Miami Heat.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 509.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

It’s no secret that Miami took the first three games of this series, only to drop Games 4, 5, and 6. Game 6, we did see Jimmy Butler and company come to life, playing a lot more competitively than the two previous matchups. We all know the statistics that in 150 times teams were down 3-0, never, and I mean never has a team come back to win a seven-game series. Miami doesn’t want to be the butt of all jokes my friends. I expect them to come in here very competitively, fight for every loose ball, and crash the boards like they did in the first few meetings of this round. On the other side of the spectrum, the Heat can also make history themselves. They can be only the second team in the ever to make the NBA Finals as the number eight seed. If you recall, games 1 and 2 of this Eastern Conference Finals series were played at the TD Garden and Miami won both. They have also covered 15 of their last 21 meetings played in Boston, 11 of their last 15 games played on one days rest, five of their last seven games played following a straight up loss, five of their last seven games played on the road, and 11 of their last 15 games played overall. Take the points with the Heat. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Slam Dunk Top-Rated GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 549.

5:30 p.m. PST/8:30 PM EST.

After taking the first three games of the Eastern Conference finals, on Wednesday, the Miami Heat were outhustled and outplayed, losing to the Boston Celtics, 116-99. Obviously, the Celtics are a very good team folks. However, this long season has taken its toll on them. They went six tough games with the Hawks in the first round, and seven very physical matchups with the 76ers in the second round. Everything did go right for Boston in Game 4. However, Miami is a very good team also. And they match up very well with a Celtics. The Heat also know that if they allow their opponent to get another win here tonight, they can easily let this series slip away. There is another item also my friends. The Denver Nuggets closed out the Western Conference Finals over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday. So, every day that the Eastern Conference Finals continues, the Heat be allowing the Nuggets to get another day of rest, another day to heal, and another day to prepare for them. I do expect Boston to show up here once again tonight at home. However, giving Miami this many points is a huge mistake. Boston is 2-5 ATS their last seven games played following a straight up win, 2-5 ATS their last seven games seven games played versus teams with winning record, 1-4 ATS their last five games played on one days rest, 2-5 ATS their last seven games play at home, and 1-4 ATS their last five Conference Finals games. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

WESTERN CONFERENCE GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 532.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Very simply, the Denver Nuggets are a better team than the Los Angeles Lakers. I know these two teams have split out (both straight up and against the spread) four meetings this season. But let’s face it, when the Nuggets play at the Ball Arena, their game rises to another level. Overall, on the season they are 40-7 straight up at home. Not only that, but they’ve covered 23 of their last 32 games played as host. Let’s face it, the Lakers lose a little bit of their luster when they travel, as they are just 22-25 straight up away from home this season. Moreover, for our purposes, they’ve only covered one of their last five outings played as a visitor. By the way, Denver won and covered both meetings against Los Angeles this season at the Ball Arena. Having said that my friends, the Nuggets also come in here a bit better rested, having had an extra day off to rest, heal, and prepare. Furthermore, they have played three less contests this postseason than did the Lakers. Especially, with that tough, fast-paced series Los Angeles just came off of going six full games with Golden State. I believe they are going to come in here a little tired, especially come the second half. They will run out of gas. To make things worse for L.A., Denver is more accurate from beyond the arc, and overall, from the floor. They also come into this matchup possessing the league’s top-ranked defensive rebounding unit. This means Los Angeles will not get as many second-chance shots as they are accustomed to getting. The Lakers have only covered one of their last seven meetings played in Denver. Meanwhile, Denver has covered five of their last six games played on three or more days rest, 11 of their last 15 games played versus teams with a winning record, and six of their last eight games played following a straight up win. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Los Angeles Lakers.

Game 550.

7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST

Up 3-2, Los Angeles cannot afford to allow Memphis to tie this series up. Playing at the Crypto.com Arena certainly benefits the Lakers, as they have covered four consecutive meetings against the Grizzlies on their home court. What furthermore prompts me to side with them here in this game 6 matchup is the fact that they were absolutely humiliated in Game 5 on the road, 116-99. That was an embarrassing loss. And that’s something that does not sit well with King James and company. Whether you love him or love to hate him, LeBron James is one of the most successful postseason players in the history of the NBA. He wins when it counts. Memphis has won just one of their last six games played on the road, seven of their last 22 road games played versus teams with the winning home record, none of the last six games played following a straight up win, and just three of their last seven games played overall. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Minnesota Timberwolves.

