The set-up: While I obviously wouldn't be shocked by an outright upset, in the end I'll recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Orlando has lost 12 straight in this series, so motivation to break that slide is definitely working in their favor as well. The Clippers come in content after winning five of their last six, while the Magic have lost four of their last five. Most recently LA beat the Heat 122-117. LA averages 112.7 PPG and it allows 106.7. The Magic though are desperate here after a listless 109-98 to the Celtics on Friday. The Magic are averaging 105.8 PPG and they're allowing 106.8. 

The pick: Orlando's early offensive numbers are skewed though because of early injusry issues, but there's no excuses today. Note as well that the Clippers are already a poor 7-10 ATS this season after scoring 120 points or more, while Orlando is a perfect 2-0 ATS off two or more consecutive upset losses as a home favorite. With a game "on the road" at the Lakers on Tuesday, I believe the visitors rest players and get caught looking ahead as well. Grab the points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Orlando Magic.

The set-up: I think 7-11 Fordham sneaks in under the radar here and finds a way to keep this one competitive vs. 14-5 St. Louis. The Rams come in with momentum as well, as they broke a five-game slide with a win over George Washington last time out. Saint Louis however enters suscepitble after two straight losses in my opinion. The Rams have struggled offensively this year, but the defense has been sharp in allowing only 61 PPG. The Billikens allow 66. And note that over its last four games Saint Louis has averaged just 66 PPG. 

The pick: Additionally note that the Billikens are 0-6 ATS in their last six home games vs. a team with a losing road record and 0-4 ATS in its last four following a SU loss, while Fordham is 4-1 ATS in its last five road games following a SU/ATS win/cover. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Fordham.

The set-up: The Citadel Bulldogs return home to start a two-game home stand. The Citadel is 54-47 all time vs. the Paladins in Charleston. The Citadel play with revenge here as well after Furman took both games last year. Furman is the better team on paper, but after its win over Samford, I think it gets caught looking past its lowly opponent tonight. 

The pick: Also note that Furman is a poor 2-6 ATS in its last eight on the road and off a victory and as a favorite of ten points or more, while Citadel is 7-1 ATS in its last eight as a home dog in the ten to 15.5 points range and off a loss. Revenge is a dish best served cold. Grab the points.

10* REVENGE BEST OF THE BEST on Citadel.

The set-up: BOston is 11-9 away from TD Garden and it enters on a two-game win streak. Orlando is 13-9 at home this year and it's looking to bounce back off a loss. Overall Boston averages 112.3 PPG and it allows 105.7. Orlando averages 104 PPG and it concedes a league best 104 as well. Orlando has gotten healthier over the last month and that's seen the team have a dramatic turnaround in play across the board. The Magic though allow only 100 PPG at home, while the Celtics' offensive average drops to 108 on the road. 

The pick: Additionally note that Boston is a poor 2-4 ATS this year already after two or more consecutive home victories, while Orlando is a sharp 3-1 ATS off an upset loss as a home favorite. Boston is dealing with injuries right now as well. I'm laying the points and expecting a decisive home victory.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Orlando Magic.

The set-up: Yale is 13-4 and its on the road to take on a hungry 7-7 Brown Bears team. Brown plays with revenge here, as it fell at Yale in mid January by a score of 70-56. Yale comes in off an 89-75 road win at Howard, but I think the Bulldogs will have their hands full tonight. This is a great situational play in my opinion, as Brown has had an extended period off, having not played since the loss at Yale. 

The pick: On paper Yale has the advantage, but note that it's just 1-3 ATS in its last four after playing a game as a road favorite, while Brown is 4-2 ATS in its last six revenging a road loss of ten points or more and 4-1 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more. I think the outright upset is definitely possible, but in the end I'm going to grab the points.

10* ANNIHILATOR on Brown.

The set-up: Clearly the Nets have a lot of issues to resolve. They've been a much better home team than on the road though and they won't be lacking for motivation tonight facing the Lakers. LA comes to town off a come from behind win in New York just last night and it could very likely be sitting key pieces of its rotation in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. Situationally I believe this one sets up great for the hungrier home side. 

The pick: But note as well that the Lakers are still just 8-9 ATS in non-conference games this year and only 40-49 ATS in their last 89 vs. clubs with losing records, while Brooklyn is already 6-3 ATS this season as a home underdog. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a "nail biter." 

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Brooklyn Nets.

The set-up: FIU is 13-6 and after two straight victories, I think it comes in a tiny bit complacnet here vs. 7-12 ODU, which enters off two straight losses. FIU plays at a fast pace, averaging 81 PPG, but its defense is horrible. The Monarchs are coming off a tough 66-62 loss to Charlotte. ODU's defense has been fantastic though, ranked 42nd in the league overall. From a situational stand point, this one definitely sets up nicely for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well that the Monarchs are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six as an underdog and 4-1 ATS in their last five at home, while the Panthers just 1-4 ATS in their last five as a road dog after back-to-back victories. I'm laying the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Old Dominion.

The set-up: The Marist Red Foxes are after their second straight victory after getting the better of Iona 83-73. Matt Herasme had 17 points and 11 boards in the victory. It was a break out game for Marist, as it set season highs for field goal percentage, points scored, three-pointers made, three-point percentage, assists, rebounds and free throws made. The Manhattan Jaspers had won four of five to open league play before then falling 65-58 to Monmouth on Saturday. 

The pick: Manhattan is just 2-4 ATS in its last six after playing two straight home games (including 0-2 ATS this year), while Marist is 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 80 points or more in its previous game. The Red Foxes come in off an inspiring win and I look for them to carry that momentum over here. That said, grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Marist.

The set-up: This game will be broadcast nationally on Fox Sports 1 and I'm expecting an all out war. The Terps are 14-4, but I believe they'll have a fight on their hands today. In fact note, Maryland is 0-4 in true road games this year. The Terps have not let an opponent exceed 70 points in league play so far, but they come in averaging just 71.2 PPG. Northwestern is just 6-11 and it'll have a big opportunity to snap its frustration with a quality win this evening. Easier said than done, but note that the Wildcats do in fact have two wins over Top 100 teams and six of their last seven losses have been by single digits. Northwestern's offense catches a break today facing the slower paced Terrapins.

The pick: Maryland is 2-5 ATS in its last seven as a road favorite (including 0-3 ATS this year), while Northwestern is 8-3 ATS this season as an underdog. This one has "nail-biter" written all over it, so grab the points.

10* play on Northwestern.

The set-up: On paper the Bucks are the much better team here. At 38-6 though, I think the home side comes out a bit complacent here vs. this 16-28 Bulls team. Chicago though does come in with some momentum after taking down the Cavaliers 118-116 last time out. The Bucks average 119.5 PPG and the Bulls average only 105.8. Chicago though had key players injured again to start the season, so this offense is only finally starting to come together. Both however sport similar defensive numbers, with the Bulls allowing only 107.8 PPG, while the Bucks concede 106.9. 

The pick: Chicago is also 7-3 ATS in its last ten as a road dog and 5-3 ATS in its last eight in trying to revenge a blowout loss vs. an opponent of 20 points or more, while Milwaukee is just 11-14 ATS already this season after three or more SU victories. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a competitive battle.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Chicago Bulls.

The set-up: Charlotte is 10-6, but it comes in off an 80-63 loss to WKU. A game vs. 6-12 ODU sets up as a look-ahead/let-down spot for the 49ers though in my opinion. And ODU definitely won't be lacking for motivation here after it fell 68-67 to Marshall last time out. 

The pick: Note as well that Charlotte is a terrible 11-19 ATS in its last 30 as a road dog (including only 2-3 ATS this season), while ODU is a strong 4-1 ATS in its last five as a home favorite. Lay the points, expect a rout.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Old Dominion.

The set-up: I think 6-11 Illinois State is the "hungrier" team here. Clearly the outright win isn't out of the question with a spread like this, but I'm going to grab the points in the end. Most recently Illinois State fell 84-74 to Drake to fall to 1-4 in Conference play. Overall the Redbirds average 67.2 PPG and they allow 70.6. Loyola Chicago averages 70 PPG and it allows 61. On paper and as stated above, this one favors the visitors. But I believe the Ramblers come in complacent after two straight wins. 

The pick: Note as well that Loyola Chicago is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten road games following a two games or more unbeaten ATS/SU streak, while Illinois State is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 home games following a loss by ten or more points and as an underdog of four points or less. Everything points to the slight upset, grab the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on Illinois State.

The set-up: Miami looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after its impressive road win over the Thunder, while I expect the Spurs to risk life and limb here for a victory after getting embarrassed at home by the Hawks in a close loss. Miami is at home tomorrow night as well to the Kings, so I believe this does in fact set up as a "look ahead" spot for the visitors as well. The Spurs are now below .500 and they can ill afford to look past anyone. San Antonio has a game tomorrow night in Phoenix vs. an equally as desperate Suns team, making tonight's contest that much more imporant for the home side here. 

The pick: Note that Miami is just 4-5 ATS this year as a road favorite and only 4-5 ATS this season off a road win, while San Antonio is a sharp 7-3 ATS this season in revenging a road loss vs. an opponent. Look for the home side to pull away down the stretch.

10* NON-CONFERENCE BEST OF THE BEST on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: After falling to Kansas to open league play, WVU has rattled off thee straight Big 12 victories and it enters at 14-2 overall. K-State comes in as the "hungrier" team though as it's lost nine of its last 12. The Wildcats will be looking to get off the schneid here and earn their first conference victory of the year. The Wildcats are sharp defensively as well, holding the opposition to just 61.8 PPG on average. WVU averages only 72.1 PPG and I believe it'll have its hands full with his now desperate home side. 

