strength. I like taking good teams coming off a bad loss and that's exactly what we have here with NO fresh off a 122-129 loss at Indiana as a 5-point favorite. Pelicans are also the slightly fresher team, playing just their 3rd game in 5 days, where Chicago is playing their 3rd game in 4 nights. Give me the Pelicans -1.5! 

10* NBA Sharp Money Vegas Insider: Brooklyn Nets -2.5

I'll take my chances with Brooklyn laying 2.5 at home against the Knicks on Wednesday. I'm not surprised at all the Nets have improved after firing Nash and suspending Irving. Nash just wasn't a good fit for the makeup of this team and I think some of the Brooklyn players were getting a little sick of Kyrie. You can just see the difference in the attitude of the guys on the floor in these last few games. 

Speaking of that, Brooklyn has covered 3 straight since the Nash/Irving exodus and have really locked in defensively in these games. They held the Wizards to 86, Hornets to 94 and the Mavs to 96. All on the road. 

I like that trend to continue in this game. I also think this is a geat matchup for the Nets offense, as the Knicks have been really wanting to play uptempo this year. I think playing in the open floor will allow the other guys for Brooklyn to take some of the load of KD and allow the Nets to win this game going away. Give me Brooklyn -2.5! 

9* NCAAB Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR: Rider Broncs +13.5

I'll take my chances with Rider catching 13.5-points on the road against the Friars. This to me has the making of a potential upset. Providence lost a ton from last year's team that won the Big East regular season title and went on to advance to the Sweet 16. Just 3 players return who were with the program from last year. They lost 4 guys who averaged 10 or more points per game. Rider on the other hand is an experienced team with 4 starters back and should be a serious player for the top spot in the MAAC this year. I just think given all the new faces for Providence, we could see this team struggle a bit to start the year. This is also a Friars team that was extremely fortunate in close games a season ago, which is very hard to sustain from one season to the next. Give me the Broncs +13.5! 

8* NBA Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE: San Antonio Spurs +7.5

I'll take my chances with the Spurs as a 7.5-point home dog against the Nuggets. Love the revenge angle for San Antonio in this one. These two teams both played each other in their last game, which was at Denver on Saturday. Nuggets won that won going away 126-101. Never easy to beat a team in back-to-back games with such a short period of time between games. I think it's even harder for the team that won if the first game wasn't competitive. Look for San Antonio to respond with a big effort here and while I'll gladly take the points, I could see them winning this game outright. Give me the Spurs +7.5! 

9* NBA - No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT: Chicago Bulls -4

I'll take my chances with Chicago as a 4-point home favorite against the Raptors. Love the revenge spot for the Bulls in this one. These two teams played in Toronto yesterday and the Raptors won that game 113-104. Chicago played without Zach LaVine, as he sat out the first of a back-to-back. He's expected to be back for the rematch. On the flip side, Raptors are down Pascal Siakam right now and it will interesting to see how Fred VanVleet performs in the second of a back-to-back with his bad back. Either way, I like the Bulls to win and cover. Give me Chicago -4! 

8* NCAAB Opening Night ATS SHOCKER: George Mason +12.5

I'll take my chances with George Mason as a 12.5-point road dog against No. 15 ranked Auburn. Until they show me otherwise, the Tigers are a team I'll be looking to fade early on this season. This team lost a lot inside with the departures of Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler. Combined the two averaged 29.3 ppg and 15.5 rpg. There's also a chance Johni Broome will be sidelined with an ankle injury. Allen Flanigan, Jaylin Williams and Jalen Harper are all also questionable to play with an illness. As for the Patriots, I think this is a team that could surprise in the A-10 this year. Give me George Mason +12.5! 

10* NCAAB Opening Night PLAY OF THE YEAR: Ohio Bobcats +5.5

I'll take my chances with Ohio as a 5.5-point road dog against Belmont. This is nowhere close to the Bruins team that went 25-8 last year. Belmont lost a ton from last year's team. They get back their top scorer in Ben Sheppard, but the next 8 top scorers have all departed. This team does recruit and develop talent well, but I expect some early season struggles, especially in the betting market. Ohio technically only gets two starters back from last year, but big man Dwight Wilson III is alo returning from a knee injury that kept him out last year. Expect a very competitive game and one Ohio very well may win going away. Give me the Bobcats +5.5! 

8* NBA No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT: Boston Celtics -4

I'll take my chances with the Celtics laying 4-points on the road against the Knicks. Boston has started to look more like the team we expected to see coming into this year the last few days. The Celtics have won 3 of their last 4 games with the only loss coming by 1-point in Cleveland. 

The Knicks come in off a 106-104 win at Philly last night, but the 76ers were without their two best players in Embiid and Harden. Their only other 3 wins on the season are against 3 bottom feeders in the Pistons, Magic and Hornets. 

I also think with both teams playing here on no rest, we are going to see the depth of the Celtics reign supreme in this game. Give me Boston -4! 

9* NBA Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE: Charlotte Hornets +11.5

I'll take my chances with the Hornets catching 11.5 points on the road against the Grizzlies. This to me is a good buy-low spot on Chicago. No one is going to want to bet the Hornets in this game. Charlotte has lost and failed to cover in their last two games. Most recently losing by 18-points as a 4.5-point dog in Chicago on Wednesday. Charlotte will also be without Gordon Hayward, Terry Rozier and Cody Martin are also both doubtful. 

I think that's created some value in this line, as we don't need the Hornets to win this game, we just need them to not stink it up. I think if Memphis really wanted to they could win this game by 20+ points. However, I don't see the Grizzlies being all that motivated in this one. Memphis just finished up a 4-game west coast trip on Wednesday, which was also their 6th road game out of their last 7 overall. Not uncommon to see a team come out flat that is coming off a lengthy road trip where they had to change multiple time zones. This is also a Grizzlies team that has been a bit overvalued in the market early on, going just 2-4-1 ATS thru 8 games. Give me the Hornets +11.5! 

8* NBA - Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR: Boston Celtics -7

This line to me screams take Boston and that's exactly what I'm going to do. No one is going to want to lay this kind of number with the Celtics against the Bulls given how these two team are playing. Chicago has won their last two games and covered in convincing fashion. The Bulls won 108-99 at Brooklyn as a 2-point dog and then destroyed Charlotte 106-88 as a mere 4.5-point home favorite. Boston on the other hand has lost 3 of their last 4 and gone just 1-4 ATS in their last 5. 

Maybe I'm putting a little too much faith in the Celtics, but this is a game I think they step up and deliver one of their better performances. This is too good a team to keep playing as poorly as they have. Boston also figures to come into this game with a little extra given it's Chicago, as the Bulls laid it on them about 10 days ago in a 120-102 win in Chicago. 

This is also not a great scheduling spot for the Bulls, who will be playing their 3rd game in 4 days and 5th game in the last 8 days. I could definitely see this being a flat spot for them. Give me the Celtics -7! 

8* NBA Sharp Money ATS MASSACRE: Oklahoma City Thunder +6.5

I'll take my chances with Oklahoma City as a 6.5-point home dog against the Nuggets. The Thunder have been a massive BET ON team to start out the 2022-23 season. OKC expected to be one of the worst teams in the league, comes in at 4-3 SU and 6-1 ATS. All 4 of those wins coming in their last 4 games. Until the public gets on board and forces the books to start adjusting the numbers, there's no reason not to keep betting this team. 

These two teams played once already this season in Denver and while the Nuggets won that game, they did so by a final score of just 122-117. OKC got the cover as a 8.5-point dog. Further backing how the books have not adjusted on this Thunder team, there's only been a 2-point adjustment in the line based off the first meeting and that's with Denver playing the first game at home and now on the road, where we would expect to see closer to a 5-point swing. 

Denver is just 1-3 SU and 1-3 ATS on the road this season, so I'm not sure why they are getting so much lover here. Nuggets also not performing all that great, as they are only scoring 1.2 points above expected given what their opponents have allowed and are giving up 4.1 ppg more than what their opponents typically score. Give me the Thunder +6.5! 

