Bucks can close out their series with the Celtics tonight on their home court. The Bucks, leading 2-1, took game four at Boston to take a commanding 3-1 lead in this best of seven series. Since their game one loss to the Celtics, Milwaukee has kept the Boston offense in check, holding them to 40, 43 and 38 percent from the field. They have also out rebounded the Celtics in the last three games. Moreover, Milwaukee has now covered seven of their eight playoff games this season. Boston won game one of the series by 22-points. Since then, they really haven't come close, losing by 21, 7 and 12 points in games two thru four. The Celtics are now 3-7 ATS their last 10 games vs a team with a 60% winning record. I believe the Bucks took the wind out of the Celtics sails with that game four win at Boston. Boston knows they can't take three straight from the NBA's best team during the regular season. I look for Milwaukee to wrap up this series tonight. Take Milwaukee.

 The Philadelphia 76ers can take a commanding 3-1 lead in their best of seven series with the Raptors with a win today at home. The Sixers lost game one in Toronto, but then rebounded for wins in game 2 and game 3. The last game coming at home and a Philly blowout, 116-95. Philly saw it's shooting percentage skyrocket from 39% in games 1 and 2 to 51% in game three. They have also out rebounded the Raptors in all three games by a combined 169-142. I like the Sixers here in game four. They are controlling the boards, getting second shots and if they shoot anywhere near what they did in game three, this will be another Sixers blowout. Play Philadelphia.

The Houston Rockets are in that much dreaded "Must WIN" situation. As they return home to Houston they are down 0-2 in their best of seven series with the Warriors. The Warriors won game one, 104-100 and then game two 115-109. The Warriors shot 51% from the field in game one and 46% from the field in game two. Rebounds have been a big issue in this series, with the Rockets grabbing 39 in game one and 47 in game two. However, the Warriors grabbed 52 boards in both games to dominate that part of the game with Houston and why the Rockets are down 0-2 here today. I expect this is the game for Houston to pull out all the stops and they will have to hit those boards if they hope to stay alive in this series. Play HOUSTON.

Golden State took game one of this series in what was a very low scoring game, 104-100. Despite the low score, the Warriors still hit 51% of their shots from the field. Houston hit 42% of their shots from the field. The Rockets are now 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games and 5-0 ATS in their last five vs the NBA Pacific division. The Rockets have also been a great under team. Houston is 0-4 O/U in their last four road games, 6-20-2 O/U in their last 28 games with 1 day rest and 6-19-1 O/U in their last 26 overall games. The Warriors have had their issues covering games, evidenced by their 10-23-1 ATS mark in their last 34 home games. They are also 1-4 ATS in their last five conference semifinal games. Surprisingly, the Warriors have also been a good under team. They are 0-4 O/U in their last four conference semifinals and 5-16 O/U in their last 21 games playing on one day rest. They are also have gone under in 11 of their last 15 home games. I expect another close, low scoring contest here tonight. Play the UNDER.

Game two of this best of seven series has the Raptors leading 1-0 after Saturday's win at Toronto, 108-95. Toronto has now held opponents to fewer than 100 points in five straight games. It's rare for the Sixers offense to be held below the century mark, so don't look for that again here tonight. Philly has covered four of their last five games. In fact, they are 11-3 ATS their last 14 after a straight-up loss of 10 points or more. I do like the bounce back factor here tonight with the dog. I'm taking the points with Philly.

Portland can win this series tonight over the Thunder with a win on their home court. The Blazers split their two games in Oklahoma City, taking game four 111-98 and with it a commanding 3-1 series lead. Surprisingly, the Blazers defense has been the standout in this series, holding Oklahoma City to under 100 points in all three of their wins. Portland is now 25-9 ATS in their last 34 games when holding their opponent to less than 100 points in the previous game. They are also 43-21-1 ATS in their last 65 home games. Portland has now covered six of the last eight in this series and I expect them to close out this series tonight. Play Portland.

The Milwaukee Bucks are showing just why they were the best team in the NBA this regular season with 60 wins. The Bucks have pretty much just rolled right over the Pistons here in this series and would like nothing better than a 4-0 sweep and some down time. The Bucks stingy defense took game one by 35 points (121-86) and then again in game two by a 120-99 margin. Of course it doesn't help that the Pistons have been without one of their best players in F Blake Griffin who missed game two with knee injury. Griffin is doubtful for game three here tonight and that really hurts this Detroit club. The Bucks are now 5-0-1 ATS their last six against the Pistons. I don't see much chance for the Pistons here in game three. Play Milwaukee.

Spurs look to take a commanding 3-1 lead after tonight's contest at home against Denver. The Spurs won their last game against Denver at home, 118-108 as a 4.5-point favorite. Right now the Spurs are winning the back-court battle as their guard duo of Derrick White and DeMar DeRozan are playing the better ball. DeRozan and White combined for 61 points in game three. The Nuggets have now lost 14 straight games at San Antonio dating back to 2012. The Nuggets will have to find a way to win at San Antonio if they want to advance in these playoffs, something they haven't been able to do in seven years. The games have been close in the 4th, but the Spurs experience seems to be winning the day. Take San Antonio again here on Saturday.

Boston brings a 2-0 lead in this best of seven series back to Indiana for game three tonight. However, they could and really should be tied 1-1. The Pacers had one of the biggest spread collapses I've seen in ages in game two. Up by 1-point with just about 60 seconds to play, the Pacers turned the ball over and fouled their way to a 8-point loss and improbable Boston cover of the 7 or 7.5 points line. It was the most amazing fold I've seen in some time in regards to a spread. That being said, what effect will that have on the Pacers tonight. They are obviously in a must win position as they can't go down 0-3 with any hopes of winning this series. So I expect a full out effort here tonight. But will that game two collapse carry over to tonight? I don't think so. You have to have a short memory in sports and put those games behind you. The Pacers know they can get right back into this series with wins on their home court. It's now or never Indiana. Take the Pacers here in game three.

This best of seven series tied at one game apiece after Philadelphia rebounded for a win in game two. The venue changes to Brooklyn here for game three tonight, the first time a postseason basketball game has been in New York in four years. The Nets allowed Philly to score a NBA record tying 51 third quarter points. Still, Brooklyn got what they wanted, a split in Philly. The Sixers are a 3-point road dog right now in this game three contest. Philly is just 2-5 ATS in their last seven games and 1-4 ATS their last five times with 2 days rest. The Sixers are also 2-5 ATS in their last seven road games. Meanwhile, the Nets are 16-5 ATS their last 21 games playing on two-days rest and 8-2 ATS in their last 10 conference quarterfinal contest. Brooklyn has covered four of the last five with Philly and with a packed-house and a raucous crowd expected here tonight, I'm taking the Nets in game three.

 Denver in a must win spot here just to salvage a split in the first two games of this series with the Spurs. The first game was low scoring, just as I gave out as the Spurs won 101-96. The Nuggets only hit 42% from the field in game one while giving up 48% of their defensive shots. I won't be going under here because I look for Denver to kick up the pace and not let this game become bogged-down like what happened in game one. Denver had a big regular season and unless they want that dream season to come to an end, they need to take control in this game. Take Denver here in game 2.

It's a matchup of No5 vs No4 here in the Western Conference quarterfinals as the Jazz take on the Rockets. The Rockets finished fourth in the West with a 53-29 record. The Jazz were fifth with a 50-32 record. The Jazz are 6-1 ATS their last seven road games vs a team with a winning home record. They are also 20-5-1 ATS their last 26 games following a straight-up loss. The Jazz are also 10-3 ATS their last 13 road games. The Rockets don't do well on this much rest, going 0-6 ATS their last six times they have had 3 or more days rest. The Jazz are 3-0-1 their last four meetings vs the Rockets in Houston and 3-1 ATS the last four overall. The Dog is also 5-2 the last seven meetings and the road team is 6-1-1 ATS the last eight. I like the road team here today, Play Utah.

 Portland has been one of the better covering teams in the NBA of late. The Blazers did fail to cover last time out at San Antonio, but that was the second of a back-to-back spot and they were in a tough situation in that game. Portland has covered nine of their last 13 games overall. They are also 38-18 ATS their last 56 home games and 12-4 ATS their last 16 against a team with a winning straight up record. The Pacers are not nearly as good a covering team. In fact, they are just 1-4 ATS their last five eon the road and 2-7 ATS their last nine against a team with a win percentage above 60%. Portland has also covered seven of the last eight meetings with the Pacers. Moreover, they are 5-1 ATS their last six at Portland against Indiana. I like the host here tonight. Take Portland.