The pick: Additionally note that WVU is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten conference road games after three or more SU/ATS victories, while K-State is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games after three or more losses and as an underdog of five points or more. I'm grabbing the points and expecting this contest to be decided in the final moments.

10* CASH-BOMB on Kansas State.

The set-up: Dallas plays with revenge here after falling 121-119 in Portland earlier in the season. The Blazers have been more "miss" than "hit" this season, but after two straight victories and playing against this revenge minded home side, I believe Portland reverts to its usual sub-par self. The Mavs have looked better now that Luka Doncic is fully recovered from his ankle injury, as the Mavs enter this one off three straight victories. Doncic had 25 points, 15 boards and 17 assists in the most recent 127-123 win over the Kings. 

The pick: Note as well that Dallas is 10-3-2 ATS in its last 15 road games vs. a team with a losing SU record, while Portland is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten on the road and only 2-8-1 ATS in its last 11 after scoring 100 points or more in a SU win in its previous outing. After a big win at Houston, I look for the Blazers to stumble in this difficult road venue. Lay the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: I think the 9-6 Rider Broncs get caught lookin past the 4-11 Niagara Purple Eagles tonight. The Broncs come in off a 69-52 win over a weak Marist team, while Niagara enters off a much-needed 70-69 victory over Iona at home in its latest action. Rider has so far averages 72.9 PPG and it's allowed 71.3. The Purple Eagles average 66.6 PPG and they allow 76.2. Clearly on paper Rider is the better team, but I think this one sets up great situationally for the "hungrier" home side. 

The pick: Note as well that Rider is already a poor 2-6 ATS on the road this season and just 3-4 ATS after playing a road game this year, while Niagara is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 as an underdog. Rider's form on the road hasn't been great and I believe it'll have its hands full. Clearly the outright win isn't out of question, but in the end I'll recommend to grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Niagara.

The set-up: I think 4-13 MTSU comes in under the radar here and keep this one a lot more competitive than what this spread would suggest vs. 11-6 FAU. The Blue Raiders have lost eight straight, while FAU has gone 9-3 in its last 12. The Owls though come off a poor 81-58 loss to UNT and with 11-6 UAB invading in two nights, I think this definitely sets up as a bit of a "trap" for the home side. On paper, clearly FAU is the better team. But losing wears on teams and I don't think we have to question MTSU's resolve and focus tonight. A great situational play for sure here in my opinion. 

The pick: Additionally note that MTSU is a sharp 7-2 ATS in its last nine off two straight losses against a conference rival, while FAU is already a poor 4-5 ATS this season vs. schools with losing records. No outright, but a 'nail-biter.' Grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Middle Tennessee State.

The set-up: The Pacers are the better team on paper. But this is the opener of a home and home set and I think the home side is going to risk life and limb here to try and pull off the minor upset. After two straight wins, complacency kicks in for Indiana and after two straight losses, a sence of urgency for the home side. The Pacers just managed a 101-95 win over the 76ers last time out, but it certainly wasn't pretty. In fact note that Indiana has lost six of its last 11 overall. Note as well that the home team won and covered in each game in this series last year. The Wolves are coming off a 117-104 loss at home to OKC. Both teams are playing without key players for this series (Victor Oladipo and Karl Anthony Townes), but I think this one sets up great for the Wolves situationally.

The pick: Note as well that the Pacers are already a poor 3-5 ATS this year after covering in three of their last four against the spread, while Minnesota is a sharp 8-4 ATS in non-conference games this season. I'm banking on the home court advantage being sigificant tonight. This one means more to Minnesota.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The set-up: I think 14-2 Duquesne, which enters having won four straight, will get caught "looking past" the lowly 6-9 Fordham Rams. The Dukes most recently held on for a 66-61 win over George Washington. The Rams though have lost four of their last five and they've yet to get a conference victory. Most recently they fell 64-44 to St. Bonaventure. Fordham has two players averaging in double figures and Duquesne has three. On paper this one favors the Dukes, but with a more difficult 10-5 opponent in the Rhode Island Rams up next, I do indeed belive the home side gets caught looking ahead here as well.  

The pick: The Rams are also a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last five after scoring 65 points or less in four straight games, while the Dukes are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight vs. good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest (including only 1-2 ATS this season.) I'm grabbing the points and expecting a "nail biter."

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Fordham.

The set-up: 15-3 Wright STate is at 6-12 Illinois Chicago and I believe that the under the radar home side will at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. The Raiders enter off an 80-64 win over IUPUI, while UIC fell 68-52 to UNK last time out. Revenge also comes into play here after Wright State took both games in this serires last year. Overall Wright State averages 81.1 PPG and it allows 72.2. The Flames average 65.4 PPG and they allow 72.2. 

The pick: Wright State though has responded well in this spot for bettors, going 7-2 ATS In its last nine home games following a loss in which it posted 55 points or less in. Conversely, Wright State is already a poor 1-4 ATS this season after playing a road game. Expect the Flames to lay everything on the line and while I wouldn't be completely shocked by an outright upset, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. 

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Illinois Chicago. 

The set-up: I think the 10-7 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers are going to have their hands full today with the 6-11 UT Arlington Mavericks. The Chanticleers are averaging over 80 PPG in the early going, but they enter off a poor 78-66 loss to Texas State. A lot of their early numbers are skewed because of the level of competition. UTA on the other hand has struggled for most of the season with consistency, but it comes in playing its best basketball of the season and off its biggest win thus far, outlasting App State 66-56. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but CC is just 1-4 ATS in its last five road games following a loss in which it allowed 75 points or more inw, while UTA is 7-3 ATS in its last ten home games after a SU win in which it held its opponent to 59 points or less in. This one has "blowout" written all over it. Lay the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on UT Arlington.

The set-up: I think the 2-7 Iona Gaels come in under the radar here and keep this one a lot more competitive than what this spread would suggest vs. 8-5 Rider. Iona came into this season having won four straight MAAC championships, but it enters this contest having losgin five in a row. The Gaels are 2-5 on the road this season. Coach Tim Cluess has his work cut out for him if he wants to avoid his first losing campaign as boss since he took over ten years ago. Rider has been the better team "on paper" so far this year, but it comes in off its first conference loss (a poor 80-61 setback to Quinnipiac) and I believe it's primed for another letdown here vs. this unbelievably hungry defending league champion. 

The pick: Note as well that the Gaels are 4-1 ATS in their last five after faling to cover six or seven of their last eigth vs. the spread, while Riders is a poor 0-3 ATS this season already following a conference game. I think the "hungrier" team will at the very least, take this one down to the final moments. Grab the points.

10* UNDERDOG ELITE OF THE ELITE on Iona.

The set-up: Am I predicting that the 5-11 Wyoming Cowboys are going to upset the 15-0 SDSU Aztecs SU tonight? I'm not. But I do think that the stage is set for a much more competitive affair than what this spread would suggest. SDSU is no joke, winning big road games at BYU and Utah State. Most recently the Aztecs faced Utah State on the road and won by a score of 77-68. Overall SDSU averages 75.7 PG and it allows 56.8. The Cowboys come in off a 72-61 loss at Colorado State. Overall Wyoming averages 60.4 PPG and it allows 66.4. 

The pick: I'll point out though that the Cowboys are 4-0 ATS in their last four when playing the role of underdog and 4-1 ATS in their last five following an ATS victory, while SDSU is a poor 0-4 ATS in its last four road games vs. a team with a losing home record. I think SDSU wins this game, but I don't think it'll cover this large spread again on the road and in this difficult venue. Grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Wyoming.

The set-up: Valpo is 8-7 and Southern Illinois is 7-8. This is a revenge game for the Salukies, as Valparaiso has won three of the last four between the clubs, including 55-52 last year. Both teams come in off victories, but I don't think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this one. Valpo though looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after its upset OT win over Evansville last time out. The Salukis cruised to a 67-55 win over Illinois State last time out and four starters put up double-digit in points. I believe the home side carries that momentum over here. 

The pick: Valpo is also a poor 1-5 ATS in its last six off an upset win over a conference rival as an underdog, while SIU is already 6-1 ATS at home this season. Lay the points, expect a rout.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Southern Illinois.

The set-up: The Thunder enter off a loss in Philadelphia. The Nets come in off a loss to Orlando just last night as well. In this contest where both team's played just last night, I believe that the home court advantage can not be overlooked as a very real deciding factor once it's all said and done. OKC's recent run came to a crashing halt last night, while Brooklyn has now lost six in a row. I believe that Spencer Dinwiddie and company lay everything on the line here to get off the schneid and to take advantage of this particular matchup. 

The pick: Note as well that the Thunder are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine Eastern road swings in the second game of the back to back and coming off a loss in the first, while the Nets are a perfect 5-0 ATS this season as a home underdog of six points or less. I'm grabbing the points, but expecting an outright.

10* play on the NETS.

The set-up: The Suns come in off a 120-112 win over New York. They play with revenge here after falling to Memphis earlier in the year. This is an important stretch for the Suns, as they play the Grizzlies today, followed by very winnable games vs. the Kings, Magic, Hornets, Hawks and Knicks. I think the Suns lay the hammer down here from start to finish as they push hard over this stretch vs. this "lesser" competition. And for the Grizzlies? They come in off a highly satisfying 140-114 blowout road victory over the Clippers just last night! 