8* NBA Late Night BAILOUT BLOWOUT: Portland Trail Blazers +3.5

I'll take my chances with the Blazers as a 3.5-point home dog against the Grizzlies on Wednesday. I'm not so sure Portland shouldn't be favored in this game. Yes, the Blazers are down star point guard Damian Lillard, but there's a lot of talent on this team and they know how to get the job done without Lillard after all the time he misses last season. Anfernee Simons, Jerami Grant and Jusuf Nurkic are all capable of carrying the load offensively. At the same time, I think Memphis is a team that came into this season overpriced and it's shown in the Grizzlies start to the season. Memphis is just 4-3 SU and 2-4-1 ATS. This is also a banged up Memphis team, that is still without Jaren Jackson Jr. They could also be down both Steven Adams and Desmond Bane, who are both questionable. Give me the Blazers +3.5! 

9* NBA - Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE: Charlotte Hornets +5.5

I will gladly take my chances with the Hornets as a 5.5-point road dog against the Bulls on Wednesday. Good spot here to fade Chicago, as the Bulls will be on no rest after last night's 108-99 road win over the Nets. Bulls have been pretty cautious with LaVine early on and I believe there's a good chance he sits in the second of a back-to-back. Chicago is also without Drummond, who was playing extremely well early on and could also be without one of their better reserves in Coby White. Charlotte has exceeded expectations without LaMelo Ball and I just feel they are still a bit undervalued. Hornets are coming of a 108-115 loss at home to the Kings that has to have them hungry to get back on the floor, as Charlotte somehow lost the game despite them shooting 51.2% from the field and Sacramento only connecting on 43.5% of their attempts. Give me the Hornets +5.5! 

9* NBA - Situational ATS ANNIHILATOR: Sacramento Kings +6.5

I'll gladly take my chances with the Kings as a 6.5-point road dog against the Heat on Wednesday. Great spot here to fade Miami, who will be playing on no rest after a thrilling 116-109 win at home over the Warriors last night. A game in which the Heat had to rally from way down in the 4th quarter to win (outscored GS 30-15 in the 4th). On the flip side, Kings come in having won 2 in a row and this is a talented young team that I feel is being undervalued right now with their 2-4 SU record. Kings have proven that, covering 4 of their last 5. I not only like them to keep this close, but I give them a great shot here of winning outright. Give me Sacramento +6.5! 

8* NBA - Smart Money ATS MASSACRE: New York Knicks -1.5

I will gladly take my chances with the Knicks as a mere 1.5-point home favorite against the Hawks on Wednesday. I have really liked what I've seen out of New York, but feel they are flying a bit under the radar with their mere 3-3 start to the season. Thing is, the Knicks 3 losses have all come on the road and all against some of the better teams in the league in Memphis, Milwaukee and Cleveland. New York should also be fresh here playing on a full 2 days rest, where Atlanta has to be running on fumes playing their fifth road game in the last 8 days. Give me the Knicks -1.5! 

10* NBA Sharp Money VEGAS INSIDER: Minnesota Timberwolves +5.5

I'll take my chances with the Timberwolves as a 5.5-point road dog against the Suns. This will be the second game of Tuesday's double-header on TNT. I believe because this is going to be a heavily bet game, the books have inflated the number on Phoenix to where there's just too much value to pass up on Minnesota. 

Suns come in having won and covered each of their last 4 games. The offense has really carried them during this win streak, as they come in having shot 50% or better from the field in each of their last 3 games. Thing is, that hot shooting has come against some bad defensive teams or in the case of the Pelicans a team missing some of their best players. 

As expected, Minnesota's defense has greatly improved with the addition of Rudy Gobert. Timberwolves are currently ranked No. 4 in the league in defensive efficiency. Portland is the only team Phoenix has played that currently ranks in the Top 10 in defensive efficiency. Blazers held Phoenix to just 113 points and a season-worst 45.7% shooting. 

The other big thing here is the Suns are down one of their best players in Deandre Ayton, who missed their last game against the Rockets and is expected to be out at least a week. His absence is really going to be felt in this matchup with Gobert on the other side. I like the Timberwolves to not only cover, but to win outright. Give me Minnesota +5.5! 

9* NBA No Doubt ATS SLAUGHTER: Washington Wizards +8.5 

I'll take my chances with the Wizards as a 8.5-point road dog against the Celtics. Boston is getting way too much respect from the books right now. The Celtics are not playing great basketball right now. In their last two games they have lost 102-120 at Chicago and 123-132 at home to the Cavs. This is also a team that has just 1 win on the season by more than the spread here and that was their 11-point win against the 76ers in the opener. 

The big thing that is holding back the Celtics is their defense. Boston has allowed 120+ points in each of their last 3 games. Boston is giving up 118.6 ppg on 48.4% shooting for the season. That spikes to 124.5 ppg and 50.6% at home, which is shocking. 

Wizards are going to be up for a shot at the defending Eastern Conference champs and it's a good buy-low spot on Washington after Friday's ugly 117-127 home loss to the Hornets as a 5-point favorite. Give me the Wizards +8.5! 

10* NBA  Smart Money VEGAS INSIDER: Utah Jazz +9

I will gladly take the Jazz as a 9-point road dog against the Nuggets tonight. Utah has arguably been the most undervalued team in the league to start the season. Everyone thought the Jazz were in full on tank mode, yet they have come out and gone 4-1 in their first 5 games, with 3 of those wins coming as dogs of 6.5 or more. That includes a 123-102 win at home over these Nuggets to open the season. 

I'm sure Denver hasn't forgot about that game, but 9 points is way too many for them to be laying in this spot. The Nuggets just gave a big effort in a prime time game against the Lakers on Wednesday. 

Utah is getting great contributions across the board and maybe the most surprising thing with this team is how they are defending. The Jazz are sitting 5th in the NBA in defensive efficiency right now. Give me Utah +9! 

9* NBA No Doubt ATS SLAUGHTER: New York Knicks +6.5

I will gladly take my chances with the Knicks as a 6.5-point road dog against the Bucks on Friday. I've really liked what I've seen out of New York to start this new season. They are 3-1 with their only loss coming in OT at Memphis in the season opener. Jalen Brunson has been everything they hoped for and more, as he finally gives them a calming presence when the game is on the line in the 4th quarter. Got to believe the Knicks will be highly motivated here against the Bucks. 

Milwaukee is off to a 3-0 start and have covered each of the first 3 games. The books aren't going to let this team keep covering. They are going to keep inflating the number and this line definitely feels like it's at least a couple points too high. 

It's been all Giannis early on for the Bucks. The Greek Freak has scored 40+ in each of the last two games and is averaging 36.0 ppg on the season. The next best scorer on the team is Bobby Portis at just 14.7 ppg. It's not an efficient way to win and the Bucks come in ranked 25th in the NBA in offensive efficiency. Knicks are Top 10 in both offensive and defensive efficiency. Give me New York +6.5! 

9* NBA Situational ATS NO-BRAINER: Philadelphia 76ers +1.5

I'll take my chances with the 76ers as a 1.5-point road dog in Friday's road rematch against the Raptors. These two teams played in Toronto on Wednesday and the Raptors were able to prevail 119-109. The loss dropped Philly to 1-4 on the season. It's also a pretty big adjustment given they were just a 2-point road favorite in the game on Wednesday. 

It's never easy beating a team in the NBA twice in a row, especially when it's the last team you faced. Philly should be the more motivated team and if they can just turn up the defensive intensity a few notches, they should be able to win this game, as Toronto really doesn't have the bigs to contain Embiid. 

Raptors are just 4-14 ATS in their last 18 at home off a win by 10 or more, while the 76ers are 8-2 ATS last 10 off an upset loss by 10 or more as a favorite. Give me the 76ers +1.5! 

