This is a 2* play on Memphis.

The Grizzlies will miss Ja Morant, but here in this game against the Mavs it might be no Ja, no problem. It looks like Luka is still out, and Kyrie is doubtful to play. The Mavericks are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games overall, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five when coming off a win. The Mavs are just 14-21 SU on the road, while the Grizzlies are 29-5 at home. The Grizzlies are 42-18-1 ATS in their last 61 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on NO.

So the Pelicans are coming off a 114-112 loss at Houston, and they play the second of a two game series at the Toyota Center. Even after winning three straight home games, the Rockets still have twice as many home losses as they have wins. The Pelicans had won seven of eight straight up versus Houston prior to Friday's game. The Pelicans are 5-1 ATS in their last six versus the Rockets, and they are 5-2 ATS in their last seven at Houston. I like the visitors in this revenge spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Grizzlies come into San Antonio as a road favorite, but the Spurs have been pretty competitive of late. They are 4-4 straight up in their last eight overall, and they have scored 120+ points in three of their last four overall. The Grizzlies are coming off a 138-119 loss at Miami, and they have gone over in three straight versus the Spurs. The total in this game is lower than it was in each of the last five meetings between these teams.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on IND.

Normally in the second game of a two game series, I would look to back the team playing with revenge in Game 2. That's not going to happen here in Detroit tonight, as this team has a lot more going on. They have four key players out of the lineup, and they are just a half game behind Houston for the race to finish with the worst record in the NBA. The Pistons are tanking, and the Pacers seem to be less concerned about the draft lottery. The Pacers are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games overall, and they have covered in four of their last five on the road.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHX.

No KD, the Suns are still the better team here. After his injury they went on to win by 30+ in a home game against the scrappy OKC Thunder. They got Chris Paul and Devin Booker back, and Booker scored 44 against the Thunder. The Suns are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games overall, and they are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 home games. The Suns have won four of five straight up in the last five meetings versus the Kings, and four of those games were in Sacramento.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TOR.

The Lakers and the Raptors each have 32 wins, but Toronto comes in as the better team in recent weeks. The Raptors had won eight of 10 before this current road trip. They have dropped three of four games, losing some close contests that ended in controversy. Fred Van Fleet let his emotions get the best of him in a post game press conference, and he was fined $30,000 for remarks about the officials. This Raptors team comes into LA looking to lay the smack down, the Lakers are still banged up. To say that history favors Toronto would be an understatement. The Raptors are 20-6 ATS in the last 26 meetings, and they are 13-3 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Los Angeles.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

So the Raptors come in as winners of six of their last eight overall, and they have been getting it done with their defense. Toronto has held their last five opponents well below the NBA average in points per game (110) giving up just 107 ppg during that span. They haven't been scoring though, averaging just over 103 points per game on offense. Denver can play defense as well, and I expect these teams to play hard here tonight. The total of 227.5 is far higher than it has been in any of the last 10 head to head meetings. The last time Toronto played at Denver (March last year) the total was just 221.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

I gotta fade the Grizzlies in this spot, as this team is in complete shambles. Ja Morant is suspended for not just playing with a gun in a nightclub, but posting it on Intagram like an ever bigger fool. Dillon Brooks and Brandon Clarke are out with injuries, so there goes three of their top five scorers. Additionally leading rebounder Steven Adams hasn't played since January. The Clippers are healthy, but they've lost five straight since bringing in Russ Westbrick. I didn't like the move, and I still don't like it. That said a motivated team at full strength at home looking to break out of a slump should get it done against a shorthanded Memphis team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on SAC.

Both these teams are playing the second game of a back to back, but the Kings won at home 128-127 versus the Clippers last night, and they don't have to travel. Minnesota played in LA, and will be playing a fourth straight game on the road tonight. The Kings are a young team that might not mind playing on back to back nights, as evidenced by the fact that they are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games playing the second of a back to back. Minnesota has failed to cover in five of their last six coming off a win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on DEN.

It's tough to bet against a Denver team that is 28-4 at home, and in a series that has seen the home team win seven of the last eight meetings. The Nuggets are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 home games, while Memphis has failed to cover in four of their last five on the road. This is a big game between two of the top teams in the West, so both teams should get up for the game. That doesn't bode well for the Grizzlies.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The Celtics have allowed a whopping 118.8 points per game over their last five overall. That is out of character for this team though, and they still rank among the top teams in the NBA in opponents scoring average. They host the Cavs, who currently rank #1 in the NBA in points allowed (106.5PPG). These teams went over in each of the last two meetings, but both those games went to overtime. The listed total hasn't been higher than 220 in any of the previous five meetings. I expect both teams to bring it on defense here in a battle between two of the top teams in the East.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

The Clippers have gone over the total in four straight games, but that is out of character for this team. For the first half of the season they ranked near the bottom of the league in scoring, and one of the top team in opponent scoring. We have a high total in tonight's home game against the Timberwolves, and I expect to see some regression to the mean. The under is 22-7 in the Clippers last 29 home games, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven home games against Minnesota. The number in tonight's game is almost 10 points higher than it was in the last meeting back in January. Neither of these teams scored 100 in the last meeting in LA back in December.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on N.O.

The Pelicans are currently flirting with a play-in spot in the Western Conference, despite battling injuries all season. They are finally getting healthy (with the exception of Zion) and it looks like time for this team to go on a run. The Magic have been covering more games than they have been winning, going 8-3 ATS in their last 11 road games. They are still just 10-20 SU on the road, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five overall. This looks like a good spot to back the Pelicans at home, as they should be the more motivated side here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Hawks.