The pick: Note as well that Memphis is just 36-45 ATS in its last 81 vs. teams with losing records, while Phoenix is already 17-5 ATS this year in revening a loss vs. an opponent. This one has home side blowout written all over it in my opinion. Lay the points.

10* REVENGE ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Phoenix Suns.

The set-up: I think 12-2 Dayton gets caught "looking past" lowly 3-10 St. Joe's today. Most recently Dayton got the better of La Salle 84-58. The Flyers are one of the highest scoring teams in the nation and it's difficult to say anything negative about them. I simply feel that they come in complacent here, while I believe the Hawks risk life and limb here to try and pull off the upset. Keep your eyes on Ryan Daly for the home side, he's the only Hawk to average in double digits in scoring this year. 

The pick: Additionally note that Dayton is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten as a road favorite of 16.5 points or higher on the tail of a three games or more unbeaten streak, while St. Joe's is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 home games as an underdog in the 15.5 to 21.5 points range. I think the hungry home side keeps this one a lot more competitive than what this spread would suggest. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on St. Joseph's.  

The set-up: I think 5-10 Cleveland State brings everything it has this afternoon to try and pull off this upset vs. 9-6 Youngstown State. This is the home opener for Cleveland State as far as Confernece play is concerned, and that's always a big deal. Cleveland State opened up league action by splitting on the road vs. UIC and IUPUI. The Vikings' record though is more indicative of the level of competition they had to play in non-conference action, as those opponents had a combined record of 95-62. Off an 82-80 win over IUPUI, I like Cleveland State to keep the momentum rolling hee at home. 

The pick: And if recent history is any precedence, then the Vikings have to be loving their chances here, as they took both games vs. Youngstown State last season. I'm throwing the revenge factor out the window. That was last year and the Vikings can't afford to take the foot off the gas now after the slow start. The outright is indeed possible in my opinion, but in the end I'll grab the points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on Cleveland State.

The set-up:

The pick:

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Portland Trail Blazers.

The set-up:

The pick:

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Oakland.

The set-up: The Raptors have played better than most thought they would this year without Kawhi Leonard in the lineup. Every night Toronto takes the court it has a target on its back as teams try to knock off the defending champs. Toronto is 3.5 games back of Miami and it comes to town without the services of key figures Pascal Siakam and Marc Gasol. Miami beat Toronto 121-110 in OT back on December 3rd in the lone matchup this year and I think an even bigger blowout is in the cards here at home. Toronto is off a 117-97 win over the Cavs, while Miami enters off a poor 123-105 loss to the lowly Wizards. 

The pick: Note that Toronto is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven in South Beach, while Miami is 9-1 ATS in its last ten after a SU loss. Look for the Heat to play with passion from start to finish after their latest embarrassing effort as they look to kick this injured Raptors team from start to finish.

10* play on the HEAT.

The set-up: I'm not calling for an outright upset here. The 3-9 St. Joe's Hawks though won't be lacking for motivation today as they try to pull off the upset vs. the 10-3 Spiders. Richmond's early record has much to do with strength of schedule. The same can also be said of the Hawks. The Spiders though enter having lost two straight, falling 90-78 to Alabama and then getting crushed at home by Radford 73-58. St. Joes on the other hand comes in off a momentum building 84-69 victory over William and Mary. The Spiders average 76.3 PPG and the Hawks average 71.6. 

The pick: I think it sets up well for the hungry Hawks to keep this one close from a situational stand point, but also note that the Hawks have responded well in this spot from an ATS angle as well, going 6-1 ATS in their last seven as a dog. The Spiders on the other hand are a poor 6-10 ATS in their last 16 after a loss by ten points or more. I look for the Hawks to build off their latest performance and to keep this one much more competitive than what this spread would suggest.

10* UPSET SHOCKER BEST OF THE BEST on St. Joes.

The set-up: Wyoming beat Nebraska Wesleyan 82-68 in its last outing, while Boise State got the better of CSU Northridge on Saturday, winning 103-72. Jake Hendricks had 21 points for the Cowboys in their latest win. I think the lowly Cowboys catch the Broncos complacent here. Boise State has won three straight and I do indeed expect it to get caught looking past its lowly opponent today. 

The pick: The numbers/trends support us as well, as note that Boise State is just 9-12 ATS in its last 21 off a home win by ten points or more, including only 1-3 ATS this year, while Wyoming is 3-1 ATS in its last four off a home victory. I like the improving visiting side to keep this one a lot more competitive than what this spread would suggest.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on Wyoming.

The set-up: I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the Suns. Phoenix just broke its seven-game losing streak vs. the Kings and they now face a desperate Blazers team, which has lost three in a row and which will emabark on tough Western road swing after this contest. For all intents and purposes, this becomes a "must win" scenario for Phoenix. The Blazers defeated the Suns by only one point earlier in the year, so they definitely won't be looking past their opponent today either. 

The pick: Additionally note that Phoenix is a poor 3-9 ATS in its last 12 in trying to revenge a close loss vs. an opponent of three points or less, while Portland is 5-1 ATS in its last six after two or more consecutive losses. I'm laying the points and expecting the home side to risk life and limb from start to finish.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Portland Trail Blazers.

The set-up: Wisconsin Green Bay is 5-9 and Northern Kentucky is 9-4. The Phoenix are the "hungrier" team here and while their defense leaves everything to be desired, they average a whopping 82.7 PPG. Most recently Green Bay fell 90-84 to a tough Wright State team. The Phoenix often play five guards on the floor at once and I think they'll stretch the Norse today, who rely on their play in the paint to score. UNK has won three of its last four after pulling away for a 74-64 win over Milwaukee last time out. 

The pick: I'll point out though that the Phoenix are already 6-3 ATS on the road this season and 6-1 ATS in their last seven after a loss by six points or less. UNK on the other hand is just 4-5 ATS in its last nine as a home favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range and interestingly 0-2 ATS this year vs. poor defensive teams which concede 77 plus points per contest. I think the Phoenix' unorthodox style and high-scoring rate proves to be the difference in this one. That said, let's grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Wisconsin Green Bay.

The set-up: The 1-9 Cornell Big Red are going to slide under the radar here vs. the 10-2 Nittany Lions in my opinion. In their most recent 80-76 loss at Hartford, Cornell was led by Jimmy Boeheim with 26 points. Cornell though is on the brink though, as note that it's lost five games by four points or less and a sixth against reigning Patriot League champ Colgate in a game it led by double digits in the second half. The Lions have won ten in a row and they're perfect at home. But with the New Year's break on the horizon, before conference play starts with a game at home vs. Iowa, I do indeed feel this sets up as a "look ahead" spot for the home side. 

The pick: Cornell is also 4-1 ATS in its last five as an underdog, while Penn State is only 1-4 ATS in its last five off a home win by ten points or more. Grab the points.

10* SHOCKER SPECIAL on Cornell.

The set-up: The Warriors have won three straight games after upsetting the Rockets at home on X-Mas Day as double-digit underdogs, but I think they'll predictably return to mediocrity today vs. this hungry visiting side. Phoenix comes to town desperate to break a seven-game slide. 

The pick: Here is what Steve Kerr said after the X-Mas day win for the Warriors: "We're probably not going to play a bigger game than this all year," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "A national TV game against the Rockets. This game meant a lot to us." Can anyone say "letdown" spot? NOte as well that the Suns are already 4-1 ATS this year off a cover where it lost the game SU as a dog, while GS is only 2-3 ATS this season as a home dog of six points or less. I like the "hungry/desperate" team to find a way to get the job done tonight.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the Phoenix Suns.

The set-up: The Yellow Jackets come in hungry here as they've lost four of their last five over the last two weeks. Overall the Yellow Jackets average 65.6 PPG and allow 67.8. The Warriors had their two-game win streak snapped by Washington last time out. Overall Hawaii averages 71.3 PPG, while coneding 72. 

The pick: Georgia Tech though is 17-8 ATS in its last 25 following a SU loss, while Hawaii is just 7-9 ATS in its last 16 tournament games. Strengh of schedule is the issue here and GT has played a much more difficult one to this point. These early numbers are skewed. Expect a decisive victory from the Power 5 Conference member today and lay the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on Georgia Tech.

The set-up: Houston comes into this game riding a four-game win streak and it's just a 1/2 game behind the Nuggets for the division lead. This latest win streak includes a come from behind victory over the Spurs, followed by victories over the Clippers, Suns and Kings. Golden State has inexplicably won two in a row itself, but I believe the injury depleted home side has a hard time keeping pace with Houston's scoring depth of James Harden and Russell Westbrook on the national stage (note that Harden is 5-2 on X-Mas Day games as well.) 

The pick: Additionally note that Houston is 4-0 ATS in its last four on the road and 9-3 ATS in its last 12 vs. clubs with losing records, while GS is only 11-29-1 ATS in its last 41 following a SU victory. D'Angelo Russell has been decent for GS this season, but I think his lack of scoring help dooms the home side tonight. Lay the points, expect a blowout.

10* BEATDOWN on the Houston Rockets.

The set-up: With a big X-Mas day game on the horizon, I think the visitors get caught "looking ahead." Of course, the 11-19 Pistons can't afford to look past anyone at this point. The 76ers avoided a fourth straight defeat with a win over the Wizards at home last time out, but the Pistons suffered their fourth loss in a row in a disappointing performance vs. the Bulls. Additionally note that the Pistons play with revenge here after falling 117-111 in Philadelphia earlier in the year. On paper the 76ers are the better team, but I believe the situation sets up great for the desperate/hungry home side. 

