At 8:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (539) and the Phoenix Suns (540) in Game Four of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (59-31) was on a three-game winning streak before their 121-114 loss on the road to the Suns as a 4-point favorite on Friday. Phoenix (50-40) won their first game in this series while earning their fifth victory in their last seven games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Despite Friday’s game going Over the Total, the Under is still 9-4-2 in the Nuggets’ last 15 games in the Western Conference Semifinals. Denver is not as efficient with their shooting when playing away from home. They posted an effective field goal percentage (eFG) of 50% on the road in Game Three which was far below their 55% eFG in the playoffs this postseason. And while the Suns are making 47.0% of their shots this season, the Nuggets have played 37 of their last 64 games Under the Total against teams making 46% or more of their shots. Getting Game Three four days after Game Two was a big break for Kevin Durant and Devin Booker who have been playing more than  40 minutes per game in the postseason. They both had monster games on Friday for the Suns. Booker scored 47 points. Durant added 39 points. But Booker played 41:37 minutes and Durant was on the floor for 43:31 minutes. Now this duo only has a day of rest — and Paul remains out with his groin injury. The problem Phoenix has is that they lack a Plan B offensive strategy if Booker and Durant are not on fire. Their supporting cast made only 16 of 39 shots (41%) from the field and nailed only 3 of 15 (20%) shots from behind the arc. The Suns have played 11 of their last 18 games at home when favored by up to six points. They have also played 5 of their last seven Game Fours in a playoff series Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Denver has played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total when motivated to avenge a same-season loss. 8* NBA Denver-Phoenix TNT O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (539) and the Phoenix Suns (540). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Denver Nuggets (539) plus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (540) in Game Four of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (59-31) was on a three-game winning streak before their 121-114 loss on the road to the Suns as a 4-point favorite on Friday. Phoenix (50-40) won their first game in this series while earning their fifth victory in their last seven games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NUGGETS PLUS THE POINTS: Game Three was a must-win contest for the Suns trailing 0-2 in this series. Depth is a problem for this team after they dealt Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson to Brooklyn in the Kevin Durant trade — and the injury to Chris Paul leaves the acceptable rotation for head coach Monty Williams rather thin. Getting Game Three on four days after Game Two was a big break for Durant and Devin Booker who have been playing m more than 40 minutes per game in the postseason. They both had monster games on Friday. Booker scored 47 points. Durant added 39 points. But Booker played 41:37 minutes and Durant was on the floor for 43:31 minutes. Now this duo only has a day of rest — and Paul remains out with his groin injury. The problem Phoenix has is that they lack a Plan B if Booker and Durant are not on fire. Their supporting cast made only 16 of 39 shots (41%) from the field and nailed only 3 of 15 (20%) shots from behind the arc. Furthermore, the heart of Booker and Durant (and Paul’s, for that matter) offense is from the midrange. I tend to think that the “math problem” for teams that do not launch more than 40% of their shots from 3-point range is often too simplistic (the math changes if a team’s shooting inside the arc is over 50% and generates trips to the free throw line). However, the cracks in the Suns’ philosophy are demonstrated in Booker’s stat line as he made 20 of his 25 shots (80%) from the field but only got to the free-throw line twice.  Phoenix won by only seven points despite his 80% shooting night. The Suns are taking more 3s after their Game One loss — but they only made 9 of their 28 shots (32%) from downtown as this simply is not a strength of this team. Phoenix held the Nuggets to 44.3% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last four games. They will need to come close to that performance again despite ranking 11th of the 16 playoff teams in the first round in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency (with a healthy Paul). That Los Angeles Clippers team without Paul George for the entire series and Kawhi Leonard for the final four games of that series still posted an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency mark of 120 or higher in three of those four contests. As it is, the Suns have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread victory. Phoenix is now 13-3 straight-up with Durant on the floor — but the quality of the competition in those games has to be questioned. Eleven of those wins came against teams in the bottom half of the league in the regular season. The Suns have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. Denver found themselves behind the eight-ball early on Friday as they went into halftime trailing by a 67-52 score. The Nuggets have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games when trailing by 15 or more points in their last game. They have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 28 of their last 38 games after winning two of their last three games. Denver only made 10 of their 30 shots (33%) from behind the arc — and their 44.3% shooting percentage was the lowest in this series. Against Minnesota in the first round, the Nuggets made 58% of their shots inside the arc while nailing 38% of their 3-pointers. Denver has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: The Nuggets have still covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against the Suns — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games when avenging a loss on the road. 25* NBA Conference Semifinals Game of the Year with the Denver Nuggets (539) plus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (540). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Lakers (536) minus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (535) in Game Three of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (49-42) had won two games in a row before their 127-100 loss on the road to the Warriors as a 7-point favorite on Thursday. Golden State (49-42) has won two of their last three games to even this series at 1-1.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LAKERS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles allowed the Warriors to make 50.5% of their shots on Thursday which was the worst defensive effort in their last nine games. The Lakers had the best defense in the NBA in terms of Adjusted Defensive Efficiency since the trade deadline when they significantly improved their roster — so they should bounce back and play better on that end of the court back at home tonight. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a loss by 10 or more points. They have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. Los Angeles was not as aggressive in Game Two as they were in Game One which they won by a 117-112 score. The Lakers are not nearly as efficient from 3-point range as the Warriors — but they overcome that gap by getting second-chance shots and getting to the free-throw line. In Game One, Los Angeles out-rebounded Golden State by a 53-49 margin while pulling down 13 offensive rebounds. They also made 25 of their 29 free throw attempts. But in Game Two, they only had nine offensive rebounds and got outrebounded by the smaller Warriors team by a 55-40 margin. Furthermore, they only had 17 free throw attempts and missed seven of those shots. The Lakers must control the boards in this series to stay competitive — and it starts with Anthony Davis. The big man scored only 11 points from 11 shots from the field — and he had just seven rebounds. Los Angeles was outscored by 22 points when he was on the court. The inconsistent superstar must play better tonight. Look for him and his teammates to play with more energy tonight after stealing home-court advantage in Game One. The Lakers return home where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage no better than 40% on the road. Golden State made 50.5% of their shots on Thursday which was the best shooting mark in their last four games. They also nailed 50% of their 42 shots from behind the arc. But the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a double-digit win. Additionally, they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win. They go back on the road where their 3-point shooting drops to a 37.3% mark this season. Golden State was miserable on the road this season — but some of that should be blamed on defending champion malaise along with head coach Steve Kerr experimenting with giving his younger players more playing time in those games in a hostile environment. Still, it is not encouraging that the Warriors had the worst Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when playing on the road for any reigning NBA champion in the history of the league. Golden State is 17-38-1 ATS in their last 56 road games against teams with a winning record at home. And while the Warriors have a 34-25 ATS mark on the road in the playoffs after Game Two in the Stephen Curry era — they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their 5 Game Threes when the playoff series was tied at 1-1. Kerr also has some lineup issues to resolve regarding whether or not to go small with just one center or play Draymond Green and Kevon Looney together. This is a tactical problem for him that was temporarily resolved with Looney being under the weather on Thursday. Kerr opted to start JaMychal Green who has size but can make 3s. But he is not the rebounder that Looney is. Kerr needs Looney’s rebounding — but both Green and he are offensive liabilities when on the court together. When Kerr went small late in the fourth quarter in Game One, they overcame a 14-point deficit. But maintaining the small lineup risks the Warriors getting crushed on the boards. By making 50% of their 3-pointers, Golden State gained +33 points on the Lakers in Game Two — the winning difference. Like every other basketball team on the planet, if they make 50% of their 3-pointers, they will continue to win. I do not expect that to happen tonight.