The Denver Nuggets are having an excellent season, but they will look to improve here tonight on the road where they are just 2-7 ATS their last nine away games. They are also 3-9 ATS their last 12 road games against a team with a winning home record as they face tonight. The Spurs are 16-5 ATS their last 21 games at home vs a team with a winning road record. They are also 7-3 ATS against the NBA Northwest division and 15-6 ATS their last 21 overall at home. The Spurs have a two-game win streak as they head into tonight's contest while the Nuggets have lost two straight. The Spurs have covered seven of the last nine in this series and five of the six at San Antonio. I like the Spurs here tonight. Play San Antonio.

Reason: Washington not having the kind of season they are used to having with just a 24-36 record. The Wizards are 0-2-1 ATS their last three games and 2-6-1 ATS their last nine games. In addition, they are 4-23 ATS their last 27 road games vs a winning team. Brooklyn has a winning record at 32-30 and is also 35-27 ATS on the season. They have covered four of their last five games and are 12-5 ATS their last 17 vs a team with a straight-up losing record. The Nets are 5-0 ATS their last five vs the Wizards in Brooklyn. Take the home team, Brooklyn.

The Sacramento Kings are having one of their best seasons this year with a 30-26 mark and 33-23 ATS record. The Kings have won two straight games and five of their last six. They have also covered five of their last six. The Kings have a rough road test here now as they play at Denver, Golden State, Oklahoma City and Minnesota. Tonight is at Denver, always a tough place for visitors to play. Denver is one of the best teams in the NBA with a 38-18 S/U and 30-26 ATS record. The Nuggets broke a three game losing streak with a win over Miami, 103-87 last time out. The Nuggets are 7-1 ATS their last eight home games. They are also 20-6 ATS their last 26 games at home against a team with a losing road record. Denver has covered seven of the last eight vs Sacramento and the last four in Denver. I like the host here tonight, play Denver.

Washington still struggling to get back to that .500 mark at just 24-32 S/U and 24-31-1 ATS. The Wizards have won two straight games both S/U and ATS. They had lost the previous five of six though, both S/U and ATS. Washington has to play two straight now on the road and four of its next five games. Overall, the Wizards are just not a good spread team, evidenced by their 19-39 ATS mark their last 58 games and 5-21 ATS their last 26 games on the road against a winning home team. The Pistons are 25-29 S/U and 25-28-1 ATS on the season. Detroit has won and covered three straight game. The Pistons have had two days rest to prepare for this game and when they have had this much rest they are 5-1 ATS their last six time. The home team has covered four of the last five in this series and that's what I'm looking at here tonight. I'm taking the home club, Detroit.

As bad as the Chicago Bulls are this season at 12-42, they are not the worst team in the division as that distinction goes to Cleveland at 11-43. The Bulls won for just the second time in their last 16 games with a 105-89 victory last game at Miami. It was also just their fifth cover in their last 15 games. Meanwhile, Brooklyn is having a decent season with a 29-27 record and 31-25 ATS mark. The Nets have won 12 of their last 16 games and covered 12 of 16. The Nets have also covered 12 of their last 17 home games and 21 of the last 31 overall. The Bulls are 3-12 ATS their last 15 vs the NBA Atlantic division. Nets have covered five of the last six in this series and the favorite is 6-1 ATS the last seven. Take the Nets here tonight.

Milwaukee having an excellent season at 38-13 S/U and 29-20 ATS. The Bucks have won two straight and eight of the last nine. They have covered two straight games. The Bucks have to lay seven points today on the road to the Nets. The Nets are not the Nets of old. This team has a winning record at 28-26 S/U and 30-24 ATS. The nets have won 11 of their last 16 games. They have also covered 11 of their last 16. The Nets are 6-1 ATS at home their last seven against a winning road team. They are also 6-2 ATS in their last eight overall at home and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games. This is not the same old Nets squad. I like the points here at home today. Play Brooklyn.

Chicago having a terrible season, with a 11-39 record. The only team worse is Cleveland at 10-41. The Bulls are also 21-27-2 ATS. Chicago has lost its last three both S/U and ATS. The Bulls are also 2-8-1 ATS their last 11 games. The Bulls are also 1-7 ATS their last eight playing on one day rest and 5-16 ATS their last 21 vs the Atlantic division. Brooklyn is having a winning season at 27-24 S/U and 29-22 ATS. The Nets are coming off a loss at Boston, but have won six of their last seven games and covered 10 of their last 13 games. The Nets are also 6-1 ATS at home their last 7 game against a team with a losing road record. The Nets have covered the last five in this series and I expect that again here tonight. Play Brooklyn.

The Rockets have been a very good friend to bettors this year, going 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games. They are also 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 times they are playing with one day rest. The Magic are playing in a back-to-back spot here today and while that works for deeper teams, not for the Magic. The Magic are not deep enough and it shows in their 2-5 ATS record the last seven times in this spot. The Magic are also 0-6 ATS in their last six games against the Western Conference. I'm taking the Rockets to cover here on Sunday. Play Houston.

Lakers in a back-to-back spot here on Sunday, but they seem to do ok in that spot with a 6-2 ATS their last eight games. LA is 18-11 S/U and 12-16-1 ATS so far this season and in second place in the Pacific division behind Golden State. The Lakers have won three of their last four games and seven of their last nine games. Washington not doing so well this year with a 11-18 S/U record and in fourth in the Southeast division. The Wizards are on a four game losing streak both S/U and ATS. The Wizards are also 3-8 ATS in their last 11 vs the Western Conference and 2-5 ATS the last seven vs the Pacific division. Lakers have owned this series with a 12-5-1 ATS mark in Washington their last 18 games. I like the Lakers here today. Play LA.

 Game one results will surely bring on some adjustments. This is especially true for the Rockets. What were they thinking in game one? Did they really think they could run with the Warriors and prevail? Most hoop experts believed they would be wise enough to try and slow the Warriors by running time off the clock on both offense and defense. Game two will be different, od they will be going on the road down 0-2. Look for the Rockets to slow the pace to limit the fatigue on Harden and Paul. This will hopefully allow them to stay close at the end and possibly salvage game 2 in this series. That being said, i am not looking at a side here but the total. A slower pace and a little more defense will bring the total home for us. Play Under in game #2

After scoring 83 points in game 1, the Cavs will bring higher than usual focus to this game. This is a tough series as the Celtics have won and covered all eight home games in the playoffs. The oddsmakers are giving them no respect because the public refuses to see that. Not all fo their home wins and covers have been easybut they have found a way. LeBron is a story all by himself. In his 15 year career, especially the last 8 years, he has been the story for any team he has been with. He is the man and i dont feel Morris will be able to do what he did in game 1. The reason is, i feel the rest of the Cavs who may not be great, are good enough to do more than they did in Gm 1. 4 for 26 from 3 point land will not happen again. But lets not take anything away from the Celtics defense. They do a great job of guarding the perimeter. teh Cavs will counter by playing some old school, by going to the rim more. The total was adjusted off the game 1 score but should not have been IMO. Play OVER in Game 2

Of course we all know what powerful offenses these teams have but remember that knowledge is in the line already. What most people don't see is that during the regular season, NBA teams coast quite often. We do not get a true read on who they are until the reach the playoffs. Both of these clubs went under 60% of their games in the second round matchups. In the first round the combined record was 50% over and under. I'm going with the more recent trend and adding in a lot of urgency to play some tough defense. These teams both rank in the top ten in defensive rankings. PLay Under Game #1

Second round action begins today as the Utah Jazz take on the Houston Rockets. Utah had to go six games to take care of Oklahoma City and they split against the spread. In their three games at OKC, the Jazz were 1-2 both S/U and ATS. Houston went five games to beat Minnesota in their first round matchup. The Rockets covered the last two in the series and saw their offense finally click with 122 and 119 points. The previous three games saw the Rockets scored 104 points or less. During the regular season the Rockets gave the Jazz all kinds of problems. The Rockets beat the Jazz four times in the regular season and the average margin of victory was 17.5 points. The games played in Houston saw the Rockets win by 27 and 21 points. The Rockets have one of the best sixth men in the NBA in Eric Gordon, who averaged 18 ppg. The Jazz will also be without Ricky Rubio who is out todya with a hamstring injury. I'm taking the Rockets here today as I look for them to make this a blowout win.