RD 1 GOY.

Game 513.

7:30 PM PST.

Coming into the postseason healthier than your first-round opponent means a lot. There is no question the Timberwolves enter today’s Game 1 matchup with the Nuggets with a bit of a healthier edge. Not only that, but something else I put a lot of stock in going into the playoffs, is momentum. Minnesota has won four of the last five games straight up, covering all five of those outings. They also come in here a little fresher. Denver has not taken the floor since the ninth of the month. And has only won two of the last seven outings straight up. The Timberwolves have covered six of the last seven meetings overall. And going back a bit 24, of the last 31 matchups played in Denver. They have also covered five of the last six games played on the road. This is way too many points to give a very game team that comes in here healthier and riding some momentum. Take the Timberwolves. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

NBA Finals Game of the Year.

Game 520.

5:00 pm pst. 

My friends, make no mistake of it, Boston dominated Game 1. They came in with a game plan, executed it, and took a very crucial road victory. Well, Golden State desperately needs to win Game 2. Not only to even up to series, but to establish their presence in this matchup. This isn’t the “due-for” factor or the “zig zag” theory. This is logic. The Warriors have not lost back-to-back games this postseason. As a matter fact they have not dropped two games in a row in over two months. In the series opener, Golden State only shot 44% overall from the floor, 42% from beyond the arc, and only went to the free-throw line 15 times, making 11 out of 15 free throws. They also allowed Boston to put up 120 points. That has only happened twice this entire postseason. And they faced some very good offenses. You can expect both teams to be basically at full force in this match up. Anyone that can suit up and play, will suit up and play. Having said that, look for the Warriors to make their shots on offense, play a little more physically, go to the line and make their free throws, and do what they do defensively. And that is to frustrate opponents’ offenses. There is no way Steve Kerr, Steph Curry and company will drop a second game at home and go down two games to zero in the series. They are also 5-1 against the spread the last six games played following a straight up loss, 4-1 against the spread the last five games played at the Chase Center, and 5-2 against the spread the last seven games played overall. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

NBA Finals Game 1 Winner.

Game 518.

6:00 pm pst.

There is no question both of these teams belong here. But there are certainly more than a few advantages on the side of the Warriors. First of all, they’re playing at home where they sport a 39-10 SU record this season. They have also covered four straight at the Chase Center. Next, they had a few extra days to rest, heal, and prepare for the Championship series. And lastly, which I feel is the most important, this is a whole different monster of an opponent than the Celtics have faced in the playoffs. In the first several rounds, Boston had to deal with very good opponents. But each of the opponents have one main player they had to contain. That is not the case here. Golden State is chock-full of talent. And they can beat you both inside and out. Not only that, but an enormous amount of the Celtics success comes in transition. They are excellent in transition. However, they will not have that same opportunity here in this match up with the Warriors. Golden State owns one of the nastiest, most frustrating, and well-disciplined defenses in the NBA. They can swarm you man-to-man, they can play zone, they are excellent on the boards, they can steal the ball, they can create turnovers, and they can force a lot of mistakes. There is one more major factor here in the first game of the NBA finals that significantly benefits the Warriors. Their players have a lot more postseason experience. They don’t rattle very easily in big game situations. Obviously, the Celtics have played well. They got to the Finals. But they certainly have some cracks and the Warriors can and will exploit those cracks. Boston is 2-5-1 against the spread the last eight games following a straight up win. Golden State is 5-1 against the spread the last six games overall. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk Game of the Year.

Game 563.

6 pm pst.

 Taking Game 1 and 2 of this series at home, the odds makers are looking to beat you here. But we aren’t going to fall for the trap as the Warriors have won and covered three straight in the postseason. Their frustrating defense along with their very deep, talented, and experienced bench and crafty team, is just too strong in the series for Dallas to handle. Giving them points here is a huge mistake. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Western Conference Finals Game of the Year.

Game 539.