FINAL TAKE: The Lakers have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 34 games in the playoffs when the series is tied. 25* NBA ABC-TV Game of the Month with the Los Angeles Lakers (536) minus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (535). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the New York Knicks (533) plus the points versus the Miami Heat (534) in Game Three of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (55-37) has won four of their last five games after their 111-105 win at home against the Heat as a closing 9-point favorite on Tuesday that evened this series at 1-1. Miami (50-41) had their four-game winning streak snapped with the loss.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KNICKS PLUS THE POINTS: New York got Julius Randle back on the court in Game Two — and his presence jumpstarted their offense with the team posting a massive Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 135.2 when he was on the court. Randle scored 25 points while grabbing 12 rebounds and dishing out eight assists. With Randle back in the middle, the Knicks out-rebounded the Heat by a 50-34 margin — and they have then covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games on the road after out-rebounding their previous opponent by 15 or more boards. New York should build off their momentum from that win as they are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games after a win on their home court. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. The extra days of rest should help them as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with three or more days of rest. They go on the road where they are 38-16-1 ATS in their last 55 games — and they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games on the road against teams with a winning record at home. New York has also covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games on the road after playing their previous two games at home. Miami hopes to get Jimmy Butler back on the court after he missed Game Two due to the ankle he tweaked in Game One. He may not be back at 100%. The Heat have now covered the point spread in five straight games after pulling off four straight upsets in these playoffs before their Game Two loss. But Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after covering the point spread in five straight games. They are also 11-28-1 ATS in their last 40 games after a point-spread win. They return home for the first time since April 24th where they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 36 home games when favored. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games after being on the road for seven or more days.