The pick: The numbers/trends support as well, as note that the visitors are only 4-7 ATS this year vs. teams with losing records, while Detroit is already a perfect 3-0 ATS off a loss by ten points or more to a division rival. This one has "upset" written all over it, but I'll gladly grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Detroit Pistons.

The set-up: Canisius has won three staright in this series, including a 68-62 victory back in March last year. The Golden Griffins are 5-5, but the Saints are just 3-5. All that said, I think the hungry home side finally bounces back here and gets some revenge in this series in a big way at home tonight to open MAAC play. Note that Canisius is only 1-4 in true road contests this season, most recently falling 82-73 at Buffalo. 

The pick: The Saints are a "different" team at home. So far they're 3-0 there this season. Siena comes in with momentum as well after besting Bucnell 81-71 last time out. Finally note that the Saints are 6-1 ATS in their last seven home games vs. a team with a losing road record, while the Golden Griffins are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight vs. teams with a losing SU record. With revenge on their minds and momentum on their side, I like the Saints to dominate from start to finish. Lay the points.

10* MID-MAJOR GAME OF THE WEEK on Siena.

The set-up: The Hawks come in off another loss, but were competitive by covering the spread at home vs. Utah last time out. The Nets return home off a loss to the Spurs, a game in which they led for most of until the final moments when they stumbled and blew it. Atlanta's weakness is on the defensive end, but it looked a lot better vs. Utah most recently and I think it carries that momentum over here. 

The pick: Spencer Dinwiddie is doing everything he can for the Nets this year with Kyrie Irving still sidelined with injury, but note that the Nets have been disastrous in this spot for bettors, going 4-7 ATS in their last 11 as a home favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range, including 0-2 ATS this year. The Hawks conversely have gone a strong 9-4 ATS already this season after three or more consecutive SU losses. In a game which I see coming down to the final moments, I'm grabbin the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Atlanta Hawks.

The set-up: Cal Irvine comes to Illinois Chicago with a 7-6 record. The Flames are the "hungrier" team here in my estimation after starting just 4-8. UIC returns home for the first time in three games, which I believe is going to help it tremendously. UCI though is playing its third straight away from friendly confines and I believe this works against it. UCI comes in off a dishearening 67-61 loss to UTEP in the championship game of the Sun Bowl Tournament on December 17th as well. 

The pick: UIC is fighting hard and will be in a particularly foul mood here after falling 67-66 to Illinois State last time out. Tarkus Ferguson was a bright spot in defeat with 22 points. Not as well that UIC is already 3-1 ATS this season off a road loss, while UCI is only 1-3 ATS in its last four as a favorite. In a contest which I envision coming down to the final moments, I'm grabbing the points.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on Illinois Chicago.

The set-up: I think the Kings come in under the radar here and keep this one competitive until the final moments. Sacramento is just 12-15 on the year, but it's looked a lot better despite a loss to Charlotte last time out. Overall the Kings average 104.7 PPG and concede 107. The Pacers are 19-9 on the year and 12-3 at home. Overall the Pacers average 109.2 PPG and concede 104.2. 

The pick: The Kings can't afford to look past anyone, but would anyone fault Indiana "looking past" their lowly non-conference opponent todayw tih a game at Milwaukee on Sunday, followed by a game at home vs. Toronto on the 23rd (in fact, key players could be rested for the home side here.) This one has "upset" written all over it in my opinion, but I'm grabbing the points in the end.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Sacramento Kings.

The set-up: Hofstra is 7-4 and Princeton is 3-7. Hofstra enters off a win over Stony Brook, after falling by 28 to St. Bonaventure. Overall the Pride average 77.6 PPG, but I think they'll have their hands full from this suddenly surging home side. 

The pick: After a slow start though the Tigers come in off two straight victories, inlcuding a 90-86 OT win over Iona at the inaugural Air Force Reserve Basketball Hall of Fame Invitational at the Barclays Center. NOte that the Tigers are also 7-3 ATS in their last ten following an ATS victory, while Hofstra is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine following a victory and only 1-4 ATS in its last five road games vs. teams with a losing road record. I think the momentum the Tigers are riding is real and I look for them to carry it over for at least one more game. Lay the points.

10* MID MAJOR MAULING on Princeton.

The set-up: I think the 1-5 Marist Red Foxes give the 6-2 Rider Broncos everything they can handle. Marist is only averaging 56.2 PPG, but it's been good defensively in conceding only 62. 

The pick: The Broncs have won four in a row and I think they come in complacent here. On paper clearly Rider is the better team, but I think the situation and the numbers point to the Red Foxes being able to cover with this huge number they've been afforded. Note as well that Marist is a solid 4-1 ATS in its last five off a close road loss by three points or less, while Rider is just 1-3 ATS in its last four as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points. For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on Marist.

The set-up: The Lakers come in off a big 113-110 road win over Miami, handing the Heat their first loss of the year. The Lakers have the best record in the NBA, but with a game at Indiana, followed by a tilt at Milwaukee, then at home to Denver before their X-Mas Day matchup at home vs. the Clippers, would anyone fault the visitors in some small way "looking past" their lowly opponent today? Note that this is a "revenge" game as well for ATL after it fell 122-101 in LA on November 19th as a 15 point underdog. 

The pick: The Hawks can't look ahead or look past anyone on any given night with their 6-20 record. ATL has lost three straight, but note that it's 8-2 ATS in its last ten after three straight losses by ten points or more (and that includes going 2-0 ATS this year.) LA on the other hand is a poor 2-6 ATS in its last eight as a road favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range (including only 1-3 ATS this season.) Grab the points, expect a comfortable cover.

10* PLAY-BOOK on the Atlanta Hawks.

The set-up: CSUN is only 2-8 and the Pacific Tigers are 9-3, but I'm expecting a competitive battle until the final horn. CSUN comes in highly motivated after three straight losses, while Pacific comes in complacent after four straight victories. The numbers on paper firmly favor the Tigers, but as stated above, I think from a situational stand point this one sets up great for the hungry Matadors. 

The pick: Note as well that Pacific is 2-4 ATS in its last six home games, while CSUN is 4-0 ATS in its last four on the road. Pacific is also 0-3 ATS the last three in this series in front of the home town crowd. I think the "hungrier" team will at the very least, keep this one very tight until the final moments. Grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on CS Northridge.

The set-up: The 8-2 San Francisco Dons are at Cal State Fullerton to take on the 3-7 Titans. San Francisco has the much better early numbers across the board, but I think the desperate/hungry home side will give the Conference leader everything it can handle. San Fran comes in off a highly satisfying 76-64 win over Cal and I think it does indeed come in complacent here. 

The pick: Cal State on the other hand will be desperate here to pull off the upset and snap a five-game slide, most recently falling 66-55 to San Diego. San Fran though has struggled in this spot for bettors, going just 5-8 ATS in its last 13 as a road favorite, while Cal State has gone 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 60 points or less in three straight games. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a war until the final horn. 

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Cal State Fullerton.

The set-up: The Hoosiers opened up the season 9-0. Then last week they lost their first Big Ten Game 84-64 to Wisconsin. This is the Hoosiers first home conference game of the year, but I think they'll come out flat here vs. this hungry 4-5 Cornhuskers side. Note that the Hoosiers have only played one ranked team so far, so their win/loss record needs to be taken with a grain of salt in my opinion. Nebraska comes in off a 95-76 loss to a red hot Creighton team, but I think it bounces back here and keeps this one more competitive than what this spread would suggest. 

The pick: Note as well that Indiana is just 8-13 ATS in its last 21 home games following a road conference loss of 20 points or more, while Nebraska is 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games as an underdog of 15 points or more and off of a loss of 15 points or more. For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

10* COACH'S CLINIC on Nebraska.

The set-up: I had a play on the Pacers in their home win over the Celtics two nights ago. I then played against the Celtics last night in their second straight contest, this time at home to the 76ers. Philly won that game and now I think the Pacers will stumble here in similar fashion vs. this desperate Hawks side. Outright upset? Possible, but in a game which I do definitely envision coming down to whichever of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to grab up what I feel to be a generous amount of points. 

The pick: The Hawks give up a whopping 118.8 PPG, but the Pacers aren't blowing anyone away with their offense (Oladipo still sidelined with injury and while Malcolm Brogdon has been decent, offense is still Indiana's weakness.) Where the Pacers excel is on the defensive side, but Trae Young and company's strength is clearly on the offensive side (27.9 PPG average.) Finally note that Indiana is already a terrible 1-5 ATS this year as a road favorite of six points or less, while ATL is already a solid 3-1 ATS this season off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more (Hawks were just humbled in Chicago.) A three game home stretch follows this game for the Pacers, including a high-profile contest vs. the Lakers. I think the visitors get caught looking ahead and I look for the desperate/hungry home side to take advantage. Grab the points.

10* UNDERDOG ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Atlanta Hawks.

The set-up: I had a big play on the Pacers last night and after a back and forth battle with Boston, the home side eventually pulled away and held on for the victory in the final moments. Some could argue that Boston got caught "looking ahead" to this game at home vs. the now division leading 76ers, but I'll argue against that. Just look at the performance of Kemba Walker, who poured in 44 points, with three rebounds and seven assists.

