40* CELTICS/BULLS NBA SHARP STAKE (Celtics -5) 

I got no problem laying the 5-points with Boston on the road against the Bulls. The Celtics snapped a 3-game losing streak with a 141-103 blowout win at home against the Cavs on Sunday. While Boston will be on no rest here, they didn't have a single player play more than 27 minutes yesterday and are also expected to get back one of their best players in Jason Tatum. 

The Bulls have been playing well, especially in terms of the spread, as they are 11-3 ATS in their last 14, but they did fail to cover last time out in a 90-101 loss to the Lakers. Bulls scored just 33 points in the first half and were down by 30 at intermission. They did make it look respectable with a decent 2nd half surge, but I just wonder if that wasn't the start of a poor stretch for this team. They really didn't shoot the ball well and I just don't see Boston not getting up here having lost 3 of their last 4. Give me the Celtics -5! 

40* RAPTORS/PACERS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Pacers -2) 

I like the Pacers to get their revenge against the Raptors in Monday's rematch. These two teams played on Sunday and Toronto squeaked out a 107-102 win. Considering Malcolm Brogdon only had 12 points and Domantas Sabonis managed just 10 points and didn't score in the 2nd half, that's a pretty good sign that Indiana can flip the script. 

There's also a chance Toronto could be down two of their better players as both Kyle Lowry and Pascal Siakam are listed as questionable after not playing on Sunday. More than anything, I just feel like Indiana is the better team and will be the more motivated side at home in this one. Give me the Pacers -2! 

40* CAVS/CELTICS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Celtics -6) 

I really like Boston at -6 at home against the Cavs. I think we are getting great value here with Boston coming off 3 straight losses against a Cleveland team that has won 3 straight. Thing is the Celtics just lost back-to-back road games at Philadelphia (I was on the 76ers in both games). Even if they were healthy those two games would have been tough to win. 

The Cavs just pulled off two big upset wins at home against the Nets in Brooklyn's first two games with their Big 3 of Irving, Durant and Harden. Those were huge games for Cleveland and even more so given they had a couple guys they recently acquired from Brooklyn in that Harden trade. You also have to factor in just how bad the Nets are defensively right now with Irving and Harden both major liabilities on that side of the ball. It won't be so easy against a motivated Celtics team on Sunday. Give me Boston -6! 

40* NUGGETS/SUNS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Suns +2.5) 

I'll take my chances here with Phoenix as a home dog against the Nuggets in a rematch from last night, which the Suns saw a double-digit lead evaporate in the 2nd half of a 126-130 loss. It's really tough to beat the same team in back-to-back games, especially on the road and I just don't think the Nuggets should be favored in this spot. 

Suns are 20-9 ATS last 29 revenging a home loss, while the Nuggets are just 4-14 ATS last 18 after covering the spread in 2 straight games and 15-29 ATS last 44 on the road after scoring 115 or more points. Give me Phoenix +2.5! 

40* PELICANS/WOLVES NBA NO-BRAINER (Pelicans -8)

I got no problem laying the big number with New Orleans on the road against the Timberwolves. It's been a disappointing start to the season for the Pelicans, who are sitting at 5-9, but we know the talent is there and I just think we are going to get a big time effort here in a game they have to feel like they have to have. 

The Timberwolves are every bit as bad as their 3-11 record, especially as long as they continue to play without their best player in Karl Anthony-Towns. The offense for Minnesota has been dreadful of late, as they are averaging just 98.8 ppg in their last 5. This is also a brutal spot for Minnesota playing on no rest after last night's ugly 116-98 loss at home to the Hawks. Give me the Pelicans -8! 

50* CELTICS/76ERS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (76ers -4.5) 

We played and won on the 76ers in Wednesday's 117-109 win at home over the Celtics and will fire right back with Philadelphia at the same price on Friday. I know it can be difficult to beat a team twice in a row, but with the 76ers back to full strength (getting back Seth Curry tonight) and the Celtics still without one of their best players in Jason Tatum this is just too good a price to pass up. 

Celtics had no answer for Embiid in the game on Wednesday. He shot 12 of 19 from the field and 17 of 21 from the free throw line in route to 42 points. He should be in store for another big game here, as Boston just doesn't have the guys inside to contain him. I also love the 76ers getting Curry back. He was really playing well before he went out. Philadelphia is also 8-1 SU at home this year. Give me the 76ers -4.5! 

50* PELICANS/JAZZ NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Pelicans +6.5) 

I'll take my chances here with New Orleans as a 6.5-point road dog against the Jazz. These two teams faced off in Utah on Tuesday and the Jazz won that matchup 118-102. Not a lot the Pelicans could do in that first meeting, as Utah went off from behind the 3-point line, hitting 21 of 47 (45%) from deep. New Orleans in comparison was just 6 of 26 (23%). 

One thing I liked from that first meeting is the fact that Utah had no answer for Zion Williamson, as he went 14 of 19 for 32 points. If he'd just got a little more help from his supporting cast, that would have been a much different outcome. New Orleans should be the much more motivated team in the rematch and I not only think they cover, but I give them a great shot here of winning the game outright. Give me the Pelicans +6.5! 

40* HEAT/RAPTORS NBA SHARP STAKE (RAPTORS -4) 

The Raptors slow start was one of the more surprising developments early on. Toronto opened the season a mere 2-8. Some of that was bad luck, as 4 of those losses were by 5 or fewer and only 2 were by double-digits.

Raptors have finally got things going in the right direction with 3 straight wins and a big reason for that is they have got some things figured out with their rotation. Thing is I think we are still getting some value on Toronto because of how they started the year. I just can't pass up on the Raptors at this price with Miami's injury situation. We know the Heat will be without Jimmy Butler and Avery Bradley and there's a chance they won't have Tyler Herro (questionable). Give me the Raptors -4! 

40* CELTICS/76ERS NBA NO-BRAINER (76ers -4.5)

I like the value here with Philadelphia laying what I feel is a short number against the Celtics. It's been a struggle of late for the 76ers, but that's more because of covid and some injuries to guys like Embiid. Not only has Embiid been upgraded to probable, but so has Seth Curry, who might be their most underrated player. 

While Philadelphia is getting healthier, Boston is still playing without arguably their best player in Jayson Tatum. They are also adjusting to the return of Kemba Walker, who made his season debut in their last game against the Knicks. He was far from himself, scoring just 9 points in 20 minutes on 3 of 13 shooting. Give me the 76ers -4.5! 

40* MAVS/PACERS NBA ATS ANNIHILATOR (Mavs +1) 

I'm going to take the Dallas Mavericks +1 on the road against the Indiana Pacers. Both teams are coming in off an ugly loss. The Mavs got routed 116-93 at Toronto on Monday, while Indiana suffered a 129-96 loss at LA on Sunday. 

You might think that the Pacers have an edge here with rest given they will have had 2 days to prepare, while Dallas will be playing their 3rd game in 4 nights. I think fatigue wise both teams are going to be a little bit tired. Indiana just finished up a 4-game west coast road trip that spanned 8 days. 

The Mavs have a bunch of role players that are questionable to return, but there's a possibility they could get a couple guys back. Either way their starting 5 of Doncic, Brunson, Hardaway Jr, Porzingis and Cauley-Stein should have a big edge in this game. 

Indiana has been without one of their top scorers in T.J. Warren for a while. They also traded away another top scorer in Victor Oladipo and the guy they got in return, Caris LeVert ended up finding a mass on his kidney in his physical from being traded that has him out. On top of all that, Myles Turner has a fracture in his hand that forced him to miss their last game. 

Turner did practice on Tuesday, but I would be shocked if he played here. He's still suppose to go and get it reevaluated in a couple days and it was wrapped up pretty good in practice. It might not be the 2-3 weeks they thought, but there's no real incentive here to rush him back. 

This game also just means more to the Mavs, who after losing 3 straight are now sitting T-10th in the Western Conference. Indiana on the other hand is 4th in the East at 8-5 and just 0.5-game back of Boston for the top spot in the conference. 

Dallas has gone 27-12 ATS in their last 39 off a loss by 10 or more and are 24-10-1 ATS last 35 on the road vs a team with a winning home record. Pacers have failed to cover 4 of their last 5 at home vs a team with a losing road record. Give me the Mavs +1!

40* ROCKETS/BULLS NBA SHARP STAKE (Rockets -1.5) 

I'm going to lay the small number with Houston on the road against the Bulls. The Rockets aren't going to get back John Wall for this game, but Eric Gordon and DeMarcus Cousins are set to return from injuries and Victor Oladipo will be making his debut after getting traded to Houston from Indiana. I really think this is  team that is going to be playing with a chip on their shoulder after the Harden trade and while they aren't elite without him, there is a lot of talent on the roster. 

As for the Bulls, this is a really tough spot for Chicago. They just finished up a 13-day 6-game road trip yesterday at Dallas and are being asked to play their first game back home on no rest. I just think the jet lag is going to really hit this team hard here and with 3-days off after this game it will be really easy for them to just kind of go through the motions here. Give me the Rockets -1.5! 