So after firing their coach, the Hawks came out of the All Star break and crushed a very good Cleveland team winning 136-119 at home. The Nets on the other hand lost by 40+ at Chicago. Often when a team gets blown out like that, you want to come back with them in their next game. Perhaps not a team with a completely new starting five that hasn't had time to gel. Not a team that is in the middle of a chaotic rebuild after trading away Kyrie and KD. The Hawks are 4-1 ATS in their last five home games versus Brooklyn, and they have covered in seven of the last nine overall meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on ORL.

The Magic are just .500 at home, but I gotta love them here against a Pacers team that is 8-20 SU on the road. The home team is 4-1 SU in the last five meetings between these teams, and the Magic won two of three home games during that span. The one loss came in overtime. The Pacers are 1-8 ATS in their last nine road games, and they are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games playing on 1 days rest. The Magic are 18-5 ATS in their last 23 games playing on 1 days rest, and they have covered in eight of their last nine off a loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Six of nine games went under the total in the first day back from the All Star break. One of those was the Thunder losing 120-119 at Utah in overtime. Both teams scored just 106 points in regulation. The Thunder play the second game of a back to back in Phoenix, and the Suns have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven overall. The total of 232.5 is far higher than it has been in any of the previous 10 head to head meetings. None of those games saw a number as high as 225. These two teams haven't scored a combined 230 points in any of the previous four head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI.

The Sixers are 23-8 at home, and the home team has won nine of the last 10 meetings between these teams. The Grizzlies have a losing record on the road, and they have failed to cover in six of their last seven road games. The 76ers are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 home games, and they are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games versus Memphis. The Grizzlies are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall, and they are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on OKC.

The Pelicans got some bad news on Zion Williamson recently, and now CJ McCollum is listed as questionable for Monday's game at OKC. The Thunder have been ultra competitive lately, winning three of their last four. They are 12-4-1 ATS in their last 17 games overall. They have covered in six of their last eight home games, and they are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games versus a team with a losing road record. The Pelicans have failed to cover in five of their last six road games, and they are 8-20 ATS in their last 28 road games against a team with a winning home record. I'll take the home team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on WASH.

The Wizards have won seven of their last 10 overall, and they host an Indiana team that has lost seven of their last eight overall. This will be the second game of a back to back for the Pacers, who are coming off a home loss to Phoenix. The Pacers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall, and they have failed to cover in seven of their last eight road games. Washington has covered in four of their last five home games against the Pacers.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on N.O.

The Pelicans are 20-9 at home, and they are coming off three straight home wins over LA, Atlanta and Sacramento. Sure Zion is on the shelf with an injury, but you would think they would be used to that by now. The good news is that Brandon Ingram is back, and he's averaged over 30 points in his last three starts. He struggled in his first three games back from injury, but he appears to be firing on all cylinders now. The Cavs are mediocre on the road (12-16) and they are 0-4 SU in their last four at New Orleans. The Cavs are coming off a home win over Detroit, and they are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 games following a ATS win. This looks like the wrong team is favored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ATL. 

The Suns dealt Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and Mikal Bridges to Brooklyn for KD, but Durant won't be available for this game at Atlanta. That leaves Phoenix with a thin lineup after two of their top roll players were sent to the Nets. The Hawks on the other hand are at full strength, and they have historically owned the Suns in Atlanta. The Hawks have won and covered in four straight home games in this series. I'll fade the shorthanded Suns in this spot. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Clippers.

So no Luka for the Mavs, maybe Kyrie makes his debut. Don't expect Kyrie to come out and lead a shorthanded Mavs team to an upset of the Clippers in LA. Since Kawhi and Paul George have returned to full strength, LA has looked like one of the top teams in the NBA. This should be a double digit win for the Clippers.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

The Clippers are rolling, coming into Brooklyn as winners of seven of their last nine. When both Kawhi and Paul George are healthy, this is still one of the most formidable teams in the NBA. The Nets are moving on from Kyrie Irving, and that will shake up the lineup here tonight. While we aren't sure if Spencer Dinwiddie or Dorian Finley Smith will play, we are sure that Durant, Curry and Simmons will not. The Nets are 17-40-2 ATS in their last 59 home games, and they are likely to struggle to keep up to the Clippers with a bunch of backups.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on TOR.

The Grizzlies are struggling, and they come into tonight's home game versus the Raptors with two starters out, and two more questionable. Toronto has been horrible this season, dealing with their own injuries. The Raptors are 3-3 SU on their current road trip, and one of those losses was a game decided by three points in Utah. History favors the Raptors here in Memphis, where they have covered in five straight. They are 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings overall. A shorthanded Grizzlies team has no business being asked to cover a number like this here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on DEN.

The Hawks are on a roll, coming off back to back wins over the Suns and the Jazz. They take on the Denver Nuggets tonight, and playing the second game of a back to back at altitude is a tough spot. Denver is 10-3 ATS in their last 13 home games, 24-4 overall at home, and 14-6 ATS in their last 20 overall. Nikola Jokic will likely not play both games in an upcoming back to back, but it makes more sense to rest him on the back end in Minnesota on Sunday. The Hawks might want to rest some of their starters here in Denver.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DET.

The Pistons aren't favored to win many games, but catching the Hornets on the second game of a back to back is as good a spot as you can get. Detroit has been quite competitive lately, losing by six at Dallas, losing by three versus Houston and winning outright at Brooklyn. The Pistons won at Charlotte in OT earlier this season, and Kelly Oubre Jr. was the Hornets leading scorer in that game. Oubre Jr. is out with a torn ligament in his hand, and Charlotte might be resting or limiting the minutes of some starters for tonight's game. LaMelo Ball was ejected in the 4th quarter last night in Chicago, and he's battled injuries all season long. It might be a good idea to rest him here in Detroit, or at least limit his minutes.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on PHX.