9* NBA Situational ATS NO-BRAINER: Utah Jazz -6.5

I will gladly take my chances with Utah laying a mere 6.5-points at home against the Rockets. This might seem like a bad line, given these two teams just played in Houston on Monday and the Rockets won that meeting 114-108 as a 2.5-point dog. Thing is, that was an awful spot for Utah, as they were playing on no rest and their 3rd game in 4 nights. Not to mention the game the night before against the Pelicans went to OT. Prior to winning that game, the Rockets were 0-3 without a single cover and had lost each of those 3 games by at least 7 points. Utah prior to the loss was a perfect 3-0, absolutely destroying the spread. They won by 21 as a 6.5-point dog against the Nuggets, by 6 as a 8-point dog at Minnesota and by 1 as a 8 point dog at New Orleans. Give me the Jazz -6.5! 

8* NBA - Public Money ATS SLAUGHTER: Orlando Magic +8.5

I'll take my chances with the Magic as a 8.5-point road dog against the Cavs. Orlando comes into this game getting zero love from the books. The Magic are 0-4 SU and 1-3 ATS to start the season. It hasn't been as bad as the records would suggest. Orlando was a 3.5-point dog in a 4-point loss at Detroit, were a 9-point dog in a 10-point loss at Atlanta. They also lost by just 6 as a 8.5-point dog at home against the Celtics. The only bad loss was a 13-point setback at New York and they only trailed by 6 in that game with around 5 minutes to play in the 4th quarter. Not saying the Magic will win this game, but I like them to keep it close against a Cavs team that could be a little over-confident after two blowout wins. Cleveland could also be looking ahead to Friday's huge matchup at Boston. Give me the Magic +8.5! 

9* NBA - No Doubt ATS SLAUGHTER: Detroit Pistons +5.5

I'll take my chances with the Pistons as a 5.5-point road dog against the Wizards. I like Detroit to come out with a big effort here against Washington. The Pistons have lost two straight since winning their opener. One of those was an ugly 24-point loss at New York, where the Knicks couldn't miss. The other was on the second of a back-to-back against the Pacers, where Detroit couldn't buy a basket. Having had the last two days off, I really like the Pistons to play well in this spot. 

Washington is 2-1, but both wins came down to the wire. The Wizards snuck out a 114-107 win at Indiana in their opener and then barely held on for a 102-100 win at home against the Bulls. It's also worth pointing out that 3 of the 4 games between these two teams last year were decided by 3 points or less. Give me the Pistons +5.5! 

10* NBA Sharp Money VEGAS INSIDER: Toronto Raptors +3.5

I'll gladly take my chances with the Raptors as a 3.5-point road dog against Miami on Monday. These two teams just played each other in Miami on Saturday, so this is a true rematch. The Heat won that first meeting on their home floor 112-109, but it was Toronto that rallied from a big 1st half deficit to make a game of it. I look for the Raptors to be the much more motivated team in the rematch. Miami is just 18-32 (36%) ATS in their last 50 home games off a win by 3-points or less. Going back to last season, Toronto is 18-8 ATS last 26 off a SU loss. Give me the Raptors +3.5! 

9* NBA - Vegas Oddsmakers LINE MISTAKE: Orlando Magic +8.5

I'll take chances with the Magic as a 8.5-point dog at Atlanta on Friday. Orlando just missed out on a cover in their season opener, losing 109-113 at Detroit as a 4-point dog. I thought there was a lot of positives to take for the Magic in that game. Most notably the play of rookie Pablo Banchero, who had 27 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 blocks. I feel like the Magic have a very underrated starting 5 with Banchero, Suggs, Wagner, Carter Jr and Ross. Hawks are a team I'll be looking to bad, as I really like their backcourt duo of Young and Murray. With that said, I think the price here is a little steep. Atlanta got 43 points and 24 assists from Young and Murray in their opener and only won that game by 10. They led by just 4 going into the 4th quarter. Give me the Magic +8.5!

10* NBA Sharp Money VEGAS INSIDER: Detroit Pistons +6.5

I will take my chances with the Pistons as a 6.5-point road dog against the Knicks on Friday. I really like the makeup of this Detroit team. We saw them go on an ATS tear last year and while they won't cover at that same clip, this to me feels like a few too many given the tough spot for the Knicks. New York is coming off a 112-115 OT loss at Memphis on Wednesday, where they had to use a ton of energy to rally from a 19-point deficit. I look for the Knicks to come out a bit flat against a young and hungry Pistons team. Give me Detroit +6.5! 

9* NBA - Public Money ATS MASSACRE: Washington Wizards +1

We played on the Bulls +7 in their 116-108 upset win on the road against the Heat. It was an impressive win for Chicago, who is starting the season without Lonzo Bal and ended up not having Zach LaVine. We know Ball won't go in this one and chances are Ball will sit again, as they try to get his knee right. I think the big upset win has the Bulls a bit overvalued coming into this game against a very underrated Wizards team, who opened their season with a 114-107 road win over the Pacers. Washington has a very underrated 1-2-3 punch with Beal, Porzingis and Kuzma. Give me the Wizards +1! 

9* NBA - No Doubt ATS SLAUGHTER: Philadelphia 76ers -3.5

I will gladly take my chances with the 76ers covering as a 3.5-point home favorite against the Bucks. I really like this spot with Philly. A lot of people aren't going to feel good about laying a short number with the 76ers after Tuesday's 117-126 loss at Boston. I'm actually more inclined to back Philly because of how that game against the Celtics played out. 

You can't overreact to teams getting worked by Boston this year. The Celtics to me are in a class of their own in the Eastern Conference. I know some will lump this Milwaukee team in there with Boston, but this is not a team that is overly concerned about the regular-season. The Bucks are also without Khris Middleton for a few weeks to start the season, as well as one of their top reserves in Pat Connaughton. 

Getting back to the 76ers, I did think there were some positives to take in that loss to the Celtics. James Harden looks to be more in line with the player he was in Houston than the overweight and sloppy Harden we got the last couple years with Brooklyn and Philly. 

The 76ers have a legit 1-2-3 scoring punch with Harden, Embiid and Maxey. I also think they are a better 3-point shooting team than what we saw in the opener with them going 13-34 (38.2%) from deep. I really like this team to bounce back with a big effort at home and to easily cover this spread. Give me the 76ers -3.5! 

9* NBA Sharp Money NO-BRAINER: Chicago Bulls +7

I will take my chances with the Bulls as a 7-point road dog at Miami in Wednesday's season opener for these two teams. I just don't understand the lack of respect this Chicago team is getting coming into this season. Everyone seems to forget how good this team was to start out last year before injuries derailed their season. While they will be without one of their better players in Lonzo Ball to start the season, they still got a pretty good 1-2 punch with LaVine and DeRozan. Everyone likes this Miami team after coming up just short of the NBA Finals last year and finishing the regular-season with the best record in the Eastern Conference. I don't know that they are a Top 4 team in the East this year. I think they are clearly a step behind the Bucks and Celtics and I could easily see them finishing behind both the Nets and 76ers. To me this team is a bit overvalued coming into this season and it's showing in this line. Give me the Bulls +7! 

10* NBA - Opening Night VEGAS INSIDER: Cleveland Cavaliers +2.5

I really like the Cavs as a 2.5-point underdog in Wednesday's season opener at the Raptors. This is nothing against Toronto, who I think has a tendency to be undervalued, I just am really high on this Cleveland team coming into this season. Addition of Donovan Mitchell gives the Cavs one of the more underrated starting fives in the league with him paired alongside Darius Garland, Caris LaVert, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. I really look for the size of Mobley and Allen to be huge in this game, as the Raptors are not a very big team with Pascal Siakam listed as the starting center on the depth chart. There will be no easy buckets for Toronto in this game and Cleveland should be able to abuse them on the other side down low. As long as the Raptors don't go crazy from behind the 3-point line, the Cavs should win here rather easily. Give me Cleveland +2.5! 