6 PM PST/9 PM EST.

I’m not looking to take away anything from the Golden State Warriors series win over the Memphis Grizzlies. But their opponent was without superstar Ja Morant for a few contests. The Dallas Mavericks got better as the series with the Phoenix Suns progressed. Their offense was on-fire while their defense really stepped up to hold the Suns powerful “O” intact the last several games. The Warriors are an excellent team and certainly deserve to be here. However, the Mavericks own a frustrating defense overall and particularly from beyond the arc where Golden State excels. Looking at the health of both teams, Dallas is quite a bit healthier as they’re only listed injured player is Hardaway Jr. On the other hand, the Warriors have several guys, significant cogs in the wheel, that will be missing here or at the very least, banged-up. This was evident recently where they struggled to cover the spread. They are just 3-5 their last eight games against the spread these playoffs. They haven’t exactly been blowing away opponents. On the other hand, The Mavericks covered four of their last five coming into the Western Conference Finals. And this season have had their way in this Conference rivalry winning and covering three or four meetings with Golden State. Going back a bit, they are 6-1 against the spread the last seven meetings in Golden State and 7-3 the last 10 overall meetings with Golden State. The Warriors are 0-5 against the spread the last five games played following a straight up wind. This is way too many points to give the very scrappy, Dallas team. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 565.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Very simply, Dallas is just playing better basketball than Utah. They started the series very competitively without their superstar, Luka Doncic. Yes, in his first game back they dropped the game, but they still played very competitively as the forward was getting his sea legs. Well, Game 5 had a much different outcome. The Mavericks blew away the Jazz 102-77 to give them four consecutive covers in this series. Without question Utah has a lot more pressure on them here. They play in front of their home crowd who is used to them not succeeding in the postseason. That will weigh on their shoulders during this matchup. And less pressure, momentum, and having Doncic on the floor and healthy, there is no question in my mind that the Mavericks win this game. Throw into the mix that Donovan Mitchell is a little banged-up and that spells DOOM for Utah. The Mavericks are 4-0 against the spread the last four meetings at the Jazz, 4-0 against the spread the last four games played on the road, and 20-8 against the spread the last 28 games played versus teams with a winning record. Take Dallas. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

SD play.

Game 536.

6:30 pm pst.

With The series tied 2-2, Dallas doesn’t just want this victory here tonight, they need it. It seems as though the Mavericks, which have covered Games 2, 3, and 4, have the recipe for frustrating Utah. As everyone knows, star forward, Luka Doncic returned in Game 4. Don’t overthink the fact that when he finally got back on the floor that the team lost. He really didn’t get into a rhythm until just before the half. That would concern me more than anything if I were the Jazz. Dallas has covered four of the last five matchups in this rivalry at home and eight of the last nine overall. This is an issue for Utah, as they are not a strong road team. They are also not very good in the role of an underdog or when playing on just one days rest. They sport a 6-19-1 against the spread mark the last 26 games played on the road, an 0-4 against the spread mark the last four games played as an underdog, an 1-9 against the spread mark the last 10 games played on one days rest. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Las Vegas Strip Move Game of the Month.

Game 523.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

Up 3-0, Golden State can get some extra rest by putting Denver here away as their next matchup will be between the Memphis/Minnesota winner. That series is tied 2-2. The Warriors haven’t just won every game in this series, they’ve won each one with ease. And for us sportsbettors, they have covered all three as well, winning by an average margin of 13.6 points per game. The Nuggets aren’t just losing this series, they have a dropped the last four overall straight up. And they have also dropped seven of the last nine against the spread. Denver is just simply way in over their heads here as they have failed to cover the last five meetings with Golden State, 18 of the last 24 games played at home, and the last five played as a home underdog. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Golden State.

NBA 1st RD GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 573.

7:00 pm pst.10:00 pm est.

It’s no coincidence that when Golden State started getting healthy, they started winning games. Not only have they won seven in a row straight up, they are also 7-1 against the spread the last eight. Of course, this includes Games 1 and 2 of this series thumping Denver by 16 and 20-points. The starting five of Curry, Poole, Thompson, Wiggins, and Green are enough to give any opponent nightmares. Throw into the mix the fact that their bench has been stepping up as well, and this is one outstanding basketball team. Denver doesn’t have neither the starters nor do they have the depth to compete in this matchup. Please understand this, with superstars like Curry and Middleton now healthy, the Warriors can post 120-points on any team in the NBA. However, you may not realize that for most of the season several of their big-name players were sideline with injuries and yet they still ranked third in the league on “D” and top-five in every major defensive category. Now they are at full strength and if you can believe it are getting better with each game. The Warriors are 4-0 against the spread the last four meetings with the Nuggets and 31-12 against the spread the last 43 Conference Quarterfinals games. The Nuggets are 1-5 against the spread the last six games played at home and 0-4 against the spread the last four games played as a home underdog. Take Golden State. Thank you.