Despite all the injuries and a poor start to the season, the Suns have won six of their last seven, and they are 19-8 at home this season. Both DeAndre Ayton and Chris Paul are back in the lineup, and Ayton is coming off a double-double with 22 points and 13 boards in a win over the Raptors. They host the Atlanta Hawks, and the home team has won nine of the last 10 meetings in this series. The Hawks are 1-5-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in Phoenix. Tre Young is expected to return after missing the last game with sore ankle, but it might not be enough to get a win over a team that has won 51 of it's last 69 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

The Clippers come into Chicago as short favorites, and they lost their last game 122-99 at Cleveland. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard were out due to load management, but we are expecting both stars to return tonight in Chicago. The Clippers have won five straight when both their stars play, and they were 32-11 when both played during the 2020-2021 season. The Clippers are 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Chicago. The Bulls have a rather pedestrian home record, and I don't think they are good enough to beat a team with two Top 10 players going at full speed.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on WAS.

The Wizards have won five straight, and they are 11-5 in their last 16 overall. They are in San Antonio tonight, and the Spurs have lost five straight and 10 of their last 11. Their last game was a 128-118 OT loss at home versus Phoenix. The Spurs have failed to cover in four straight, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five when coming off a loss. The Wizards have covered in four straight road games, and they are 6-1 ATS in their last seven road games versus a team with a losing record. The conclusion is that these two teams are trending in opposite directions, giving us value backing the road favorite.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Mavs won in Phoenix without Luka, by a score of 98-85, and we might expect another low score without their leading scorer here in Utah. The Mavericks are 2-7 ATS in their last nine road games. They are 6-21-1 ATS in their last 28 games following a straight up win. The under is 14-6 in the Jazz last 20 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. These teams have failed to reach the total in each of the last four head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the PELICANS.

A few weeks back the Pelicans were the best team in the Western Conference, but injuries have taken their toll. They come into this game looking to snap a six game losing streak, and Brandon Ingram is back. He played 26 minutes in a loss to Minnesota, and we should expect him to be more effective here tonight. The Wizards are 0-4 ATS in the last four meetings in New Orleans, and they have struggled on the road this year.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the SUNS.

I had Phoenix in their last game, and it was a disappointing loss to the Mavs. Here is what I said prior to that game: "The Suns have been decimated by injuries, but that hasn't prevented them from winning 18 of 25 home games. They host the Dallas Mavericks tonight, and Dallas has lost 15 of 23 road games. The home team is 8-1 SU in the last nine head to head meetings. Chris Paul is back, and he had 11 assists in a blowout win over Charlotte on Tuesday. The Mavs will not have 2nd leading scorer and 2nd leading rebounder Christian Wood. The Suns are expecting their big man back on Thursday. DeAndre Ayton leads the Suns in scoring and rebounding." The Suns are 5-1-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in San Antonio.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Phoenix.

The Suns have been decimated by injuries, but that hasn't prevented them from winning 18 of 25 home games. They host the Dallas Mavericks tonight, and Dallas has lost 15 of 23 road games. The home team is 8-1 SU in the last nine head to head meetings. Chris Paul is back, and he had 11 assists in a blowout win over Charlotte on Tuesday. The Mavs will not have 2nd leading scorer and 2nd leading rebounder Christian Wood. The Suns are expecting their big man back on Thursday. DeAndre Ayton leads the Suns in scoring and rebounding. The Mavericks are 8-22 ATS in their last 30 road games, and they are 17-35-2 ATS in their last 54 games overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ORL.

The Magic are coming off a blowout win over the Celtics, and they are .500 at home. They host a Pacers team playing the second game of a back to back without their leading scorer. Indiana is 8-16 SU on the road this season, and they are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games. They Pacers haven't covered any of their games since losing Tyrese Haliburton to a knee injury. The Magic are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 home games, and they have won three of their last four home games by more than four points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHX.

The Suns are still dealing with more than their share of injuries, but CP3 returned and scored 22 points in a home win over Memphis over the weekend. The Suns are still 17-7 at home, and they have won their last two games versus Charlotte by a combined 65 points. The Hornets are coming off an 18 point loss at Utah, and they are 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight games following an ATS loss. The Hornets are just 8-19 SU on the road, and they should be looking at another double digit loss here in Arizona.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIA.

So I bet against the Pelicans in their last game, and here is what I said before their loss at Orlando: "The Pelicans are coming off back to back losses, and they have lost five of their last seven overall. They have three starters out of the lineup, including two of their top three scorers. Their last game was a 26 point home loss to the Miami Heat." Now they are on the road in Miami just a few days later, and two of their three top scorers remain sidelined. The Heat are at full strength, despite dealing with a ton of injuries all year. The Heat are 8-1 straight up in their last nine versus New Orleans. The Pelicans have failed to cover in four straight at Miami and they are 5-18 ATS in the last 23 meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on WAS.

I had Orlando last night, and they won easily over a shorthanded New Orleans team at home. Now the Magic play on the road in the second game of a back to back in Washington. The Wizards have won six straight in this series, and five of those six wins came by 6+ points. The Magic are 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. The Magic are 6-16 straight up on the road, and this looks like a tough spot on no rest.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on OKC.

The Thunder have won five of their last six overall, and they are just two games under .500. They have a winning record at home, and this looks like a good spot to back them as a home favorite. The Pacers are 8-13 on the road, and they have lost four straight. Their leading scorer Tyrese Haliburton is on the shelf with an elbow injury. The Thunder are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games playing on 2 days rest, and they have covered in four of their last five home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MEM.

