5* MAVS/CELTICS GAME 5 MAJOR WAGER

The Celtics could not get the job done in Game 4, but I don't see any other outcome than a big bounce back and a blowout win back home in Boston following Friday's historical 40-point loss. 

I also like the under, as the Celtics did a great job shutting down the Mavs' offense through the first three games of the series, and I expect them to be locked in defensively again. 

5* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

MIKE'S 5* CELTICS/MAVS NBA FINALS G4 MAX BET

We've lost with the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2 and 3 of the series, but I'm not making the same mistake again. They kept it close in the first half last time out, but then the Celtics decided it was time to put them away. Sure, the Mavs made it somewhat close in the end, but not really.

Is there a risk of the Celtics taking the night off to secure the title home in Boston in Game 5 instead? I don't think so, as I think they still have some respect for the Mavs and don't want to let them back in the series. 

5* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

MIKE'S 4* CELTICS/MAVS GAME 3 TOP PLAY

While this is technically not a game for the championship, it might as well be, as there's just no way the Dallas Mavericks will come back from a 0-3 hole.

The Boston Celtics might've swept Indiana in the conference finals, but there were several close games, and they tend to lose focus and play down to their competition. I think the Mavs' desperation and hunger will get them a win in Game 3. 

4* PLAY ON THE MAVS. 

MIKE'S 4* MAVS/CELTICS NBA FINALS GAME 2 TOP PLAY

The Boston Celtics dominated Game 1 of the NBA finals from start to finish, but I expect the Mavs to adjust and come back and put up a better fight tonight. They are 15-8 ATS off after a loss by 10 points or moreand 9-4 ATS after scoring 100 points or less. 

You're never as bad as your worst game, and you're never as good as your best game. I don't think the Celtics can replicate their amazing Game 1 performance, and I doubt the Mavs will come out as flat again. 

4* PLAY ON THE MAVS. 

MIKE'S 4* MAVS/CELTICS G1 NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

I think the Boston Celtics are poised to defeat the Mavericks and cover the spread in the process.

With plenty of rest and time to prepare, they’re physically and mentally ready.

Their home-court advantage, coupled with their standout defense, deep roster, and exceptional form, gives them a significant edge over a Dallas team that has been without home-court advantage throughout the postseason. While that makes their run all the more impressive, it must've also be taxing.

I expect the Celtics to leverage their strengths and postseason experience for a decisive victory.

4* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

5* NBA WEST CONF FINALS GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Minnesota Timberwolves avoided elimination with a 105-100 win in Dallas in Game 4, but they're still under pressure, down 3-1 in the series.

The Mavs shot only 42% from the field last time out, but they were still in the game, and I expect a better performance from them tonight.

From what we've seen so far, taking the points on the Mavs is a no-brainer to me. 

5* PLAY ON THE MAVS. 

MIKE'S 4* CELTICS/PACERS NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

I'm not quite sure what the bookmakers and betting market are thinking, as they refuse to raise the total in this series, but I'm happy to take advantage of what I think is a major mistake!

The over is 5-0 in the last five head-to-head meetings and both teams last five games here in the playoffs. 

Granted, the Pacers will most likely be eliminated tonight, but I don't think they'll go without a fight, and the only way they know how to play is fast-paced basketball. Give me the over. 

4* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

MIKE'S 4* WOLVES/MAVS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

While not technically an elimination game for the Minnesota Timberwolves, it might as well be, as their chances of reaching the NBA Finals would be slim to none if they were to go down 3-0 in the series. They finished the regular season with the best scoring defense in the league, and I think they'll step up the intensity on the defensive end again and make it difficult for the Mavs. 

I like the Wolves to cover the spread in a low-scoring game. 

4* PLAY ON THE WOLVES. 

5* NBA WEST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Dallas Mavericks are in control of the series after claiming Game 1 with a 108-105 win on Wednesday night.

We won with the Mavs in that game, but I expect the Minnesota Timberwolves to make adjustments and bounce back with a strong performance.

While I'm sure the Mavs would love to head back to Dallas with a 2-0 lead, there's a big chance they'll be complacent after securing the first win. 

5* PLAY ON THE WOLVES. 

5* NBA EAST CONF FINALS TOTAL OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Boston Celtics won the opener of the Eastern Conference finals 133-128 in OT, but the game went well over the total before the extra period. The Indiana Pacers are incapable of playing defense, and while this total is a tad higher than Game 1, I don't think the bookmakers have made the proper adjustment yet. 

5* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

5* NBA EAST CONF GAME OF THE MONTH MAX BET

It's a foregone conclusion that the Boston Celtics will represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA finals, and I don't think even this spread will be too much for them to cover here in the opener of the Eastern Conference finals. 

The Indiana Pacers are coming off a gruesome seven-game series against the New York Knicks, while the Celtics have played two five-game series. Indiana's playing style and pace could be its downfall here, as the Celtics are well-rested and, like Indiana, capable of playing fast. 

5* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

MIKE'S 4* WOLVES/NUGGETS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Denver Nuggets got humbled in Thursday's 115-70 Game 6 loss in Minnesota, but I expect them to bounce back with a much better performance at home in Game 7. I have a lot of respect for the Wolves, but this is not their year. 

Nuggets are 18-8 ATS in their last 26 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. Nuggets are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games after scoring less than 75 points in their previous game.

4* PLAY ON THE NUGGETS.

MIKE'S 4* THUNDER/MAVS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Dallas Mavericks hold a 3-2 lead in the Western Conference second-round series, and I like them to cover the spread as they close out the series with a home win tonight. They're coming off a 104-92 win in OKC, and unlike many other teams, Dallas does not usually have a letdown game after a big win. 