Raptors.

LVSM.

Game 521.

3:00 pm pst.

Sports fans, Toronto has been locked into this seeding for quite a while now. So, the Raptors enter the postseason very well rested. Not only that but they start the playoffs red-hot, winning 14 of the last 18 game straight up and covering 12 of those 18 outings. To add to their advantages, this team is one of the few participating in the postseason that are at full strength, with no injuries. They can certainly match Philadelphia in scoring and are significantly better on the boards. And in my opinion, that is where this game will be won. The 76ers have several players that are still out and a few more that are a little banged up. Therefore, rotating fresh legs is not in the cards for them. And for us who wager on games, they have failed to cover seven of the last nine overall entering this matchup. Speaking of matchups, Toronto has taken three or four straight up in the series this season while covering all for meetings with Philadelphia. They are also 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played on the road, 4-1 against the spread the last five games played as an underdog, and 5-1 against the spread the last six Conference Quarterfinal games. Take the Raptors. Thank you.

Atlanta.

EC GOM.

Game 586.

4:40 pm pst.

Both teams here are hoping for playoffs appearances. Currently the Cavaliers are seventh in the East. Atlanta, at the moment is in tenth and they are trying to catch an eighth-place Brooklyn team and a ninth-place Charlotte team. Both played last night as a Cavaliers took a 120-112 loss at home against the Mavericks while the Hawks visited Oklahoma City and beat the Thunder, 136-118 to give the team their third consecutive win and cover. They had a short plane ride home for today’s matchup. The Cavaliers have been bitten badly by the injury bug. Allen has been out for a while joining Rondo, Wade, and Sexton. However just added to the injured list is center, Evan Mobley. Now with him out this team seems like they just can’t score at all. They have failed to cover six in a row and nine of the last 11 outings. As a matter fact, they lost and failed to cover the two most-recent meetings with Atlanta, coming at the end of December and mid-February. And that was when they were at full strength. The last few weeks the Hawks have taken it to another level winning eight of the last 11 straight up. This is a team that is back at to where they used to be, dominating opponents on their home court, where the Hawks are 13-6 against the spread the last 19 games played at the State Farm Arena. Cleveland’s numbers are just horrible as they are 0-7 against the spread the last seven games played on zero days rest, 5-11 against the spread the last 16 games played following a straight up loss, and 2-6 against the spread the last eight games played on the road. Look for superstar, Trae Young to once again light up the Cavaliers as he has accounted for 35 and 41 points in the last two meetings. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Raptors.

EC GOM.

Game 529.

5:10 pm pst.

If you’re concerned that Toronto played last night in Philadelphia, don’t be. This is a team that’s 10-4 against the spread the last 14 games played on zero days rest. Personally, I believe the wrong team is favored here. Yes, I know Chicago has won covered five of the last six meetings in this rivalry. But the Raptors are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, winning and covering six of their last seven outings. The Bulls continue to disappoint, losing and failing to cover three straight. As a matter fact, they are on a 2-8 straight up run, only covering one of those last 10 games. The fact that Fred VanVleet rested last night tells me he will play here tonight (check status) and the team seriously wants this victory. Toronto will look to send a message to the rest of the Eastern Conference to the teams that are currently ahead of them in the seeding. They are 6-0 against the spread the last six games played on the road, 5-0 against the spread the last five road games played versus teams with a winning home record, and 4-0 against the spread the last four games played versus teams with a winning percentage above .600. Chicago is 0-7 against the spread the last seven games played following a straight up loss, 8-19 against the spread the last 27 home games played versus teams with a winning road record, and 2-5 against the spread the last seven games played on two days rest. Take the Raptors. Thank you.

Phoenix.

NBA FINALS GOY.