The Grizzlies host the Suns Monday, and it's unclear if Ja Morant will suit up and play. The Suns though will certainly be fielding a lineup of second and third string players. Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Cam Johnson, Cam Payne and Jay Crowder are all ruled out. This is a Suns team that is just 7-16 on the road, and they have lost eight of their last nine overall. The Grizzlies are 35-16-1 ATS in their last 52 home games. Desmond Bane should get his share of points here. He had a game high 25 points against the Pacers on Friday.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on GSW.

The Warriors have one of the worst road records in the NBA, but Curry is back and they are finally healthy. They scored 144 points in a win at San Antonio on Friday, and they catch the Bulls at the right time. Chicago has lost three straight, and their last game was a 14-point home loss to Oklahoma City. Golden State is 10-0 straight up in the last 10 meetings, and they have covered the spread in four straight versus Chicago. The Bulls are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games following a double-digit loss at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TOR.

The Raptors have been underachieving, but they come into Saturday's home game against Atlanta as winners of three straight. They have also won three straight home games versus the Hawks, all by a double digit margin. The Raptors are 5-1 ATS in their last six versus Atlanta, and the Hawks have failed to cover in five of their last six north of the border. Playing the second game of a back to back in Canada is a tough spot for the visitors.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BKN.

The Nets have won 13 of their last 14 overall, and they are just a small favorite on the road at Miami Sunday. The Heat are returning from a five game road trip, and they are banged up at the moment. They have nine players coming into Sunday's game with an injury designation. Some of these guys will play, but certainly depth will be an issue for Miami. The Nets are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games overall and they are 6-2-1 ATS in the last nine meetings in Miami. The Heat are 5-16-1 ATS in their last 22 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Nets come into Chicago as winners of 12 straight overall. They have scored an average of 122 points in their last five games overall. The bookmakers have set the total at a high number, but I am not sure it's high enough. It's still lower than the number of 238 in the Nets last visit to Chicago, and that game went over with Brooklyn winning 138-112. The Bulls come in scoring 121 points per game in their last five overall, unfortunately for them though they have allowed opponents to average 122 points during that span. The Bulls have gone over in five of their last six overall, and six of their last eight at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIL.

This is a revenge game for the Bucks after losing at home to Washington on New Years Day. They were shorthanded in that game, without Giannis, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday. We are expecting both Holiday and The Greek Freak to play here on Tuesday. The status of Bradley Beal is still questionable. The Wizards have failed to cover in 15 of their last 20 road games against a team with a winning record. The Bucks are 4-1 SU in their last five home games against Washington, and three of those four wins came by double digits.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on GSW.

Despite the injuries to Andrew Wiggins and Steph Curry, the Warriors have won four straight. Their home record of 16-2 is the best in the NBA. The Hawks are a team that is struggling so badly that their head coach is considering resignation. The Hawks are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 road games, and they also have a pair of starters battling injury (Hunter and Capella). The Warriors are 51-23-3 ATS in their last 77 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Toronto. 

So coming into the second game of a back to back, two days after Christmas and having won in overtime in Detroit, this is a tough spot for the Clippers. It wouldn't be a surprise to see LA either rest some starters or cut back on their minutes. Toronto is coming off back to back big road wins at Cleveland and New York, and they have had a few days off over Christmas. The Clippers are 5-12 ATS in the last 17 meetings in Toronto. There is no doubt this is a let down spot. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a free pick on DEN.

So the line indicates that Devin Booker will play, although his status is still in question. Assuming he plays it remains to be seen how effective he might be. Even with Booker the Suns aren't great on the road (5-9). The Suns are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games overall, and they are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss. The Nuggets have the best record in the Western Conference, and they are 11-3 at home. The Joker is gunning for another MVP, and the Suns are soft.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Grizz.

I bet this game early and got a good line, but I really think the bookmakers can't set this line high enough. Without Steph, Wiggins and Klay, the Warriors have been embarrassed. They have been blown out in five of their last six games. Klay should play on Christmas day, but Draymond is questionable with foot soreness. They face Ja Morant and the Grizzlies, who might be motivated by the fact that the Dubs eliminated them in last year's playoffs. The Grizzlies have the best record in the Western Conference, and Ja Morant looks like an MVP candidate. The Grizzlies are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Boston.

The Celtics snapped a three game losing skid with a win over Minnesota on Thursday, and that win puts them back in first place overall in the NBA. They host the second place Milwaukee Bucks on Christmas Day, and both teams are sure to bring it! This looks like a tough ask for the Bucks, with this being their fourth straight road game. They are just a game over .500 on the road, and they have lost three of their last four road games. The Bucks are 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven road games. They haven't been a great bet in recent meetings versus Boston, going 3-13-1 ATS in the last 17 meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Dallas.

The Lakers are in a tough spot here on Christmas day in Dallas, without Anthony Davis and perhaps a few other role players. The Mavericks are 12-5 straight up at home, and they have won four of the last five head to head meetings. The Lakers have lost five of their last six road games by double digits. This is a chance for Luka Doncic to showcase himself in a home game against LeBron, and I expect him to make the most of it. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Bucks come into Brooklyn averaging over 117 points per game in their last five overall, and the Nets have scored 126 points per game during that span. Neither team has been great defensively of late, each allowing 116.6 points per game in their last five. The last time the Bucks played in Brooklyn the betting total was set at 243. The opening number for tonight's game is lower than it was in each of the past five head to head meetings. I expect both teams to score plenty here in this marquee game two days before Christmas.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over. 

The Bucks have the best record in the NBA, and they will take on the Pelicans in New Orleans Monday. The Pelicans are just a game back of Memphis for first place in the West. You know both teams will be up for this game, and history tells us that it should be a high scoring affair. The home team has won five of the last six head to head, and the over is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings. The Pelicans have gone over in four of their last five overall, and the over is 17-4 in their last 21 versus teams with a winning record. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Toronto.