Cleveland returns home with a 2-2 tie in this best of seven series. So far all four games have gone under the total. That's what I'm looking at again here on Wednesday is the UNDER. We've seen the oddsmaker drop the total from 212.5 in game one to 206 in game four and tonight 205. The closest these teams came was in game four where they got 204 points and just went under the 206. This Cavs team has been so difficult to put your thumb on, one day they play great then they lose by 20. They did this all season, which makes it hard to pick a side here. That's why I'm sticking with the UNDER. We haven't seen the Pacers exploit the Cavs bad defense yet in this series and I don't think we'll see it here in game five. Forget the side in this game, take the UNDER.

This best of seven series tied at two games apiece. Milwaukee had a huge, 20-point lead in game four and while they held on for the win, they didn't cover the six-point line in a 104-102 win. So far each team has held home court as we return to Boston for game five. The Celtics have covered three of the four in the series. Boston needs to improve its defense, as it has allowed the Bucks to shot over 52% from the field each of the last three games and over 43% from the 3-point line. I don't see any reason to ahem, buck the trends I see taking place in this series and that's play the home team. The Celtics can't go back to Milwaukee down 2-3 so look for a Boston win here on Tuesday. Play Boston.

When this series started it looked to be one of the more interesting and equally matched ones. However, that hasn't been the case as the Warriors have dominated this series and can eliminate the Spurs today with a win. The Warriors have been without their star guard Stephen Curry, who has been out this series with a knee injury. That looked to be the great equalizer for the Spurs, who play a good defensive game. The Warriors have had little trouble scoring against this Spurs defense, with 113, 116 and 110 points in the first three games. The Spurs were also dealt a big blow before game three when coach Gregg Popvich's wife passed away and the coach had to miss the game. Popovich will not be on the bench today either. To me, that takes the heart out of this Spurs team. They are down 0-3 in the series, they are without their coach, don't see what positives I can place in the Spurs column here today. Play the Warriors.

 No doubt in my mind that the Philadelphia 76ers are the best team in this matchup. We saw the 76ers in game three that we had seen for their 16 game win streak at the end of the regular season where they were blowing out opponents and scoring tons of points. There was a question whether or not Joel Embiid would play in game three and not only did he, but he was the difference in the Sixers win, 128-108. Embiid scored 23 points, grabbed seven rebounds and had four assists in just 30 minutes of play. Embiid had missed the previous three weeks with a concussion suffered and orbital fractures. Sure, the Heat won game two, but it took a perfect game by the Heat and a performance by Dwayne Wade that frankly looked like he had turned back the close 10 years. I can't see that happening again, especially against this young, hungry Sixers team that has Embiid back at center. This is the perfect spot for another blowout win today. Play Philadelphia.

The Miami Heat evened their best of seven series with the 76ers by steeling game two in Philly. The Heat played about as perfect a game as they could to get the win. They almost lost it though as a huge lead evaporated to just two points at 98-96 before Dwayne Wade took over and held off the Sixers for the win, 113-103. Wade looked like his younger self, pouring in 28 points and coming up with big plays down the stretch. The Sixers how to get back their big man, Joel Embiid, who is questionable for tonight's game with a concussion. Embiid averages 22.94 ppg and 10.95 rebounds. The Sixers are hoping to recapture the momentum they had at the end of the regular season that saw them win 16 straight games. The loss of Embiid tonight is huge though. The Heat must once again control the pace and keep Philly from going wild scoring points. If Embiid were playing this might be a different play, but without him I'm taking the points at home with Miami.

The New Orleans Pelicans stole game one of this series from the Blazers, 97-95. Anthony Davis was the leader for the Pelicans, scoring 35 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Davis controlled the paint for the Pelicans. The Pelicans did see a 19-point lead virtually evaporate when the Blazers pulled to within one point in the final minute of the game. Portland's backcourt of Damian Lillard and C.J McCollum combined for just 13 of 41 field goals. The Pelicans are ready for another win here on Tuesday as they look to go up 2-0 in this series. The Blazers haven't really showed me anything of late and the 6 1/2 point dog here is just too much to pass on. I'm taking the Pelicans plus the 6 1/2 points.

 It's the last day of the NBA regular season and there's still a lot at stake for the NBA Western Conference teams numbers 3 through 9. The third-place Utah Jazz are tied with the Portland Trail Blazers and they just one game ahead of the Pelicans, Spurs and Thunder. There's a lot of room for jockeying of position for the playoffs here and tonight's game between the Jazz and the Trailblazers will determine the third and fourth place seeds. The Trailblazers will finish third and host the first round game if they win tonight versus the Jazz. If they lose to the Jazz then they will play the winner of the Spurs and the Pelicans matchup and that will feature the 4th against the 5th Place teams. I do like the Jazz here tonight mainly because they are on a six-game winning streak and have been very impressive during that stretch. The Jazz are also 15-1 S/U and 12-4 against the spread in their last 16 road games. Getting points is just too much to pass on here tonight. Play the Jazz

The Philadelphia 76ers host the Dallas Mavericks today on NBA TV. The 76ers still have something to play for as they lead the fourth place Cleveland Cavaliers by just a half-game. As for the Dallas Mavericks, well they're out of it for this year. In this game though, I'm looking at the over. Philadelphia has won 13 straight games. But what's probably more impressive is that they have scored at least 115 points in 11 of those 13 games. the 76ers jumped out to a 30-point lead against Cleveland last Friday night, but despite the large lead, they still had to hold on for a two-point win over the Cavaliers. In that contest, the 76ers still scored 132 points. The Dallas Mavericks will try and snap the 76ers 13 game winning streak. Unfortunately for the Mavericks they have won just two games and lost 10 in their last 12 overall. In addition the Mavericks have allowed 113 points their last game at Detroit. I don't really see how the Mavericks will hold down the 76ers scoring machine here today. I'm going to stick with the over in the 76ers and Mavericks contest.

The Detroit Pistons and the Dallas Mavericks play for just a little pride today, seeing as both of these clubs have been eliminated from the NBA playoffs. The Pistons have been hot, winning seven of their last 10 games. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have won only 24 and lost 55 games this year and they are 2-8 their last 10 games. In addition, Dirk Nowitzki is out for the remainder of the games this season as he is having ankle surgery. The Pistons are 8-1 ATS in the last nine games overall, 4-0 ATS in the last four vs the Western Conference and 7-0 ATS in their last seven games versus a team with a losing straight-up record. The Mavericks are just 1-5 ATS in their last six road games and 0-4 ATS their last four vs the East. Take the Pistons.

The NBA playoff picture in the Eastern Conference is pretty much set, all eight teams are locked-in with the other teams already eliminated. However, there is still plenty of room to jockey for position within that top eight. One such game is the game on national television tonight between the Washington Wizards and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Washington sits currently tied for the 7th and 8th position with Milwaukee, just a half-game back of number 6 Miami. The Cleveland Cavaliers currently are in third position tied with the Philadelphia 76ers and two games ahead of 5th Place Indiana. For the Cavaliers this game has more implications as far as home court goes in the early rounds they don't want to drop below that number four spot here in the East or they face the possibility of not getting home court in the first round. The Wizards have not been very good for bettors lately, going 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games overall and they are 0-6 ATS in their last six away games. The Cavaliers who were horrible against the spread earlier this year have improved lately. Cleveland is 7-0 ATS in their last 7 home games and 4-0 ATS in their last four overall. I like the Cavaliers today to take this game and solidify their hold on the number three position.

Portland has been one of the hotter teams of late, especially at home where they are 13-2-1 ATS in their last 16 games and 16-5-1 ATS their last 22 overall. The Blazers are also on a nine game win streak after beating Golden State easily, 125-108. In fact, in their last nine wins, the lowest margin of victory has been eight points. Miami is coming off a two game home streak. The Heat have lost their last three away games, two in OT. The Blazers have covered four of the last five vs the Heat in Portland. In addition, the home team is 5-2 ATS the last seven. Portland just playing too well right now. I'm taking the Trailblazers tonight.

Portland catches Sacramento is a good spot here as the Kings are playing the second of a back-to-back spot tonight. The Kings lost at home last night to the T'Wolves, 118-100, then had to jump on a plane for the trip to Portland for tonight's contest. Portland has covered six of its last seven on its home court. In addition, the Blazers are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 vs the Western Conference. Portland has covered three of the last four in this series including the last two games by a combined 30 points. Kings are a bad team and now they are put in a bad spot, that's what we need for an easy win on Tuesday. Take Portland.