Game 502.

6:05 pm pst.

Phoenix enters the Finals much fresher. Despite the WCF and the ECF both going six games, the Suns, which finished their series four days before the Bucks, had a much easier time with the Clippers than the Bucks did with the Hawks. Word is that Giannis Antetokounmpo (check status) “if” he plays, certainly won’t be 100%. This changes the entire offense and hurts Milwaukee significantly in transition. Keep in mind, although both regular season meetings were won my one-point, the Suns still won and covered both. They are a stronger team now than they were in February and March. The fresher legs, with the smarter coach, with the frustrating defense will come out here in Game 1 and win and cover. The Bucks are 1-6 ATS L7 meetings with the Suns and 3-9 ATS L12 as an underdog. The Suns are 4-0 ATS L4 on three or more days rest and 8-3 ATS L11 as a home favorite. Take Phoenix. Thank you.  

Atlanta hawks.

ECF GOY.

Game 561.

5:35 pm pst.

This is just too many points to give a well-coached, smarty and scrappy, Hawks team that ousted the 76ers in the last round. Milwaukee has gotten by with luck. We have seen the Bucks commit countless mental errors, turning the ball over, getting flustered, and missing crucial shots from the FT line. They are very similar to the 76ers. Look for the sharper, better-coached, and the frustrating Hawks squad to out smart and outclass the 76ers here. Atlanta is 12-3 ATS L15 at Milwaukee, 4-1 ATS L5 on the road, and 10-4 ATS L14 overall. Take the Hawks. Thank you.

Suns.

WCF GOY.

Game 536.

12:35 pm pst.

Both teams are without superstars. Kawhi Leonard and Chris Paul are both out here. Both have missed a significant number of games this season. But this isn’t the regular season. Leonard is the teams top-scorer, one of their best rebounders, and their floor general. While Paul is a solid contributor, the Suns possess a few solid guards that will fill on and not affect the squad. The Clippers have only had one day to rest and prepare for the Western Conference Finals following a grueling, six-game war with the Jazz. Phoenix did away with Denver in a four-game sweep and have rested for about a week. The Suns have the offense and the defense to overwhelm the tired Clippers team. Not to forget they are on a seven-game win and cover streak. Take Phoenix. Thank you.

Celtics.

Game 531.

4:35 pm pst.

Boston can not afford to fall down two games to none in this series. The Celtics own a very strong defense and giving them nearly double digits here is a gift. They are 9-4 ATS L13 on the road, 6-0 ATS L6 on two days rest, and 7-3 ATS L10 as a ‘dog. Take Boston. Thank you.

Knicks.

Game 502.

4:05 pm pst.

New York is the NBA’s best ATS team this season and have won and covered all three meetings with Atlanta in 2021. At home, they are money, winning 11 of their last 12 SU, and going 9-3 ATS. The Hawks have trouble when traveling, failing to cover their last five on the road. The swarming, top-rated Knicks defense will frustrate the Hawks here and allow their stars, Randle and Barrett to shine. Atlanta is 0-6-1 ATS L7 vs. New York. New York is 16-5 ATS L21 as a home favorite. Take the Knicks. Thank you.

Trailblazers.

Game 511.

7:35 pm pst.

Portland has covered all three meetings with Denver this season. They are 10-2 overall their last 12 games SU, going 9-3 ATS, beating some of the NBA’s best. As good as the Nuggets offense is, the Blazers score more, are better from both the FT line and from downtown. The back court of Lillard and McCollum are one of the most talented in the NBA. They do outclass the Denver guards and will penetrate the paint against their big men. The Trailblazers are 4-0 ATS L4 meetings with the Nuggets and 7-1 ATS L8 as an underdog. The Nuggets are 1-4 ATS L5 vs. teams with a winning record and 1-6 ATS L7 on three or more days rest. Take Portland. Thank you.

Clippers.

Game 510.

1:35 pm pst.