The Warriors are 2-14 on the road, and they come into Toronto with possibly only one healthy starter. Steph Curry is out for at least a few weeks, and Andrew Wiggins is sidelined by a groin injury. Klay and Draymond are also banged up, and we aren't sure if either of them will play. The Raptors will be looking to snap a four game losing skid, and this is as good a spot as any. The Warriors have lost their last two at Toronto by a combined 72 points (no you aren't reading that wrong). History favors the home team as Toronto is 4-1 ATS in their last five home games versus a team with a losing road record.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on MIL.

The Bucks are just a game back of Boston in the East, but they are coming off a blowout loss at Memphis in their last game. They look to get back on track with a home game against the Jazz Saturday. The Bucks are 4-1 ATS in their last five games following a straight up loss. Khris Middleton is expected to sit out Saturday, but Jrue Holliday is scheduled to return.  This looks like a let down spot for Utah, coming off an overtime win over New Orleans in Salt Lake City.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI. 

The Warriors are 2-13 on the road, and losing Steph Curry for up to a month isn't going to help. Curry isn't the only starter sidelined for the Warriors, Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green are also likely to miss this game on Friday in Philly. The Warriors are 6-18 ATS in their last 24 road games, and they are 3-12 ATS in the last 15 meetings in Philadelphia. The 76ers are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 home games. Get this one early because the line movement is expected to be one sided. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Pelicans.

The Pelicans are tied for first place in the Western Conference, and they are in a revenge spot in the second game of a two game series in Utah. The Pelicans are 12-5 ATS in their last 17 games following a straight up loss. The Jazz are just 6-11 in their last 17 overall, and they were playing over their heads at the beginning of the year. Zion only played 26 minutes in the first game in Utah, expect him to play more minutes and be a more dominant force here in the rematch.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is 2* play on NO.

You would have thought the second game of a two game home series versus Phoenix would be a let down spot for the Pelicans. New Orleans now has the best record in the Western Conference, and they have won seven straight and nine of 10. The Jazz haven't played since Saturday, and they have failed to cover in five of their last six when playing on two days rest. This Utah team overachieved early in the season, but they have come crashing down to earth lately. After a 10-3 start, they have since gone 5-11. I don't think it's wise to step in front of the Pelicans here as they look to make it eight straight wins.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Nets.

The Nets won six of seven on their recent home stand, and one of those games was a 113-107 win over the Wizards. Bradley Beal scored 25 points on 9-of-20 shooting in that game, but they will have to get points elsewhere tonight. Beal is out with a hamstring injury, and starting PG Monte Morris missed Saturday's game with a groin injury. Washington has lost nine of their last 10 overall, and three straight since the Beal injury. The Wizards are 2-9-2 ATS in their last 13 games overall, and they have failed to cover in five of their last six home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on TOR.

The Raptors had covered in six straight at Orlando before losing 113-109 on Friday. For the fourth time this season, Toronto will play back to back games against the same team in the same city. All three previous such situations resulted in a split, the team that won the first game went on to lose the second game. The Raptors are 11-3 ATS in the last 14 meetings against the Magic. Toronto was an eight point favorite in the first game, and that number has come down a bit here in the rematch. I'll back the favorites here in this revenge match.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CHI.

The Mavs lost a heartbreaker by a single point at home versus Milwaukee last night, and they have to try to pick up the pieces and play on the road at Chicago tonight. The home team is 5-1 in the last six meetings between these teams, and the Bulls are 4-1 straight up in the last five meetings. The Mavs have failed to cover in four of their last five when playing the second game of a back to back, and they are 1-6 ATS in their last seven road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Bulls have covered in four of their last five home games versus Dallas.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIN.

The Wolves will be in Utah tonight, and Rudy Gobert returns to Salt Lake City. Rudy takes on a more prominent role after the injury to Karl Anthony Towns, and he stepped up with 21 rebounds in a win over the Pacers in his last start. The Jazz were not supposed to be a contender in the West after losing Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, but they got off to a surprising start. They have faded recently, going 3-6 ATS in their last nine games. The Timberwolves are 4-0-1 ATS in the last five meetings in Utah, and the Jazz might not have their leading scorer tonight due to an illness. I'll take the points in this revenge spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Nuggets have scored an average of 115 points per game this season, while the Blazers are averaging just 110 points per game. These teams just played two weeks ago and the Blazers won 135-110. The total went way over the number, and the over is now 8-2 in the last 10 head to head meetings. The over is 12-4 in the Nuggets last 16 games following an ATS loss, and they have gone over in 10 of their last 14 at Portland.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TOR.

I bet the under in the Lakers loss at Cleveland last night, and here is what I said before that game: "So the Lakers are rolling again coming into Cleveland as winners of eight of their last 10 overall. They have averaged 130 points per game in their last five, but they will be taking on the #1 scoring defense in the NBA here in Cleveland. History suggests we could see a lower scoring battle tonight. The Cavs have gone under five straight overall, and they have held opponents to just 93 points per game during that span. The under is 5-0 in their last five home games." They play their second game of a back to back north of the border, and AD might be out with an illness and you have to think they will be tempted to rest LeBron.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

So the Lakers are rolling again coming into Cleveland as winners of eight of their last 10 overall. They have averaged 130 points per game in their last five, but they will be taking on the #1 scoring defense in the NBA here in Cleveland. History suggests we could see a lower scoring battle tonight. The Cavs have gone under five straight overall, and they have held opponents to just 93 points per game during that span. The under is 5-0 in their last five home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Raptors.