Brooklyn has covered just three of its last 10 games and just one of its last five home games. In fact, the Nets are just 1-9 S/U their last 10 games. Indiana has won two straight games both S/U and ATS. The Pacers are 7-3 S/U their last 10 games. Indiana has also had much success vs the Nets, covering five of the last six meetings and 12 of the last 17 in Brooklyn. Pacers have a fairly easy schedule coming up with Dallas and two games vs the Hawks. No need to look past this opponent tonight. Take the Pacers.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a very strange team. On one hand, you have the team with the third best record in the Eastern conference at 30-22. On the other hand, you have a team that is horrible at covering spreads this year. The Cavs had to play last night at Orlando. They led 43-31 after one quarter and 67-51 at the half. In the second half, the Cavs scored a total of 31 of points and lost 116-98 to the Magic, a blowout loss. The Cavs are now 14-36-1 ATS in their last 51 overall games. They are 16-35-2 ATS in their last 53 home games. That is terrible. Now they play the second of back-to-back spot where they are notorious for resting players. This is the perfect spot for a T'Wolves team that is 34-22 and 3rd in the West. Yes, it's difficult to lay points at Cleveland, but I'm just not sure what is going on with this Cavaliers club right now. Play the Timberwolves.

The new coach for the Bucks seems to have energized this team. Out is Jason Kidd and taking over is assistant coach Joe Prunty. Prutny is 3-0 in his short tenure. The Bucks have shown a lot more life and energy since Prutny has taken over. Both these teams coming off a Sunday game, making this a back-to-back spot for both teams. Bucks have done well in this spot, going 6-3 S/U and 6-2-1 ATS. Philly hasn't fared so well, going 1-4 S/U and 1-3-1 ATS in the same spot. Great spot here for the Bucks riding the new energy of the coach and having a good spot to catch the Sixers. Play Milwaukee.

 Spurs played a big game last night as they hosted the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Spurs trailed early but pulled away and never looked back in a 114-102 win. That's the good news. I had the Spurs last night, but tonight I expect a letdown spot. The Spurs are ripe for a road loss. First, they are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back spot - that's never easy. Next, they will be off that big win last night. The Spurs are just 1-6 ATS in the 2nd game of a back-to-back spot this year. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies have covered their last five games and are also 6-0-1 ATS in their last seven home games. The home team has a 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight meeting and I like this spot for the Grizzlies.

The Clippers have really improved of late, winning three straight games and five of their last six games. They have also covered three straight and are 8-1-1 ATS their last 10. While the Clippers average 105.5 ppg this season, they are averaging 117.8 ppg their last five and allowing just 106.4 ppg. The Grizzlies are just 5-13 on the road this season adn 12-25 overall. Even though the Grizzlies have done better in this series, I like the way the Clippers are playing lately and I'll lay the points here with LA. Play the Clippers

The Oklahoma City Thunder (12-14 S/U, 8-18 ATS) take on the Indiana Pacers (16-11 S/U, 17-10 ATS) tonight. The Thunder have struggled on the road, going 0-9 ATS in their last nine road games. They are also 1-11 ATS in their last 12 overall. In addition, the club is just 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games with 1 day rest. Meanwhile, the Pacers are playing very well, going 4-1 ATS their last five games and 24-8 ATS their last 32 with two days rest. The Pacers average 109 points on the season while allowing 106.4 ppg. OKC averages 101.8 ppg and just 99.3 ppg on the road. I don't see the Thunder improving on their horrible road results here in Indiana tonight. The Pacers are laying just 1.5 points and that is just too good a line to pass on. Play Indiana.

We hit out Situation Game of the Month with Cleveland at Detroit on Monday evening in an easy win, 116-88. The issue with the Cavs is to know when to play them and when to fold them. The Cavs like to rest players, but I believe they see the Celtics pulling away and have had to step it up, evidenced by their five straight wins. If they aren't careful the Celtics will run away with the East. Both teams have bad defenses, allowing 113.9 for the Nets and 114 for the Cavs. However, during this last five game streak, Cleveland has allowed just 102.6 ppg, a drastic downturn. Brooklyn has lost three of its last four games and hits the road here tonight. This isn't a very good team, especially on the road. With Cleveland having last night off, I look for them to run up the score tonight. Play Cleveland.

Magic off to a 2-1 record both S/U and ATS. The Magic have owned this series of late, going 5-1-1 ATS the last seven against the Nets. The home team has also had the edge here, going 4-0-1 ATS the last five meetings. Brooklyn is also 2-1 both SU and ATS. The Nets are first in the NBA in scoring (124.3) and third in field goals (48.3%). The defense hasn't been so good, ranked 29th (121.7 ppg). Orlando can also put up points, averaging 117 (5th) and 2nd from beyond the 3-pt arc (48.3%). I expect a shootout here, but I'm taking the home club in Orlando.

04/23 1:00 PM EST   NBA   (509) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (510) INDIANA PACERS.
Take: NBA Inner Circle: Play (509) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS in Game 4.
Reason: Cleveland has the best player on the planet and is brimming with confidence after a historic comeback in Game 3, stunning Indiana. The Pacers have had no defense this series, allowing 109, 117 and 119 points. After choking away Game 3 in front of the home fans their season is over....and it's over today. Play Cleveland.

04/17 04:00 PM  NBA   (517) INDIANA PACERS VS (518) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Take: NBA High Roller Wise Guy Total: Indiana/Cleveland Game 2 Over the total.
Reason: Plenty of offensive talent on the floor for both teams, inside and out. Indiana (11-4 run over) has gone 8 straight games over the total on the road. Cleveland is home but a soft defensive teams, 6-1 over the total at home. The Over is 20-6-1 in the Cavaliers last 27 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game. Play Indiana/Cleveland Game 2 Over the total.      

04/11 08:05 PM EST  NBA   (503) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (504) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES.
Take: NBA Blowout Game of the Year, (504) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
Reason: Final home game for a young Minnesota squad with talent, and a meaningless game for Oklahoma City. It's the end of a four-game trip for OKC, 2-5 ATS against the West and a losing road record for the season. Minnesota is home from a 4-game trip and is playing hard for this first-year coaching staff, giving Utah and Portland close games on the road. The Timberwolves are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. The home team has covered 6 of 7 when these teams clash and the Thunder are 3-9 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Minnesota. Play Minnesota.      

04/10 10:30 PM  EST  NBA   (717) HOUSTON ROCKETS VS (718) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS.
Take: NBA Western Conference Bailout of the Month, (718) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Reason: Houston is on the road again with nothing to play for. The coaching staff admitted they will be resting players this week. Houston had to play yesterday and was on a 0-6 spread run going into that one at Sacramento. The Clippers are rested and still fighting for playoff seeding, winning 5 in a row. Play the LA Clippers.

04/07 08:35 PM EST   NBA   (509) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (510) DALLAS MAVERICKS.
Take: NBA Trend Tracker Total of the Year: San Antonio/Dallas Under the total.  
Reason: San Antonio has nothing to play for down the stretch, and looked it the last game, scoring 95 points in a home loss to the Lakers as -13 chalk. They are on a 6-2-1 run under the total, 4-1 under on the road. The Under is also 16-4-1 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. Dallas is all about slowing the pace down, #4 in the NBA in points allowed, but last in scoring. Dallas is on a 17-7-1 run under the total, 23-9-1 under playing on one day of rest. And the Under is 8-3 in the last 11 meetings. Play San Antonio/Dallas Under the total.      

03/31 07:05 PM EST  NBA   (503) INDIANA PACERS VS (504) TORONTO RAPTORS.
Take: NBA Payback Game of the Year, (503) INDIANA PACERS.
Reason: Indiana is playing hard, 1-2 the last three games, including a 1-point loss to Minnesota. They have plenty to play for, trying to hang on to the #8 playoff seed in the East. The Pacers are 7-3 ATS following a straight up loss, 6-1 ATS after a straight up loss of more than 10 points. They got crushed by this Toronto team two weeks ago, 116-91. Toronto is still without Kyle Lowry and comes off a home loss to Charlotte as -5.5 chalk. The Raptors are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game. The Underdog is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings, with Indiana 4-1 ATS against Toronto the last five meetings. Play Indiana. Play Indiana.      

3/29 07:35 PM ESt   NBA   (509) MILWAUKEE BUCKS VS (510) BOSTON CELTICS.
Take: NBA Shocker of the Year, (509) MILWAUKEE BUCKS.
Reason: The Bucks play hard for this coaching staff, having a nice run the last two weeks. They are scoring and allowing just over 104 ppg. The Bucks are 6-1 ATS playing on no days rest, plus 5-2 ATS against the Eastern Conference. Boston is rested and a big favorite, but the Celtics are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games playing on 2 days rest. The Underdog is 20-8-1 ATS in the last 29 meetings and Milwaukee is 10-4 ATS at Boston. Play Milwaukee.