40* BUCKS/NETS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Nets +2) 

Regardless if Kyrie Irving suits up for this game, I will gladly take my chances with Brooklyn as a home dog against the Nets with just the duo of Kevin Durant and James Harden. You have to completely block out what you saw out of Harden in his limited time with Houston this season. He was doing everything in his power to get traded. 

All you have to do is look at his first game with Brooklyn. Harden scored 32 points with 12 rebounds, 14 assists and 4 steals. Durant scored 42 points as the two combined for 74 in their first game together since their days way back with the Thunder. These two are going to be a nightmare to stop and I see the Nets extremely motivated here to make a statement against the Bucks on their home floor. Give me Brooklyn +2! 

40* HAWKS/BLAZERS NBA LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Blazers -4.5) 

I know the Blazers are coming off an ugly 87-111 loss at home to the Pacers on Thursday, but that was a tough spot for Portland playing on no rest after a up-and-down 132-126 win at Sacramento the night before. I believe that loss is what's giving us such great value here. 

Atlanta is broken right now. The Hawks are missing some key pieces and Trae Young is playing with zero confidence. Atlanta comes in having lost 5 of their last 6 and the only win during this stretch was against a depleted 76ers team. Look for Lillard and McCollum to abuse Young in this one. Give me the Blazers -4.5! 

50* ROCKETS/SPURS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Spurs -6.5) 

I love the value here with the Spurs at -6.5 at home against the Rockets. These two teams just played each other at San Antonio on Thursday. It was Houston's first game since trading James Harden and they were absolutely depleted in that game. You could tell the Spurs thought they could just go into that game and win without trying. It bit them in the ass. Popovich isn't going to let them make the same mistake twice and with several key players again out for Houston, this game figures to get ugly in a hurry. Give me the Spurs -6.5! 

40* BULLS/THUNDER NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Bulls +1.5) 

I'll gladly take the points with Chicago as a small road dog against the Thunder. I'm expecting a big effort here from the Bulls as they are going to want to give their new head coach, Billy Donovan a win in his first game against his old team in OKC. Not only that, Chicago is playing great basketball right now. They have covered in 5 straight and 8 of their last 9 overall. They also are expected to get back one of their best players in Lauri Markkanen. Plus the Bulls have a big edge in rest, as Chicago will be playing on a full 4 days of rest, while the Thunder will be playing their 3rd game in 4 nights. Give me the Bulls +1.5! 

40* HORNETS/RAPTORS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Raptors -7) 

A lot of people are going to look at this line and wonder how the heck a Raptors team that is mere 2-8 to start the season is laying this big a number against a red-hot Hornets team that has won 4 straight going into Wednesday's game against the Mavs. 

That's the big key here for me. Charlotte will be playing this game on no rest, while the Raptors will be playing on a full two days of rest. Not to mention it will be a lot easier for the Hornets to kind of look past this game given these two teams will come right back and play each other again on Saturday.  

There's also been some positive signs that Toronto is getting this thing figured out. In their last 3 games they beat the Kings 144-123, lost by just 1-point on the road at the Warriors and suffered another 1-point loss at Portland in the second leg of a back-to-back on Monday. I just think the Raptors will be the much more motivated team and things aren't as bad as it might seem with their record. Give me Toronto -7! 

40* GRIZZLIES/TWOLVES NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Timberwolves -2.5) 

I'm going to take the Minnesota Timberwolves -2.5 at home against the Memphis Grizzlies. I just think this is a great spot to buy low on Minnesota, who is just 1-7 in their last 8 games. One of the big reasons that Minnesota has such a poor record is Karl-Anthony Towns has played just 3 games. They are 2-1 in the 3 games he's played, which includes a 116-111 win at Utah as a 9.5-point dog. The only loss being by a mere 3-points in OT against the Spurs. 

He did sit out the rematch against the Spurs the following night, which they won, but that was simply because they didn't want him playing both games of a back-to-back. He'll be back in action for this game and we should see a fresh Timberwolves team playing on a full 2 days of rest. A spot that has favored them, as they are 4-1 ATS last 5 times on 2 days of rest. 

As for the Grizzlies, they come in having won their last two, but one of those was a win over Brooklyn minus both Durant and Irving and the other was against an absolutely depleted Cavs team. With Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr and Justice Winslow all still sidelined, this is a team that is going to struggle to win games, especially on the road. 

Grizzlies are just 1-6 ATS last 7 as a road dog, 1-6 ATS last 7 vs a team with a losing record and 1-6 ATS last 7 off a SU win. Give me the Timberwolves -2.5! 

50* LAKERS/THUNDER NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Thunder +8.5) 

I really like the value and the spot for OKC as a big home dog against the Lakers tonight. The betting public can't get enough of the Lakers regardless of the price and they are certainly going to be on them here with the Lakers coming off back-to-back covers. 

Also these two teams were both in action last night. The Lakers got their second straight cover with a 117-110 win over Houston as a 5-point favorite. OKC on the other hand lost 102-112 as a 2.5-point home dog to the Spurs. 

Big thing on the second leg of a back-to-back is motivation and I don't think there's any question the Thunder will be motivated for their first crack this season at the defending champs and this game probably had something to do with their poor showing last night. Lakers don't care about beating teams like the Thunder and it wouldn't surprise me if they rested some guys in this one. Give me Oklahoma City +8.5! 

50* PACERS/WARRIORS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Warriors -3) 

I will gladly lay the 3-points at home with Golden State as they get ready to host the Pacers. The Warriors got off to a really slow start, but have got things rolling here of late. Golden State is 6-2 SU over their last 8 games and have covered 4 of their last 5. 

The biggest factor here is the scheduling spot for the Pacers. Indiana just opened up a 5-game west coast road trip last night at Sacramento. A game they lost 122-127. The big key here is the Pacers basically used a 6 man rotation in that game as all 5 starters played 30 or more minutes and McDermott also logged 30 of the bench. No other player played more than 15 minutes. I just don't see the Pacers haven't enough gas in the tank for this one. Give me the Warriors -3! 

40* NUGGETS/NETS NBA SHARP STAKE (Nets +1) 

I will gladly take Brooklyn at basically a pick'em on their home floor against the Nuggets tonight. The Nets will again be without Kyrie Irving, but they got back Durant in their last game and should have more than enough to take down Denver in this spot. 

The Nuggets are getting a lot of love from the books here as they have won 4 of their last 5 and are off a 114-89 thrashing of the Knicks on Sunday. Thing is it couldn't have been much easier for Denver in this 5-game stretch. They played the Timberwolves twice without Karl Anthony Towns, played the 76ers without several starters and the Knicks. The one good team they played in this stretch was the Mavs at home and they lost by 7 as a 2.5-point favorite. 

You also have to look at the spot here for the Nuggets. It's far from ideal, as Denver will be playing their 3rd straight on the road and this will be their 3rd game in the last 4 days. Nuggets are just 8-22 ATS last 30 off 2 straight wins and 7-20 ATS last 27 on the road off a win by 10 or more. Give me the Nets +1! 

40* GRIZZLIES/CAVS NBA STEAMROLLER (Grizzlies +1) 

Most are going to run to back Cleveland here at basically a pick'em on their home floor against a Memphis team they just beat on the road last Thursday 94-90 as a 6-point dog. I like the Grizzlies in this spot. I just think Memphis will be the much more motivated team here with that short-term revenge. 

Not only could the Cavs struggle to get up for a team like the Grizzlies who they just beat on the road a few days ago, but this is historically flat spot for them. Cleveland just finished up a season-long 6-game road trip on Saturday. The jet lag from that trip will really be setting. Memphis on the other hand has had little to no travel of late with their last 4 games at home and they had 2 days off leading up to their trip to Cleveland. Give me the Grizzlies +1! 

40* THUNDER/NETS NBA ATS CASH COW (Nets -9) 

I will gladly lay the 9-points here with Brooklyn at home against the Thunder. We know for sure the Nets are going to have Durant for this game and I'm confident that Irving is going to suit up as well. These are going to be extremely fresh and this Brooklyn team needs to get back on track after losing 5 of their last 8. 

As for OKC, this feels like the perfect time to jump off the Thunder bandwagon. OKC has gone 3-1 SU and 3-1 ATS over their last 4 games, but I just haven't been impressed. The Thunder did not shoot the ball well during this stretch. This is also their 5th straight road game in a 9 day stretch. The gas tank has to be on empty and I just think the Nets are going to put this team away early and really take the fight out of the Thunder. Give me Brooklyn -9! 

40* SUNS/PACERS NBA SHARP STAKE (Pacers -3) 

I just can't pass up a play here on the Pacers as a mere 3-point home favorite against the Suns on Saturday. The books continue to undervalue this Indiana team and those that have been on the Pacers' bandwagon have profited nicely, as they enter this game 6-2 ATS. 

The biggest factor here is rest. The Pacers are going to be fresh having played their last game at home on Wednesday. So they have had no travel and 2 days off to get ready for this game. Phoenix on the other hand is playing in the second leg of a back-to-back road set after last night's game at Detroit. The spot gets even worse, as their game against the Pistons went to OT. I just don't see the Suns having enough in the tank to pull off the upset here. Give me the Pacers -3! 