Warriors/Celtics MAX UNIT Top Play (Warriors +4) 

I'll take my chances with the Warriors as a 4-point dog in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. I know it's Boston that is facing elimination at home, but my money is on Golden State to finish off this thing tonight and not let it go to a Game 7. 

I thought it was really impressive how the Warriors were able to win Game 5 without a great offensive night from Steph Curry, who scored just 16 points on 7 of 22 shooting (0 for 9 on 3-pointers). It speaks volumes to just how good this Golden State defense has been. Boston is struggling to get anything out of their role players and continue to make it tough for both Tatum and Brown to get going. 

I look for Curry to bounce back in a big way tonight and more of the same from the Warriors defense. Give me Golden State +4! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Celtics/Warriors Game 5 VEGAS INSIDER (Warriors -3.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Warriors as a 3.5-point home favorite in Game 5 at home. Golden State evened up the series at 2-2 behind an epic performance from Steph Curry in Friday's 107-97 win at Boston in Game 4. 

Warriors did lose Game 1 at home after being up 12 going into the 4th quarter, but they came back and dominated Game 2 at home 107-88. I just have a lot more trust in Golden State. Curry is without question the best player on the floor and we can expect a lot more out of the other guys at home. Give me the Warriors -3.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Warriors/Celtics MAX UNIT Top Play (Warriors +4) 

I'll take my chances with Golden State at +4 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. This feels like a must-win for the Warriors with Boston up 2-1 after Tuesday's 116-100 win in Game 3. The Celtics came out on fire in Game 3 and it really felt like they should be up 20+ in the 1st Half. Even then Golden State was able to rally back in the 3rd quarter. They just didn't have enough gas in the tank to finish it off. 

Celtics got 27 from Brown, 26 from Tatum and 24 from Smart. I don't see them getting that kind of all-around production from those 3 again in Game 4. On the flip side, we know Curry is going to be great. All we need is for the bench to give them more than the 18 points they scored in Game 3. Mainly we need more out of Poole and I think he delivers. I'll take the points for insurance, but I like the Warriors to win this game outright. Give me Golden State +4! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Warriors/Celtics Game 3 MAX UNIT Top Play (Warriors +3.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Warriors as a 3.5-point road dog in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. If not for that unbelievable shot making in Game 1 by Boston, this series would be 2-0 in favor of Golden State. Keep in mind the Warriors were up double-digits going into that 4th quarter of Game 1. They won Game 2 by by 19. 

Golden State to me has looked like the better team for 7 of the 8 quarters and that's with them getting almost nothing out of Klay Thompson. I just feel as long as Steph Curry continues to play at the level he's played in the first two games, it's going to be a tall task for Boston to win this series. 

The other big thing that doesn't get quite the attention that it deserves is the Warriors defense. After hitting 21 3-pointers (9 in the 4th quarter) of Game 1, Boston still managed to make 15 in Game 2, yet were only able to score 88 points. Give me the Warriors +3.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10(Scale of 1-10)

Celtics/Warriors MAX Unit Top Play (Warriors -4) 

I backed Golden State in Game 1 and took it on the chin. Warriors were up by as many 15 in the 3rd quarter and led by 12 going into the 4th quarter. The Celtics then played what has to be one of the greatest 4th quarters by a single team in NBA Finals history. 

Boston simply couldn't miss. They started the quarter making 7 straight 3's and ended up 9 for 11 when it was all said and done. For the game the Celtics shot 21-41 (51.2%) from behind the 3-pt line. I don't see them putting up anything close to those kind of numbers in Game 2. 

I get they won that game without Tatum putting up huge offensive numbers, but he still had a big impact with 13 assists. He had a hand in close to 40 points. He might score a few more in Game 2, but his assists will likely go way down. 

Warriors got a great game from Curry and Wiggins, but no one else really did much. Draymond didn't have his normal impact, Thompson could never get it going and Jordan Poole was basically a  no show. 

This is also a do or die moment for Golden State. They lose this game and go down 0-2 with 3 of the next 4 in Boston, it's all but over. My money is on the Warriors not letting that happen. Give me Golden State -4! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Celtics/Warriors Game 1 MAX UNIT Top Play (Warriors -3.5)

Give me Golden State -3.5 at home in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Sure, Boston had the tougher road to the Finals, but that doesn't mean that makes them more ready for this series. If anything, I think it's an advantage for Golden State. Boston has just played two grueling 7-game series against the Bucks and Heat. 

I also think the Warriors are an entire different beast than what the Celtics have seen so far in these playoffs. Brooklyn was not a good defensive team. Milwaukee and Miami were both really good defensively, but were so reliant on one guy to carry them offensively. Golden State is a very good defensive team and in my opinion are the hardest team in the NBA to defend. I think this line should be closer to 5. Give me the Warriors -3.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Celtics/Heat Game 7 MAX UNIT Top Play (Heat +2.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Heat at +2.5 at home in Game 7. The entire outlook of this series shifted in Game 6 when Jimmy Butler returned to form. After knee inflammation really limited him in Game 3 and Game 4, Butler put on a show in Game 6 with a 47-point performance on the road facing elimination. Butler also had 9 rebounds and 8 assists. He looked like a different guy and with him playing at that level, I like the Heat to win this game and return to the NBA Finals. Give me the Heat +2.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Western Conf Finals (Game 5) MAX UNIT Top Play (Mavs +7) 

I'll take my chances with the Mavs as a 7-pt dog at Golden State in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals. I think the assumption is that the Warriors didn't have the right mindset up 3-0 in Game 4. Everyone just says that was Dallas' game to get. 

I get it, but you also got to look at the whole picture. Mavs got blown out in Game 1, which was to be expected coming off a Game 7 win over the Suns after trailing in that series 2-3. They had a HUGE lead and blew it in Game 2 and in Game 3 half their team couldn't buy a shot and they still only lost by 9. 

Coming back from a 3-0 deficit has never been done. I don't think it happens here, but I do think Dallas at the very least is going to make a game of it. Doncic, not Curry, is the best player on the floor. If his teammates can knock down a few 3's, they could definitely win this game. Give me the Mavs +7! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Western Conf Finals (Game 4) MAX UNIT Top Play (Mavs PK) 

I'll take my chances with the Mavs at a pick'em at home in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. This series might be over with Golden State up 3-0, but that doesn't mean Dallas isn't going to go down without a fight. 

Mavs really should have won Game 2 at Golden State, as they were up big before a 2nd half collapse. They also have to feel like they beat themselves in Game 3 with the inability of their role players like Finney-Smith, Bullock and Kleber to hit shots. Those 3 were a combined 2 for 17 from behind the 3-point line. Look for those guys to shoot a lot better and for the Mavs to find a way to win this game and at the least extend this thing to a Game 5 on Thursday. Give me the Mavs PK! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Eastern Conf Finals (Game 4) MAX UNIT Top Play (Celtics -6.5)

I'll gladly take my chances with the Celtics as a 6.5-point home favorite in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals. This series has seen the Heat win Game 1 by 9, Boston win Game 2 by 25 and Miami take Game 3 by 6. 

Celtics couldn't have played much worse in Game 3 and still almost pulled it off. Boston got outscored 18-31 in the 1st period and fell behind by as many as 26 in the 1st half. Celtics were able to make a game of it, despite getting next to nothing out of Tatum and them having an uncharacteristic 23 turnovers. 

The other big thing is the health of Miami. Jimmy Butler left in the 1st half and did not return with a knee injury. Tyler Herro also played 20 mins battling a groin injury. Heat's offense scored just 23, 25 and 21 over the final 3 quarters. Give me the Celtics -6.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Western Conf Finals (Game 3) MAX UNIT Top Play (Mavs -2.5)

I'll take my chances with the Mavs -2.5 in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals. It's do or die for Dallas after losing the first 2 games in Golden State. While they weren't all that competitive in Game 1, that was to be expected coming off that Game 7 against the Suns.