Everyone in the NBA knows it's not easy to win in Toronto, and yet the Celtics come into Monday's game as favorites. This is a tough spot for Boston, playing the second game of a back to back off a big win in Brooklyn. Jalen Brown played 40 minutes last night, and Jason Tatum logged 37 minutes. Marcus Smart is out with an injury, and the Raptors are back to full strength. Toronto should get the W here in this spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on DET.

The Grizzlies are just a game out of first in the Southwest, but they have really struggled on the road. They are asked to cover a big number here in the Motor City, but the Pistons are looking pretty good about now. Detroit is 3-3 straight up in their last six overall, but they have covered the spread in six of their last seven. The Pistons are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games following a straight up win. The Grizzlies are 7-19-1 ATS in their last 27 road games. I'll take the points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Memphis.

The Grizzlies host Philly Friday night, and the Sixers are still banged up. Maxey and Harden are out, and Tobias Harris is questionable with an illness. The Sixers are 8-17-1 ATS in their last 26 road games, and they are 0-4 ATS in their last four at Memphis. The Grizzlies are 27-9 ATS in their last 36 home games. The last time Philly played at Memphis they lost by 35 points (126-91).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Toronto.

I had the Raptors in their last game, and I said the following: "The Raptors are 7-2 at home this season, and one of those two losses came against Brooklyn with Fred Van Fleet and Scottie Barnes out of the lineup. Van Fleet returned on Saturday in a 105-100 win over Dallas. Scottie Barnes is back at practice, so he could return tonight to face a Cavs team coming north of the border to play the second game of a back to back." I didn't know that Pascal Siakam was also set to return, but now that Toronto is back to full strength, the rest of the NBA should be put on notice. A Pelicans team with it's two best players banged up appears to be vulnerable. The Pelicans won a close game against the Thunder on Monday, and they are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on LAC.

The Clippers have been hit hard by injuries, with stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George out of the lineup. Most teams haven't got a shot in hell of competing without their two best players, but perhaps it should surprise nobody that LA is still a .500 team without George and Leonard. They have plenty of depth. with Reggie Jakcson, Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, and Marcus Morris all stepping up. The same can not be said for the Blazers without Damian Lillard, as they have lost five of their last six overall. The Clippers look good as the dog considered they have won nine of the last 10 versus Portland straight up.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Toronto.

The Raptors are 7-2 at home this season, and one of those two losses came against Brooklyn with Fred Van Fleet and Scottie Barnes out of the lineup. Van Fleet returned on Saturday in a 105-100 win over Dallas. Scottie Barnes is back at practice, so he could return tonight to face a Cavs team coming north of the border to play the second game of a back to back. The home team is 4-1 SU in the last five meetings, and the Cavaliers are 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 games playing on 0 days rest. Cleveland has also failed to cover in six straight road games.

This is a 5* play on MIL.

The Mavs are playing on the road at Milwaukee in the second game of a back to back. Not only are they are on short rest, but Luka Doncic played a season high 43 minutes in a loss north of the border at Toronto last night. The Mavericks are 1-9-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a ATS loss, and they have failed to cover in five of their last six in the second game of a back to back. The Bucks are 10-2 straight up at home, and nine of those 10 wins came by more than six points.

This is a 2* play on LA.

The Lakers have only won six games this season, but two of them have come against the Spurs. They come into tonight's game as winners of four of their last five, while the Spurs have lost seven straight. LeBron scored 21 points in 33 minutes in his first game back after missing five games due to injury. These two teams are in the mix for a lottery pick, so it should be quite a battle, but somebody has to win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on the Grizzlies.

New Orleans won't have CJ McCollum in Memphis on Friday, due to health and safety protocols. He leads the team in assists, steals and three-point shooting. The home team has had the advantage in this series, winning eight of the last 10 straight up. The Pelicans are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games versus a team with a winning straight up record, while the Grizzlies are 26-9 ATS in their last 35 home games. Ja Morant scored 34 points against the Kings on Tuesday, and he scored 36 in his last game against the Pelicans 10 days ago.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BKN.

So Kyrie is back, and Ben Simmons shot 11-of-13 in a 127-115 win over the undermanned Grizzlies on Sunday. No word on whether Simmons actually attempted a shot that wasn't a dunk, but whatever he was doing he should just keep doing it. The Nets face another shorthanded team in Philly tonight, as the Sixers are down both their star players (Embiid and Harden), and several other role players. Brooklyn is 4-1 ATS in their last four versus Philly, and they won their last game at Philly by 29 points. No reason not to expect history to repeat itself here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is 2* play on CHI.