03/28 10:05 PM EST  NBA   (773) DENVER NUGGETS VS (774) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS.
Take:  NBA Western Conference Total of the Month: Denver/Portland Over the total.
Reason: These teams are in the Top 6 in the NBA in points scored, and in the bottom 6 in points allowed. Denver is 13-6 over the total after a defeat, 10-3-1 over following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. Portland likes to run, especially at home, and the Over is 16-7 in the Blazers last 23 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points. And when these teams meet the over is 7-1. Play Denver/Portland Over the total.      

03/24 10:35 PM EST  NBA   (867) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES VS (868) LOS ANGELES LAKERS.
Take: Trend Tracker Game of the Year, (867) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES.
Reason: Minnesota just finished a brutal four-game stretch against strong teams, losing all 4 (3 on the road). But the Timberwolves are 8-2 ATS against the Western Conference and face a terrible L.A. Lakers squad. The Lakers are #28 in points allowed and dead last in field goal shooting defense, on a 3-11-1 ATS run. The Lakers are 18-40 ATS against the Western Conference and the road team is 18-8 ATS in the last 26 meetings. Play Minnesota.

3/19 06:05 PM EST   NBA   (711) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES VS (712) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS.
Take: NBA Dominator Game of the Year, (712) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
A tough spot for Minnesota,  winding up a 3-game road trip. It's been a bad trip, getting blowout out the first two games. The Timberwolves are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a losing home record. New Orleans is Top 8 in the NBA in field goal shooting defense and three-point defense, off a blowout win at home over Houston as a dog, 128-112.   The Pelicans are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games. New Orleans has dominated the T-Wolves all season, 3-0 SU/ATS. And the Timberwolves are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings, 1-6 ATS at New Orleans. Play New Orleans.

02/24 08:05 PM EST   NBA   (845) BOSTON CELTICS VS (846) TORONTO RAPTORS.
Take: NBA Atlantic Division Game of the Month, (846) TORONTO RAPTORS
Reason: Boston has been on the road a lot and is riding a 3-7 spread run. They open the second half with another road game, a showdown with division rival Toronto. The talented Raptors are 5th in the NBA in scoring, #10 in points allowed. Toronto is 14-6-1 ATS at home against a team with a winning road record,, plus 20-6 ATS against the Atlantic division. And the Celtics are 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Play Toronto.

The Chicago Bulls looked good to start the season, but times have been hard for the club lately. The Bulls have lost two straight and seven of their last 10 games. Chicago is the best rebounding team in the NBA (48.1 rpg), but just averages 101 ppg (23rd). The Spurs are having another excellent season at 24-6. Kawhi Leonard leads the club in scoring with 24.3 ppg. The Bulls have covered just one of their last seven games and are 0-4 ATS in their last four road contests. The Spurs are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games. Even with the Bulls boasting Dwayne Wade on this year's club, Chicago will not fair well against the West's best teams. Take San Antonio.

11/09 06:05 PM  NBA   (715) DETROIT PISTONS VS (716) PHOENIX SUNS.
Take: (715) DETROIT PISTONS
Reason: NBA Situational Game of the Year: Detroit.
The Pistons were embarrassed two nights ago and the team is an an angry bounce back mode. Detroit coach Stan Van Gundy was greatly disturbed by the poor performance and second-year forward Stanley Johnson was deeply annoyed. Van Gundy's postgame comments included this: "Nothing positive came out of this game. It's like starting at ground zero again. They dismantled us." The Pistons are 8-2-1 ATS following a spread loss. They match up well with a struggling Phoenix squad that has lost 6 of 8, giving up over 111 points in every game but one. Phoenix had to play last night, the end of a three-game trip, a 124-121 loss at Portland and the Suns are 9-25 ATS in their last 34 games following an ATS win. The Pistons have won the past three meetings and five of the last seven. The Pistons are 20-8 ATS in the last 28 meetings, including 4-0 ATS at Phoenix. Play Detroit.

The Oklahoma City Thunder did not want this game to happen. And, it looked for the majority of game six that it wouldn't. The Thunder led game six by five points at half and finished the third quarter up by eight. Midway through the fourth quarter, it looked like the Thunder might just be going to the finals, as they led by seven points. However, this is where things fell apart for the Thunder. Golden State, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson tied the game with just under three minutes. Thompson set a playoff record with 11 three-points in a game and outscored the Thunder by 15 points to win going away 108-101. Now the clubs return to Northern California where the Thunder will almost certainly have a major letdown. That's what I'm counting on here, that and the knowledge that Golden State won't let the Thunder beat them twice on their home court. Thompson and curry combined for 70 points to lead the Warriors to the win. Favorites of 5 or more points on their home court in game 7 are 22-8 ATS. I'm taking the Warriors here tonight. Get on this line early, because the price will go up on the Warriors. Play Golden State

 Golden State had a series saving game on Thursday with a win over the Thunder, 120-111. Now the Warriors have to do something they haven't this entire series, win at Oklahoma City. It's a win or go home game for the Warriors. One thing the Warriors have done is slow down the game a bit. Sure, then wen't over in game 5, but that required big 2nd and 4th quarters to do so. The Warriors also stayed "big" in game five, keeping their small-ball squad on the bench as they went with size. The Thunder will have to improve on what turned out to be one of their worst performances of the season in the pain on Thursday. The Thunder, despite the game 5 loss, are still a very confident team in their ability to beat Golden State. Tonight's game really is a MUST-WIN spot for the Thunder. They realize that going back to Northern Cal will likely result in a game seven loss. Tonight's contest could be the most important in Oklahoma City history and I'm taking them here tonight laying the short number.

05/21 08:35 PM EST   NBA   (709) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (710) TORONTO RAPTORS (05/20 12:34 PM)
Take: NBA Playoff Total of the Year: Cavaliers/Raptors Over the total.
The Cavs have not shot the ball well from behind the arc against the Toronto Raptors, shooting 35 and 33 percent respectively in games one and two. Yet, they have scored 108 and 115 points in the two games, dominating inside against a Toronto team lacking frontcourt depth. Cleveland is 11-4 over the total in Conference Finals games, as well as 7-3 over the total on the road against a team with a winning home record. Toronto is better offensively than they've shown and coming home for Game 3 will help. Toronto is on a 4-1 run over the total, as well as 24-6 over following a straight up loss of more than 10 points. And the Over is 5-2 in the last seven meetings. Play the Cavaliers/Raptors Over the total.      

Reason: NBA 2nd Round Game of the Year:
The Miami Heat relied heavily on their veteran players to take game seven from the Bobcats on Sunday, 106-73. Meanwhile, the Raptors advanced from the first round for the first time since 2001. The Heat dominated the Bobcats in games 1,2 and 7, but played sloppy in 3,4,5 and 6. The Raptors really shouldn't have advanced to round two. The Pacers outscored them overall in the seven game series. The Raptors led by 16 in the fourth quarter of game seven and almost lost as the Pacers could have tied the game with 30 seconds to play. The Raptors two big scores (Lowry and DeRozan) averaged almost 13 points less than during the regular season. These teams have met four times this year, but none of those games really featured the same personnel we'll see here today. Quick turn around here tonight and I think the Heat can win this one outright. Take the Heat as your 2nd Round NBA Game of the year.

Big game 7 here today between the Pacers and Raptors. The Raptors finished the season with the No 2 spot in the East and were expected to roll past this Indiana squad. However, the playoffs have never been kind to Toronto and now all the pressure will be on the Raptors. Toronto has not survived a first round match since 2001 and that is when it was best of five. The Pacers have also been dominating the boards. After losing the rebound battle the first three games, the Pacers inserted Myles Turner into the starting lineup and the 6-foot-11 rookie has shut down Toronto's big man in Jonas Valanciunas. With all the pressure on the Raptors here and the Pacers winning the boards the last three games, I'll take the points with Indiana.

04/27 10:05 PM  NBA   (577) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS VS (578) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Take: NBA Western Conference 1st Round Total of the Year: Blazers/Clippers Under in Game 5.
A pivotal Game 5, which means both coaches will demand great defense. Portland is on a 6-0 run under the total and faces an outstanding Clippers' defense, one ranked No. 7 during the regular season in points allowed, NO. 2 in field goal shooting defense (.434%). LA is without star guard and playmaker Chris Paul, a huge blow to the offense. The L.A. Clippers are on a 4-0 run under the total, 20-6 under at home. The Under is also 36-17 in the Clippers last 53 games following a straight up loss. And the under is 5-0 when these teams clash. Play the Blazers/Clippers Under the total in Game 5.