Mavericks are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. Thunder are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games as a road underdog. Mavericks are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 home games.

4* PLAY ON THE MAVS.

5* NBA EAST CONF TOTAL OF THE MONTH MAX BET

The Indiana Pacers have started to play defense, and the New York Knicks have, in turn, found ways to slow down the Pacers hectic pace. The last three games in this series have gone under the total, and I expect another relatively low-scoring affair here in Game 6 as the home team looks to fight off elimination. 

Under is 6-2 in Pacers last 8 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Under is 5-2 in Knicks last 7 vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER. 

5* NBA WEST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Denver Nuggets lost the series' first two games, but they have since shown the kind of pedigree that defines champions.

The Minnesota Timberwolves must be devastated after letting a 2-0 lead slip away, and I don't think they'll have an answer tonight either. The Wolves have a lot of talent, and they'll be a force to be reckoned with for seasons to come, but this is not their time. 

I don't think we need the points so I'm happy to take Denver at plus-money. 

Timberwolves are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games as a home favorite. Nuggets are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog.

5* PLAY ON THE NUGGETS.

5* NBA EAST CONF TOTAL OF THE WEEK MAX BET

I still can't believe Game 3 did not go over the total, and I think the bookmakers are making a HUGE mistake with this total. Only a 5-minute scoring slump late in the fourth quarter stopped that game from reaching 230+ points, and I don't see the fast-paced Pacers being able to pace themselves (no pun intended). 

In addition to the over, I also like the New York Knicks to cover the number as they have proven capable of adapting to Indiana's pace. 

Knicks are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a road underdog. Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a straight up loss. Pacers are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games following a straight up win.

5* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

5* NBA EAST CONF ROUND 2 GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Cleveland Cavaliers had the audacity to not only win Game 2 in Boston, but do so in a blowout. The Celtics will have a massive chip on their shoulder, and I think the Cavs will pay the price in Game 3 of the series in Cleveland Saturday night. 

Celtics are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games following an ATS loss. Celtics are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. Celtics are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.Cavaliers are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games following an ATS win.

5* PLAY ON THE CELTICS.

5* NBA EAST CONF ROUND 2 TOTAL OF THE YEAR MAX BET

Defense is not only optional but seemingly not allowed when the Indiana Pacers take the court. We have seen 238 and 251 points, respectively, in the first two games of the series at Madison Square Garden, and I think we'll see more of the same when the series moves to Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Add the fact that the Knicks will be without arguably their best defender, OG Anunoby, and I think we have a solid case for an over. 

Over is 36-16 in Pacers last 52 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5. Over is 7-0 in Pacers last 7 home games. Over is 8-1 in Knicks last 9 games as an underdog.

5* PLAY ON THE OVER.

MIKE'S 4* MAVS/THUNDER NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Oklahoma City Thunder had their way with the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of this Western Conference second-round playoff series, and I think we'll get another dominant performance from the home team in Game 2 tonight. They had a great game plan to stop Luka Doncic, and they're 4-1 SU against Dallas on the season. 

Thunder are 39-18-3 ATS in their last 60 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. Thunder are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home games. Mavericks are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5.

4* PLAY ON THE THUNDER. 

5* NBA EAST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

We lost with the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the series, as while they won the game, they did not cover the spread. Prior to Game 1, I thought the Knicks were a more complete team than the Pacers, but I really like what we saw from the visitors who were in control for most of the game and got hosed by the officials down the stretch. 

I think the Pacers have a good chance of winning this one outright, but taking the points makes more sense in what's likely to be another nailbiter.  

Knicks are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games as a home favorite. Knicks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a straight up win. Pacers are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games as a road underdog. Pacers are 18-6-2 ATS in their last 26 games following a straight up loss.

5* PLAY ON THE PACERS.

MIKE'S 4* MAVS/THUNDER NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Dallas Mavericks are coming off a demanding 7-game series against the Los Angeles Clippers while the Oklahoma City Thunder are coming off a four-game sweep against the New Orleans Pelicans. 

I'm quite surprised to see this low of a number, as the Thunder are the No. 1 seed in the West, well-rested and fully healthy, while the Mavs got banged up in their first-round series.

Thunder are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 home games. Thunder are 25-11-1 ATS in their last 37 games as a home favorite of 0.5-4.5.

4* PLAY ON THE THUNDER.

5* NBA WEST CONF ROUND 2 GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

We lost with the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of the series, but I'm not afraid to back them to bounce back with a win and ATS cover in Game 2. Despite that loss, I still have Denver as the better team and I don't think the Wolves will be quite as hungry after grabbing one in Denver. 

For the season, the Nuggets are 7-1 SU and ATS following a home loss. I find it nearly impossible for them to go 2-0 down in the series, and I expect them to win this one by double-digits.  

5* PLAY ON THE NUGGETS. 

MIKE'S 4* MAGIC/CAVS NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

With a Game 7 between two teams with more upside on the defensive end than the offensive end, I don't think the bookmakers can make the total low enough. 

Under is 9-2 in Cavaliers last 11 First Round games. Under is 5-2 in Magic last 7 First Round games.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

MIKE'S 4* WOLVES/NUGGETS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

I have a ton of respect for this talented Minnesota Timberwolves team who most likely will be a problem in the West for seasons to come, but I'm not sure if they're ready just yet. Their sweep of the Phoenix Suns was impressive, but now they'll face a Denver Nuggets team that has winning mentality and postseason experience in abundance. Sure, they looked sluggish in their series against the Lakers, but still won 4-1. 

The Wolves went 3-1 ATS in the four regular-season meetings, but the Nuggets won 116-107 in the very last one here at Ball Arena on April 10. 