They really should have won Game 2, as they jumped out to a huge lead before falling apart in the 2nd Half. As tough as that loss was to swallow, I think it did give this Mavs team some confidence that they can hang with this Warriors team. 

Golden State has had a problem of just going thru the motions in these playoffs and I think they struggle to match the intensity of the Mavs in Game 3 on the road. Give me the Mavs -2.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Western Conf Finals (Game 2) MAX UNIT Top Play (Warriors -6) 

We cashed on the Warriors in Game 1 and will fire right back with Golden State at -6 in Game 2. I'm a huge Doncic fan and I expect him to play better than he did in Game 1. I just don't think he's going to get enough help from his role players on the road to keep this close. Doncic could score 40+ and the Mavs could still lose by double-digits. Golden State has been the best team in the West when healthy and I really don't see this series going all that long. Give me the Warriors -6! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Western Conference Finals MAX UNIT Top Play (Warriors -4.5) 

I'll gladly take my chances with the Warriors as a 4.5-point home favorite in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. Golden State should be a bigger favorite here. Not only are the Warriors the better team, but this is a really tough spot for the Mavs, who are coming off back-to-back wins in elimination games against the Suns.

Very similar scenario to what we saw last night in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Celtics just ran out of gas and just didn't have that killer instinct on the defensive side as they did avoiding elimination in Games 6 and 7 vs the Bucks. Warriors haven't played in 4 days and are a perfect 6-0 at home in the playoffs so far. Give me Golden State -4.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Eastern Conference Finals MAX UNIT Top Play (Heat -1.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Heat as a slim -1.5 home favorite against the Celtics in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. I think Miami continues to get disrespected. Most are picking the Celtics in this series, despite the fact that the Heat, the No. 1 seed in the East, has done exactly what they are suppose to do so far in the playoffs. Miami beat the Hawks in 5 in the 1st round and just disposed of the 76ers in 6 to get here. 

All 3 of their playoffs losses have come on the road. They are 6-0 at home and just one of those wins at home came by fewer than 9 points. The other big thing besides homecourt is the Celtics figure to have a bit of a letdown here. Boston just won back-to-back elimination games, with the Game 7 clincher against the Bucks coming just 2 days ago. Give me the Heat -1.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

Mavericks/Suns Game 7 Vegas Insider (Mavs +6.5)

I'll gladly take my chances with the Mavs as a 6.5-point dog in Game 7 against the Suns. I love Dallas to at the very least make a game of this and give them close to 50/50 shot at winning the game outright. Suns are the better team, but the Mavs have the best player in Doncic. Phoenix has had no answer for him and I think they may have made a big mistake talking trash to Doncic earlier in this series. The other big story in this series is the Mavs defense on Chris Paul. After averaging 22 and 11 in their 1st round series with the Pelicans, he's averaging a mere 14 and 6. He's scored just 25 points combined in the last 3 games of this series. Give me the Mavs +6.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

Bucks/Celtics Game 7 ATS No-Brainer (Bucks +5.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Bucks getting 5.5 in Game 7 on the road against the Celtics. While Boston avoided elimination with a 108-95 win at Milwaukee in Game 6, no team has been able to win back-to-back games in this series. The underdog has covered 5 of the 6 games to this point. Boston might have the better team, but Milwaukee has the best player in Antetokounmpo. Boston has no answer for him. He's averaging 40 ppg over the last 4 games of the series. I also like Milwaukee as a team in this spot, as they aren't going to be overcome by the moment. Give me the Bucks +5.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Situational VEGAS INSIDER (Bucks -1.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Bucks as a slim 1.5-point home favorite. Milwaukee 100% stole Game 5. This is a championship team that knows how to close out a series. They also understand how big this game is for them. Last thing they want is to have to go back to Boston for Game 7. With that said, the pressure is really on the Celtics to avoid elimination. Not only that, but you have to wonder how this team is dealing with their collapse in Game 5. Give me the Bucks -1.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs MAX UNIT Top Play (76ers -2) 

I will gladly take my chances with the 76ers as a slim 2-point home favorite in Game 6 against the Heat. This series has been dominated by the home team. The home team has won and covered each of the 5 games up to this point and most of them have been blowouts. The smallest margin of victory so far is 8-points. 

It's just like the role players and even the stars are just playing at a different level at home compared to on the road. I see no reason to think that trend won't continue in Game 6. No question the 76ers will be the more motivated team facing elimination. Miami could struggle to find that killer instinct coming off a 35-point win and knowing they got Game 7 at home. Give me the 76ers -2! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10

NBA Playoffs Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Heat -3) 

I will gladly take my chances with Miami as a mere 3-point home favorite in Game 5. Philly got Embiid back in Game 3 at home and were able to feed off his energy in a 99-79 win. In Game 4, the Heat just couldn't buy an outside shot (7 of 35, 20%), while James Harden caught fire. Maybe that was a turning point for Harden. I don't think it was. I have zero faith in him being anything close to that same guy in Game 5. 

I see a much more focused and energized Miami team on their home floor and you have to wonder if there won't be a little bit of letdown for the 76ers. Philly's backs were firmly against the wall. They lose either of those games at home and this series was all but over. Either way, I just feel the Heat are the better team and this is just too good a price to pass up. Give me Miami -3! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Situational VEGAS INSIDER (Heat +2) 

I'll gladly take my chances with the Heat as a 2-point road dog in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference Semifinal matchup with the 76ers. Miami really made easy work of Philly in the first two games, winning Game 1 by a score of 106-92 and then Game 2 by a score of 119-103. 

It felt like this series was all but over with Embiid sidelined, but then he made a surprising return for Game 3. I don't think there's any question it gave Philly a lift, but that was also a do or die situation, as they had to avoid going down 0-3. 

Having Embiid back is big, but he's far from the MVP candidate we saw dominate the regular season. I still have a lot of the same concerns with the 76ers. Can they get another 21 points from Danny Green? Can Green and Maxey replicate their crazy shooting from outside (combined 12 of 15 from 3-point)? I don't think so. My money is on the Heat to retake their claim on this series and go up 3-1. Give me Miami +2! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Smart Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Suns -1.5)

I will gladly take my chances with the Suns as a slim -1.5 road favorite in Game 4 of their Western Conference Semifinal matchup with the Mavs. After dominating the first two games at home to take a 2-0 lead, Dallas responded with a 103-94 win in Game 3. Not a big surprise (I was on the Mavs) given the situation. 

Suns got a little complacent after those first two games and the Mavs put everything on the line with their backs against the wall. I still think Phoenix is hands down the better team. In Game 3, Chris Paul and Devin Booker only combined for 30 points and had a combined 12 turnovers. Yet the Suns only lost by 9. My money is on the Sun to bounce back with a much better showing this afternoon. Give me Phoenix -1.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Smart Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Mavs PK) 

I'll take my chances with the Mavs at a pick'em at home in Game 3 against the Suns. Most will just assume Phoenix will keep rolling after watching them win and cover both games on their home floor to start the series. 

I don't think that will be the case. Dallas has shown they can hang around with this team for a good portion of the game. They just haven't got any help from their role players. It's been all Doncic. I don't think the Suns are going to have an answer for Doncic and with the Mavs being at home for Game 3, I think the role players finally show up and carry this team to a win. Give m Dallas PK! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Smart Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Celtics -4.5) 

I will gladly take my chances with Boston laying the 4.5 in Game 2. The Celtics got a big wake-up call in Game 1. I know they aren't taking games off in the playoffs, but you have to wonder if they were as locked in as they should have been after sweeping the Nets in the 1st Round and Milwaukee being without one of their better players in Middleton. 

It just wasn't a good offensive game-plan for Boston, who jacked up 50+ 3-pointers. Look for them to attack more. I also though the defense played pretty well in the loss and should be even more locked in with this essentially being a must win down 0-1 at home. Give me the Celtics -4.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT (Raptors +1.5) 

I will gladly take my chances with the Raptors as a home dog in Game 6. Everyone thought this series was over after Philly went up 3-0, but Toronto has won the last two, including a 103-88 win on the road in Game 5. 