40* HEAT/WIZARDS NBA ATS MASSACRE (Heat -5.5) 

I'm expecting a big time effort out of the Heat and an easy cover on the road against the Wizards Saturday. Jimmy Butler called out his team after their most recent loss to the Celtics and if that doesn't light a fire under this team, I don't know what will. 

One thing is for sure, Butler is going to show up and I look for him to come out looking to make a statement against Washington's Bradley Beal who is coming off two monster games (60 points on Wednesday and 41 last night) and leads the league in scoring at 34.3 ppg. 

Rest should definitely give Miami the upper-hand in this game. The Heat will be playing on 2 days rest, while the Wizards are playing in the second leg of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in the last 4 days. Give me Miami -5.5! 

40* BULLS/LAKERS NBA LATE NIGHT ANNIHILATOR (Bulls +10)

We will gladly take the double-digits with the Bulls against the Lakers on Friday. Chicago has been an absolute covering machine of late. The Bulls are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games. They have won 4 of those 7 games outright as a dog, including 3 where they were a dog of 6 or more. 

Not only are we getting the Bulls playing some of their best basketball, but this is a really tough spot for the Lakers. LA will be playing on no rest and their 5th game in the last 8 days. For a team that had almost no offseason, they have to be running on fumes.

I know they haven't really rested LeBron or AD a lot in these back-to-backs but I wouldn't be shocked if they did it here. LeBron hasn't missed a game yet and AD has only missed one. This would be the ideal spot against a lessor opponent and a day off tomorrow before they go back on the road for 3 more games Sunday-Wednesday. Give me the Bulls +10! 

50* HORNETS/PELICANS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Pelicans -6.5) 

I think this is the ideal spot to back New Orleans as a relatively small home favorite against a bad Charlotte team. We are getting value here because of the fact that the Pelicans have lost and failed to cover each of their last 2 games, plus the fact that the Hornets come in off a huge 102-94 upset win over the Hawks as a 6-point dog on Wednesday. 

Thing with Charlotte's win over Atlanta was that was more of the Hawks playing awful than anything. Hornets only shot 38% from the field in that win and have now gone 4 straight games where they have shot worse than 42% from the field. That's not going to cut it on the road against a team like New Orleans. In those previous 3 awful shooting performances they lost by at least 15 in all 3 games. Give me the Pelicans -6.5!

40* 76ERS/NETS NBA SHARP STAKE (Nets +2) 

*Analysis Coming* 

40* BULLS/KINGS NBA LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Kings -7) 

The Bulls +10 was my 50* Top Play for Tuesday and they didn't disappoint winning outright at Portland. Now it's time to fade Chicago. The Bulls will be playing in the second game of a back-to-back on the road on the west coast. The jet lag is going to be creeping in and for a team that isn't very good defensively they need those legs to keep games close. 

Another big factor here is they are running into what should be an extremely motivated Kings team. Sacramento has lost 3 straight and were absolutely embarrassed in their last game at Golden State (lost 106-137). I think all signs here point to a blowout in favor of the home team. Give me the Kings -7! 

50* CELTICS/HEAT NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Heat -2.5) 

I think we are getting a gift here with Miami as a mere 2.5-point home favorite against the Celtics. Boston was able to beat the Raptors with a depleted roster in their last game and I think it has them overvalued in a really tough spot. Celtics are playing their 4th straight road game and this will be their 3rd game in the last 4 days and 4th in the last 6 days. 

Miami's been up and down to start the season, which was to be expected after their deep run to the NBA Finals and short offseason. They absolutely dominated OKC in their last game 118-90 and there's no doubt in my mind we get a max effort here against a team like Boston, especially with the game being televised on ESPN. This is also just the 2nd game in the last 5 days for Miami, so they are going to be the much fresher team here. Give me the Heat -2.5! 

50* BULLS/BLAZERS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Bulls +10) 

I will gladly grab double-digits with Chicago in Tuesday's road game against the Blazers. The Bulls got off to an ugly start with a 20 point loss to the Hawks at home followed by a 19-point home loss to the Pacers. Outside of an ugly showing at Milwaukee on New Year's Day they have really played well of late, winning 3 of their last 4 outright. They are also 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. 

Billy Donovan was a very underrated hire for this team and it was to be expected that this team was going to be more competitive. The Blazers are just 3-4 with only one of those 3 wins coming by double-digits. Portland has really struggled shooting the ball. They come in having shot a mere 43.5% from the field in their first 7 games and are riding a 3-game streak of shooting 43.5% or worse. They are also giving up 119 ppg and have allowed 4 of their last 5 opponents to shoot 47% or better. 

Another thing to note here with Portland is the scheduling spot. Blazers just finished up a 4-game road trip and are on just 1 day of rest. I really think we could see a flat Blazers team struggle to pull away. Give me the Bulls +10! 

40* MAVS/ROCKETS NBA NO-BRAINER (Rockets -3) 

I'll gladly lay the short number at home with the Rockets. Houston has won 2 straight after dropping their first two. The thing you have to remember is they were decimated in those first two games with a bunch of guys out because of Covid. They have recently got back John Wall, Eric Gordon and DeMarcus Cousins. Ben McLemore and Kenyon Martin Jr. will be added to the mix for this game and James Harden is expected back after he sat out their last game with an ankle injury. 

Dallas is in the second game of a back-to-back. They were without their Luka Doncic in last night's 108-118 loss to Chicago. Donic is listed as questionable, but I wouldn't be shocked if they rested them in this one with two days off after this matchup. Dallas is also still without Porzingis and are just 2-4 SU and 2-4 ATS to start the season.

I know there's a lot of talk with Harden getting traded, but I also think it's what is giving us value with Houston right now. This is a very good team with the roster as is. Give me the Rockets -3! 

50* CAVS/MAGIC NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Magic -5) 

I will gladly lay the 5-points with Orlando at home against the Cavs. This is a great spot to jump on the Magic, who have lost their last two after an impressive 4-0 start to the season. Poor shooting is to blame for both recent losses, as they shot just 35% from the field in a 24-point loss to the 76ers on New Year's Eve and 37% in Saturday's 9-point setback to the Thunder. 

This is a team that averaged a solid 120.3 ppg in their 4-0 start and shot 48% or better from the field in 3 of those games. I'm confident Orlando gets back their stroke in this one. 

As for the Cavs, they have surprised some people by starting out 4-2. Two of those wins have come against bad teams in the Hornets and Pistons. They did beat the 76ers, but Philly was playing on no rest and rested Embiid. Their most recent win over the Hawks was also misleading, as Atlanta was on no rest after laying it all on the line in their previous two games against the Nets. Give me the Magic -5! 

40* NUGGETS/WOLVES NBA SHARP STAKE (Nuggets -8.5) 

I got no problem laying the big number here with Denver on the road against the Timberwolves. This feels like the ultimate buy low spot for the Nuggets, who at 1-4 have been one of the biggest disappointments early on in the NBA season. 

Given their slow start, we can bank on a max effort here from Denver as they have to feel like this is a must win. Minnesota wasn't going to sniff the playoffs with the roster they brought into the season and are playing right now without their best player in Karl-Anthony Towns. In their last game without Towns they got absolutely destroyed by the Wizards 130-109 and Washington was without Russell Westbrook and hadn't won a game coming into that matchup. 

If we get the kind of effort I'm expecting from the Nuggets, they should win here by double-digits without much problem. Give me Denver -8.5! 

40* KINGS/ROCKETS NBA ATS MASSACRE (Rockets -4.5) 

I played on the Rockets -5.5 in Thursday's home game against the Kings and came up painfully short, as Houston ended up winning by just 3. Normally I would look to take the team that lost the first meeting in these back-to-back games against the same opponents, but I just feel the price here is too good to pass up with Houston. 

John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins and Eric Gordon all made their season debuts in that game on Thursday and while Cousins didn't do a lot, Wall scored 22 with 9 assists and 6 boards. Gordon came off the bench and put up 17 points. This is going to be a lethal offense as they get more and more comfortable with each other. I just don't think the Kings can keep pace offensively in the rematch and there's no reason for Houston to not show up with a 1-2 record. Give me the Rockets -4.5! 

40* LAKERS/SPURS NBA STEAMROLLER (Spurs +7) 

I'll take my chances with San Antonio covering the 7-point spread at home against the Lakers. These two teams played each other in San Antonio on Wednesday, which LA won 121-107. Not a big surprise given that game was played on LeBron's birthday. 

I just have a hard time seeing the Lakers being all that interested in the rematch on New Year's day. These regular-season games just don't mean that much to this team. On the flip side of this, the Spurs are going to be locked in for this game. I don't know if they will be able to pull off an outright win, but I'm confident they keep it respectable and cover this number. Give me San Antonio +7! 