4* PLAY ON THE NUGGETS. 

5* NBA EAST CONF TOTAL OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Milwaukee Bucks are still alive in the series following a 115-92 win in Game 5. They were without  Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, both listed as doubtful for this game, but figured out how to stop the high-scoring Pacers on the defensive end. 

I expect them to stick to the same game plan in Game 6, and Indiana does not strike me as a team that adapts well. 

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER. 

MIKE'S 4* MAVS/CLIPPERS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The series is tied at 2-2 following a 116-11 Clippers win on Sunday. Both teams have won one at home and one on the road, and I like the Mavs to bounce back with a win and cover as a road favorite in LA here in Game 5. 

Mavericks are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Mavericks are 15-6 ATS in their last 21 road games. Clippers are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games following an ATS win. Clippers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

4* PLAY ON THE MAVS.

MIKE'S 4* HEAT/CELTICS NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The last two games have seen just 188 and 190 points, respectively. I think we'll see another low-scoring affair as the Boston Celtics look to wrap up the series with a win as a double-digit favorite. 

Under is 8-2 in Celtics last 10 vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Under is 6-1 in Celtics last 7 playoff games as a favorite. Under is 6-1 in Heat last 7 playoff games as an underdog.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

MIKE'S 4* PACERS/BUCKS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The banged-up Milwaukee Bucks have had no answer to the Indiana Pacers, who have won three straight since losing Game 1 of the series. The Pacers have scored 125, 121, and 126 games, and they have major incentives to close out this series before the Bucks get healthy. 

4* PLAY ON THE PACERS. 

5* NBA WEST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

I don't see how this series will end any other way than with a gentleman's sweep for the Denver Nuggets. Sure, they've looked far from dominant in this playoff series, but I expect them to come through with a complete outing after taking a 119-108 loss in Game 4. They had won 11 straight meetings with the Lakers prior to that loss, and I love the situational trends: 

Nuggets are 17-7 ATS in their last 24 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. Lakers are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

5* PLAY ON THE NUGGETS. 

5* NBA WEST CONF ROUND 1 TOTAL OF THE YEAR MAX BET

I expected much, much more from the Phoenix Suns in this series. On paper, they have all the talent needed to make some serious noise in the post-season.

The Suns' stars have failed to gel as a team, though, and they have found it difficult to compete against a Minnesota Timberwolves team that is holding opponents to an NBA-best 106.3 points per game. 

Now down 3-0 in the series, I think we'll see the Suns' stars getting even more desperate and, as a result, take even worse shots, leading to a low-scoring game in which the Wolves should have an edge. 

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER.  

MIKE'S 4* BUCKS/PACERS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Milwaukee Bucks won the opener of this playoff series, but it's been all Indiana Pacers since and I like the Pacers to win and cover here in Game 4.

The Pacers won by three points in OT as a 6.5-point home favorite in Game 3, but the bookmakers are still making them an even bigger favorite in this game, which says a lot, IMO. 

The banged up Bucks have been without Giannis Antetokounmpo for the past six games, and now Damian Lillard is listed as doubtful and Khris Middleton listed as probable. 

4* PLAY ON THE PACERS. 

MIKE'S 4* THUNDER/PELICANS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The New Orleans Pelicans will. more or less, be fighting for their playoff life here after dropping two games in OKC, but I like the Thunder to win as a short road favorite at Smoothie King Center. The Thunder have won six of the last seven head-to-head matchups outright, while going 5-2 ATS, so they are clearly a bad matchup for the Pelicans. 

Pelicans are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Thunder are 37-18-3 ATS in their last 58 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

4* PLAY ON THE THUNDER. 

5* NBA WEST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Dallas Mavericks are coming off a 96-93 win in LA, and I don't see them giving up the precious homecourt advantage right away. 

Mavericks are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home games. Mavericks are 11-3 ATS in their last 14 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Clippers are 5-15 ATS in their last 20 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

5* PLAY ON THE MAVS.

5* NBA EAST CONF ROUND 1 GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

I expect to see a fired-up and desperate Philadelphia 76ers team after dropping two games in New York. They're significantly stronger at home at Wells Fargo Center than on the road, and this is a must-win game for the Sixers, as going down 0-3 would be devastating.  

76ers are 7-0-1 ATS in their last 8 home games. 76ers are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up loss. Knicks are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 playoff games as an underdog.

5* PLAY ON THE 76ERS.

MIKE'S 4* PELICANS/THUNDER NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a good spot to back the Oklahoma City Thunder to bounce back with a big game after just barely getting a win in Game 1.

That loss must be deflating for the Pels, who must feel like that was their chance to steal one in OKC.

I stand by what I said in my Game 1 analysis, that these two teams are a lot closer in skill than the seeds would suggest, but the situation warrants a play on the Thunder. 

4* PLAY ON THE THUNDER. 

5* NBA WEST CONF ROUND 1 GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Los Angeles Clippers opened the series with a dominant wire-to-wire win, but the bookmakers are still making the Dallas Mavericks are road favorite here in Game 2. I agree with that as I expect a big bounce back game from the Mavs while the Clippers are at risk at coming out overcondident following their big win.

Mavericks are 9-3 ATS sa favorites off a loss of more than 10 points. Mavericks are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 road games. Clippers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

5* PLAY ON THE MAVS. 

5* NBA EAST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Cleveland Cavaliers won the opener of this series 97-83, and I don't think the Magic will be able to keep this one close either. The Cavs are 7-2 SU and 6-2-1 ATS in the last nine meetings and they've been reliable as home favorites this season. 

5* PLAY ON THE CAVS. 