The well-rested stars of the Clippers will shine here. Both teams success relies upon their big men. Forwards, Doncic and Porzingis (47.8 PPG, 16.9 RPG) represent Dallas while Leonard and George (48.1 PPG, 13.1 RPG) lead Los Angeles. The Clippers are far stronger overall on both ends of the court on the boards. But, this game will come down to the No.1 three-pt shooting and FT shooting squad of LA terrorizing Dallas from beyond the arc and making most of their shots from the line. The Mavericks are 4-9 ATS L13 vs. the Clippers and 5-11 ATS L16 playoff games as an underdog. The Clippers are 40-19 ATS L59 following a SU loss and 20-5-1 ATS L26 on three or more days rest. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Knicks.

VI MOVE.

Game 524.

10:10 am pst.

New York wants this win. They win here and Miami loses tonight, the Knicks avoid the Bucks in the first round of the playoffs. Charlotte has lost three in a row SU and seven of their last 10. NY’s top-ranked defense in PA, FG%, and 3-PT% is playing superbly and will completely shut down the Charlotte “O”. All this while Randle and Barrett continue to shine. The Hornets are 2-5 ATS L7 in New York, 1-5 ATS L6 as a ‘dog, and 0-5 ATS L5 on the road. The Knicks are 35-15-1 ATS L51 overall, 20-7 ATS L27 as a favorite, and 8-2 ATS L10 at home. Take New York. Thank you.

Wizards.

VI MOVE.

Game 502.

4:10 pm pst.

A very angry and motivated Wizards team will come in here today looking to destroy the Cavaliers. Washington could have clinched a spot in the play-in tournament on Wednesday. Instead, they squandered a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter of a 120-116 heartbreaking loss to Atlanta. They catch a Cleveland team in “let down” mode here. It took nearly three weeks and 11 straight defeats, but the Cavaliers finally got a win Wednesday surprising Boston. Bradley Beal is out. But the star has missed 11 games in 2021 and the squad still ranks third in the league in scoring (116.6 PPG). The Wizards won and covered both meetings with the Cavs, by an average of 19.0 PPG. Look for Russell Westbrook to continue his stellar run. Cleveland is 7-21 ATS L28 on the road, 1-6 ATS L7 following a SU win, 15-36 ATS L51 on one days rest, and 15-31-1 ATS L52 overall. Take the Wizards. Thank you.

San Antonio.

VIM.

Game 575.

5:10 pm pst.

Miami is banged-up., But, the absence of Victor Oladipo will be the nails in the coffin here. San Antonio has won three in a row and five of the last six, both SU and ATS. The Spurs are also one of the few NBA teams that have a better road record (18-10) then at home (13-19). Look for the backcourt of DeRozan and Murray (37.1 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 12.4 APG combined) to take this game over. The Spurs are 6-2 ATS L8 at the Heat and 4-0 ATS L4 as a road ‘dog. The Heat are 2-5 ATS L7 on one days rest and 7-18-1 ATS L26 following a SU loss. Take San Antonio. Thank you.

Spurs.

TEN DIMES PLAY.

Game 507.

5:10 pm pst.

San Antonio is vying for one of the last two play in spots in the West. The winner of today’s game will earn the head-to-head tiebreaker. The Spurs are hot, winning and covering three of their last four while the Pelicans are 1-4 their last five both SU and ATS. Defense will get San Antonio the outright victory here (held three of last four opponents to 94 or less points). They have covered the last four meetings in New Orleans and the last four overall meetings as well. They are also 5-1 ATS L6 as a visitor. New Orleans is 1-5 ATS L6 on one days rest, 0-4 ATS L4 following an ATS win, and 1-4 ATS l5 as a favorite. Take the Spurs. Thank you.

Denver.

VIM.

Game 549.

7:10 pm pst.

Since Jamal Murray went down, Denver has won three in a row SU (2-1 ATS). The Nuggets depth and talent is solid. They face a Portland team that has lost seven of their last 10 SU (4-6 ATS). Look for the Nuggets to pick apart the Blazers from beyond the arc while dominating the boards. Denver is 6-1 ATS L7 in Portland. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Phoenix.

VIM.

Game 511.

5:10 pm pst.

Yes, the Bucks are the highest scoring team in basketball. But, facing the frustrating, 4th ranked defense of the Suns, is going to be a tough task. Especially because Phoenix also has some scorers that will light up the erratic Milwaukee “D”. The Suns are 5-1 ATS L6 vs. the Bucks, 4-1 ATS L5 as a ‘dog, and 13-3 ATS l16 vs. teams with a winning percentage over .600. Take Phoenix. Thank you.