40* KINGS/ROCKETS NBA SHARP STAKE (Rockets -5) 

I'm willing to roll the dice with Houston as a mere 5-point home favorite against the Kings. Not a  lot of positives coming out of the Rockets camp early on this season. They got the James Harden drama, as well as a Covid outbreak. They just lost by 13 at Denver in their last game, the same Nuggets team the Kings have already beat twice. I'm sure that will have convince some to take Sacramento here, but not me. 

Rockets will be getting back 3 of their best players in Eric Gordon, John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins. Both Wall and Cousins have made it clear they are out to prove something this year and while James Harden might be a headache, he's averaging 39 ppg and 12.5 apg thru the first two contests. I also think people are sleeping on the addition of Christian Wood, who is averaging 27 ppg and 8 rpg. Give me the Rockets -5!  

40* 76ERS/MAGIC NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Magic +3)

I will gladly take the points with the Magic at home against the 76ers. Orlando is locked in to start the season. They were not happy about the lack of respect they were getting and while they aren't an elite team, they are very talented and effort can get you a long way in this league. 

I just have a hard time buying the 76ers being all that interested for this game. Philadelphia is coming off a huge win over the Raptors that they stole away from Toronto late. Sitting at 3-1 and this being New Year's Eve, I got a good feeling the 76ers will be eager to just get this game over with and get back home, where they will play 3 straight after an off day tomorrow. Give me the Magic +3! 

40* BUCKS/HEAT NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Heat +6) 

We played and won easily with the Bucks -5.5 in yesterday's 144-97 blowout win on the road over the Heat. You could see how much that game meant to Milwaukee after Miami knocked them out of the playoffs in the bubble. It didn't help the Heat were without Jimmy Butler. I know he's questionable to play tonight, but even if he doesn't suit up, I like Miami in the rematch. 

I just think the roles have been completely flipped in this second meeting. It's now the Heat who are going to come out with a chip on their shoulder. As for the Bucks, it's going to be hard for them to take that same approach to this game after how easily they won last night. There's a reason the books have set almost the exact same line for this game. Give me the Heat +6! 

40* BUCKS/HEAT NBA TNT NO-BRAINER (Bucks -5.5) 

I will take my chances here with Milwaukee as a 5.5-point road favorite against the Heat. There's a lot of reasons to like the Bucks in this one. For starters, Miami won't have their best player on the floor, as Jimmy Butler has been downgraded to doubtful with an ankle injury. 

This is also a big game for Milwaukee after losing 2 of their first 3 games, including an ugly 20-point loss at New York in their most recent game. Bucks also will be out for revenge, as Miami was the team that knocked them out of the playoffs in the bubble back in September. Give me Milwaukee -5.5! 

50* ROCKETS/NUGGETS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Nuggets -6.5) 

I'm probably going to avoid playing Denver a ton early on, as I just think the Nuggets came into this season a little overvalued off their run to the Western Conference Finals in the bubble. With that said, this is one spot I'm willing to back them. 

This is a really big game for Denver after starting out the season 0-2 and both of those losses coming at home. We should get their very best in this game. As for Houston, I think people see the Rockets covering the big number at Portland with all those guys out and are quick to grab the points here. That is a Blazers team that lost by 20 at home to the Jazz in their opener. 

The other big thing here is you have a depleted Rockets team with all those guys out with Covid protocols playing their second road game in 3 days in the thin air of Denver. This to me feels like a spot where Houston really has trouble matching the intensity of the Nuggets and if the outside shots don't fall it could get real ugly. Give me Denver -6.5! 

40* NETS/HORNETS NBA NO-BRAINER (Nets -8.5) 

I got no problem laying the big number on the road here with Brooklyn against Charlotte. The Nets have been arguably the most impressive team out of the gate, as they completely destroyed the Warriors 125-99 in their opener and then backed that up with a 123-95 win on the road against the Celtics. I really think this is the team to beat in the Eastern Conference if they stay healthy. 

As for the Hornets, they are 0-2 having lost 114-121 at Cleveland and 107-109 at home to Oklahoma City, two teams that don't figure to sniff the playoffs this year. On top of that, Charlotte's game against the Thunder was yesterday, so they will be playing this game on no rest. There's going to come a time when Brooklyn might look past a team like the Hornets, but I don't think that's going to be the case here. Give me the Nets -8.5! 

40* 76ERS/KNICKS NBA ATS STEAMROLLER (Knicks +9) 

The Knicks are another team that I was impressed by in their opener. I know they ended up losing and failing to cover in a 121-107 loss to the Pacers, but there's was a lot of positives in that game. New York scored 66 points in the 1st half and led by 5. If not for a dreadful 3rd quarter that final score would have been much closer. 

R.J. Barrett looked like he's really worked on his game. He was 11 of 15 (3-3 from 3), scoring 26 points with 8 boards and 5 assists. Tom Thibiodeau is the new head coach and he's going to at the least get this team to play hard. 

Philadelphia is a hot commodity after bringing in Doc Rivers, but you never know what you are going to get with this team on the road. I certainly wasn't blown away in the 76ers 113-107 win against the Wizards in their opener, as they needed a 40-24 edge in the 4th quarter to win that game. Give me the Knicks +9! 

40* HAWKS/GRIZZLIES NBA SLAUGHTER (Hawks +1.5) 

There's been a few teams that have really impressed me early on in the NBA. One of those is the Hawks and I just don't think as many people are on the Atlanta hype train yet. The public isn't going to get excited about the Hawks beating the Bulls on the road. 

The thing is, they didn't just beat Chicago. They annihilated them. They won the game 124-104 and that doesn't do justice to how lopsided the matchup was. Atlanta had 83 points at the half, scoring 42 in the 1st quarter and 41 in the 2nd quarter. This Hawks team made some big time additions in the offseason to go with their talented core. After finishing with the 2nd worst record in the east, this is 100% a playoff team if they stay healthy. 

I like Ja Morant and will be on this Memphis team down the road, but right now they are missing two huge pieces in Jaren Jackson Jr and Justice Winslow. As good as Morant is, he needs those two for this team to compete with the better teams. Give me the Hawks +1.5! 

40* CLIPPERS/NUGGETS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Clippers -2) 

I really like the Clippers as a small road favorite against the Nuggets in the Christmas Day finale. There's few teams that wanted this season to start more than the Clippers after their collapse in the bubble. Not only that, but there's a whole new energy with this team after parting ways with Doc Rivers. 

The Clippers couldn't have asked for a better schedule to start their season. They get to open it up against the Lakers and spoil their ring celebration and now on Christmas Day they get their chance at revenge against the Nuggets, who they blew that 3-1 lead against.

I like this Denver team, but they didn't look right in their opener. Nuggets lost at home to the Kings and I think some of that is them not quite ready to start the new season. Give me the Clippers -2! 

40* WARRIORS/BUCKS NBA NO-BRAINER (Warriors +10.5)

I'll take a shot here with the Warriors at this price. Most are going to run to the ticket window to fade Golden State after what they saw in their opener against the Nets. I get it. That was not what a lot of people were expecting from this team with Curry back in the mix. 

Head coach Steve Kerr called out the will to win after that game and that's a big part of why I like Golden State in this game. I just feel confident we are going to get a 10 out of 10 in terms of effort. We should also see better shooting from the Warriors. Given how much they rely on the 3-ball, they aren't winning many games going 10 of 33 (30.3%) from long distance. Expect more 3-pointers to fall against a Bucks team that gave up 18 3's to the Celtics

I also think we could get Milwaukee a bit flat here. They saw how bad the Warriors looked and have to think they can win this game without trying. On top of that, they used up a lot of energy playing from behind the majority of that game against Boston. I think the Bucks win, but GS keeps it close. Give me the Warriors +10.5! 

40* HEAT/LAKERS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Heat +5.5)

I did not see this series making it this far. I no longer think it's a lock that the Lakers win this series. LeBron just did everything in his power in Game 5 to end this thing and he was simply outdone by Jimmy Butler. I know the guy is superhuman and all, but he looked a bit drained at the end of Game 5. That's a problem. Anthony Davis is not 100% with that foot injury and it feels like he's one wrong step from being sidelined for the rest of the series. 

That's now 3 straight games in this series that have come down to the wire and Miami has won 2 of those. The Heat definitely have the momentum going into Game 6. All the pressure is on James and the Lakers. I'm really hoping Miami wins here to force a Game 7 and this price is just too good to pass up. Give me the Heat +5.5! 

40* HEAT/LAKERS NBA FINALS VEGAS INSIDER (Heat +7.5) 

I just feel that there's too much value here with Miami at +7.5 to pass up a play on them in Game 5 against the Lakers. After how bad LA played in Game 3, I really expected a more dominating performance in Game 4. It was anything but, as the Heat could have easily won that game. 

With a comfortable 3-1 lead in the series, can we really trust the Lakers to lay it all on the line in this game? We know Miami is going to do everything in their power to send this to a Game 6. I don't know if they will, but I think they have shown enough to feel confident they can keep this thing within 7 points. Give me the Heat +7.5! 

50* HEAT/LAKERS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Lakers -7) 

Props to the Heat for not just laying down and letting the Lakers win in a sweep. However, I'm not buying into Game 3 being some kind of indicator that Miami now has a chance to make this a series. 