The pick: Philadelphia has been poor on the road and the C's have been fantastic at home this season. But all good and bad things come to an end, and I think the highly motivated 76ers come in and take advantage of this tired Boston team that laid everything on the line last night in Indiana. Note that Philly is 7-3 ATS in its last ten vs. teams with winning records, while Boston is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine in the second game of a back to back following a loss in which it allowed 100 or more points in. The situation highly favors the 76ers here.

10* BEST OF THE BEST on the Philadelphia 76ers.

The set-up: I think this is a non-conference opponent in which K-State will get caught looking past. Alabama State is just 1-7, most recently comign off a 73-59 loss to South Dakota on Monday. Tobi Ewuosho continues to lead Alabama State in scoring at 13.8 points per game, while he is also grabbing a team-high 6.3 rebounds per game. K-State is 5-3, but I think it comes out flat here after it's disappointing 73-65 loss to Marquette on December 7th. In fact, the loss ended a 33-game home winning streak vs. non-conference opponents (in the loss the Wildcats shot a season-low in field goal percentage at 32.3 percent.) 

The pick: Alabama State is 7-2 ATS in its last nine non-conference games following a loss by ten or more points, while K-State is just 4-7 ATS in its last 11 non-conference home games following an ATS home loss. The Wildcats have a ten day break after this game before a home contest vs. St. Louis. Alabama State is right back on the road at Boise State this weekend though. I think the hungry dog keeps this ine competitive late. Grab the points.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on Alabama State.

The set-up: The Celtics have a game tomorrow night at home vs. the 76ers, who took a .5 game lead with last night's win at home over the Nuggets. Indiana though will be the more motivated side in my opinion after losing two of three. Previous to that though the Pacers had won eight of 11. Indiana also lost three of four to Boston in the regular season last year, while also getting swept by the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. Revenge is certainly a motivating factor working in favor of the home side as well. Boston averages 110.6 PPG and it allows 104.7, while Indiana averages 108.8 and it concedes 102.8. 

The pick: Note that Boston is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten off three or more straigth home wins, while Indiana is a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four off an upset loss by ten points or more as a home favorite. I think the C's do get caught looking ahead to their game tomorrow night and I like the motivated and revenge minded home side to take advantage. Lay the point/s.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Indiana Pacers. 

The set-up: Here's another "David vs. Goliath" matchup and while I'm obviously not calling for an outright upset here, I do think that the hungry 1-7 Detroit Titans can keep this one a lot more competitive than what this spread would suggest vs. the 6-3 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. ND looks vulnerable after two straight losses as well. Yes the Irish have beaten up on the "lesser" competition, but it's already lost to heavyweights Maryland, Boston College and North Carolina. Notre Dame is clearly the better team, but the Titans do have a stand-out in Antoine Davis, who averages 23.8 PPG. 

The pick: The Titans have responded well in this spot for bettors as well, going 6-1 ATS in their last seven after scoring 65 points or less in two straight games, while ND is just 11-21 ATS in its last 32 as a home favorite and only 2-5 ATS in all non-conference games alread this season. I like the hungry visiting side to keep this one close down the stretch.

10* play on Detroit.

The set-up: The 9-14 Detroit Pistons are in the Big Easy to take on the 6-17 Pelicans. Detroit's won three in a row, including a victory over the Pacers last time out. New Orleans on the other hand is struggling with consistency, but it clearly won't be lacking for motivation here after eight straight losses. After narrowly getting by the Pacers, I think this does indeed finally set up as a letdown spot for Detroit. Last night I had a play on the Kings and they wound up winning outright on the road vs. the Mavericks. I think this is a similar type situation here, as the Mavericks entered last night's contest as one of the hottest teams in the league and the Kings were desperate for a victory. 

The pick: Additionally note that Detroit is 0-4 ATS in its last four whne playing on two days rest and a poor 1-6-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS victory, while New Orleans is 9-1 ATS in its last ten at home in this series. I think the Pelicans finally get over the hump here vs. a complacent Pistons team that struggles on the road anyways. Lay the point/s.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on New Orleans Pelicans.

The set-up: Interesting to note, this game won't actually be played on the Dukes home court, as the UPMC Copper Fieldhouse is being renovated. Instead its at the Kerr Fitness Center ten minutes away. The Lions won't be lacking for motivation here, as they fell to Bryant, 67-65, on a last-second steal and dunk in Smithfield. Columbia got a career-high 25 points from Randy Brumant, who also had 12 boards and also 22 points from Mike Smith. The Dukes are 7-0 after a 71-58 win over VMI on Wednesday, but I think Duquesne will have its hands full here vs. a Lions team which has plenty of talent to match. 

The pick: Additionally note that Columbia is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog or pick, while the Dukes are just 9-14 ATS in their last 23 as a home favorite or pick. I think the "hungrier" team catches the complacent home side flat-footed and I expect it to comfortably sneak in through the back door once it's all said and done. Grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Columbia.

The set-up: Dallas is looking fantastic behind the play of 20 year old phenom Luca Doncic. Doncic has plenty of talent around him as well, but after yesterday's big win over the Pelicans, I think the home side finally gets caught complacent here. The Kings on the other hand are 8-13 and they're hungry for a victory here after three straight losses. The Kings came close though in their last one, falling 105-104 in OT to the Spurs. 

The pick: Clearly in every respect, the Mavericks are better on than the Kings on paper. But Sacramento remains competitive and it's playing its best ball of the young season right now. Additionally note that the Kings are already 8-4 ATS on the road this year and 6-2 ATS off a road loss. The Mavs on the other hand are just 5-6 ATS at home this season. This one comes down to the wire, so grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Sacramento Kings.

The set-up: I think the 2-5 Thundering Herd can keep this one competitive until the final moments vs. the 6-2 Toledo Rockets. The Herd play with immediate revenge here, as they fell to Toledo 96-70 at home just last week. Marshall then lost to Akron, while Toledo defeated Cleveland State in its last trip to the court. 

The pick: The Rockets have won three straight, but I think they'll have much more of a fight on their hands vs. Taevion Kinsey and the hungry visiting side. I'll point out as well that Marshall has responded well for bettors in a "revenge" role, going 8-2 ATS in its last ten in revenging a loss where an opponent scored 85 or more points. Toledo on the other hand has struggled in this position, going 13-16 ATS in its last 29 as a home favorite or pick, including only 1-2 ATS this season. In a contest which I envision coming down to the wire, I'm grabbing the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on Marshall.

The set-up: EMU is 7-1 and Detroit is just 1-6. Detroit's had a difficult early schedule, while the Eagles have had an easy go of it to open the campaign. Note that three of EMU's four wins vs. D1 teams have come by six points or less. Also note that the Eagles have allowed at least 77 points in each of their last two games. 

The pick: Detroit's first two games of the year came on the road vs. good ACC opponents. The Titans have one of the most dynamic players in the country in Antonie Davis though and I expect this team to finally show up here today. According to the Kenpom.com rankings, EMU has been the "luckiest" team so far this season and I believe that luck finally runs out here vs. this battle tested and extremely desperate home side. Grab the points.

10* MAULING on Detroit.

The set-up: The Central Arkansas Bears won't be going down without a fight here. The Bears come in off back-to-back OT losses, most recently falling 78-72 to Prairie View A&M. Hayden Koval was a bright spot in a losing cause with 20 points and 11 boards, along with three blocked shots. 

The pick: But the Bears are still only 1-6, while the mighty Wichita State Shockers are 6-1. Simply put I believe that the home side goes up big early and then takes the foot off the gas in the second half. The Shockers are off their first loss of the year in a 75-63 setback to WVU in the championship game of the Cancun Challenge. I like the battle tested Bears to keep pace late. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on Central Arkansas. 

The set-up: The Lakers come in off a hard-fought 105-96 win at Denver last night and I believe they'll be hard pressed to keep pace with the hungry and revenge minded Jazz, who return home off a poor road trip which saw them get humbled in LA vs. the Lakers. Utah's always been much better at home and with a night off to prepare for this one, I do indeed believe that from a situational stand point, this one absolutely sets up fantastically for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well though that despite last night's win, the Lakers are still only 4-5 ATS on the road this year. Utah is 0-2 ATS to open December, but note that it's 11-3 ATS in its last 14 after two more straight road losses. The numbers/trends and the overall situation points to a home side blowout here in my opinion.

10* REVENGE ELITE OF ELITE on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: Akron had won seven straight in this series, before Marshall took the last two. The Zips are 5-2 and the Herd are 2-4. Akron is 5-0 at home and it's two road losses have come against Louisville and WVU. Akron is ranked 168th in the country in offensive efficiency, shooting 32.7 percent. Overall the Zips concede just 62.5 PPG. 

The pick: The Herd are hungry for a big win here obviously. So far they're averaging 70.8 PPG, while allowing 73.7. Taevion Kinsey is averaging 14.8 PPG. On paper, Akron would appear to have the advantage. But I think both sides early numbers are skewed somewhat due to the level of competition. I absolutely believe though that Marshall is the "hungrier" team here. I'll point out additionally that the Herd are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 vs. teams with a winning SU record, while the Zips are 0-4 ATS in their last four as a radof favorite. Clearly the outright isn't out of the question, but let's grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Marshall.

The set-up: I think the division leading Mavs get caught looking past their lowly opponent today. This is a revenge game for the home side after the Mavs took the first meeting of the year by a score of 123-116. But after ending the Lakers ten game win streak in LA with a 114-100 road win last time out, I do indeed feel this sets up as a "trap" for Dallas. 