Phoenix.

TRP.

Game 528.

7:10 pm pst.

Phoenix, which sits atop the Pacific Division at 32-14, possess the NBA’s No.3 ranked defense. And with Chicago’s top-scorer, Zach LaVine hampered by an ankle issue (still slated to play, check status) the Suns will completely shut down the Bulls here. Chicago is a mess, dropping four in a row, both SU and ATS as their defense or lack thereof, has become a league doormat, yielding over 113.9 PPG. Devon Booker (25.0 PPG) will star in his own highlight reel here. The Bulls are 1-8 ATS L9 vs. teams with a SU winning record and 1-4 ATS l5 as an underdog. The Suns are 5-1 ATS L6 on zero days rest and 22-8 ATS L30 at home. Take Phoenix. Thank you.

New York.

CONSENSUS.

Game 517.

5:10 pm pst.

No.1, No.1, and No.1. That’s what NY’s defense is ranked in points allowed (104.6), FG% 44.3%), and 3-pt% (33.6%). Minnesota has enough trouble offensively in those areas, ranking among the worst in the NBA in each. So, facing the Knicks here will be fatal. Look for New York to dominate the glass at both ends of the court here while they drain the “3” at will against the Minny, 28th ranked 3-pt “D”. The Timberwolves are 17-38-1 ATS L56 at home and 6-14 ATS L20 overall. The Knicks are 4-0 ATS L4 on the road and 9-1 ATS L10 following a SU loss. Take New York. Thank you.

Charlotte.

CONSENSUS PLAY.

Game 504.

4:05 pm pst.

With three consecutive SYU wins, Charlotte is above .500, at 19-18. They have won and covered the last four meetings with Sacto and enter this contest with confidence, momentum, and the much healthier squad. The Hornets will dominate the boards here but the biggest mismatch is their 6th ranked 3-pt shooting offense facing the 30th ranked 3-pt defense of the Kings. Sacramento is 1-7 ATS L8 as an underdog, 0-7 ATS L7 on pone days rest, and 3-12 ATS L15 overall. Charlotte is 4-1 ATS L5 as a favorite, 4-1 ATS L5 on one days rest, and 5-2 ATS L7 at home. Take the Hornets. Thank you.

Phoenix.

TRP.

Game 556.

7:05 pm pst.

With the NBA’s 3rd ranked defense, Phoenix has won eight of their last nine, both SU and ATS. Very quietly, the Suns also possess top-10 rankings offensively on FG%, 3-pt%, and FT%. Indiana is not just the coldest pro squad, dropping six of their last seven SU, but they are also wearing the badge of the biggest point spread poisonous team, going 0-7 ATS their last seven outings. The Pacers are 0-9 ATS L9 as an underdog and 0-5 ATS L5 on the road. Take Phoenix. Thank you.  

New York.

TOP-RATED PLAY.

Game 567.

5:05 pm pst.

New York owns a .500 record at 17-17. They are looking to hold on to and moreover, better it. Not only are the Knicks starting to win SU, but they are also covering, getting bettors paid in seven of their last nine contests. Detroit is finding new and improved ways to lose and will be in for a long day here going up against the NBA’s No. 1 defense with their 25th ranked offense. NY us far superior on both boards here as well. They are 6-1 ATS L7 as a favorite. Detroit is 3-9-1 ATS L13 on one days rest. Take the Knicks. Thank you.

Washington.

TOP-RATED PLAY.

Game 556.

4:05 pm pst.

Washington is starting to stride. They have won and covered six of their last seven games, both SU and ATS. Beal and Westbrook (42.5 PPG and 14.9 RPG combined) will go uncontested here as Minnesota is still without Beasley and Russell. Towns can’t carry the team all by himself. The center will have his hands full dealing with the Wizards big men in this matchup. Washington has covered four of their last five in this series, including a 130-109 romp on New Years Day. The Timberwolves are 1-4 ATS L5 on the road and 0-6 ATS L6 overall. Take the Wizards. Thank you.

Boston.

TOP-RATED PLAY.

Game 558.

4:35 pm pst.