All the talk right now is about how 76ers head coach Doc Rivers can't close out series. I think that's putting added pressure on Philly, but the even bigger issue here is Embiid is not playing at an MVP level with that injured thumb and Harden just is not the same guy he was just a couple years ago. Raptors have all the momentum and I fully expect this thing to go back to Philly for a Game 7. Give me Toronto +1.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT (Warriors -8.5)

I'll take my chances with the Warriors as a 8.5-point home favorite in Game 5 against the Nuggets. Not a big shocker that Denver was able to avoid getting swept with a 126-121 win at home in Game 4, but that took a near perfect night from them. Nuggets shot 56.2% from the field, made a series-high from them with 15 3's and also had a series-high 29 made free throws. And yet they still only won the Game by 5. 

Warriors won by 16 at home in Game 1 and by 20 at home in Game 2. It's just not asking much for Golden State to win here by double-digits. Give me the Warriors -8.5! 

Confidence Rating: 7 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Smart Money VEGAS INSIDER (Pelicans +6.5) 

I got no problem taking the Pelicans as a 6.5-point dog in Game 5 on the road against the Suns. I think we have seen enough now that it's safe to say this is a pretty evenly matched series with Phoenix missing Booker. One I wouldn't be surprised at all if New Orleans won. 

Suns have shot better than 50% in each of the first 4 games, yet are -12 in total points scored in the series. Can they really bank on shooting 50% every game. Either way, the combo of Ingram and McCollum has proven to be deadly and simply put the Suns aren't getting enough out of the other guys. I give New Orleans a real shot here of winning this game outright. Give me the Pelicans +6.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Situational ATS SLAUGHTER (Wolves +6) 

I will take my chances with Minnesota as a 6-point road dog in Game 5. Memphis is really lucky the Timberwolves aren't up 3-1 in this series, as they blew that huge lead in Game 3 at home. I just think the Grizzlies were way overvalued coming into the playoffs.

Minnesota is every bit as talented as they are and have already proven they can win on the road, taking Game 1 130-117. I not only think the Timberwolves can keep it close enough to cover, I like them to win Game 5 outright. Give me Minnesota +6! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Raptors +8)

I'll take my chances with the Raptors as a 8-point dog against the 76ers in Game 5. I'm actually shocked the line is this high. Toronto may have to go without Fred VanVleet, but they won Game 4 with him playing just 15 minutes and scoring 5 points. 

With rookie Scottie Barnes back from injury and Gary Trent Jr. back to playing at a high level, Raptors got more than enough fire-power here to not just cover, but win the game outright. Especially with Embiid clearly playing at less than 100%. Give me the Raptors +8

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs VEGAS INSIDER (Nets -1)

I'll take my chances with Brooklyn at basically a pick'em at home in Game 4 against the Celtics. This is it for the Nets, who have shockingly fell behind 3-0 in this series. If there's one team that can be the first two overcome a 3-0 deficit, it's a team that's got a duo the likes of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. 

It's not like Boston has been hands down the better team in this series. Brooklyn could have very easily won al 3 of the games so far in the series. That's with Durant scoring a very mediocre 22.0 ppg on just 38.5% shooting and Irving scoring just 21.7 ppg on 42% shooting. I'm expecting the best game of the series for these two with the season on the line. Give me the Nets -1! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Late Night CASH COW (Pelicans +2.5) 

I really like the Pelicans as a home dog in Game 4 against the Suns on Sunday Night. I just don't think Phoenix is anything close to the juggernaut we expected coming into the playoffs without Devin Booker. New Orleans could have very easily won Game 3 at home and taken a 2-1 series lead. It took a really good game from Chris Paul and near perfect game of execution (only 5 TOs and shot 50.6% from the field) for Phoenix to win Game 3 by a mere 3-points. 

I just think the value is 100% with the Pelicans as a home dog in Game 4. Not only have they shown this is an even matchup without Booker, but they will be the more desperate team in this one. Give me the Pelicans +2.5! 

Confidence Rating: 7 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Smart Money VEGAS INSIDER (Hawks +2) 

I'm going to take my chances with the Hawks as a slim home dog in Game 4 of their 1st Round series with Miami. It looked like Miami was well on their way to winning Game 3 and taking a commanding 3-0 series lead. They had a 84-68 lead in the 3rd quarter, but would lose Kyle Lowry to a hamstring injury and go on to lose the game 110-111. 

Lowry is listed as questionable, but he didn't practice yesterday and was seen walking gingerly. Hamstrings aren't exactly an injury you can play thru without reaggravating it. Without Lowry at full strength, it really opens up the door offensively for Trae Young. I just think that injury is a lot bigger deal than it's being made and yet we are seeing the exact same line we saw for Game 3. Give me he the Hawks +2.5! 

Confidence Rating: 7 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Situational ATS NO-BRAINER (Nets -2.5) 

I will gladly take my chances with Brooklyn as a mere 2.5-point home favorite in Game 3. After blowing a double-digit lead in Game 2, the Nets are down 0-2 in the series. Considering that no team has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit, Brooklyn will 100% treat this like it's Game 7. 

Celtics are a good team, but winning on the road in the playoffs is a tall task, especially against a top tier team like the Nets. I just don't think they are going to be able to match the intensity of Brooklyn in this game and I'm not convinced they are even going to win this series. Nets remind everyone of just how good they are. Give me Brooklyn -2.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Sharp Money PLAY OF THE WEEK (Raptors +3.5) 

I absolutely love the Raptors as a 3.5-point home dog against the 76ers in Game 4. Philly may be up 3-0 in the series and almost a lock to advance to the next round, but it's a lot harder than people think to close out a series on the road. Toronto is going to do everything in their power to win this game. 

Even though no team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit, it doesn't mean the Raptors aren't thinking they can be the first team to pull off the feat. There's also reason for Toronto to be optimistic they can turn this around, as they are set to get back one of their best players in Scottie Barnes, who missed both Game 2 and Game 3. Even if he doesn't play, I still think Toronto find a way to send this thing back to Philly for Game 5. Give me the Raptors +3.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Bucks -2)

I will gladly lay the 2-points with the Bucks in Game 3 at Chicago. I just think too much is being made of the Middleton injury. He's a great player and they need him if they want to repeat, but they got more than enough talent to beat this Bulls team. 

Chicago just couldn't miss in Game 2. They shot 49.4% from the field and 48% from behind the 3-point line. That's after they shot 32.3% from the field and 18.9% from deep in Game 1. I expect a much better defensive effort from Milwaukee and offensively the Bulls still don't have any answers for the size of the Bucks. Give me Milwaukee -2! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Grizzlies -1) 

I have cashed in each of the first two games in this series. I grabbed the Timberwolves +6.5 in Game 1 and then cashed with Memphis -6.5 in Game 2. It's really went exactly as I expected with Minnesota feeding off that play-in win in Game 1, while also catching the Grizzlies a bit flat. Memphis didn't just answer with a win in Game 2, they won going away 124-96. 

I just think Memphis needed that wake-up call to get the juices going and I don't see them taking any different approach in Game 3. Their mission is to take back home court and I just think they are by far away the better team. It's been a great run for Minnesota, but they are getting way too much love with this line at basically a pick'em. Give me the Grizzlies -1! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs No Doubt ATS ANNIHILATOR (Bulls +10) 

I will gladly take my chances with Chicago catching 10-points in Game 2 of their 1st Round series with the Bucks. This is the same line we saw in Game 1, which Chicago covered in a 86-93 loss. That was with the Bulls playing about as poorly as they could offensively. Chicago shot just 32.3% from the field, easily their worst shooting performance of the season. 

For them to play that poor offensively and only lose by 7 has to give this team a lot of confidence going into Game 2. I know the Bulls struggled against good teams, but no way should they be getting double-digits. Too much value to pass up. Give me the Bulls +10! 