That was 100% the Lakers not showing up to play (at least everyone not named LeBron). Anthony Davis only attempted 9 shots and posted a ridiculous -26 +/-. The other three starters outside of James, combined for 11 points on 3-13 shooting. 

The Heat ended up winning by 11, but that was just a 5-point game going into the 4th. For LA to play that poorly and have a shot is bad news for Miami. Not to mention Jimmy Butler went off for 40 points, 13 assists and 11 rebounds. No way he repeats that statline. 

I fully expect to see the LA team that dominated both Game 1 and Game 2 tonight. Give me the Lakers -7! 

50* HEAT/LAKERS NBA FINALS NO BRAINER (Heat +10) 

I just want to start out saying I had the Lakers -5 in Game 1. I was not surprised in the least bit that LA dominated the opener. No way LeBron was going to let them lose that game. 

Why am I switching to Miami for Game 2 after the Heat just lost Adebayo and Dragic (both listed as doubtful)? For me it's the psychology of this game. If you are the Lakers and you just dominated a team like they did and see that they are going to be down two starters, it's going to be really hard to take this Miami team seriously. 

If you are the Heat, no one is giving you a fighting chance in hell to not only make a series of it, but most think they are going to get swept. They got nothing to lose. They are going to give every little thing they have in this game to get a win. 

Will it be enough? It wouldn't shock me if they won (will likely sprinkle a little on the ML). I just think if there's a game LA is going to go through the motions, it's this one. Asking to win by 10 in this spot is asking quite a bit. 

One last thing with Miami, there's no question the injuries to Adebayo and Dragic are big, but with how well Kendrick Nunn played at the end of Game 1, I don't see a big drop off there. Kelly Olynyk and even Meyers Leonard are capable of producing for Adebayo. I also wasn't big on Adebayo in this series with all the size of LA. It was and is going to come down to Miami's 3-point shooting. I'm counting on them to get hot tonight. Give me the Heat +10

50* HEAT/LAKERS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Lakers -5) 

I will gladly lay the 5-points with the Lakers in Game 1. I wasn't shocked that the Heat were able to take out the Bucks and Celtics. Those were great matchups for Miami. I just don't think they are going to be able to generate the same kind of offensive production against this Lakers team. 

Los Angeles has the bigs that can keep Adebayo in check with Howard and AD. They also got a guy by the name of LeBron to lock down Jimmy G in the 4th quarter (when Miami needs him the most). 

You also have to look at how Boston was able to repeatedly build double-digit leads against this Heat team. The Lakers are not the Celtics when it comes to playing with a lead. LA knows how to finish. I think the Heat can make a series of it with their shooting, I just don't see LeBron and company losing this game. Give me the Lakers -5! 

40* LAKERS/NUGGETS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Lakers -6) 

I was mad at myself for laying the points with LA in Game 3. That was your typical go through the motion game for the Lakers and they did just that for 3 quarters. They tried to turn it on late, but it was too late. 

I'm confident we get that 4th quarter Laker team from the start in Game 4. I think there's even more incentive for LA to win here, knowing Miami is up 3-1 in the Eastern Conference. AD had two rebounds in Game 3, which tells you how locked in he was. Lakers role players also shot the ball poorly, while Denver's guys had career nights. Give me the Lakers -6! 

40* CELTICS/HEAT NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Heat +3.5) 

I cashed on Boston in Game 3. It looked good for the Celtics in their first game with Hayward back in the mix. There's definitely something to Boston getting these big leads against the Heat, but I also don't think Miami has played close to their best. They were a dreadful 27.3% from deep in Game 3. 

I just think the extra days of rest benefit Miami more. I also still think the Heat are the better team. Watching Boston try to close out a game is dreadful. They just don't know how to share the ball. It's almost like they try to take turns making plays instead of just taking the open shot. Give me the Heat +3.5! 

40* NUGGETS/LAKERS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Lakers -6.5) 

I'm going to lay it with the Lakers in Game 3. Not only are we getting the best price on LA in the series, but I think this is a good spot to fade Denver. Most will be wanting to grab the points with the Nuggets after the Lakers needed a 3-pointer at the buzzer to win Game 2. 

Thing is that's a gut-wrenching way to lose a game. Denver desperately needed that game to even up the series 1-1, to have a lead late and lose on a buzzer-beater is tough to swallow. On the flip side, Lakers got away with not playing their best and getting a win. They have shown no interest in letting teams hang around in the playoffs and it's no different here. Give me the Lakers -6.5! 

40* CELTICS/HEAT NBA NO-BRAINER (Celtics -3) 

I'm going to fire back with Boston in Game 3. This is it for the Celtics. They don't win this one, they are down 0-3 and can start packing their bags to get out of the bubble. It would be one thing if Miami had dominated the first two, but Boston has built up big leads and just not been able to hold on. 

There's been reports about things not being all great in the Celtics locker room. I'm not buying it. I think if anything it will serve as something they can rally around. Boston might not be able to make this a series, but I have to believe they deliver with their season on the line. Give me the Celtics -3! 

40* HEAT/CELTICS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Celtics -2) 

I played and won with the Heat as a small dog in Game 1, but I will fire back with Boston in Game 2. It didn't look great for Miami in the majority of Game 1. They trailed by 8 after the 1st quarter and were down 12 going into the 4th quarter. Jimmy Butler hit two crazy shots or the Celtics probably win that game. 

I look for Boston to build up another big lead in Game 2, expect this time they hold on for the win. Celtics are one of the best at defending the 3-pointer and Miami shot a scorching 44.4% from deep in Game 1. I think Boston makes some defensive adjustments and tired legs could come into play after all those minutes in Game 1. Give me the Celtics -2! 

40* HEAT/CELTICS NBA SHARP STAKE (Heat +1.5)

I really like the Heat as a dog in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Celtics. I know Boston has had three days off since that grueling Game 7 win over the Raptors, but I still think they could have a bit of a letdown going from a Game 7 to a series opener. 

Not to mention the Heat have looked the part in the playoffs. They didn't just upset the best team in the East in Milwaukee, they made them look bad. I love the depth of this Miami team and they are an outstanding 3-point shooting team. 

These two teams met up in the bubble 8-game restart for seeding and Miami won that matchup 112-106. They shot 12 more free throws, were +5 in 3-pointers made and took better care of the ball. Give me the Heat +1.5! 

40* CELTICS/RAPTORS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Celtics -2.5)

I have been pretty spot on with the series (stayed away in Game 6) and there's just no way I'm not playing the Celtics at -2.5 in Game 7. I strongly believe that Boston is the better team. They really should have already won this series. Toronto won Game 3 on a 3-pointer with 0.5 seconds left and then should have lost in Game 6 if the refs call a clear foul at the end of regulation. 

Boston has won the big games in this series, as they have never trailed. I also think both teams will be running on fumes and that hurts the Raptors a little more, as they rely more on the 3-point shot. Give me the Celtics -2.5! 

40* ROCKETS/LAKERS NBA NO-BRAINER (Rockets +5) 

I'm taking the points with Houston in Game 4. The Rockets have been tied or had the lead going into the 4th quarter of all 3 games so far. They got outscored in the 4th quarter by 10 points in both Game 2 and Game 3. Houston could easily be leading this series. 

LeBron and AD have been great, but outside of Rondo, the Lakers just don't have a lot of fire-power. Rondo was great in Game 3, but I got some concern with him going forward. I just wonder how good the legs are with all that time he missed. I don't see him going off for 20+ in back-to-back games. 

I really think Houston is going to find a way to win this game. They can't continue to be that bad in the 4th quarter and we could see a bit of a letdown from LA after that big win to take a 2-1 series lead. Give me the Rockets +5! 

40* CLIPPERS/NUGGETS NBA STEAMROLLER (Clippers -8) 

I'm going contrarian in Game 4 between the Nuggets and Clippers. Everyone was all over LA after they annihilated Denver 120-97 in Game 1. That tune has changed after the Nuggets took Game 2 and gave the Clippers all they could handle in a loss in Game 3. 

I just think LA is playing with the Nuggets. They have came out sluggish in both Game 2 and Game 3 and really turned it on in the 2nd half. In Denver's 110-101 win in Game 2, they held held the Nuggets to just 38 2nd half points. They held them to 19 in the 4th quarter of their Game 3 win. 

I not only think this is the game that the Clippers give us a full 48 minutes of their best, but I also think the Nuggets have to be wondering what they have to do after playing so well and still losing Game 3. 

Jokic played out of his mind and they couldn't win. As for Jamal Murray's struggles, that's 100% the effects of Beverley and this LA defense. I don't see him having one of those games like he did against the Jazz. Give me the Clippers -8! 

40* HEAT/BUCKS NBA SHARP STAKE (HEAT -4) 

Props to Milwaukee for not going down without a fight and winning Game 4, despite losing Antetokounmpo in the 2nd quarter. You just never know how a team will respond down 3-0 and it's why I stayed clear of that game. 