5* NBA WESTERN CONF GAME OF THE MONTH MAX BET

The Los Angeles Clippers have the higher seed and, as such, homecourt advantage in this battle between the No.4 and the No.5 seed in the West, but I, much like the bookmakers, make the Mavs the better team.

That the Mavs are a road favorite here in the opener of this series is quite telling, and I don't think they'll let us down.

Clippers are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Clippers are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Clippers are 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 playoff games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5. Mavericks are 21-6 ATS in their last 27 games as a road favorite.

5* PLAY ON THE MAVS.

5* NBA EASTERN  CONF TOTAL OF THE WEEK MAX BET

This is a low total, and if we combine the spread with the total the bookmakers project the Celtics to win 111.5 - 97.5.

I think Heat will score 100+, but I'm still not sure that will be enough to cover the number; the Celtics are an offensive juggernaut that has scored 130+ points in back-to-back games while barely breaking a sweat.

Over is 5-0 in Celtics last 5 games as a favorite of 11.0 or greater. Over is 4-0 in Heat last 4 games as an underdog of 11.0 or greater.

5* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

MIKE'S 4* SUNS/WOLVES NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The No. 3 seed, the Minnesota Timberwolves, finished the regular season with the better record, but the Phoenix Suns won all three meetings. Much like the bookmakers, I have Phoenix as the better team, and I think they'll start this series with a bang. 

Timberwolves are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 home games. Timberwolves are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

4* PLAY ON THE SUNS. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Miami Heat are one of the most well-coached teams in the league, and they always show up in the playoffs. The betting market overvalues the Chicago Bulls following their dominant win over an Atlanta Hawks team that is well below playoff material. I'll gladly take Miami to cover this short number. 

4* PLAY ON THE HEAT. 

5* NBA EAST CONF PLAY-IN GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Philadelphia 76ers have had their season ruined by injuries, but we've seen just how dangerous they are when healthy down the stretch. They are a top 3 team in the East IMO, and while the Miami Heat are a feisty bunch, I don't think they'll stand a chance in this matchup and might need to give up on this early to save energy for the second-chance game against the winner of Chicago Bulls vs. Atlanta Hawks.  

5* PLAY ON THE 76ERS. 

5* NBA WEST CONF WILD CARD GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Sacramento Kings are stumbling into the postseason with only two wins in their last seven games, and now they're coming up against a Golden State Warriors team that is much better than its No. 10 seed would suggest.

The playoffs always bring out the best of Steph Curry, and he's also great at elevating his teammates. 

The last three meetings were all decided by one point, but I think the Warriors will run away with this one. 

5* PLAY ON THE WARRIORS. 

MIKE'S 4* PACERS/CAVS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a good spot to fade the Indiana Pacers following three consecutive wins. In their last game, the Pacers put a 140-123 beating on Toronto, but they are only 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games following a straight up win and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

The Cleveland Cavaliers had lost three on the bounce before their 110-98 win over the Memphis Grizzlies Wednessday night. They'll be looking forward to close out the regular season with two home games, and they are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games as a home favorite of 0.5-4.5.

4* PLAY ON THE CAVS. 

5* NBA EASTERN CONF TOTAL OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Boston Celtics have had the No. 1 seed in the conference locked up for quite some time, and their only focus for now is to stay healthy, so they're unlikely to fight hard on the defensive end. 

The New York Knicks will be fired up as they push for the No. 2 seed in the East, and they are coming off back-to-back 120+ point games.

Over is 8-3 in Celtics last 11 overall.

5* PLAY ON THE OVER.

5* NBA NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

This looks like a good spot to fade the Dallas Mavericks, who are in a potential flat spot following a 130-104 win in Charlotte last night, their fourth win and cover in a row. The Miami Heat will also play on short rest following a 117-111 win in Atlanta Tuesday night, but they have the homecourt advantage. 

Heat are 13-6 ATS in their last 19 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Heat are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 0 days rest. Heat are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5.

5* PLAY ON THE HEAT.

MIKE'S 4* MAGIC/ROCKETS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a favorable spot to back the Houston Rockets to end a five-game losing streak.

They're catching an Orlando team in a potential letdown spot following its 113-98 win over the Chicago Bulls last time out. 

Rockets are 18-7-2 ATS in their last 27 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.

4* PLAY ON THE ROCKETS. 

MIKE'S 5* NCAA TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONSHIP GAME BEST BET

The defending champions, the UConn Huskies, are the first team since North Carolina (2016, 2017) to play in back-to-back title games. They're perfect 5-0 SU in their previous five title game appearances.

Both teams are perfect against the spread in the NCAA tournament this year, but I make the Huskies an even bigger favorite for this matchup than the bookmakers do. 

5* PLAY ON UCONN. 

5* NBA NON-CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Oklahoma City Thunder are 44-32-1 to the over for the season, and I expect them to give us a strong effort on the offensive end tonight following a 126-112 loss to the Indiana Pacers in their last game. 

Over is 21-7 in Thunder last 28 games following a straight up loss. Over is 8-2 in Thunder last 10 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. Over is 9-2 in Thunder last 11 road games vs. a team with a losing home record. Over is 6-1 in Hornets last 7 games as an underdog.

5* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

5* NBA WESTERN CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans are heading into Sunday with almost identical records, but the Pels are going through a slump and coming off four consecutive losses.

The Suns on the other hand are gearing up in time for the playoffs, and they're 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5.

The Pelicans are 11-25-1 ATS in their last 37 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

5* PLAY ON THE SUNS. 