The pick: The Pelicans have been dealing with injury issues since Day 1 this year, which has resulted in the sub-par record. But after five-straight losses, I think their "hunger" is the difference here. Keep your eyes on New Orleans' Brandon Ingram, who leads the team with 25.5 PPG. Additionally note that Dallas is a poor 3-9 ATS in its last 12 off a win by ten points or more as an underdog, while New Orleans is 17-10 ATS in its last 27 in revenging a SU loss vs. an opponent as a favorite. While I wouldn't be shocked by the outright, in the end I'm grabbing the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New Orleans Pelicans.

The set-up: Of course I'm not predicting an outright upset, but I do think that the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what this spread would suggest. Simply put I think the 4-2 Wildcats, who return home for this contest, are going to get caught "looking past" their lowly opponent to their highly anticipated Big 12/Big East battle on Saturday night

The pick: K-State also looks vulnerable here after back-to-back losses to Pittsburgh and Bradley. Note that A&M is 7-2 ATS in its last nine non-conference road games as a 22 point underdog or higher. Grab the points.

10* BEAT-DOWN on Florida A&M.

The set-up: The Wizards are 1-2 on their current four game trip and they come in off a loss to the defensive minded Lakers. The Wizards do allow 121 PPG, but the Clippers more methodical offensive pace works in our favor here considering the large spread the visitors have been afforded in this situation. Despite the defensive ineptitude, Washington remains the highest scoring team in the league as well.  

The pick: LA has plenty of talent and it will be contending for the Western Conference title at the end of the year, but the Clippers return home off a 107-97 loss to the Spurs and I think they'll come out flat here vs. their lowly non-conference opponent. Note as well that Washington is 7-3 ATS as a road dog already this year, while LA is just 7-8 ATS as a favorite. Grab the points.

10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Washington Wizards.

The set-up: Both teams come in off victories. SIU beat UNC Central, while SLU got the better of Boston College. SIU has to be feeling confident here though as it's won three of the last four in this series, including last year's contest 61-56. Overall the Salukis average 63.4 PPG and allow 38.9 percent shooting from the field. 

The pick: Saint Louis averages 72.7 PPG and it's allowing 37.8 percent shooting from the field. Southern Illinois is also 5-1 ATS in its last six after a win by 15 points or more, while Saint Louis is 0-6 ATS in its last six as a home favorite of 12.5 points or more. Grab the points and expect a spirited battle until the end. 

10* HIGH-ROLLER on Southern Illinois. 

The set-up: I like the 2-5 Pirates to pull off the minor upset here, vs. 3-4 James Madison. JMU fell to Coppin State on Wednesday, while ECU was 1-2 in the Bahamas, but now coming into this contest well rested after an extended break due to the travel associated with the Tournament. The Pirates' rebounding is top 100 in the nation and it's kept them in games early. 

The pick: JMU fell 94-78 to Coppin State last time out. The Dukes allow 73 PPG, so the Pirates' offense has a big opportunity here tonight as well. ECU matches up well vs. the Dukes and note that it's 3-1 ATS in its last four when playing with five of six days rest. Conversely note that this is a spot in which JMU has been a disaster for bettors, going just 7-14 ATS as a favorite. While the outright is possible, in the end I'm grabbing the points.

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on East Carolina. 

The set-up: Clearly "on paper" the Clippers are the better team. LA has won seven straight, most recently holding on for a 121-119 victory at Memphis. Winning as a favorite on the road is never easy though and I think the now complacent Clippers finally have a letdown here. The Spurs lost eight in a row before a victory, but they've since dropped two more straight on the bounce. 

The pick: I think LA is as good as it appears to be at the moment, but I definitely do not believe that the Spurs are as horrible as their recent losing streak would indicate. As a situational handicapper (primarily), these are the types of games which I'm constantly on the look out for. San Antonio has a very real shot at winning this one outright in my opinion (note tht LA is a poor 2-5 ATS on the road this season and 0-2 ATS off a road victory, while San Antonio is still 12-6 ATS in its last 18 as a home dog,) but in the end I'm going to grab all the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: USC is 5-1 and Fairfield is 1-4. USC though comes in off its first loss of the year and I think it'll still be mentally caught up on that setback. SDSU ended the Trojans five-game win skein. Overall USC averages 77.5 PPG and it allows 66.5. The Stags are averaging 64 PPG and allowing 70.2. To their credit, the Stags have played some stiff competition, most recently calling to SMU 74-55. 

The pick: Note though that the Stags have been money in the bank for bettors in this spot though already this year, going 4-1 ATS as an underdog (note that they're also 7-3 ATS in their last ten tournament contests.) USC on the other hand is just 17-21 ATS in its last 38 after playing a home game and only 5-6 ATS in its last 11 vs. schools with losing records. I'm grabbing the points.

10* SITUATIONAL BEATDOWN on Fairfield.

The set-up: The Raptors are dominating with Paskall Siakim and Fred VanFleet running the show. Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry are still sidelined with minor injuries, but Toronto just keeps on finding ways to win. Most recently the Raptors dominated their second half game at home vs. the 76ers and pulled away for the 101-96 victory. The Knicks won't be going down with a fight here though as they suffered another slim loss to the Nets last time out, falling 103-101. New York has lost three in a row and four of five. With upcoming games vs. Philly, Boston, Milwaukee and Denver, the Knicks' road ahead isn't getting any easier. 

The pick: Toronto has a game in Orlando on Friday, followed by home contests vs. Utah, Miami and Houston. After its emotional victory over Philly, would anyone fault the home side for looking past their lowly opponent in some small way today? The trends support our theory as well, as note that the Knicks are a sharp 5-1 ATS in their last six as a road dog, while Toronto is a poor 7-11 ATS in its last 18 off a home win vs. a division rival. No outright upset, but decided in the final moments. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the New York Knicks.

The set-up: Niagara won't be lacking for motivation here as it searches for its first win of the season. Most recently NU fell 73-62 to Bryan on November 18th. The Purple Eagles though play six of their next seven on the road, so there's no question that they'll be out to get off on the "right foot" here. They're also desperate to get off the schneid. They came close vs. Stephen F. Austin, shooting 55 percent from the floor for the first time since 2018, while James Towns had 21 points in a losing cause to Bryant most recently. And with tough games vs. Syracuse, Rutgers, Buffalo and St. Bonaventure, the Purple Eagles will be out to score the upset vs. this "lesser" competition. 

The pick: The Fort Wayne Mastadons are 3-5 this year, including 3-0 at home. Their victories come over suspect competition though and note that they're just 1-6 ATS in their last seven after a blowout win by 20 points or more. Conversely note that Niagara is 7-1 ATS in its last eight as a road dog in the 6.5 to 12 points range (including 2-0 this year.) In a contest which I see being decided in the final moments, I'll gladly grab all these points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Niagara.

The set-up: Western Illinois scored its first win of the season in a 113-62 destruction of lowly Central Christian Bible College and while today's opponent is obviously significantly better, I still think the Leathernecks can carry that momentum over here and keep this one a lot closer than what this spread would suggest. Dre' Shawn Allen would go on to lead all scorers with a career-high 17 points in the victory. 

The pick: Ball State is coming off a 100-69 victory over Howard. Note that the Leathernecks won't be intimidated here though, as they have already played another MAC team this year, falling 86-81 to Northern Illinois in a tight affair just last week. Expect a similar final combined score here as well once it's all said and done. Grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Western Illinois.

The set-up: SMU is 4-0 after narrowly getting by Evansville last time out. UNLV is 2-4 after falling to Texas State in its last game. The Mustangs had to hold on for dear life vs. the Purple Aces, prevailing 59-57, but I think they'll have their hands full here today from this hungry UNLV side. Tyson Jolly leads SMU with 18.3 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, but note that the Mustangs commit 15 turnovers a night. 

The pick: Amauri Hardy led the Rebels with 18 points in a losing cause last time out. These team's offensive and defensive numbers are pretty close, but I think UNLV comes in as the "hungrier" team here. SMU is also a terrible 1-5 ATS in its last six as a road favorite (and 0-3 ATS this season as a favorite overall), while UNLV is 4-1 ATS in its last five off an upset loss as a home favorite. For all the reasons listed above, play on the home side.

10* PLAY-BOOK on UNLV.

The set-up: LIU is 1-3 and it starts off the Western portion of its schedule with this game. SDSU is 4-0 and I think it gets caught sleeping on its opponent here. LIU posted its first win of the season on the road Monday , beating Delaware State 92-84. The Sharks had five players score in double digits in the win. I expect the team to carry that confidence and momentum over here. 

The pick: The Aztecs beat in-State rival San Diego most recently. NOte that only two players average in double-digit points for the Aztecs though. SDSU has a stout defense, but I think it'll be tested here by the Sharks' pace. No outright, but this spread is much too large considering the situation. Grab the points.

10* MAULING on Long Island.

The set-up: I think this one sets up great for a competitive matchup. The 76ers have the Heat coming to town tomorrow night, followed by a game vs. the Raptors. If ever this team was going to "look past" an opponent, surely it's the non-conference Spurs who come to town having lost seven in a row. San Antonio will be risking life and limb here to try and reverse its fortunes and while the outright win isn't out of the question in my opinion, I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can in the end. 