I just feel like this is where the Heat close the door and move on to the Conference Finals. I know Giannis is listed as questionable, but if you aren't able to come back in an elimination game, I don't know how you play two days later. Even if he does suit up, he's clearly not 100%. 

At the same time, I think Miami will have a much better game plan for Khris Middleton, who went off for 36 in Game 4. Not to mention Butler didn't play great down the stretch in Game 4. All of that and Milwaukee stilled need OT to pull out the win. Give me the Heat -4! 

40* CELTICS/RAPTORS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Celtics -1) 

I'm sticking with Boston in Game 5. The Celtics didn't come through for me in Game 4 and for whatever reason it just didn't look like Boston showed up with the right mindset. Maybe it was the 2-1 series lead or maybe it was the shock of how they lost Game 3. 

The team that wins the series almost always takes Game 5 and I still think Boston is the better team. What people overlook in Game 4, is Boston played pretty bad and yet still had a shot to win that game. They were a miserable 7-35 (20%) from deep, Kemba and Smart were non-factors offensively and Brown shot 4 of 18 (2-11 3-pts). Thing with Brown is a lot of those were wide-open shots. It's not the Raptors defense. I just think Boston delivers in this spot. Give me the Celtics -1! 

40* ROCKETS/LAKERS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Lakers -5.5) 

I'm willing to roll the dice that LeBron has the Lakers looking a little different than what we saw in Game 1. Much like their LA rivals in the Clippers, the Lakers have a tendency to let their guard down. I think they expected a more wore down Houston team after they just played a Game 7 against OKC. 

That wasn't the case. Houston was the more aggressive team. I wonder though if the Rockets can sustain that into Game 2. Would be really easy for them to be content with a 1-1 series if things get bad early. Either way I'm confident that the Lakers intensity level will be up a few notches. I also think we get a big game from someone other than LeBron or AD after the role players were a big no show in Game 1. Give me the Lakers -5.5!

50* RAPTORS/CELTICS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Celtics +1) 

I'm shocked the Celtics are a dog in Game 4. It makes no sense. If Anunoby doesn't hit a 3-pointer with 0.5 seconds left, Boston has a 3-0 series lead. I was on the Raptors in Game 3. I just expected more from them with their backs against the wall down 0-2 in the series. 

I get Toronto was a better 3-point shooting team than what they have been in this series, but we are now 3 games into this thing. Clearly Boston has the scheme/talent to make it difficult on the Raptors to get clean looks from deep. 

Let's also not overlook the fact that Toronto barely won with Boston's best player, Jason Tatum, having a bad game. Tatum was just 5 of 18 from the field and finished with 15 points. 

Tatum had a similar bad game in Game 3 against the 76ers, scoring just 15 points on 6 of 19 shooting. Next game he went 10 of 18 for 28 points. I think he bounces back and Boston wins this one rather easily. Give me the Celtics +1! 

50* ROCKETS/LAKERS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Lakers -6) 

I was kicking myself all night for not making the Clippers a premium play yesterday. Luckily I did have some action on it (check my twitter). We get the Lakers in almost the same exact scenario tonight and at a much cheaper price. 

There's a lot of talk about how the Rockets match up well with LA in terms of the fact that they should have an edge in 3-point shooting. Thing is, the same could have been said of the Blazers. I mean how much better is Harden/Westbrook than Lillard/McCollum. Harden is slightly better than Lillard at best and while Westbrook is the better all-around player, McCollum is the much better shooter. 

After losing Game 1, which wasn't a big shock given LA hadn't played a meaningful game in forever, the Lakers dominated Portland the rest of the way. 

Rockets didn't shoot great in their series with OKC either, so I'm not sure why people are expecting them to just shoot lights out in Game 1. Especially, given how gassed they have to be after playing a Game 7 two days ago. Give me the Lakers -6! 

40* BUCKS/HEAT NBA STEAMROLLER (Bucks -5)

Before this series even started I picked the Heat to win it. I just think the value here is with Milwaukee in Game 3. The Bucks have one of the best players in the NBA and were one of the best teams in the regular-season. 

Their season is on the line tonight. They lose this game and go down 3-0, they are done for. I just think they are going to bring a different level of intensity and fight to Game 3 than Miami. I think there's some big positives in the fact that the Bucks were in Game 2, despite shooting just 43.5% from the field and only making 7 of 25 3-pointers. Give me Milwaukee -5! 

40* RAPTORS/CELTICS NBA VEGAS STEAMROLLER (Raptors -1) 

I played and won on the Celtics in both Game 1 and Game 2, but I'm going to reverse course and take the Raptors to win and cover in Game 3. Boston was pretty fortunate to win Game 2. They trailed by 8 going into the 4th quarter. Raptors had just 9 points in the 4th quarter with just over 4 minutes to play. 

Toronto simply couldn't buy a 3-pointer, going just 11 of 40 (27.5%). That was the difference in the game. They had 25 assists to the Celtics 18 and were +5 in the turnover department. 

I don't think the Raptors can win this series, but I like them with their backs against the wall. You know they are laying it all on the line to avoid falling behind 3-0 (series is all but over if they lose). Boston on the other hand is sitting comfortable up 2-0 and having yet to lose in the playoffs. Give me the Raptors -1! 

50* CELTICS/RAPTORS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Celtics +1.5) 

I can't believe Boston is a dog in Game 2. I get Toronto being favored in Game 1, but after what we saw in Game 1, it's pretty clear who the better team is. It's also not like it was anything new either. Celtics have had the Raptors numbers this season. They destroyed them in the bubble 8-game restart very similar to Game 1. 

Celtics have the best player on the floor in Tatum and are simply more talented from top to bottom. I just don't see any kind of letdown here for Boston against the defending champs. Give me the Celtics +1.5! 

40* THUNDER/ROCKETS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Thunder +6) 

I'm going to go down swinging with OKC. As bad as the Thunder looked in Game 5, you can't overreact to that. We saw them get beat pretty bad in Game 1 and Game 2. They bounced back and won the next two. I think the long layoff helped Houston a little more. OKC also has to get more out of Gallinari, Gilgeous-Alexander and Schroder. Gallinari didn't make a shot, Gilgeous-Alexander scored 4 points and while Schroder had 19, he was ejected in the 3rd quarter. Give me the Thunder +6! 

40* NUGGETS/JAZZ LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Jazz -2.5) 

I came into this series liking the Nuggets, but I think it's pretty clear after watching these teams play that Utah is the better side. Two games the Jazz lost they led in the 4th quarter. Utah has shot 50% or better from the floor in each of the last 4 games. Denver has no clue what to do defensively. I also think some of the Game 5 loss was Utah a bit too relaxed coming off 3 straight wins with a 3-1 series lead. They finish the job tonight. Give me the Jazz -2.5! 

40* CELTICS/RAPTORS NBA STEAMROLLER (Celtics +2.5) 

I was high on this Celtics team coming into the season and I'm confident they win this series with the Raptors. I got nothing but respect for Toronto, but I think this team overachieved a bit this season. Boston has the better talent. Tatum is the best player on the floor. Celtics won 3 of 4 meetings this season, including a 122-100 win in the bubble 8-game restart. Give me the Celtics +2.5! 

40* THUNDER/ROCKETS NBA NO-BRAINER (Thunder +5.5)

I think we are seeing a bit of an overreaction to the line given the news that Westbrook will be making his series debut for the Rockets. I get he's a special talent, but I don't know that Houston is as strong with him. Simply cause he takes away from what they want to do with the 3-ball, as he's simply not a threat from deep. 

I also feel like OKC has kinda figured out the Rockets defense as the series has progressed. I also think they got the scheme and talent defensively to make it hard on Houston. I'm also a big Chris Paul fan and I got a feeling he's going to play well in this one after all that's went down with the boycotts. Really think OKC has a good shot of winning this game. Give me the Thunder +5.5! 

50* ROCKETS/THUNDER NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Rockets -3) 

I love Houston to cover the small spread in Game 4. The Rockets were so close to have a commanding 3-0 series lead, as they had a 5-point lead with less than a minute to play. The proceeded to two turn it over twice and House missed a free throw with less than 10 seconds to play that would have given them a 1-point lead and likely the win. 

I just feel Houston is the better team, even with Westbrook sidelined. Dort has done a great job on Harden these last two games, but he still scored 38 in Game 3. Rockets were also just 15 of 50 (30%) from behind the 3-point line. It wasn't just great defense, Houston missed a lot of shots they normally make. I think a few more fall in Game 4 and they pull away late for the win and cover. Give me the Rockets -3! 

40* PACERS/HEAT NBA VEGAS STEAMROLLER (Pacers +5)

The Heat lead the series 2-0 over the Pacers and have covered both games. They won by 11 in Game 1 as a 6-point favorite and by 9 as a 3.5-point favorite in Game 2. I believe this has Miami a bit overvalued in a game that will likely be tough for them to match the intensity of the Pacers. 

This is do-or-die for Indiana. A loss here and they know there chances of winning this series are slim to none. While the Pacers have come up short in each of the first two games, they definitely got what it takes to make this a series. I'll take the points, but I really think they win this outright. Give me the Pacers +5! 