The Bulls have played the Celtics twice already this year, winning at home and losing by 4-points in Boston in early November. Chicago is looking to right the ship here at home tonight, coming into this game as losers of four straight and six of their last seven. Half of those six losses came by fewer than six points, and this number looks a little inflated. The Bulls have covered in six of their last seven versus Boston, and the Celtics could be due for a let down here at the end of a road trip.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Celtics have gone over the total in 10 of 16 games so far this season. That comes as no surprise to me. Here is what I said prior to their season opener: "The Celtics ranked first in the NBA in opponents scoring average last season, but don't expect this year's squad to be a defensive juggernaut. The absence of a rim protector changes everything, and if the pre-season is any indication they may be playing at a much faster pace this season. They sent Daniel Theis to the Pacers, and Robert Williams starts the season sidelined by a knee injury. While Boston finished last season as the best scoring defense, they certainly didn't start that way. They allowed an average of 120 points per game in their first seven games of the season." The over is 7-2 in the Pelicans last nine games following a straight up win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Clippers rank dead last in the NBA in scoring, and still they are a 9-point home favorite here against the Pistons. Dallas ranks first in the NBA in opponent's scoring average, allowing 106.3 points per game. The Clippers aren't far behind allowing just 106.9 points per game. The under is 6-1 in the Clippers last seven home games, and they have gone under in seven of their last nine versus Detroit.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Nets are coming off a 153-121 loss at Sacramento, after going under in six straight before that. This looks like a let down spot here in Portland, facing a Blazers team that ranks sixth in the NBA in opponent's scoring. Portland ranks in the bottom 10 in the NBA in scoring, averaging fewer than 110 points per game. Don't expect a shootout here in Portland. The under is 9-4 in the Nets last 13 games following a straight up loss, and the under is 12-4-2 in the Trail Blazers last 18 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Celtics have gone over the total in 10 of 15 games so far this season. That comes as no surprise to me. Here is what I said prior to their season opener: "The Celtics ranked first in the NBA in opponents scoring average last season, but don't expect this year's squad to be a defensive juggernaut. The absence of a rim protector changes everything, and if the pre-season is any indication they may be playing at a much faster pace this season. They sent Daniel Theis to the Pacers, and Robert Williams starts the season sidelined by a knee injury. While Boston finished last season as the best scoring defense, they certainly didn't start that way. They allowed an average of 120 points per game in their first seven games of the season."  The over is 9-3 in the Hawks last 12 overall. While this is a big number, I just don't think the books can set it high enough. I expect both teams to score 115+.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Clippers have already played the Rockets twice this season, and both of those games were low scoring. LA ranks dead last in the NBA in scoring, averaging just 103 points per game. The fact that they still have a decent record also indicates that they have one of the league's top defenses. The under is 14-3 in Clippers last 17 overall, and they have failed to reach the total in six of their last seven in Houston. This number looks a little inflated.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Dallas.

The Blazers are overachieving, coming into Dallas as winners of four of five on this current road trip. Playing a sixth straight road game could be a let down spot for Portland. Dallas is coming off back to back losses on the road after winning four in a row at home. Luka Doncic is averaging an NBA best 33.6 points per game, and he's been even better at home (35.2 ppg). The Blazers are 0-4 straight up in the last four versus Dallas, and they failed to cover in all four of those losses.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Over.

The Warriors snapped a five game losing streak with a home win over the Sacramento Kings, but there remains plenty of reason for concern in Golden State. Only the San Antonio Spurs are allowing more points per game than the Warriors, who's opponents are averaging more than 120 points per game. The good news is that Steph Curry scored 47 points and shot 7-of-12 from beyond the arc in the win over the Kings. We could see another shootout here against the Cavs. The over is 18-7-1 in the Cavaliers last 26 road games, and the Warriors have gone over in four of their last five home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a free play on Over.

The Raptors haven't missed Pascal Siakam, coming off a 116-109 win over Houston. Fred Van Flleet scored 32 points and shot 7-of-16 from beyond the arc. Toronto has gone over in five of their last six in Oklahoma City, and the over is 9-3-1 in the last 13 meetings. The Thunder have gone over in four straight home games. We should both teams run and gun here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Bucks are coming off a 136-132 double overtime win over Oklahoma State. They are banged up with Giannis, Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton all out of the lineup. The backups played well, shooting over 47 percent from the field, and 47 percent from beyond the arc against the Thunder. They have a history of playing high scoring games against the Spurs. The over is 8-1 in the last nine meetings, and the total for this game is lower than it was in the last eight meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on TOR.

The Bulls lost in Boston last night, and they are 7-15 ATS in their last 22 games following a straight up loss. The Raptors are coming off a 111-110 loss to at Dallas, and they are 20-8 ATS in their last 28 games following a straight up loss. The home team has won four of the last five head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DET.

The Cavs lost their season opener on the road at Toronto, but they have since won six straight. They will be a big favorite here in the Motor City, but Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are both a little banged up. This looks like a natural let down spot for the visitors. The Cavaliers are 1-4 ATS in the last five meetings, and they are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 road games. The Pistons are 23-11 ATS in their last 34 games overall. The home team is 6-0 straight up in the last six head to head meetings. I'll take the points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Jazz were supposed to be in contention for a lottery pick this season, but after winning six of their first eight games the betting markets are slow to react. Utah comes into Dallas averaging 118 points per game, while the Mavs are scoring roughly the same. Utah is allowing opponents to average 114 points per game, and the Mavs are allowing opponents to average over 110 points per game. Historical trends for the Jazz point to the under, but the Rudy Gobert Era is over in Utah. These Jazz have gone over (221) in six of eight games, while the Mavs have gone over in five straight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Utah.

I said this prior to the Jazz winning outright as a home dog versus Memphis on Saturday:

"I think we have one of the more overrated teams (Memphis) playing one of the more underrated teams here in Utah. The Jazz are gonna suck without Donovan Mitchell? Well maybe not. They are off to a 4-2 start and they are undefeated at home. The Grizzlies are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a straight up win. Ja Morant scored 22 points in a win at Sacramento Thursday, but he's listed as doubtful for Saturday's game."

Not enough has changed to justify the Grizz laying points here two days later.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Here is what I said prior to the Celtics season opener versus Philly: "The Celtics ranked first in the NBA in opponents scoring average last season, but don't expect this year's squad to be a defensive juggernaut. The absence of a rim protector changes everything, and if the pre-season is any indication they may be playing at a much faster pace this season. They sent Daniel Theis to the Pacers, and Robert Williams starts the season sidelined by a knee injury. While Boston finished last season as the best scoring defense, they certainly didn't start that way. They allowed an average of 120 points per game in their first seven games of the season." They have since gone over in four of their five games. The over is 5-0 in the Celtics last five versus a team with a winning straight up record.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Utah.