The pick: Note that the 76ers are just 1-5 ATS in their last six vs. teams with a losing SU record and 0-4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU victory, while the Spurs are 8-4 ATS in their last 12 off an upset loss as a road favorite. Grab the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: After a big home win over the Pelicans, I think they have a predictable letdown here vs. a Suns team which comes in focussed on the task at hand after a recent scuffling stretch. Note that despite their recent "up tick" in play the Pelicans are still allowing a horrible 118.9 PPG this year. New Orleans is getting promising play from Brandon Ingram of late, but New Orleans' poor defensive play is going to come back to haunt it again here in my opinion. 

The pick: Phoenix has lost three of its last five. It's once brilliant start is going to be firmly in the rear view mirror without a victory here today. Note though that the Pelicans are a poor 3-7 ATS in their last ten vs. clubs with winning SU records, while the Suns are 4-0 ATS in their last four home games vs. clubs with losing road records. Enough is enough. Look for Devin Booker and company to lay the hammer down from start to finish and lay the points. 

10* PLAY-BOOK on the Phoenix Suns.

The set-up: Central Michigan is 4-0, but it faces a stiff test here in this difficult road venue vs. a 1-3 Gophers team which is looking to get its four game home stand started off on the "right foot." Minnesota has faced tough power conference opponents, while the Chips' competition has been suspect. Note as well that despite the sub-par win/loss record, the Gophers already rank high in several team categories, including 37th in 3-pointers made.

The pick: As note above, two of CMU's victories have in fact come over non-Division 1 opposiion. This is also the Chips very first true road game of the year, with all four victories coming on their home floor. Minnesota has a 22-2 lifetime record vs. the MAC and I expect that number to go up by 1 after tonight. And in blowout fashion. The stage is set for a beatdown, so lay the points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on Minnesota. 

The set-up: San Antonio is "desperate" here as it looks to break a six-game slide. However, the Wizards are equally as "hungry" for a victory and they could clearly care less about any of the Spurs' issues. Note. This is NOT the same Spurs of team of year's past. DeMar DeRozan is carrying the load well, but LaMarcus Aldridge isn't getting any younger and I think the the final game of this long and brutal road-trip will see the veteran struggle here. 

The pick: Both teams comes in off losses and each sport similar offensive and defensive numbers. But note that the Spurs are a terrible 17-22 ATS in their last 39 as a road favorite and only 1-8 ATS this season vs. teams which average 106 plus points or more per game. The Wizards and Bradely Beal on th eother hand are 12-6 ATS in their last 18 as a home dog of six points or less. Clearly the outright isn't out of the question, but grab the points as insurance.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Washington Wizards.

The set-up: Princeton is 0-3 and Indiana is 0-4. I think the hungry underdog keeps this one much more competitive than what this spread would suggest. The Tigers were 16-12 last year and they return four of their five starters. Note that outside of a blowout loss to Duquesne, Princeton has been solid overall this year and competitive in all of its losses. 

The pick: Indiana's four wins have come over Western Illinois, Portland State, North Alabama, and Troy. Clearly not murderers row. Last year Indiana was only 19-16 and now it faces its stiffest test so far. Note that the Tigers are 8-2 ATS in their last ten when playing with five or six days rest, while the Hoosiers are only 1-3 ATS in their last four after two straight covers as a double digit favorite. I'm grabbing the points on the desperate Tigers.

10* DESTRUCTION on Princeton.

The set-up: The Suns are starting to stumble and they come in off a poor 99-85 loss to the Celtics, who were playing the second game of a back-to-back, after they lost in Sacramento the night before. The Kings though are trending in the opposite direction in a big way and I believe the books are slow in recognizing the sudden drop off for Phoenix, and the "up-tick" in overall play from Sacramento. Combined with the fact that the Suns are playing the second game of a back to back here, there's no question in my mind that this one sets up fantastically for the Kings. 

The pick: And finally note that Sacramento is 36-20 ATS in its last 56 when trying to revenge a season season loss vs. an opponent, including having already gone 2-0 ATS this year. I'm expecting a blowout from start to finish.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Sacramento Kings.

The set-up: Fairfield is 1-3, but I think it'll sneak in under the radar this evening and post a solid cover. Note that while the Stags have the sub-par record, they've been competitive in every game, as their first two losses were by four points (vs. Bucknell) and two (UMass), then after beating Holy Cross, they fell to Loyola in OT 84-75. Note that Fairfield has veteran experience as well, as its top three scorers are all upperclassmen.

The pick: The Terps have won all three of their opening games by an average of 24 points. Mark Turgeon has a group of players which look poised for a deep run. Anthony Cowan Jr. leads the nightly charge and four others average more than 10 PPG. I never said it would be a cake walk, I simply feel this spread is much too high. Note as well that Fairfield is 4-1 ATS in its last five vs. good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contestw, while Maryland is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after three straight SU home victories. I think the home side takes the foot off the gas in the second half. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on Fairfield.

The set-up: UTSA comes in under the radar and desperate for a spark after starting 0-4. The Aggies are on the other end of the spectrum at 4-0. Clearly on paper this is a massive mismatch, but I think from a situational stand point this one sets up great for the hungry visiting side. 

The pick: And that's because UTSA has a monumental matchup with SEC heavyweight LSU up next! UTSA has an opportunity to comfortably sneak in through the back door here as I don't expect the home side to run up the score here as it gets caught looking ahead. Note as well that UTSA is 3-1 ATS in its last four when playing with seven days rest, while Utah State is just 1-3 ATS in its last four as a home favorite in the 15.5 to 18 points range. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on UTSA.

The set-up: The Spurs are on a five-game losing skid, but the Mavericks just broke a two-game losing streak with a win over the Raptors. Dallas could care less about the Spurs' issues and I think it'll lay the hammer down and try to kick this division opponent while its down. The Spurs let a 15 point lead slip away in their most recent 121-116 setback to the Blazers. Portland was desperate for a spark as well in that one. Spurs' big man LaMarcus Aldridge was exceptional with 30 points and 13 boards, but I have a hard time seeing the veteran mustering up the same energy here in the final game of this gruelling road trip. 

The pick: The Spurs offense has been decent, but their defense has been atrocious, ranking in the bottom quarter of the league statistically. Note as well that San Antonio is just 15-17 ATS in its last 32 as a road dog of six points or less (including 0-2 ATS this year), while Dallas is 3-1 ATS in its last four vs. clubs that allow 106 plus points per contest. No mercy here, look for the Spurs to pack up their tents early and lay the points with confidence.

10* DIVISIONAL GAME OF THE YEAR on the Dallas Mavericks. 

The set-up: Boston is 10-1 and Sacaramento is 4-7. Boston got it's road trip started off with a 105-100 win in Golden State, but with a game tomorrow night against the re-surgent Suns, followed by heavyweights LA Clippers and to finish their trip at Denver, I think Boston finally gets caught "looking ahead" in this classic "trap" game. Also note that Boston could rest players in anticipation of the upcoming grueling schedule.

The pick: The Kings on the other hand will be laying everything on the line here. Sacramento has won five of its last seven and it enters off a tough 99-97 loss on the road to the Lakers. Note as well that Boston is only 1-3-1 ATS in its last five following an ATS victory, while Sacramento is interestingly 6-2-1 ATS in its last nine in this series in front of the home town crowd. Look for the home side to throw everything it has into this game, but make sure to grab as many points as you can as well.

10* COAST-TO-COAST DESTRUCTION on the Sacramento Kings.

The set-up: The Mavericks are going to be in a foul mood here as they've lost three of their last four, including a second straight to the Knicks in the last ten days. A date vs. the defending champs, who have been getting unreal play from Paskal Siakim and Fred VanVleet and while they've won three straight in this series, I believe the defending champs finally get caught flat footed here vs. this determined home side. Toronto beat the Lakers, then lost 98-88 to the Clippers, before then beating the Pacers 114-106 in Portland. 

The pick: I'll point out though that Toronto is just 2-5-1 ATS in its last eight when playing on two days rest, while Dallas is 8-2 ATS in its last ten vs. teams with winning records and 4-1 ATS in its last five after a SU loss. This is Toronto's fifth road game in the last nine days and I look for it come in with "heavy legs" for this one. Lay the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Dallas Mavericks. 

The set-up: Clearly on paper CS Northridge is over-matched here. But I think the 0-3 Matadors can comfortably sneak in through the back door here vs. the 3-0 Auburn Tigers. CSUN's defense has been terrible, but it's offense has been decent. Last time out it lost 94-82 to Pepperdine. Auburn is the 22nd ranked team in the country, but it's yet to face anyone from a major conference yet. 

The pick: Yes the Matadors have lost both road games this year, but note that they're 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 away from friendly confines. Auburn may be 3-0, but it had to hold on for dear life in its 70-69 win over South Alabama last time out. Note as well that CSUN is 3-1 ATS in its last four off a home loss by ten or more points, while Auburn is just 1-3 ATS in its last four vs. teams with losing records. I like the visitors to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on CS Northridge.

The set-up: LBSU comes in battle tested already. This is its third straight road game to open the year and fourth game in nine days. If this were the end of the season then I'd be worried about fatigue, but I believe at the start of the year all of this recent action can only help the 49ers' chemistry in this one vs. No. 18 Saint Mary's. LBSU was destroyed 86-58 at Stanford, but I think it'll play with a lot more confidence here. 

The pick: The Gaels beat Wisconsin to open the year, but then suffered a terrible loss to Winthrop with a buzzer-beater. I think the Gaels come in shell shocked from that loss and it's the foot in the door that the 49ers can use to keep this one competitive late. Note as well that the Gaels are a poor 1-6 ATS in their last seven at home and only 2-5 ATS in their last seven following an ATS loss, while LBSU is 8-1 ATS in its last nine on the road. I'm grabbing the all these points.