4/26 08:35 PM EST   NBA   (567) BOSTON CELTICS VS (568) ATLANTA HAWKS.
Take: NBA Eastern Conf. Playoff Total of the Year: Celtics/Hawks Under the total.
So far each team has held home court as this series is now tied, 2-2. The Celtics have to play without one of their best players in Avery Bradley, who is out indefinitely. These are two of the best defensive teams in the NBA, with Atlanta ranked No. 6 in points allowed, No. 1 in field goal shooting defense (.432%), No. 5 at defending the three-pointer. Atlanta is 13-6 under the total playing on one day of rest, 7-3 under after a defeat and 12-4 under in Conference Quarterfinals games. Boston is No. 7 in field goal shooting defense, No. 4 at defending the three-pointer. The Celtics are 19-6 under the total in Conference Quarterfinals games and 13-3 under after a victory. The Hawks have now gone Under in seven of their last nine. The Celtics have gone Under in 11 of their last 16. Play the UNDER tonight.      

04/24 6:05 PM EST  NBA   (557) ATLANTA HAWKS VS (558) BOSTON CELTICS
Take: NBA High Roller Platinum Total: Hawks/Celtics Under the total.
Atlanta is up 2 games to 1 so this is a pivotal contest, which means both sides will play aggressive defense. These are two of the best defensive teams in the NBA, with Atlanta ranked No. 6 in points allowed, No. 1 in field goal shooting defense (.432%), No. 5 at defending the three-pointer. Atlanta is 13-6 under the total playing on one day of rest, 7-2 under after a defeat and 11-4 under in Conference Quarterfinals games. Boston is No. 7 in field goal shooting defense, No. 4 at defending the three-pointer. The Celtics are 18-6 under the total in Conference Quarterfinals games and 12-3 under after a victory. Play the Hawks/Celtics Under the total.      

4/21 07:35 PM EST  NBA   (535) TORONTO RAPTORS VS (536) INDIANA PACERS.
Take: (536)  NBA Platinum: Indiana Pacers.
The Indiana Pacers got a split in Toronto, what they wanted, and now return home. Toronto is the higher seed but in the middle of the pack offensively and really bad ast defending the three-pointer (37% allowed, #29 in the NBA). The Raptors are on a 3-5 ATS run on the road. Meanwhile Indiana is one of the best defensive teams in the league, #8 in points (100.6 ppg), #6 in FG defense (.44%) and #3 in 3-point D (33%). : Indiana won at home when they met earlier in the year, 106-90 as -4.5, and will roll again. Play Indiana. Play the Indiana Pacers.

NBA 1st Round TV Game of the Year

Reason: The Boston Celtics came up a bit short in game one of this series, losing to Atlanta 102-101. The Celtics are a very young team and tough to play against. The Celtics have relied on a very good defense this season, but lately it's been a bit on and off. They need to get their defense back online. Against the Hawks, they will need a very good perimeter defense if they hope to win. What I like most about the Celtics is how unselfish they are. With Avery Bradley likely is out with a hamstring issue. However, with the way this club relies on all their players, Marcus Smart is ready to move in the role vacated by Bradley. If the Celtics defense returns to it's old ways, I believe they have a good shot to win this one outright. Take the Celtics plus the points.

The Mavericks should be good and rested for tonight's contest, considering they didn't even show up for game 1. Before the fans seats were even warm the Mavs were down by fifteen points in the 1st quarter. Dallas scored just 33 points the first half and trailed OKC by 26 points. The second half wasn't much better for Dallas, as the Thunder rolled to a easy win in game one, 108-70. The Mavericks lack of offense and season long injury list that looked like a MASH unit, came to light in game 1. The Mavs know they can't get into a scoring match with the Thunder. HC Rick Carlisle has changed this club recently to a slow pace team that is focused on defense. The Mavs are still a good road covering club, going 8-3 ATS away their last 11 games. The Mavericks have also had good success in OKC, going 12-5 ATS their last 17 trips there. The Mavs got that poor play out of their system in game one. I look for them to bounce back here and at least be competitive. Play the Mavericks.

4/07 07:35 PM NBA (709) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (710) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS.
Take: (710) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS.
Reason: The Golden State Warriors are home and in a bounce back spot after an embarrassing collapse against Minnesota. Rival San Antonio is in town with very little chance of overtaking Golden State for the No. 1 seed in the West. San Antonio scratched its way past Utah 88-86 to earn a fourth straight win on Tuesday and may have all of its starters available on Thursday, but Greeg Popovich limits his starters and veteran players. The Spurs are 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games following a straight up win. The assumption has been that San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich would rest starters in the two remaining games against the Warriors, but point guard Tony Parker refuted that notion in a postgame TV interview on Tuesday. "I think we'll play," Parker said in the interview. He didn't say, "We will all play," because Popovich makes the final call and it's hard to see him asking his players to go all out and risk injury in a game that isn't that meaningful for them. Popovich also doesn't want to show how he plans to defend Steph Curry in the playoffs, either. The teams have split two meetings this season, with Golden State blasting San Antonio 120-90 at home on Jan. 25 and the Warriors are 20-9 ATS in their last 29 games following a ATS loss. Play the Golden State Warriors.

4/03 3:35 PM EST   NBA   (507) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (508) HOUSTON ROCKETS.
Take:  (507) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER.
Reason: NBA Western Conference Game of the Month: Oklahoma City.
Houston is home but cares little for defense, No. 26 in the NBA in points allowed, No. 20 in field goal defense and No. 22 in three-point defense. The Rockets are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games, 1-6 ATS at home against a team with a winning road record. Oklahoma City is No. 6 in field goal defense and No. 8 in three-point defense. Kevin Durant scored 31 points, Steven Adams hit a go-ahead tip-in with 26.9 seconds left and the Oklahoma City Thunder held on to edge the depleted Los Angeles Clippers 119-117 on Thursday. The Thunder are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. Play Oklahoma City.      

04/01 10:05 PM EST NBA (515) MIAMI HEAT VS (516) SACRAMENTO KINGS.
Take: (516) NBA Shocker of the Year: Sacramento Kings.
4th home game over the last 5 contests for the Kings. Sacramento is a big dog at home but one of the top offensive teams in the NBA. They are also hot, on a 3-1 SU, 4-0 ATS run, including a 7-2-1 spread run. DeMarcus Cousins had 29 points, 10 rebounds, five steals and four blocks, and the Sacramento Kings dealt a blow to the Washington Wizards' playoff hopes with a 120-111 victory on Wednesday night. Miami is 3,000 miles from home and focuses on defense first, No. 23 in points scored. This is the middle of a 3-game road trip for Miami, so jump on the home dog. Play the Sacramento Kings.

3/23 10:05 PM EST   NBA  (773) DALLAS MAVERICKS VS (774) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS.
Take: (774) NBA Revenge Game of the Year: Portland.
Dallas heads out on the road with a weak defense and a losing road mark. The Mavericks are 8-21-1 ATS away vs. a team with a winning home record. They just topped this Portland team the last game, 132-120, despite going OT. The Blazers are 20-7 ATS following a straight up loss and 12-4 ATS at home against a team with a losing road record. Portland is in bounce back mode with a great offense, No. 7 in the league in points scored and the home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Play Portland.

3/16 07:05 PM EST   NBA   (607) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (608) BOSTON CELTICS.
Take: (607) NBA Avenger Game of the Year: Oklahoma City.
Oklahoma City has star power, a strong team in the more dominant West, ranked No. 6 in field goal shooting defense and No. 2 in scoring offense. They are also rested for this one, on a 4-1 spread run. They face a Boston team short one key player (Crowder) because of an injury and playing the second of a back to back spot, at Indiana last night. The Thunder are 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings, including 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Boston. The Celtics pulled the upset earlier in the year at OKC, 100-85 blowout as a +5.5 dog, so the visitors have payback. Play Oklahoma City.

Reason: Home Dominator Game of the Month :
The Mavericks bring a five game losing streak both S/U and ATS into tonight's contest at Charlotte. The Mavs have also struggled on the road, where they are 1-7 ATS their last eight away games. Meanwhile, Charlotte has been hot, winning seven straight and 6-1 ATS. The Hornets have closed to within just a half game of Southeast division leader Miami. The better news is that the club is just 1 1/2 games out of third place in the East Conference playoff picture. Charlotte has covered four of the last six in this series and with the Hornets playing excellent ball, I'm taking them here on Monday.