50* CLIPPERS/MAVERICKS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Clippers -5) 

For many of the sames reasons that I laid the points with both the Bucks and Lakers on Thursday, I'll lay it with the Clippers on Friday. I was confident that both Milwaukee and LA would respond in a big way after their Game 1 loss. 

The best teams always bounce back and I think the Lakers/Clippers/Bucks are by far the 3 best teams. Dallas has a promising future with Doncic, but I think all the hype he's getting is helping keep this line lower than it should be. Clippers are the better team and with their backs against the wall they win this one easy. Give me the Clippers -5! 

40* NUGGETS/JAZZ NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Nuggets -1.5) 

My money is on the Nuggets to bounce back from an ugly loss in Game 2 to take a 2-1 series lead. Not a lot Denver could do in Game 2. Utah couldn't miss. The Jazz shot 52% from the field and 45% on 3-pointers (made 20!). 

I know Conley is expected back for Utah, but I'm not so sure that's a bad thing. I almost feel like Mitchell is a better when he responsible for more of the ball-handling. Give me the Nuggets -1.5! 

40* BLAZERS/LAKERS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Lakers -6.5)

I'm going to back the Lakers in Game 2 against the Blazers. A lot of people are really starting to question this LA team and whether they can even win this series. Not me. LeBron will not let that happen. The Lakers are not going to shoot as poorly as they did in Game 1. Scoring a mere 93 points against that Blazers defense is as bad as they can do. 

I also think the Lakers came into Game 1 sleepwalking. Keep in mind they were in cruise control for most of that 8-game bubble restart. Portland on the other hand has been in playoff mode since the bubble started. I not only think LA wins, but I think they win easy. Give me the Lakers -6.5! 

50* MAGIC/BUCKS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Bucks -12.5)

I got no problem laying the big number with the Bucks in Game 2 against the Magic. Not covering the spread in Game 1 is one thing, losing outright was an absolute shock. I just think Milwaukee wasn't giving the Magic the respect they deserve. They won't make that same mistake in Game 2. I also think it will be hard for Orlando to match the intensity in which they played with in Game 1. I am confident the Bucks send a message in this one and win here going away. Give me Milwaukee -12.5! 

50* JAZZ/NUGGETS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Nuggets -4) 

I love the value here with Denver as a small 4-point favorite in Game 2 against the Jazz. I don't care that the Nuggets were lucky to cover in Game 1, as they needed OT to pull away to cover the spread. What I saw was a Utah team that looked exhausted in OT. Not to mention they couldn't win with Mitchell going off for 57 points. Pretty good chance he won't be as good in Game 2. I just don't think Utah has the goods to keep this close. Give me the Nuggets -4! 

40* BLAZERS/LAKERS NBA LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Lakers -6)

There's a lot of buzz with the Blazers right now, who lived up the hype and got into the playoffs as the No. 8 seed. I just wonder how much Portland has left in the tank. They are not a deep team. They won't have Collins or Little for this game. Leaving them with basically a 6-man rotation. 

Lakers went just 1-4 SU and 0-5 ATS over their last 5 bubble games. However, a lot of that was due to them having the No. 1 seed locked up. I look for LA to flip the switch and dominate this game. Keep in mind Lakers are a great defensive team and Blazers play almost no defense. Give me the Lakers -6! 

100* HEAT/PACERS NBA TOP PLAY **GOY** (Heat -4.5) 

I absolutely love the Heat in this one. Miami matches up extremely well with the Pacers. T.J. Warren has been great in the bubble, but Jimmy Butler has made it a point to quiet the noise on Warren.

I just don't think Indiana has the depth to hang with this Miami team without a big game from Warren. The Heat just keep coming at you with their deep bench. Give me Miami -4.5! 

40* BUCKS/GRIZZLIES NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Grizzlies -2.5)

I like this price with Memphis. The game only means something to the Grizzlies. Memphis needs to win to have a shot at making the playoffs. Milwaukee on the other hand has locked in the No. 1 seed in the east. They won't have Antetokoumpo and I just don't see the other main guys getting extended minutes in the last game before the playoffs. Bucks are just going through the motions. Grizzlies might not deserve to be in with how poorly they have played in the bubble, but I think they get it done here. Give me Memphis -2.5! 

50* MAVS/SUNS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Suns -7.5)

I got no problem laying the big number here with the Suns. I'm confident Phoenix will win this game and I really think they do so in a blowout. While this game means everything to the Suns, the Mavs got nothing. Dallas is locked into the No. 7 seed. You have to think they are going to sit some their stars completely and those that do play will see limited minutes. I also look at a Dallas team that hasn't been playing much defense. They certainly aren't trying on that side of the ball in this game. Give me the Suns -7.5!

50* THUNDER/HEAT NBA TOP PLAY (OKC +1.5)

I think we are getting a steal here with the Thunder as a dog. OKC rested basically everyone of their key players but Chris Paul in their 128-101 loss to the Suns on Monday. Two guys that sat out, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari are both expected back. Could also see Nerlens Noel and Steven Adams return.

Either way, I like the depth of this Thunder team and while it might not seem like there's much at stake for either team, I think OKC wants to stay at No. 5 and face off with No. 4 Houston in the first round. You know Chris Paul definitely wants that matchup. Thing is they are just 0.5-game up on No. 6 Utah. As for Miami, they are basically wrapped into the No. 4 or No. 5 seed (no difference in the seeds). Give me the Thunder +1.5! 

50* MAVS/BLAZERS NBA BEST BET (Blazers -2.5) 

I had a pretty good feeling the Mavs were going to cover against Utah last night (tweeted out a free lean on Dallas +6.5). I just didn't see any real incentive for Utah in that game. Even with some of the star guys that sat out yesterday's game expected to suit up, there's still nothing for Dallas to play for. 

Different story for Portland. Blazers have looked really good in the bubble. They are 4-2 with their two losses coming to the Celtics and Clippers (competitive in both defeats). They would be in the play-in game if the season ended, but because of the Suns crazy start, they really need this game to ensure they make it. I just don't see the Blazers not delivering in this spot. Give me Portland -2.5! 

40* SUNS/THUNDER EARLY NBA WINNING TICKET (Thunder +5) 

I like the value here with OKC catching a decent number against the Suns. I'm aware some injury news came out after this pick was published and the line jumped. I still recommend it and bet it again myself at +8. 

I just think we are seeing a huge overreaction with the Suns, who are now the talk of the NBA after their perfect 5-0 SU and ATS start to the bubble. No question that Phoenix is playing great. I've been on them a decent amount during their start. I just think they might be overlooking a well coached Thunder team that showed us in their last game they can adapt by knocking down 18 3-pointers. Got 47 points from their bench in that game. Give me the Thunder +5! 

40* NBA NO DOUBT ATS BLOWOUT (Blazers -2) 

I'll gladly back Portland as a slim 2-point favorite against the 76ers. I think we are getting some real solid value here with the Blazers because they will be playing the 2nd game of a back-to-back. While some teams who are already in the playoffs might consider resting guys in a back-to-back, Portland needs every win they can get. 

Philadelphia comes in having won 3 straight, but one was a mere 2-point win against the Spurs and the other two were against the Wizards and Magic. They are also fresh off a fluky 108-101 win and cover as a 4.5-point favorite against Orlando. 

This game really doesn't mean much to the 76ers, plus I think they could be a bit down here after the recent news that Ben Simmons is done for the season. Give me the Blazers -2! 

40* NBA SHARP MONEY VEGAS INSIDER (Mavs +5.5) 

I like this spot and price with Dallas. The Mavericks have lost 3 of 4 and failed to cover all 4 of their games in the bubble. While they are all but locked into the No. 7 seed, I think there's got to be some motivation here to get some momentum going before the playoffs start. 

As for the Bucks, they got absolutely nothing to play for right now. After rallying from over 20 down to beat the Heat in their last game, Milwaukee officially clinched the No. 1 seed in the east. Considering the Bucks limited minutes on several of their key players the game before against Brooklyn, you have to believe they will be looking to do the same here. I could easily see them limiting guys minutes in this game, playing everyone in their next game against the Raptors and then resting everyone the final two against Washington and Memphis. Give me the Mavs +5.5! 

40* NBA SHARP MONEY STEAMROLLER (Pelicans -7.5) 

I'm going to give the Pelicans one more shot here to deliver a winner against the spread. New Orleans got routed 140-125 yesterday as a 4.5-point favorite against the Kings. A game you didn't expect them to lose. I think some will be scared to lay a bigger number on them today, especially given they are on no rest. 

I just think it's worth a shot. Pelicans absolutely have to have this game and the Wizards are an absolute mess. Their offense has been awful in the bubble. Nothing speaks more to their offensive struggles than them scoring just 98 against that 76ers defense in their last game. 

I think part of the Pelicans problem in the loss the Kings is they shot 57% from the field. It was coming so easy offensively that they forgot to play defense. They were also sloppy with the ball (17 turnovers). I think they lock it in on both sides in what I believe is a must-win. Give me the Pelicans -7.5! 