5* NCAA TOURNAMENT FINAL FOUR TOTAL OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Alabama Crimson Tide have scored 89 points in back-to-back games, but tonight they'll face a UConn Huskies team that has held its last two opponents to 52 points each, and its last four opponents to 58 points or fewer. The Huskies will dominate the game and control the tempo, and I expect them to make this a relatively low-scoring affair. 

Under is 4-0 in Huskies last 4 NCAA Tournament games. Under is 6-1 in Huskies last 7 games as a favorite of 7.0-12.5. Under is 9-4 in Crimson Tide last 13 games as an underdog of 7.0-12.5.

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Philadelphia 76ers have been heating up as they've been getting healthier, but they still have to make up ground to avoid the play-in tournament.

The Sixers are a lot more dangerous than their current 8th-seed would suggest, and I think they'll make light work of a Memphis Grizzlies team that will play on short rest following a 108-90 win over the Detroit Pistons last night.

Additionally, the Grizzlies are in a potential letdown spot after three consecutive upset wins. 

4* PLAY ON THE 76ERS. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Boston Celtics are coming off three straight double-digit wins, and I think they'll keep pressing the pedal to the metal when they host the Sacramento Kings Friday night. The Kings will play on no rest and fatigue was already an issue yesterday when they fell apart in the second half of a 120-109 loss to the Knicks in New York. 

Celtics are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 home games. Celtics are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games as a favorite of 11.0 or greater. Celtics are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. Kings are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 0 days rest.

4* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The over/under is 1-4 in the last five meetings and the under is 35-16-1 in Rockets last 52 vs. a team with a winning straight up record and 8-3 in Warriors last 11 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER. 

5* NBA NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

This looks like a good spot to back the New York Knicks to bounce back from three consecutive losses while at the same time fading a Sacramento Kinsg team that is coming off a pair of double-digit wins. 

Knicks are 16-7 ATS in their last 23 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5. Knicks are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up loss. Kings are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games following an ATS win. Kings are 4-13-1 ATS in their last 18 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

5* PLAY ON THE KNICKS. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a good spot to fade the Cleveland Cavaliers following their 129-113 win in Utah Tuesday night.

The Cavaliers are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning straight-up record, and they'll face a Phoenix Suns team that'll play in front of their hometown crowd for the first time since March 21.

The Suns are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games following a road trip of 7 or more days and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5.

5* PLAY ON THE SUNS. 

5* NBA NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH MAX BET

This looks like a great spot to back the Cleveland Cavaliers to bounce back from a humbling 130-101 loss to the Nuggets in Denver. Tonight they'll take on a far easier opponent in a Utah Jazz team that is coming off a 127-106 loss in Sacramento and is winless and 2-7 ATS in its last nine games. 

Cavaliers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. Jazz are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Jazz are 1-11 ATS in their last 12 games following a straight up loss of more than 10 points.

5* PLAY ON THE CAVS.

5* NBA WESTERN CONF TOTAL OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The New Orleans Pelicans and the Phoenix Suns are coming into the week in sixth and eighth place, respectively. With both teams in need of wins down the stretch, I think we'll see a low-scoring game of playoff character when they clash on Monday night. 

Under is 21-6 in Pelicans last 27 games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5. Under is 5-1 in Suns last 6 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game.

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

5* NBA EAST vs. WEST TOTAL OF THE MONTH

The Minnesota Timberwolves are holding opponents to an NBA-best 106.2 points per game on the season, but I think the bookmakers have set the total way too low for this Sunday night matchup with the Chicago Bulls. 

Over is 4-0 in Timberwolves last 4 vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Over is 8-0 in Bulls last 8 vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

5* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

MIKE'S 4* SIXERS/RAPTORS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Philadelphia 76ers are dealing with injuries, but they're still a much stronger team than the Toronto Raptors and I expect to see a focused and motivated Sixers team tonight as they look to end a three-game losing streak. 

76ers are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games as a favorite of 11.0 or greater. Raptors are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as an underdog of 11.0 or greater. Raptors are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Raptors are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games as a home underdog.

4* PLAY ON THE SIXERS.

5* CBB TOURNEY ELITE 8 GAME OF THE YEAR

Both teams are coming into this NCAA Tournament West Regional final matchup off impressive upset wins against the top-two seeds in the Sweet 16, but I like the Alabama Crimson Tide to be the team to move on to the Final Four. 

Clemson defeated Bama 85-77 in Tuscaloosa in November, but that was part of a rough five-game losing streak for the Tide, who are in a much better position now.  

Bama scored 89 points on UNC last time out, and their 90.7 points per game is the best scoring average in the nation. Clemson has won as underdogs three times in the tournament, but this is where the Tigers run comes to an end. 

5* PLAY ON ALABAMA. 

5* NBA EASTERN CONF GAME OF THE MONTH

This looks like a great spot to fade the Atlanta Hawks who are coming off back-to-back double-digit upset wins over the Boston Celtics. The Milwaukee Bucks, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from losses to the LA Lakers and the New Orleans Pelicans.

Hawks are 9-19 ATS in their last 28 games as an underdog. Bucks are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games as a road favorite of 5.0-10.5.

5* PLAY ON THE BUCKS. 

MIKE'S CBB TOURNEY SWEET 16 GAME OF THE YEAR

The Tennessee Volunteers are 2-12-2 ATS in their last 16 NCAA Tournament games as a favorite of 0.5-6.5 while the Creighton Bluejays are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 neutral site games as an underdog and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

The Vols have an edge of the defensive end, but they made only 33.8% of their shots when they knocked out Texas in the last round while Creighton has a lot of scoring threats.