03/09 10:35 PM EST  NBA   (517) UTAH JAZZ VS (518) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS.
Take: (517)  NBA Dog of the Year: Utah Jazz.
Golden State, like last year, is starting to rest players more, on a 1-5-1 ATS run against the Western Conference. That included a stunning blowout loss at the Lakers as -17 chalk! Utah is not going to try and run with the mighty Warriors. Utah likes a slow pace, No. 3 in the NBA in points allowed. The Jazz are 14-5-1 ATS in their last 20 games playing on no days rest and the Warriors are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Play the Jazz.

Reason: Payback Game of the Month:
These East vs West matchups only happen twice a year during the regular season, but that doesn't mean the Hawks don't have some payback on their minds tonight. These clubs met back in Atlanta on November 15th, with the Jazz taking a close, 97-96 contest. This series has been owned by the Hawks though, covering 11 of the last 16 meetings. Atlanta has been hot too, winning four of five S/U and 5-0 ATS. The Jazz haven't been good lately, posting a 3-8 S/U and 2-8-1 ATS their last 11 games. Jazz have the Warriors up next on Wednesday, so they may not be entirely focused on this game tonight. Take the Hawks.

Reason: Road Warrior Game of the Month:
San Antonio is that "other" team in the West. With all the accolades that the Warriors have received this year, sometimes we forget how good the Spurs are. Not only are they 53-9, but they are undefeated at home (30-0). The Spurs have failed to cover in two straight games, though they did miss out by just 1 1/2 points in both games. That snapped a four game spread win streak. The Spurs could be without F LaMarcus Aldridge (Migraine) tonight, who is currently questionable and averages 17.12 ppg. The Indiana Pacers are 33-30 this season. They have covered just three of their last eight games. In addition, the Pacers are 0-5 ATS their last five games at home. Spurs do well on the road playing at teams with winning records (9-4 ATS the last 13). I like the road team here going away. Take San Antonio.

3/02 10:35 PM EST   NBA   (721) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (722) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS.
Take: (722)  High End NBA Metrics Release: LA Clippers.
The Clippers trail Oklahoma City by 2 1/2 games for third place in the Western Conference, a coveted spot that would likely entail avoiding first-place Golden State in the second round of the playoffs. Oklahoma City is not a strong road team and this is a tough situational spot, the second of a four-game trip. They haven't been playing that well, either, on a 2-4 SU, 3-3 ATS run. The Thunder are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 road games, plus 2-8 ATS following a straight up win. The Clippers are home, rested, and rolling, on an 11-4 SU, 9-6 ATS run. The Clippers are No. 6 in points scored, No. 8 in points allowed and 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games playing on one days rest. Play the LA Clippers.

2/25 10:35 PM EST   NBA   (709) HOUSTON ROCKETS VS (710) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS.
Take: (709) NBA Payback Game of the Year: Play Houston.
Houston is a dog but has a great offense that can hang with anyone. They are No. 5 in the NBA in points scored on an 8-5 spread run. The last two games they blew out Phoenix on the road and covered in a close loss at Utah, tallying 114 points. That was against a great Utah defense, not they face a Portland defense ranked No. 17 in points allowed, No. 18 in field goal defense and No. 22 at defending the three. These teams just met here with Portland wining easily, but that was the second of a back to back spot for Houston after running with defending champion Golden State the night before -- now they are rested. The road team is 9-4 ATS in the last 13 meetings and the Rockets are 8-3-1 ATS at Portland. Play Houston.

02/19 10:05 PM EST   NBA   (863) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (864) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS.
Take: (863)  NBA Trend Tracker Game of the Month: Golden State.
Portland is home but the Blazers are 5-13-1 ATS in their last 19 games vs. a team with a winning percentage above .600. And it's not just any good team in town but the defending champs, who have dominated all year -- both straight up and against the spread. The Warriors are 20-9-1 ATS on the road and 20-8 ATS playing on 3 or more days rest. When these teams clash the Warriors are 20-7 ATS in the last 27 meetings, including 4-0 at Portland. Play Golden State!      

02/10 07:35 PM EST  NBA   (511) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS VS (512) BOSTON CELTICS.
Take: (511) LA Clippers.
The red-hot LA Clippers opened as a road dog, and they have a better road record than Boston has at home. The Clippers are 18-7-2 ATS vs. the Eastern Conference. The LA Clippers can do it all, No. 7 in the NBA in scoring, No. 8 in points allowed, No. 5 in field goal shooting defense. They match up well with Boston, and the Clippers are 9-4 ATS in the last 13 meetings, including 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Boston. And the Underdog is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings. Play the LA Clippers.      

The Toronto Raptors are the hottest team in the East Conference, winning 13 of their last 14 games S/U. I will only look at S/U today since the line currently is Toronto +1, which basically means we are picking the outright winner here. The Raptors have jumped into first in the Atlantic Division with a 34-16 overall record. Meanwhile, Detroit has been dropping fast, losing nine of the last 15 games. The Pistons are now fourth in the Central division with a 27-25 record. The overall conference standings find the Raptors in 2nd, just two games back of Cleveland. The Pistons are in 8th place, holding onto that final playoff spot in the East. Raptors just playing too good right now. I like Toronto to win this one outright. Play Toronto.

2/06 07:05 PM EST   NBA   (505) DETROIT PISTONS VS (506) INDIANA PACERS. 
Take: (506) NBA Central Division Game of the Year: Indiana.
Detroit can't hit free throws and has a losing road record. The Pistons are 2-5 ATS vs. a team with a winning straight up record, plus 3-7 ATS away vs. a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. Indiana is home and battling Detroit for the No. 7 seed in the East. C.J. Miles scored 27 as the Pacers beat Nets 114-100 the last game. Indiana's bench outscored Brooklyn's by 42 points in the victory. The Pacers are 19-6-1 ATS against the Eastern Conference, plus 7-2-1 ATS vs. the NBA Central division. And the Pistons are 5-11 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Indiana. Play Indiana!      

10-Star NBA Total Dominator :
Reason: Two clubs here that have been really good OVER plays of late. The Pistons have gone OVER in three straight and are 8-1-1 O/U/P in their last 10 games. Detroit has scored 106 or more points in each of their last three games. Meanwhile. the defense hasn't been so good, allowing 104 or more in six of their last eight games. You don't expect Overs to be associated with the Nets, but they have also gone over in four of their last five games. The defense has been bad, allowing 100 or more points in 10 of the last 12 games. The OVER is 13-3 the last 16 times these clubs have met in Brooklyn and 23-9 the last 32 times overall. Take the OVER here on Monday.

1/27 10:35 PM  NBA   (515) DALLAS MAVERICKS VS (516) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS. 
Take: (516) NBA Trend Tracker Game of the Year: Golden State.
End of a three-game road trip for Dallas and the Mavericks are 6-20-1 ATS away vs. a team with a winning home record. Dallas is in the middle of the pack defensively and faces a dominant Golden State team, with depth, offensive firepower and great defense. The Warriors are 21-7 ATS vs. the Western Conference. And when these teams meet Golden State is 37-17-1 ATS, including 14-6 ATS at home. Play Golden State.

1/23 07:05 PM EST   NBA   (507) MILWAUKEE BUCKS VS (508) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS.
Take: (507)  NBA Situational Game of the Year: New Orleans.
The Pelicans are playing for the third time in their seven-game homestand that Coach Alvin Gentry has deemed as make or break in regards to their playoff chances. And they are playing well, on a 4-1 SU/ATS run, ripping Minnesota (114-99) and Detroit (115-99) the last two contests. The Pelicans are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games vs. a team with a losing straight up record. They face a Milwaukee team that had to play last night, at Houston. The Bucks are 2-7 ATS in the last 9 meetings, 1-4 ATS at New Orleans. Play New Orleans.

01/20 07:35 PM EST   NBA   (505) BOSTON CELTICS VS (506) TORONTO RAPTORS.
Take:  NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Year: Celtics/Raptors Over the total.
Boston brings the No. 7 offense in the NBA into this one, a young deep team that likes to run. Boston is rested off an OT loss at Dallas, winding up a three-game trip here. They've allowed 101 or more points in 6 of the last 7, on a 5-1 run over the total. Toronto is on an offensive tear, winning 5 in a row while scoring 108, 106 and 112 the last three. Toronto is on a 9-3 run over the total and the over is 10-3 in the Raptors last 13 vs. the Eastern Conference. And the over is 11-4 when the Raptors face a team with a winning straight up record. Play Boston/Toronto Over the total.      