I think we have one of the more overrated teams (Memphis) playing one of the more underrated teams here in Utah. The Jazz are gonna suck without Donovan Mitchell? Well maybe not. They are off to a 4-2 start and they are undefeated at home. The Grizzlies are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a straight up win. Ja Morant scored 22 points in a win at Sacramento Thursday, but he's listed as doubtful for Saturday's game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Here is what I said prior to the Celtics season opener versus Philly: "The Celtics ranked first in the NBA in opponents scoring average last season, but don't expect this year's squad to be a defensive juggernaut. The absence of a rim protector changes everything, and if the pre-season is any indication they may be playing at a much faster pace this season. They sent Daniel Theis to the Pacers, and Robert Williams starts the season sidelined by a knee injury. While Boston finished last season as the best scoring defense, they certainly didn't start that way. They allowed an average of 120 points per game in their first seven games of the season." They have since gone over in three of their four games. The over is 15-5-1 in Cavaliers last 21 road games, and they have gone over in 13 of their last 19 overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Dallas.

The Mavs will be a favorite here in New Orleans, with Ingram out and Zion questionable. Herbert Jones also suffered a knee injury late in the Pelicans loss to Utah over the weekend. With the status of three starters in question, the Mavs depth should be enough to power them to a comfortable win here. History is on their side, having won eight of the last 10 meetings in this series, including a pair of wins at New Orleans last season. The Pelicans are 1-4 ATS in their last five home games, and the Mavericks are 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings in New Orleans.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DEN.

After losing the season opener on the road at Utah, Denver has won back to back games. They are on the road in Portland tonight, and the Blazers are playing their second game of a back to back. Damian Lillard scored 41 points in 34 minutes in a 106-104 win over the Lakers in LA last night. The Trail Blazers are 2-5 ATS in their last seve games playing on 0 days rest, and 4-10 ATS overall in their last 14 games. The Nuggets are 5-1 SU and ATS in the last six head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on GSW.

The Dubs are coming off a 128-123 home loss to Denver, but they should be able to bounce back Sunday against the Sacramento Kings. The Kings ranked 29th in the NBA in opponent's scoring average allowing over 115 points per game last season. They are playing on back to back nights after losing at home to the Clippers last night. The Warriors are 7-2 ATS in their last nine home games, and 5-1 ATS in their last six when playing on one day's rest. Golden State has won the last four head to head meetings by 10+ points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Clippers.

The Kings lost their home opener by a score of 115-108, and they might struggle here against the Clippers on Saturday. The Kings were 16-25 at home last year, and only Houston and Oklahoma City had fewer home wins in the Western Conference. The Clippers finished with a dozen more wins than Sacramento last season, and they are in far better shape now with a healthy Paul George, Norman Powell and Marcus Morris. Of course Kawhi is back as well, but after we learned he will sit out for load management, this line has dropped. Kawhi only scored 14 points in 21 minutes off the bench in a 103-97 win over the Lakers in the season opener. The Clippers should be in good shape without him here in Sacramento.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Celtics ranked first in the NBA in opponents scoring average last season, but don't expect this year's squad to be a defensive juggernaut. The absence of a rim protector changes everything, and if the pre-season is any indication they may be playing at a much faster pace this season. They sent Daniel Theis to the Pacers, and Robert Williams starts the season sidelined by a knee injury. While Boston finished last season as the best scoring defense, they certainly didn't start that way. They allowed an average of 120 points per game in their first seven games of the season. They went well over the number in their season opener versus Philly, and this number looks a little low all things considered.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Blazers lost 124-121 to the Sacramento Kings in their season opener last year, and they play the Kings in their first game of the 2022 season. The Kings finished dead last in the NBA in opponent's scoring average last year, and Portland wasn't far behind. These teams have gone over in four of the last five head to head meetings, and the over is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings. Sacramento was 4-0 in the pre-season averaging 117 points per game. We should expect a lot more offense than defense here in this game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over. 

The Celtics ranked first in the NBA in opponents scoring average last season, but don't expect this year's squad to be a defensive juggernaut. The absence of a rim protector changes everything, and if the pre-season is any indication they may be playing at a much faster pace this season. They sent Daniel Theis to the Pacers, and Robert Williams starts the season sidelined by a knee injury. While Boston finished last season as the best scoring defense, they certainly didn't start that way. They allowed an average of 120 points per game in their first seven games of the season. Joel Embiid should feast here in the season opener, and both teams should do plenty of scoring. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Boston.

There is a meme going around the internet with a picture of referee Tony Brothers, captioned as the Warriors MVP of Game 5. Boston fans certainly feel that the Warriors got the better of the calls, and that it influenced the result of the game. For those who subscribe to conspiracy theories, the idea that the NBA would want Boston to win Game 6 and extend the series to increase revenue isn't all that far fetched. I do expect the home team to get the better of the calls early here in Game 6, and Boston should respond coming off back to back losses. The Celtics are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games following a straight up loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on GSW.

The Warriors are back in the driver's seat after earning a split in Boston. They return home to play a pivotal Game 5, well aware that the team that takes a 3-2 lead has an 82 percent chance to win the Championship. The Zig Zag theory would favor the Celtics coming off a loss, but I am going to buck that trend and take the Warriors. Robert Williams has played through a knee injury and has been a huge factor in this series so far. He tweaked his knee in Game 4 and his status is in question for Game 5. Jason Tatum has been inconsistent, while Steph Curry is coming off a 43 point performance in Game 4. We have yet to see the best of Draymond Green, but I expect him to deliver in the clutch here at home in Game 5.

GL,

Jesse Schule