5* PLAY ON CREIGHTON. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a fantastic spot to fade the Charlotte Hornets, who are coming off a 118-111 win as a 9.5-point underdog to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Since the All-Star break, underdogs off a win as an underdog are only 14-31 ATS, and the Warriors are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games as a road favorite of 11.0 or greater.

4* PLAY ON THE WARRIORS: 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a good spot to fade the San Antonio Spurs following their upset win as a 12-point underdog to the Phoenix Suns on Monday.

The Spurs are 7-15 ATS in their last 22 games following a straight up win, and they'll face a Utah Jazz team looking to snap back from a 115-105 loss to the Dallas Mavericks.

The Jazz are 19-9-2 ATS in their last 30 games following a double-digit loss at home and 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5.

4* PLAY ON THE JAZZ.

5* NBA WESTERN CONF TOTAL OF THE WEEK

The Los Angeles Lakers will play on short rest following a 128-124 loss to the Bucks in Milwaukee last night.

Tired legs typically equal high-scoring games for the Lakers, who are 8-0-1 to the over in their last 9 games playing on 0 days rest.

The Memphis Grizzlies are coming off a 128-103 loss to the Denver Nuggets, and they've allowed 118 points or more in four of their last five games. 

5* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

MIKE'S 4* MAVS/KINGS NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY (10:00 PM)

The Sacramento Kings will play on short rest following a 108-96 win over the Philadelphia 76ers and they have held their last five opponents to an average of 102.4 ppg. The Dallas Mavericks have also been feisty on the defensive end of late with only 105, 107, 97 and 105 points allowed through their last four games. 

Under is 5-1 in Kings last 6 games as a favorite. Under is 55-27 in Mavericks last 82 games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

5* EAST vs. WEST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK

This looks like a great spot to fade the Miami Heat who are in a potential letdown spot after blowing the doors off the Cavs on Sunday while at the same time backing the Golden State Warriors to rally after back-to-back losses. 

Heat are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games as a home underdog. Warriors are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up loss. Warriors are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games following an ATS loss. Warriors are 14-4 ATS in their last 18 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

5* PLAY ON THE WARRIORS. 

5* WESTERN CONF GAME OF THE WEEK 

The Minnesota Timberwolves are coming off a 104-91 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, but I would not be surprised if they lost outright when hosting the Golden State Warriors Sunday night. When fully fit, the Wolves would have a massive advantage in the paint, but that will not be the case for this game. Karl-Anthony Towns is sidelined, and Rudy Gobert is listed as questionable. Additionally, Anthony Edwards is also listed as questionable while the Warriors are coming into the game at full strength. 

The Warriors will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 123-111 loss as a home favorite over the Indiana Pacers. Warriors are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games following a straight up loss, 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games following an ATS loss, and 14-3 ATS in their last 17 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

5* PLAY ON THE WARRIORS.

5* WESTERN CONF TOTAL OF THE YEAR MAX BET

On Thursday, the Utah Jazz lost 113-97 to the Mavs in Dallas. They have scored 100, 104, 107, and 97 points in their last four games, all of which went under the total. 

The Houston Rockets have been involved in high-scoring affairs lately, but note that the under is 14-6 in the Rockets' last 20 Saturday games.

Additionally, the under is 38-17 in the Rockets' last 55 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game. This situation applies to this contest as they're coming off a 127-117 win over the Chicago Bulls.

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER. 

5* NCAAB TOURNAMENT ROUND OF 32 GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The Kansas Jayhawks barely scraped past Samford in a tight game on Thursday, and they've not looked quite right for some time. The Gonzaga Bulldogs, on the other hand, were as dominant as ever in their 21-point win over McNeese State. I see no reason why we wouldn't back the team that looks the part in this matchup. 

Bulldogs are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 neutral site games as a favorite. Jayhawks are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 neutral site games as an underdog. Jayhawks are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

5* PLAY ON THE GONZAGA BULLDOGS.

5* NBA EASTERN CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Celtics beat the Pistons 119-94 in Boston on Monday and followed that up with a 122-119 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.

The Pistons are coming off a 122-103 loss to the Pacers, and I don't see how they can keep it close against a Boston team that clearly has no intentions of slowing down or likely to look past any opponent. 

Celtics are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games as a favorite. Celtics are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games as a favorite of 11.0 or greater. Celtics are 18-7-2 ATS in their last 27 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

Pistons are 9-23-1 ATS in their last 33 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

5* PLAY ON THE CELTICS.

MIKE'S 4* UAB/SDSU CBB TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The UAB Blazers are coming off an 85-69 victory over Temple in the AAC tournament championship game on Sunday, but today they'll face a much tougher opponent in the San Diego State Aztecs, who will be looking to gear up again following a string of disappointing results.

The Aztecs went on a huge run in the tournament last year to reach the national title game, and I think they're a much stronger team than their recent results suggest.

4* PLAY ON SAN DIEGO STATE. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

Both teams are hot and coming off convincing wins, but I like the New Orleans Pelicans to come through with a win as road favorites when they visit the Orlando Magic Thursday night. 

Magic are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games as a home underdog.Magic are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5. Pelicans are 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games as a favorite.

4* PLAY ON THE NEW ORLEANS PELICANS.

5* NBA EAST vs. WEST GAME OF THE MONTH MAX BET

The Toronto will be playing on long rest following a 111-96 loss to the Magic in Orlando on Sunday, but they're still dealing with a ton of injuries, and with a 1-9 SU and 2-8 ATS record in their last 10 games, clearly a team in tanking mode. 

The Sacramento Kings, meanwhile, are eyeing the postseason. They are 35-17 ATS in their last 52 road games vs. a team with a losing home record and 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games as a road favorite, while the Raptors are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

5* PLAY ON THE KINGS. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Dallas Mavericks are coming off a 107-105 win over Denver, and the under is 18-6 in the Mavs last 24 games following a straight up win.