Confidence Rating: 7 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Smart Money VEGAS INSIDER (Grizzlies -6.5) 

I got no problem laying the 6.5 with Memphis in Game 2. We took the points in Minnesota's outright win in Game 1. Just as I expected, the Grizzlies struggled to match the intensity of the Timberwolves. People forget just how long it's been since Memphis played in a real meaningful game. 

I fully expect them to bounce back and not just win Game 2, but win it going away. The series isn't over, but losing 2 at home is a recipe for an early exit. Memphis will be LOCKED in. I don't know that the same can be said for Minnesota, who got the split they needed. Give me the Grizzlies -6.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT (76ers -7.5) 

I'm going to lay the 7.5 with the 76ers at home in Game 2. Philly dominated the Raptors in Game 1, winning by a final score of 131-111. I really think the 76ers are coming into the playoffs a bit undervalued, as the hype around this team dropped quite a bit down the stretch with Harden not exactly playing great. 

Thing is, the 76ers are a deeper team than they get credit for and the biggest thing for me is they won Game 1 by 20 with about as bad a night as you are going to see from Embiid in the playoffs. He was just 5 of 15 shooting for 19 points. The other big thing is for me is the Raptors are down 2 starters with Scottie Barnes hurting his ankle in Game 1 and Gary Trent Jr. doubtful with an illness. Give me the 76ers -7.5! 

Confidence Rating: 6 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Smart Money VEGAS INSIDER

I got to take my chances with the Pelicans as a 10.5-point underdog in Game 1 of their 1st Round series with the Suns. I know New Orleans just played two elimination games in the last few days, but no way should they be getting double-digits in Game 1. 

Phoenix might very well be the best team in the NBA, but they have had that No. 1 seed locked up for quite some time. I think they could struggle to match the intensity of a very confident Pelicans team. Much like we saw on Saturday with the Timberwolves going on the road and beating the Grizzlies. This is a much better New Orleans team since they added in C.J. McCollum and I just don't think the books have this team priced accurately right now. Give me the Pelicans +10.5! 

Confidence Rating: 7 (Scale of 1-10)

NBA Playoffs Situational ATS SLAUGHTER

I got no problem laying the 6.5 with the Heat at home against the Hawks in Game 1 of their 1st Round series. I have a hard time seeing Atlanta having enough gas in the tank after basically playing two Game 7's earlier this week. Hawks had a winner take all game at home against the Hornets on Wednesday and then a winner take all game at Cleveland on Friday. 

On the flip side you got a rested Heat team that I think has a chip on their shoulder even though they come in as the No. 1 seed in the East. Miami gets some love, but for the most part no one really talks about this team having a real shot. Most have the Nets, Bucks or 76ers coming out of the East. I think them wanting to prove something and the Hawks playing on fumes will result in a much more lopsided score in Game 1. Give me the Heat -6.5! 

Confidence Rating: 8 (Scale of 1-10)

**TOP PLAY** NBA Playoffs Rd 1 VEGAS INSIDER 

I'll gladly take 6.5 points with the Timberwolves in Game 1 of their 1st round series with the Grizzlies. I'm not giving Minnesota much of a chance in the series, but I do think the scenario here gives them a shot at stealing Game 1. 

Minnesota has all the confidence in the world after their play-in win over the Clippers, especially given how they were able to pull that game out with Towns scoring just 11 points on 3 of 11 shooting and fouling out midway thru the 4th quarter. 

Grizzlies haven't played a real meaningful game in quite some time, as they were pretty much locked into the No. 2 seed weeks ago. A little bit of rust and not really feeling threatened by this Timberwolves team could open the door here for Minnesota. Give me the Timberwolves +6.5! 

Confidence Rating: 10 (Scale of 1-10) 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Cavs +2.5) 

I will gladly take my chances with Cleveland catching 2.5 at home against the Hawks in Friday's winner take all for the No. 8 seed in the playoffs. The Cavs are being extremely disrespected here as a home dog. Don't overreact to the Hawks blowout win at HOME against the Hornets. Same thing with Cleveland's ugly loss to the Nets. Atlanta is not the same team on the road and the Cavs should play much better at home. Hawks are also not anywhere close to the same level as Brooklyn. Even bigger plus here would be if Jarrett Allen gives it a go. Either way, I like Cleveland to win this game. Give me the Cavs +2.5! 

40* (NBA) - Tuesday Play-In NO-BRAINER (Nets -8.5) 

I got no problem laying the 8.5 with the Nets at home in Tuesday's 7/8 play-in matchup. The Cavs have just not been the same team since losing Jarrett Allen. Cleveland went 7-11 after he was lost, falling out of the Top 4 in the East all the way to the No. 8. 

There was some hope that Allen would be back for the playoffs, but he's been ruled out of this game. I just don't think they have any chance of winning this game without him. These two teams just played a few days ago at Brooklyn and the Nets won that game by 11.

The 1st and 4th quarters really stand out. Nets won the 1st quarter 34-19 and then after taking their foot off the gas outscored them 35-19 in the 4th. They aren't going to take their foot off the gas in the postseason. Give me the Nets -8.5! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Hornets +2.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Hornets at +2.5 on the road against the Hornets. With the Raptors win over the 76ers last night, Toronto is now 2 in front of the Bulls with 2 to play for the No. 5 seed. For Chicago to get out of the No. 6, they not only need to win out, but they need the Raptors to lose to the Rockets AND Knicks in their last two. 

Simply put, there's no real incentive for the Bulls to play hard and have your star players play a ton of minutes. Charlotte is in the playoffs, but these last two games mean something. Right now the Hornets are sitting at No. 10, but are just 1 back of the Hawks and Nets, who are tied for No. 7. I have to think they are motivated here. Give me the Hornets +2.5! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (76ers +1.5) 

I'll take my chances with the 76ers as a 1.5-point dog against the Raptors. Toronto has been playing great down the stretch, but we did just see them lose at home on Sunday to the Heat 109-114 as a 5-point favorite. Simply put, this is too good a price to pass up on Philly. 

Plenty of incentive here for the 76ers, who will go into this game tied with Milwaukee for the third best record in the East. They are also just 1/2-game back of No. 2 seed Boston. With the Bucks facing off against the Celtics on Thursday, Philly can move into at worst the No. 3 with a win. 

Philly also comes in with some momentum, as they have won 3 straight. Toronto has also not shot the ball well in each of their last 3 games and 4 of their last 5 (shot 44% or worse from the field). Give me the 76ers +1.5! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Hawks -10)

I'll gladly take my chances with the Hawks as a 10-point home favorite against the Wizards. I think the fact that the Wizards just beat the Timberwolves last night 132-114 as a 12.5-point dog, has created some value with Atlanta in this spot. 

Clearly Minnesota didn't come to play for them to lose by that many on their home floor to a bad team like Washington. I'm not worried about Atlanta not showing up. Hawks are off a humbling 10-point loss to the Raptors and are fighting to get into that 7/8 playoff matchup. 

This is a different Hawks team on their home floor and a team that overall has been playing great basketball for weeks now. When these two played on Mar. 4, Hawks won 117-114 in Washington. They won that game, despite getting out shot 42% to 54%. Atlanta haw shot 48% on the season at home this year. Give me the Hawks -10! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Raptors -4) 

I'll take my chances with Toronto laying just 4-points at home against the Hawks. I just think Atlanta is getting a little too much respect coming into this game. Hawks have won and covered 5 straight, the biggest of those wins coming last time out against the Nets. 

As good as Atlanta has been playing, they are not a team that you can trust on the road against a top tier opponent. Toronto last their last game at home to the Heat, but have been playing some of their best ball all season down the stretch. Raptors are 11-3 in their last 14 games. I just don't think it's asking a lot for Toronto to cover the small number. Give me the Raptors -4! 