Boston is back on track following Tuesday’s 112-99 win and cover over Denver. They have dominated Atlanta, winning all three meetings last season and nine of the last 10 SU, going 6-4 ATS. The Hawks are ice-cold, dropping four in a row and seven of t heir last eight SU, covering just twice in those eight outings. Defensively, the Celtics will shut down the Hawks “O”. Boston is 4-1 ATS L5 at home and 7-2 ATS L9 on 0 days rest. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Phoenix.

TRP.

Game 564.

12:05 pm pst.

Phoenix and their 4th ranked “D” can and will neutralize the Philly “O”. The Suns are red-hot, winning and covering four in a row and seven of their last eight. Not only will they slow down the 76ers offense, but they also match up well on the boards here. Philadelphia is 2-5 ATS L7 meetings in this series and 14-35-3 ATS L52 on the road. Phoenix is 5-0 ATS L5 at home and 23-9 ATS L32 overall. Take the Suns. Thank you.

Memphis.

TOP-RATED.

Game 549.

5:05 pm pst.

Winners of seven in a row SU and ATS, Memphis is striding. They are monstrous on the boards and own the league’s 5th ranked defense. The Pacers are 1-5 ATS L6 at home, 1-4 ATS L5 on 1 days rest, and 2-6 ATS L8 overall. Take the Grizzlies. Thank you.

Sacramento.

Top-Rated play.

Game 507.

5:05 pm pst.

The much healthier Sacramento team is on a three-game win and cover streak while the depleted Miami squad (eight players out or questionable) has lost five in a row SU and are on a 3-9 ATS slide. The Kings are hot and possess the much stringer inside/rebounding corps. They are 5-1 ATS L6 vs. the Heat and 20-8 ATS L28 as a road ‘dog. The Heat are 1-7-1 ATS L9 on 1 days rest and 0-4-1 ATS L5 at home. Take Sacramento. Thank you

Take LA.

This is my NBA GOY.

Game 711.

4:30 pm pst.

Los Angeles was up 3-1 going into Friday's Game 5 matchup. Jimmy Butler put up 35 points and 12 rebounds, but he also played 47:12.  His legs will be jelly come the second half here. But even if he wasn't tired here, LeBron James and the Lakers will not allow the Heat to even this series up. They will go back to the basics and what they did in the first four games of the Finals. James and Davis will dominate while their bench, the deeper bench, all contribute. LeBron takes this game on his shoulders and proves he is still the best baller on the planet. Take the Lakers. Thank you.

Take Miami.

Miami is one win away from a sweep over Indiana. Playing in their backyard certainly benefits the team. The Heat have dominated the Pacers in just about every aspect of the game, thus resulting in the average margin of victory coming by 10.0 PPG. With the Milwaukee/Orlando series going at least two more games, this is an opportunity for Miami to finish the series and get a bit of extra time to rest and prepare before round 2. This is a team that is making nearly 15 three-pointers and going to the line 35 times a contest in this round. Five players are accounting for 15 or more PPG in this series. Butler and Dragic are scoring at will her5e. The Pacers are 1-5 ATS the last six vs. the Heat and 0-5-1 ATS the last six a playoffs underdog. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Take Boston.

Boston, which has won and covered both meetings in this series is getting it done both with their superior defense and their stellar outside shooting. Jayson Tatum (32.5 PPG) and Jaylen Brown (24.5 PPG) are too much for a 76ers team that is sorely missing Ben Simmons right now. The Celtics are 14-5 ATS the last 19 meetings in this series and 14-2-1 ATS the last 21 Conference QF games. The 76ers are 2-6 ATS the last eight on one days rest and 3-7 ATS the last 10 overall. Take Boston. Thank you.

Take Charlotte.

This is my BB play.

Game 517.

4:05 pm pst.

Charlotte enters this matchup red-hot, winning 4 of the L5 both SU and ATS while Cleveland  is on a 2-16 SU slide and has only covered 4 of the L17 outings. The Hornets took 3 of 4 meetings with the Cavaliers last year, by an average margin of 23.6 PPG. Nothing has changed since. Look for the Charlotte deadly outside shooting of Charlotte to devour one of the worst 3-pt defenses in the NBA. Cleveland is  3-7-1 ATS the L11 at home. Charlotte is 5-1 ATS the L6 on 0 days rest. Take the Hornets. Thank you.