The San Antonio Spurs lost 122-115 to Brooklyn their last time out, but they have mostly been involved in relatively low-scoring games lately. 

Under is 10-2 in Spurs last 12 home games and 16-6-1 in Spurs last 23 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER. 

5* NBA EAST vs. WEST GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

I like the red-hot Houston Rockets to come through with another big win when they visit the Wizards at Capital One Arena Tuesday night.

The Wizards lost 130-104 to the Boston Celtics a couple of nights ago and are 0-5 ATS in their last five games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game.

The Rockets are coming off an impressive 117-103 win over Cleveland. They are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games overall and 11-4-1 ATS in their previous 16 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

5* PLAY ON THE ROCKETS. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Sacramento Kings took a 98-91 loss to the Knicks on Saturday. I expect to see more points when they host the Memphis Grizzlies Monday night. The Grizzlies have one of the worst scoring averages in the league and they play solid D, but I expect the high-paced Kings to drive up the tempo. 

Over is 28-12 in Kings last 40 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5. Over is 5-1 in Grizzlies last 6 games as a road underdog.

4* PLAY ON THE OVER. 

5* NBA EAST CONF GAME OF THE WEEK MAX BET

The Boston Celtics are coming off a 127-112 win over Phoenix on Thursday. They're 8-2 SU and ATS in their last 10 games and outscored their opponent by 10 points or more in all wins. The Washington Wizards are 2-8 SU and 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games and were outscored by 10 points or more in all but one of the losses. 

The Celtics will play on two days of rest, while the Wizards will play on no rest following their 127-98 win in Chicago last night. This game has a major blowout written all over it. 

Celtics are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 2 days rest. Wizards are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 0 days rest.

5* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

5* SEC TOURNAMENT CBB GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

I like the Auburn Tigers to win and cover when they clash with the Florida Gators in the SEC Championship game on Sunday. Auburn has been heavily favored throughout the tournament, this is the lowest number they've been asked to cover, while Florida was an underdog to Alabama in the quarterfinals and a short favorite over Texas A&M in the semis. 

Florida won the first meeting of the season on Feb 10, but that was in Gainesville. I think Auburn's edge on the defensive end is too much for Florida to handle. 

5* PLAY ON AUBURN TIGERS. 

MAX BET ALERT - 5* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK

The Memphis Grizzlies have had their season ruined by injuries, and they've been particularly limited offensively. Defensively, they've been doing just fine, holding opponents to a respectable 112.2 points per game (9th). 

Under is 36-17-2 in Grizzlies last 55 home games. Under is 9-4-1 in Grizzlies last 14 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 5-2 in Thunder last 7 games as a favorite.

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

MIKE'S 5* ATLANTIC 10 TOURNEY GAME OF THE YEAR MAX BET

The VCU Rams won 73-69 when they hosted the St. Joseph's Hawks on Feb 25. I think we'll see an even tighter game when they clash in the Atlantic 10 Championship Semifinal Saturday afternoon. The feisty Hawks are coming off wins as 2-point and 2.5-point underdogs against George Mason and Richmond, respectively, and their 3-point shooting will be a big problem for VCu to solve.

5* PLAY ON ST. JOE'S. 

MIKE'S 4* NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The San Antonio Spurs have played reasonably well on the defensive end lately, with 113, 112 and 103 points allowed through their last three games. The Denver Nuggets are more than capable of running up the score if they want to, but I think they'll be satisfied just to do enough to get the win.

Under is 16-5-1 in Spurs last 22 overall. Under is 7-1 in Spurs last 8 games as a home underdog. Under is 22-8-2 in Nuggets last 32 games as a road favorite. Under is 7-1 in Nuggets last 8 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

MIKE'S EARLY 4* MISS STATE/TENNESSEE CBB TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Mississippi State Bulldogs came into the SEC Tournament on a four-game losing streak, but they opened the tourney with a 70-60 win over LSU. I think they can keep it somewhat close here against the Tennessee Volunteers, who enter the tournament Friday night. 

Volunteers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 neutral site games as a favorite. Bulldogs are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 neutral site games.

4* PLAY ON MISSISSIPPI STATE. 

MIKE'S 4* KNICKS/BLAZERS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The New York Knicks are coming off a 106-79 knockout of the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Knicks are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 road games vs. a team with a losing home record and the Portland Trail Blazers and their 10-23 home record fits the bill.

4* PLAY ON THE KNICKS. 

MIKE'S 4* OHIO STATE/IOWA CBB TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Iowa Hawkeyes are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games as an underdog and 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

The Ohio State Buckeyes are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up win of more than 20 points.

4* PLAY ON OHIO STATE. 

TOTAL OF THE YEAR ALERT - 5* NBA EAST v WEST MAX BET

The New Orleans Pelicans have played lockdown defense lately, holding each of their last four opponents to 103 points or fewer and two of those opponents to sub-100 points. They'll have fresh legs as they've been off since Sunday, and the under is 17-6 in Pelicans last 23 games playing on 2 days rest. 

I expect the Cleveland Cavaliers to bounce back with a strong defensive effort after allowing 120 and 117 points in their last two games. Under is 5-2 in Cavaliers last 7 games as a road underdog. Under is 5-2 in Cavaliers last 7 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. 

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER. 

MIKE'S KANSAS STATE/TEXAS CBB TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Texas Longhorns defeated the Kansas State Wildcats 62-56 on Feb 19, and I think they'll get the win and cover when they clash in the Big 12 Tournament Wednesday night.