50* NBA VEGAS SHARP MONEY TOP PLAY (Suns +2.5) 

Both of these teams have impressed early on the bubble. Both are sitting 3-0 SU and 3-0 ATS. I personally have been more impressed with Phoenix and would actually have them favored. I just think because Indiana had the better resume coming into the bubble, they are a bit overvalued in this matchup. 

Another thing to note about the Pacers and their 3-0 start, two of those wins were against the Wizards and Magic. The other was against a 76ers team that hasn't really looked good (Philly is playing no defense). Suns on the other hand have two really good wins against the Mavs and Clippers. 

Game also means a lot more to the Suns. While the media isn't talking about them to make the playoffs, there's no doubt this team feels like they can make it after their hot start. Indiana is in the playoffs and are basically going to be somewhere between the No. 4 to No. 5 seed in the east. With the Lakers on deck Saturday, could also see them looking ahead a little. Give me the Suns +2.5! 

40* NBA EARLY BIRD VEGAS INSIDER (Pelicans -4.5) 

I just feel like this is a great price to take a shot on the Pelicans. New Orleans finally has some momentum to build on. After dropping their first two games they got their first win with a huge 109-99 victory over Memphis on Monday. They now got a legit shot at making the playoffs. 

Not only is their momentum from winning that game, but also because the minute restriction on their best player, Zion Williamson, was bumped up to 25. There's a chance we could see that go up, but 25 is plenty for the Pelicans to create the separation needed against the Kings. I also don't like this spot for Sacramento, who are coming off a crushing OT loss to the Mavs. Give me the Pelicans -4.5! 

40* NBA PUBLIC MONEY ATS SLAUGHTER (Thunder +6)

This is just too good a price to pass up with the Thunder. Coming in off an ugly 113-121 loss to the Nuggets where they shot just 42.5%, I'm confident we get a big effort here from OKC against the Lakers. 

I don't know that Los Angeles will be able to match that intensity. With the Lakers 116-108 win against the Jazz on Sunday they officially clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. These last 5 games are absolutely meaningless. Keeping guys healthy and fresh is without a doubt their top priority now. Wouldn't be shocked at all if OKC won this game outright. Give me the Thunder +6! 

40* NBA VEGAS ODDSMAKERS ERROR (Pacers +1.5) 

I don't know if it's because Indiana is playing on no rest after a game yesterday against the Wizards, but no way I'm passing up on the Pacers as a dog to the Magic. Indiana has won and covered each of their first two games, most impressive being their 6-point win as 5.5-point dog against the 76ers. 

While they squeak in a cover as a 8.5-point favorite in a 11-point win against Washington, they were up 22 going into the 4th quarter. Keep in mind Victor Oladipo didn't play against the Wizards. There's a chance he doesn't go here, but I think that was more of them not wanting to play him on back-to-backs just yet. 

As for the Magic, they are also 2-0 SU and ATS, but their two wins have come against two of the worst teams in the bubble in the Nets and Kings. I just feel like it has them a bit overvalued, as this is still a team that owns a 32-35 record overall. Give me the Pacers +1.5! 

50* NBA VEGAS SHARP MONEY TOP PLAY (Mavs -5.5) 

I love this spot and price on the Mavs. Dallas should have no problem winning this game by more than the number. Mavs come in at 0-2 and failed to cover both games. However, they could have easily won and covered both. They had a 7-point as a dog with 45 seconds to play and ended up losing by 4 in OT against the Rockets. They then lost a 13-point halftime lead against the Suns as a 5-point favorite.

Losing is tough to swallow and it's only magnified when the losses come in games you feel like you should have won. I still really like the talent and makeup of this team. Same can't be said for the Kings. Sacramento lost 120-129 to the Spurs in their first game and then lost 116-132 to Orlando. Kings are simply playing no defense in the bubble and I just don't think their offense will be able to keep up with a motivated Dallas team. Give me the Mavs -5.5! 

40* NBA SHARP MONEY VEGAS INSIDER (Grizzlies +5) 

I'm shocked we are getting the Grizzlies at this price. I just don't see how the Pelicans can be laying this many points with Zion Williamson on a minutes restriction. Williamson played just 15 minutes in their opener against the Jazz and only 14 in their second game against the Clippers. Both losses. 

I just don't buy that he's not capable of going more. He clearly is frustrated when he has to come out. I think protecting him and not giving the team their best chance to win, not only hurts them on the court, but I think it sucks the life out of the entire team. I trust Memphis a lot more right now and I think the Grizzlies win this one outright. Give me Memphis +5! 

40* NBA BOOKIE ATS SLAUGHTER (Thunder -4.5) 

I will gladly lay the points in with Oklahoma City in this one. Denver might have come into the bubble with third best record in the Western Conference, but this is not the same Nuggets team right now. Denver will once again be without two of their top guards in Will Barton and Gary Harris. They could also be missing second leading scorer Jamal Murray (questionable). 

Nuggets was annihilated 125-105 by the Heat in their first game, which I think speaks to where they are right now. Thunder made easy work of the Jazz 110-94 in their first game. I think OKC is on of the more underrated teams in this bubble and there's just something I like about a fresh Chris Paul in meaningful games. Plenty at stake for the Thunder. They are No. 6 in the west, but just 3 games up on No. 7 Dallas. They are also just 1.5-games back of the Denver at No. 3. Give me Oklahoma City -4.5! 

40* NBA PUBLIC MONEY ATS BLOODBATH (Wizards +8)

Big time value here with the Wizards at +8. I get Washington is easily the worst team at the bubble, but that perception is what is creating the value. A 118-110 loss to the Nets doesn't look good, but the Wizards put up a good fight (game was tied late). 

As for the Pacers, they are coming off a solid 127-121 win over the 76ers. That win may have came at a price. Victor Oladipo played 36 minutes and now is doubtful to play in this game because of the same knee that kept him out before. I just think that's a big blow to this team both on the court and mentally. 

I also question if the Pacers are really all that motivated to win in this short 8-game schedule. Indiana is currently No. 5 in the standings and no danger of falling any lower than No. 6. They are two games back of No. 4 Miami and really don't have much of a shot of getting to No. 3. Getting the No. 4 would mean you potentially get the Bucks in the 2nd round, instead of the conference finals. Give me the Wizards +8! 

50* NBA EARLY BIRD (HEAT/RAPTORS) PLAY OF THE MONTH (Heat +3) 

I will gladly take the 3-points with the Heat. While I think the Raptors are better than people think, I do think they are a bit overvalued off that 15-point win against the Lakers. That was a huge letdown spot for LA off that big win against the Clippers and pretty meaningless given the Lakers got the No. 1 seed in the west on lockdown. 

It's also worth pointing out that there were some reasons to be concerned with Toronto. Raptors were very fortunate the Lakers weren't on, as LA went just 10 of 40 (25%) from behind the 3-point line. Another thing is how the Lakers benched owned the Raptors. 

Miami was dominant in a 125-105 win against the Nuggets in their first game are one of the deepest teams in the bubble. Heat have a little more to play for, as they desperately want to get out of the No. 4 spot. Raptors are sitting pretty comfortable in 2nd, 3 games up on Boston (remember No. 2 and No. 3 aren't much different given no homecourt). Give me the Heat +3! 

40* NBA NO DOUBT ATS BLOWOUT (Grizzlies -4) 

The Grizzlies lost an overtime heartbreaker to the Blazers in their first game of the 2020 NBA restart, while the Spurs pulled off an upset win as a 3.5-point dog against the Kings. I think those outcomes have generated some decent value here with Memphis. 

I'm just not a big believer in this Spurs team, who are without LaMarcus Aldridge during this restart. They also won't have guards Bryn Forbes or Marco Belinelli for this contest, plus Patty Mills questionable. I just think the Grizzlies are the far superior team and will have no problem cashing in a win and cover on Sunday. Give me Memphis -4! 

50* NBA LAKERS/RAPTORS SHARP MONEY TOP PLAY (Raptors +3.5) 

I absolutely love the value here with Toronto getting 3.5-points in Saturday's game against the Lakers. I really like the Raptors to win this game outright. Lakers are primed for a big letdown here after laying it all on the line against the Clippers on Thursday. With that win LA all but locked up the No. 1 seed in the West, as they have a 6.5 game lead with 7 to play. While the Raptors are sitting comfortably in the No. 2 spot, I think they will be way up for this game, as it's a real measuring stick type of game for them. Lakers have not been nearly as good against East teams as they have against teams from the West and it continues here. Give me the Raptors +3.5! 

40* NBA BLOCKBUSTER BOOKIE ATS SLAUGHTER (Kings -3.5) 

I really like the value here with Sacramento. This is as healthy as the Kings have been basically this season and while they got a lot of work to do to get into the playoffs, they got a fighters chance. The same can't be said for the Spurs, who won't have one of their best players in LaMarcus Aldridge. They also are down Bryn Forbes and Jakob Poeltl. I just feel like Sacramento is the much better team and we basically just need them to win the game to cash this ticket. Give me the Kings -3.5!