01/15 09:35 PM EST  NBA   (867) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (868) HOUSTON ROCKETS
Take: (868) NBA Situational Game of the Year: Houston.
A tough spot for Cleveland through the Texas Triangle, at San Antonio last night and now heading to rested Houston. The Cavaliers are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 road games, 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games playing on no days rest. Houston is rested and playing well, winning 5 in a row. James Harden had 27 points and 11 assists and the Rockets got their season-high fifth straight win, 107-104 over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Dwight Howard added 15 points and 10 rebounds and Terrence Jones came off the bench to score 16 with nine rebounds for the Rockets.  Houston is on an 8-3 ATS run at home and the Cavaliers are 1-11 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Houston. Play Houston!

01/12 07:05 PM ESt   NBA   (701) PHOENIX SUNS VS (702) INDIANA PACERS.
Take: (702) Blowout Game of the Year: Indiana.
The Pacers are in need of some luck after losing two games in OT in their last four games. Sunday's loss to Houston in OT (107-103) saw the Pacers leading by double-digits in the second half. The Pacers were 2-2 on that road trip, but could have easily pulled out one or even two more wins. They will have a much easier time here on Tuesday against a struggling Suns club. The Suns have lost 10 of the last 11 games and are 5-12 ATS their last 17. The Suns dismissed their assistant coaches at the end of December as a result of their poor play. Phoenix is 13-26 S/U and 16-23 ATS and allowing the highest field goal percentage (47.5%) in the NBA. They have one of the best centers in Tyson Chandler. However, Chandler has been allowing a lot of easy contested shots as he's ranked 6th in the NBA in highest field goal percentage allowed among centers. This is an ideal team for the Pacers to garner a much-needed win and cover against. Take Indiana.      

12/15 10:05 PM EST   NBA   (705) HOUSTON ROCKETS VS (706) SACRAMENTO KINGS
Take: (705) NBA Blowout Game of the Year: Houston.
The Houston Rockets have plenty of offensive talent and are the No. 7 seed in the West turning things around. They reached .500 on Saturday night with an easy 126-97 win over the Los Angeles Lakers behind 30 points from James Harden. The Rockets are on a 5-1 ATS run and face a dysfunctional Sacramento squad that is 29th in points allowed, 25th in field goal shooting defense. They are on a 2-3 SU/ATS run and 2-5 ATS playing on 3 or more days rest. And the Rockets are 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Sacramento. Play the Rockets!      

The New York Knicks (8-7 S/U, 9-5 ATS) are much improved this year after quite a few years of controversy and just horrible play. The Knicks had a great run recently, winning five straight and eight against the spread. Then, the Knicks hit a brick wall, putting forth their worst offensive output of the season in a loss at Miami, 95-78. Rookie Kirstaps Porzingis, the number four pick the draft, has played great with an average of 20 ppg. The Magic (6-8 S/U, 8-6 ATS) have slumped lately, which has prompted HC Scott Skiles to hint of lineup changes after Tuesday's loss to the Cavs, 117-103. The Magic opened the season with seven straight covers before going on a 1-6 ATS run. The Knicks have dominated this series, going 10-2-1 the last 13 against the Magic. In addition, they are 6-1-1 in their last trips to Florida. The Knicks are much improved this season and while they are a very small dog here on Wednesday, they won't need it as they win this one going away. Take the Knicks.

06/16 09:00 PM  NBA  (711) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (712) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Take:  NBA Playoff Total of the Year: Warriors/Cavaliers Game 6 Under the total.
This has been an all-out defensive series, with the Cavs slowing the tempo down because of injuries. Golden State can play defense, too, No. 1 during the regular season in field goal shooting allowed, just 42% shooting. Golden State is 6-2 under the total on the road, as well as a 13-3-1 run under the total overall. Cleveland will slow it down again and give a monster defensive effort all game long in front of their home fans. Cleveland is on a 3-0-1 run under the total, plus a sizzling 38-17-1 under the total playing on one days rest. Play the Warriors/Cavaliers Game 6 under the total.      

06/11 09:00 PM EST  NBA   (707) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (708) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Take: (707) NBA High Roller Platinum: Play Golden State in Game 4.
Golden State has been in every game with their depth and firepower, coming back from 20-down on the road the last game to cut it to 1 point in the fourth. They could easily by up 2-1 or even 3-0. Now they are in a must-win game and changes are in store. Steve Kerr has played Cleveland's style of basketball (slowing the pace down) but will try and run more. He can do that by mixing up his bench, bringing in big guys to rebound for stretches, then going back to the small-ball he's used a lot. The Warriors are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 vs. the Eastern Conference. They will attack a Cavaliers team that is short on depth and star power after the losses of Love and Irving. Play Golden State in Game 4.

Game one was tough to take as I had both the UNDER and the Cavs. Cavs were in control for the first 48 minutes of game one. LeBron James played great in game one. Stephen Curry struggled to get going most of the game. It was only in OT that Golden State took over and coverd the six point spead. Both of these clubs are excellent defensive teams. Golden State was No. 1 in FG shooting defense and plays its best defense at home. Cleveland is on a 4-1 run under the total on the road and has been a terrific defensive team all playoffs. They got much better in midseason with the additions of Mosgov up front and Shumpert from the Knicks. The big question here in game two is how will the Cavs respond now they they have lost Kyrie Irving for the rest of the playoffs. One thing I have liked about this Cleveland team has been their ability to adjust to the changes all season and during the playoffs. The Cavs will need JR Smith to step up now with more offense with Iman Shumpert also playing a big role that Irving filled. The Cavs will also need to dictate the pace again here in game two and not allow transition baskets. It's going to be tough without Irving, but I think the Cavs can still keep this one close and cover the spread. Take Cleveland in game 2.

06/04 09:00 PM ESt  NBA   (701) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (702) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Take: (701) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Reason: The week of rest is going to help the talented Cavaliers -- a lot. They pretty much swept the Hawks without Kyrie Irving, recovering from a knee injury. Cleveland picked up key players in mid-season (Shumpert, J.R. Smith, Mosgov) that has really transformed them from a very good team to a deep, flexible one that can clamp down defensively. And of course, they have the best players in the game in LeBron James. The Cavaliers are 13-3 ATS against the Western Conference and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 road games. Golden State has been overvalued for a while and the Warriors are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 home games. Play Cleveland in Game 1.

05/22 08:30 PM EST  NBA   (507) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (508) ATLANTA HAWKS
Take: NBA Eastern Conference Playoff Total of the Year: Cavs/Hawks Game 2 Under the total.
Game 1 was a defensive battle and more is at stake for the home team so expect an even better defensive performance. During the regular season Atlanta was No. 5 in the NBA in points allowed and No. 6 in field goal shooting defense. Atlanta is 5-2 under the total at home and 4-1 under at home against an opponent with a winning road record. Cleveland is during up its defense at the right time of the season, on a 7-3 run under the total. The under is also 35-15-1 in the Cavaliers last 51 games playing on 1 days rest. Play the Cavs/Hawks Game 2 Under the total.

05/17 3:00 PM EST  NBA   (751) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS VS (752) HOUSTON ROCKETS
Take: (752) HOUSTON ROCKETS
Reason: High Roller NBA Platinum: Houston Rockets in Game 7.
The LA Clippers looked shell-shocked in Game 6 at home, blowing a huge fourth quarter lead to lose 119-107. They were outscored 40-15 at home when all they had to do was hold on for a celebration....now they have to jump on a plane and fly to Houston for a winner-take-all road game. The weaknesses in both teams have been exploited in this series. The LA weaknesses have really hurt the last two game: free throw shooting and no bench. Houston is playing an uptempo style and the Clippers have had trouble keeping pace when going to their weak bench. Houston is a home dog and the home team is 88-22 straight up in Game 7s in NBA history. Houston is home, playing loose and their head coach is making all the right moves. Play Houston in Game 7.      

05/15 09:35 PM EST  NBA   (747) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (748) MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Take: (747) NBA High Roller Platinum Club: Golden State Warriors in Game 6.
Golden State had a pair of hiccups in Games 2 and 3, which happens to all great teams in the postseason. But they have bounced out of an offensive slump to strangle the Grizzlies the last two games, winning 101-84 and 98-78. How's that for a pair of statement games to take back charge of a series? This team is historically good, No. 1 in the NBA in field goal shooting, No. 1 in three-point shooting and No. 1 in FG shooting defense. The Warriors are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. When they get that long rang going, the Warriors can open up a 10-point lead on anyone, forcing a slow-down team like Memphis to try and hurry-up -- and that's not their style or game. The Grizzlies are 1-4 ATS at home against a team with a winning road record and when these teams clash the favorite is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Play Golden State in Game 6.