10* SHOCKER BLOWOUT on LBSU. 

The set-up: The Knicks beat the Mavericks 106-102 in Dallas last week and I think they have a legitimate shot at doing it again tonight. Dallas plays the final game of a three-game trip and I think it gets caught looking past its lowly non-conference opponent here, despite having just lost to it. Kristaps Porzingis returns to The Big Apple, which once again will be added incentive for the home side. In that victory the Knicks had five players score in double figures and they shot 50 percent from range. 

The pick: Both teams come in off losses, with New York losing at Chicago, and Dallas falling at Boston. Note though that the Mavericks are already only 1-4 ATS this season in non-conference games and a poor 10-17 ATS in their last 27 in revenging a SU loss vs. an opponent as a favorite. I don't think the "revenge" angle works here at all. New York is the "hungrier" team and I expect it to put up a fight at home. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the New York Knicks.

The set-up: The Western Illinois Leathernecks are 0-2. This is the final game of their opening home-stand and I think they're going to lay everything on the line here to secure their first victory of the year vs. the Tennessee Martin Skyhawks, who come in off a 92-75 loss to East Tennessee State on Saturday. UT Martin has three double-digit scorers, led by Quinton Dove. 

The pick: But the Leathernecks also have plenty of talent, including Zion Young, who had 24 points in his team's heart-breaking 77-75 loss to Stetson. I think it's interesting to note as well the Western Illinois is the No. 1 free-throw shooting team in the nation at 93.3 percent thus far. I don't think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular matchup.

10* PLAY-BOOK on Western Illinois.

The set-up: Philadelphia fought tooth and nail last night and barely held on for 98-97 win over the Cavaliers at home and now it has to hit the road to face a Magic team desperate for a spark and hungry to take advantage of a team which could be without the services of scorer Ben Simmons in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. Regardless of whether or not Simmons plays, I think this one sets up great from a situational stand point for Orlando. 

The pick: The Magic were a dark horse for many in the East after last year's great campaign, but at 3-7, clearly Orlando has some work to do. While Orlando has clearly been a disappointment, so to has Philadelphia's performance to this point. The East is wide open and I'm not going to over-react at this point to any of the team's play at this moment. I will however point out that Philly is a poor 2-7 ATS in its last nine after winning a close game by three or less points and playing the second game of a back-to-back, while the Magic are 52-40 ATS in their last 92 after a loss (including 3-2 ATS this season.) I'm grabbing the points, but expecting an outright.

10* DEMOLITION on the Orlando Magic. 

The set-up: Detroit has lost two in a row. The Pistons finally got Blake Griffin back, but they still lost 120-114 to the visiting Wolves last night. Clearly the Pistons are going to get better now that Griffin is back in the line-up, but it's not going to be an instantaneous transformation and playing here on the second game of the back to back isn't going to help either. The Heat enter off a road loss to the Lakers, after laying a beatdown on the Suns in Phoenix. 

The pick: The Heat are one of the best defensive teams in the league right now, allowing just 105.4 PPG. The Pistons are allowing 113.3 and I expect that number to go up here in this difficult road venue. Additionally note that the Heat are 4-0 ATS in their last four following a SU loss, while the Pistons are a poor 1-6 ATS in their last seven vs. teams with a winning percentage above .600. I'm banking on a double-digit rocking-chair victory. Lay the points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Miami Heat. 

The set-up: Troy is 0-1 and it's looking to take out its frustrations here in the second game of a short two-game home stand. The Trojans enter off a 76-75 loss to UAB, a game in which they trailed by 12 points late. KJ Simon set a new career-high, leading all scorers with 21 points on 9-12 shooting. 

The pick: The Chattanooga Mocs are 1-1, losing 79-68 at EKU, before then holding on for a 59-57 win over Tennessee State at home in their second. Transfer Matt Ryan led the way scoring 11 points on 4-14 shooting. Troy is the deeper and more experienced team and I think it lays everything on the line here to secure the victory in front of what should be a record-setting crowd to watch. Additionally note that the Mocs are just 1-7 ATS in their last eight after scoring 60 points or less in their previous contest, while the Trojans are 4-1 ATS in their last five off a cover where the team lost SU as an underdog. For all the reasons listed above, I'm on the home side in this one.

10* DESTRUCTION on Troy.

The set-up: After winning the opener of this tournament, Hawaii was upset at home last night 81-75 by South Dakota. Pacific lost to South Dakota in its opening game of this tournament by a score of 72-62, but it then bounced back in fine fashion with a 76-54 win over FAMU. These teams haven't met since 2013, but I think they're very evenly matched after what I've seen in the early going. 

The pick: Additionally note that Pacific is 17-10 ATS in its last 27 vs. teams with winning records, while Hawaii is only 5-12 ATS in its last 17 non-conference contests. In a game which I see being decided by whichever of these teams has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Pacific.

The set-up: The Spurs come in off a poor effort at home to the red hot Celtics and they'll be eager to erase that performance by handling the Grizzlies in front of the home town crowd. The Grizzlies are looking terrible though, getting shut down recently in Orlando in a poor offensive display, before then coming back home and allowing 138 points to the Mavericks in a loss. Overall the Grizzlies average 108.7 PPG and they allow 120.1.

The pick: The Spurs come in off the 135-115 loss to Boston, but they average 112.6 PPG and allow 112.7. San Antonio is also 7-1 ATS in its last eight after a double-digit home loss, while Memphis is just 1-5 ATS in its last six after an ATS loss. I'm banking on a blowout from start to finish, so lay the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: Houston comes in off a win vs. the Warriors, but I think its inconsistencies on the road comes back to haunt it again here vs. this hungry home side. Chicago has been "hit or miss" early, but it comes in off a big road win in Atlanta and I expect it to keep the foot on the gas here. Besides James Harden and Russell Westbrook, the Rockets get pretty thin after that. 

The pick: Houston's defense is suspect as well after allowing 112 points to an undermanned Warriors squad last time out. Chicago has plenty of young talent and I'm not reading too much into its early poor numbers. Now that the team has had a few games to get acclimated, I think the Bulls' last victory over the Hawks is going to be more indicative of they play moving forward. Additionally note that the Rockets are a poor 11-12 ATS in their last 23 as a road favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range, while Chicago is 16-10 ATS in its last 26 as a home dog in the same points range. In a game which I see coming down to the wire, I'm grabbing the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on the Chicago Bulls.

The set-up: Cal Irvine won its first game on the road, but I think it'll have its hands full vs. Pepperdine, which lost by 16 in its opener to Cal. Irvine barely held on for a 76-73 win over San Diego. 

The pick: The Waves were only down two at half to the Golden Bears, but they weren't able to hold it together in the second half. The Waves finished 16-18 last year, so they'll be desperate for a victory here as they try to get the 2019/20 campaign out to a better start. Note though that the Waves were 9-5 at home last year and they've covered in 13 of their last 19 in friendly confines. I'm banking on the hungry Waves getting back on track here.

10* BLOWOUT on Pepperdine.

The set-up: The Knicks are 1-7 and the Mavericks are 5-2. On paper, of course the Mavericks are the "better" team. However, as primarily a "situational" handicapper I think the desperate Knicks, who have lost four in a row, will give the over confident Mavericks everything they can handle tonight. One bright spot for New York in its last loss in Detroit was that it won the rebound battle 49-40. 

The pick: Facing former team-mate Kristaps Porzingis will only add motivation for the visitors as well. Dallas won 107-106 over the Magic on Wednesday, which was the first time all year that Orlando scored over 100 points. Note as well that New York is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog in the 6.5 to 12 points range, while Dallas is a poor 3-7 ATS in its last ten home games as a home favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range (including 0-2 ATS this year.) I believe the home side goes up early, takes the foot off the gas and I expect the hungry/desperate visitors to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on the New York Knicks.

The set-up: Both teams are 1-0. UNC beat Notre Dame by 11 on Opening Night, managing to cover the spread by a single bucket. Cole Anthony had a massive game for the Tar Heels by dropping 34 points and grabbing 11 boards, but the Seahawks won't be going down without a fight today after they exploded in a 103-83 win over Johnson and Wales. Wilmington is an experienced team and I think that plays favorably for it here. 

The pick: Note as well that UNC is a sub-par 5-6 ATS in its last 11 off a home win vs. a conference rival, while Wilmington is 19-11 ATS in its last 30 as an underdog. Clearly I'm not calling for the outright, but I do absolutely believe the stage is set for a comfortable cover. Grab the points.

10* SUPER SHOCKER on NC Wilmington.

The set-up: Miami enters off a loss to a desperate Nuggets team, but I think its depth and experience will help it pull off the minor upset here vs. the surprising Suns. Phoenix has won three straight and it just handed the 76ers their first loss of the year. Can anyone say "letdown" spot? 

The pick: The Suns have been getting massive production from Devin Booker, but behind him Phoenix is actually pretty thin (Aron Baynes and Kelly Oubre Jr?!). Despite falling to Denver, note as well that Miami is still 52-33 ATS in it last 85 on the road and already 2-0 ATS this year vs. good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest, while Phoenix is a poor 14-18 ATS in its last 32 when playing on two days rest. I'm grabbing the points, but obviously expecting an outright upset.

10* COAST-TO-COAST ULTIMATE ATS BLOWOUT is on the Miami Heat.