50* (CBB) - N Carolina/Kansas CHAMPIONSHIP GAME Vegas Insider (Kansas -4) 

I'll gladly take my chances laying the 4-points with KU against UNC. It was a bad play by me to back Villanova on Saturday. I won't make the same mistake on Monday. As great as UNC has been down the stretch, the Jayhawks are the more talented team and in the much better spot coming out of Saturday's Final Four matchups. 

I get it's the title game, but I just feel it's going to be really hard for Duke to bounce back after that emotional win over Duke. That was one of the more hyped games I can remember and it was a dogfight from start to finish. 

I also don't think enough is being made of Bacot's injury late in that win over the Blue Devils. He's going to play, but he's likely not going to be 100%. He's been a difference maker for the Tar Heels. I just think they really need him to be great to keep this close enough to cover. Give me the Jayhawks -4!

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Cavs +5)

Give me Cleveland as a 5-point home dog against the 76ers. I've been fading the Cavs quite a bit down the stretch with Mobley and Allen both sidelined. While not having those two is still a concern, the price here is too good to pass up. 

Philly absolutely destroyed the Hornets 144-114 at home on Saturday to snap a 3-game skid. Not surprising to see them come out fired up in that spot. I don't know if they will have that same energy on the road playing on no rest. 

Philly is just 2.5-games back of Miami for the No. 1 seed, but there's just not enough games and they got to leapfrog two other teams (Bucks/Celtics) in the process. They know that and actually feel like they could decide to give a guy like Embiid a night off with the playoffs looming. 

Cavs will also be playing on no rest, but this one means a lot more to them. With Cleveland's win and the Bulls loss on Saturday, Cavs are just 2-back of Chicago for the No. 6 spot and getting out of the play-in games. I think it makes them a live dog here. Give me Cleveland +5! 

50* (CBB) N Carolina/Duke MAX UNIT Top Play (Duke -4)

I'll gladly take my chances with Duke laying the 4 against UNC. I really like this Tar Heels team, but I think they are going to have a tough time just making a game of it. I know UNC went on the road and beat Duke 94-81 in Coach K's final home game. 

That to me was more a product of the Blue Devils not handling the emotions that came with that game. I think it was of a blessing in disguise, as I think it prepared this team for what was to come in this NCAA Tournament. 

I think we are going to see something more along the lines of when these teams first played. Duke won that game 87-67 in Chapel Hill and it was even worse than the finale score indicates. The Blue Devils are simply the better team and I feel this is a discount with all the love UNC is getting. Duke was -11 in that home finale, which means they would have been around a 7.5-8 point favorite on a neutral. Give me the Blue Devils -4! 

40* (NBA) - No Doubt ATS BLOWOUT (Heat -2) 

I'll take my chances with Miami laying a mere 2-points on the road against the Bulls. We were very fortunate to get a cover with Chicago as a 3.5-point home favorite against the Clippers on Thursday. Bulls came from behind late to force OT and then went on to win 135-130. I really expected to see a better performance from Chicago in that game. 

I just think you have to lay it with Miami. The Heat have won back-to-back games since that surprising 4-game losing streak to take back control of the No. 1 seed in the East. They crushed the Kings 123-100 at home and then won at Boston 106-98. With the way the Bulls have struggled against the better teams, it's really hard to see the Heat not winning this game. 

This is also not nearly as big a game for the Bulls as it was against the Clippers. Chicago is now a full 3-games in front of the Cavs and having to play in the play-in games with just 5 to play. Give me the Heat -2! 

40* (CBB) - Villanova/Kansas VEGAS INSIDER (Villanova +4.5) 

I'll take my chances with Villanova catching the 4.5 against Kansas. Not many are giving the Wildcats a shot here after losing Justin Moore to an Achilles injury in their Elite 8 win over Houston. No question it's a big loss, but it has clearly been baked into this number. Villanova beat UConn by double-digits in the one game Moore missed during the regular season. 

They still got Gillespie running the show and you know they are going to slow this game down as much as they can. I think it's going to be really frustrating for Kansas on the offensive side of the ball, especially if they aren't hitting from deep early. I think it's going to lead to the Jayhawks pressing a bit and ultimately resulting in this game coming right down to the wire. Give me Villanova +4.5! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money PLAY OF THE WEEK (Nuggets -2.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Nuggets as a slim 2.5-point home favorite against the Timberwolves. Minnesota has lost 4 of their last 5. They have started out their current 4-game road trip with a 112-134 loss at Boston and a 102-125 loss at Toronto. Nuggets have won 4 of their last 5 and come in having won 3 straight. 

Denver should be plenty motivated here. They are currently No. 6 in the West and 3 games ahead of the T-Wolves at No. 7. If they win here they all but clinch the No. 6 and avoid any chance of the play-in. They can also still move up. They are really tied for 5th with Utah at the moment, two games back of the Mavs at No. 3. Give me the Nuggets -2.5! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Bulls -3.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Bulls as a mere 3.5-point home favorite against the Clippers. LA is getting way too much respect in this one. Yes. The Clippers just got back Paul George and won his first game back 121-115 at home against the Jazz, but let's not ignore the fact that they were down by as many as 25 in that game. 

It also takes a lot out of a team after rallying from that many down. Add in the travel to Chicago on just 1 day of rest and a game on deck tomorrow against at the Bucks. Could be really tough for LA to show up in the right mindset for this game. Keep in mind the Clippers are all but locked into the No. 8 seed, as they are 5.5 back of No. 7 Minnesota and 4.5 in front of No. 9 New Orleans. 

Bulls need this one a lot more, as they still have some work to do to avoid the play-in games. They are sitting at No. 5, tied with the Raptors, two games in front of the Cavs. Bulls are also a really good home team. They are 26-10 at the United Center and 20-8 ATS as a home favorite. Give me the Bulls -3.5! 

50* (NBA) - Sharp Money MAX UNIT Top Play (Hawks -7) 

I'll take my chances with Atlanta as a 7-point road favorite against the Pacers. The Hawks are a very comfortable 4.5-games in front of the Knicks for the 10th and final spot in the Eastern Conference playoff race. However, with New York having won 3 straight, I see Atlanta being extremely motivated until they clinch. 

Not only does Atlanta have something to play for, but they are facing a Pacers team that seems to have lost their fight. Indiana lost by 30 at Memphis on Thursday and then by 40 at Toronto on Saturday. They just don't have enough guys healthy to be competitive. This is one the Hawks should win rather easily. Give me Atlanta -7! 

40* (NBA) - Smart Money ATS SLAUGHTER (Lakers +4.5) 

I'll take my chances with the Lakers as a 4.5-point road dog against the Pelicans. LA is getting no love right now, yet they have covered their last 2 and 3 of their last 4. Defense continues to be a problem for the Lakers, but they have shot the ball extremely well over their last 3 games (52% or better in all 3). 

The even bigger thing here is the rest advantage that LA has in this matchup. Lakers will be fresh, as they have had a full 3 days off since they last played. New Orleans on the other hand is playing in the second of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in the last 4 days overall. Give me the Lakers +4.5! 

40* (CBB) St. Peter's/UNC ATS NO-BRAINER (UNC -8)

I'll take my chances with N Carolina as a 8-point favorite. It's been a remarkable run for the Peacocks. They have made it further than any No. 15 seed before them. I just think the magic stops here. It's hard for these Cinderella stories to keep it going. We kind of saw that yesterday, with Duke and Villanova really dominating from start to finish. 

Some might call UNC a bit of a Cinderella, but this is a team that was extremely undervalued coming into the tournament. Largely due to the lack of respect the entire ACC conference was getting. Tar Heels have been playing great basketball for two months now. 

One big difference between UNC and St. Peter's first 3 opponents is the Tar Heels like to really push the tempo and get their offense going in transition. It's exactly what you need to do against the Peacocks, given how good they are in the half court defense. Those other teams playing at St Peter's tempo really is what allowed them to pull off the upset. UNC is just going to be too much for them to handle on both sides of the ball. Give me the Tar Heels -8!