Kansas State closed out the regular season with a win as an underdog against Iowa State, but was otherwise inconsistent down the stretch while the Longhorns were 3-0-1 AST in their last eight games, with three outright wins and the lone loss as an 8-point underdog at Baylor. 

4* PLAY ON TEXAS. 

MIKE'S 4* BUCKS/KINGS NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Milwaukee Bucks have the second-best scoring offense in the league and the Sacramento Kings are hardly known for their grit on the defensive end with 117.9 points per game allowed (23rd). 

Over is 17-4-1 in Kings last 22 vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Over is 8-1 in Kings last 9 games playing on 1 days rest.

4* PLAY ON THE OVER.

MIKE'S 4* PACERS/THUNDER NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Oklahoma City Thunder are currently the No.1 seed in the West, and they're showing no signs of slowing down. They're coming off a dominant 124-93 win over the Memphis Grizzlies to improve to 35-16-1 ATS in their last 52 games as a home favorite. Additionally, they're 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5. 

The Indiana Pacers defeated the Magic 111-97 on the road in their last game, but they're 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games following a straight up win and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

4* PLAY ON THE THUNDER. 

MAX BET ALERT - 5* OKST/UCF BIG 12 GAME OF THE MONTH (12:30 EST)

I like the UCF Knights to win and cover the spread against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the Big 12 Tournament Tuesday afternoon. The Cowboys are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss while the Knights are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following an ATS win.

5* PLAY ON UCF. 

MIKE'S 4* WARRIORS/SPURS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a fantastic spot to back the Golden State Warriors to avenge a 126-113 loss as a double-digit favorite against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. That was about as bad as we've seen the Warriors this season, and while they'll still be without Steph Curry (ankle), there's enough talent on this side to destroy a team like the Spurs if they want to, and I expect the motivation to be there for this game. 

Warriors are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 road games. Warriors are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Spurs are 6-14 ATS in their last 20 games following a straight up win.

4* PLAY ON THE WARRIORS. 

MIKE'S 4* NETS/CAVS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Brooklyn Nets are 6-19-2 ATS in their last 27 games as an underdog and 6-18-2 ATS in their last 26 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

The Cleveland Cavaliers headed into the weekend as the 2nd seed in the East with their 41-22 record and defeated the Nets 118-95 in Brooklyn last month. 

This looks like a tough spot for the Nets who are in the middle of a five-game road trip and will play on back-to-back nights on the road. The Nets are 0-6-1 ATS on the season when playing on 0 days rest as underdogs. 

4* PLAY ON THE CAVS. 

MAX BET ALERT - 5* SPURS/WARRIORS NBA GAME OF THE WEEK

The Golden State Warriors won 118-112 when they hosted the San Antonio Spurs back in November, but I think they'll win this game by a bigger number. The Spurs played the Sacramento Kings close in a 131-129 loss Thursday night, but that might come at a price as consistency has been an issue for the Spurs all season.

The Golden State Warriors are looking to bounce back from a 125-122 loss as an 8.5-point favorite against the Chicago Bulls.

Warriors are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Warriors are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games as a favorite.

5* PLAY ON THE WARRIORS. 

ACC GAME OF THE YEAR ALERT - 5* UNC/DUKE MAX BET

The Duke Blue Devils and the North Carolina Tar Heels are coming into the weekend with identical 24-6 records, but I like Duke to win and get the cover as a home favorite. 

Blue Devils are 9-0 ATS in their last 9 games as a favorite. Blue Devils are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Tar Heels are 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games as a road underdog. Tar Heels are 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games as a road underdog of 0.5-6.5.

5* PLAY ON DUKE.

MIKE'S 4* WOLVES/CAVS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like a tough spot for the Minnesota Timberwolves who are on the second leg of a back-to-back situation following a 113-111 win in Indiana last night. They'll face a Cleveland Cavaliers team looking to bounce back from a loss to the Hawks in Atlanta on Wednesday night. 

Cavaliers are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5. Cavaliers are 8-3 ATS for the season facing an opponent that is playing on 0 days rest. 

4* PLAY ON THE CAVS. 

MIKE'S 4* CELTICS/NUGGETS NBA TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Boston Celtics are as per usual your regular season champions while the Denver Nuggets are quite happy to just make sure they're one of the top teams in the West. I expect to see the Celtics give 110%, especially after having an 11-game winning streak end with a 105-104 loss in Cleveland Tuesday night. 

4* PLAY ON THE CELTICS. 

MAX BET ALERT - 5* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK

We saw 235 points with a closing total of 238 when these two teams clashed back in November. The Sacramento Kings average a healthy 118.0 ppg on the season (8th), but that number drops when they're on the road and  I think this will be another relatively low-scoring affair. 

Under is 14-3 in Lakers last 17 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Under is 43-21-1 in Lakers last 65 games as a home favorite of 0.5-4.5. Under is 19-7 in Kings last 26 games as a road underdog of 0.5-4.5.

5* PLAY ON THE UNDER.

MAX BET ALERT - 5* NBA GAME OF THE WEEK

Neither the Dallas Mavericks nor the Indiana Pacers are playing well at the moment, but I like the Dallas Mavericks to bounce back with a solid outing tonight after losing to the Sixers as a 7.5-point favorite in their last game. The Mavs are 7-1-1 ATS off a loss as a favorite and the Pacers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games.

5* PLAY ON THE MAVS. 

MIKE'S 4* PELICANS/RAPTORS NBA TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The New Orleans Pelicans have seen their last five games go under the total and they are 9-4-1 to the under in their last 14 vs. a team with a losing straight up record. The under is 9-2 in Raptors last 11 games as a home underdog.

4* PLAY ON THE UNDER.