FINAL TAKE: The Heat have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 32 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. 10* NBA New York-Miami ABC-TV Special with the New York Knicks (533) plus the points versus the Miami Heat (534). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Phoenix Suns (532) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (531) in Game Three of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Phoenix (49-40) has dropped the first two games of this series after their 97-87 loss on the road to the Nuggets as a 4-point favorite on Monday. Denver (59-30) has won seven of their last eight games while taking a 2-0 lead in this series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SUNS MINUS THE POINTS: Phoenix only made 40% of their shots in Game Two which was the worst shooting effort in their last 50 games. Even without the injured Chris Paul for this game after he injured his groin in Monday’s game, the Suns should shoot much better tonight. Cameron Payne has been effective in the starting five when Paul has been injured in the regular season. Phoenix has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 home games after playing a game on the road. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a game where neither team scored more than 105 points. Denver played their best defensive game in their last six contests by holding the Suns to 40.0% shooting. The Nuggets won Game One of this series by 18 points — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games after winning their last two games by double-digits. Denver has also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games on the road after winning two or more games in a row. And in their last 24 games after winning three or more games in a row, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 16 of those games.

FINAL TAKE: The Suns have covered the point spread in 28 of their last 43 games when attempting to avenge a double-digit loss. 8* NBA Friday Late Show Bailout with the Phoenix Suns (532) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (531). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Philadelphia 76ers (530) plus the points versus the Boston Celtics (529) in Game Three of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (59-29) had won seven games in a row before their 121-87 loss on the road against the Celtics as a 9-point underdog on Wednesday. Boston (62-28) has won eight of their last 11 games while evening this series at 1-1.

REASONS TO TAKE THE 76ERS PLUS THE POINTS: Philadelphia got Joel Embiid back on Wednesday after he missed time with a right ankle sprain — but he was rusty and struggled to find his rhythm. The big man only scored 15 points and pulled down three rebounds in 27 minutes of work. He should be more in synch tonight. The 76ers only shot 39.2% from the field which was the worst shooting effort in their last 12 games. Philadelphia has covered the point spread in 16 of their last 23 games after scoring 105 or fewer points in their last game. Additionally, they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 38 games — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. And in their last 5 games at home as an underdog, the Sixers have covered the point spread 4 times. This remains a team that is 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. They have also covered the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Boston played their best defensive game in their last six contests by holding Philly to 39.2% shooting. They nailed 20 of their 51 shots (39%) from behind the arc while enjoying a +42 net point edge against the 76ers from 3-point land. That is not likely to continue tonight. The Celtics have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by 20 or more points against an Atlantic Division rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a win by 30 or more points.

FINAL TAKE: Philadelphia has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games when avenging a loss on the road to their opponent. 10* NBA Boston-Philadelphia ESPN Special with the Philadelphia 76ers (530) plus the points versus the Boston Celtics (529). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (526) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (525) in Game Two of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (48-42) looks to rebound from their 117-112 upset loss at home to the Lakers as a 4.5-point favorite on Tuesday. Los Angeles (49-41) has won four of their last five games while taking the opening game of this series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WARRIORS MINUS THE POINTS: Golden State was at a situational disadvantage on Tuesday having just played a Game Seven on the road at Sacramento on Sunday while the Lakers had five days off after finishing Sacramento in six games. The Warriors have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after an upset loss to a divisional rival — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a loss at home to a Pacific Division foe. Additionally, Golden State has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 39 games at home after a straight-up loss. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their 5 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 home games after a point spread loss. And in their last 16 games at home after losing two of their last three games, they have covered the point spread in 12 of these games. They remain a dominant 40-19-1 ATS in their last 60 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Los Angeles may take their foot off the gas pedal after stealing home-court advantage. LeBron James logged in 40 minutes in Game One while Anthony Davis played 44 minutes while not taking a break in the second half. As it is, the Lakers have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 30 games off a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after an upset win as a road underdog. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 40 of their last 61 games after winning two games in a row. And while they have covered the point spread in two straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 20 games after covering the point spread in two straight games. They stay on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 road games as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Warriors went on a 14-0 run late in the fourth quarter by going small with Jordan Poole replacing Kevon Looney with the other four starters. Poole played his best game in the postseason by scoring 40 points. Expect head coach Steve Kerr to play more small ball with either Looney or Draymond Green the lone big man on the court since that opens up space for the offense to gel. Golden State has now lost four games in a row to the Lakers — but they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games when motivated by double-revenge. 10* NBA LA Lakers-Golden State ESPN Special with the Golden State Warriors (526) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (525). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (522) minus the points versus the Philadelphia 76ers (521) in Game Two of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Boston (61-28) has lost two of their last three games after their 119-115 upset loss at home to the 76ers as a 10.5-point underdog on Monday. Philadelphia (59-28) has won seven games in a row while taking the opening game of this best-of-seven series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: Boston made 58.7% of their shots in the loss as they continue to torch the nets in this postseason. They have an effective field goal percentage of 60.6% while nailing 40.4% of their shots from behind the arc in the playoffs. The Celtics have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after an upset loss to a divisional rival when favored by at least six points. Boston has covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a point spread loss. Look for Robert Williams III to get more time on the court tonight. In his 20 minutes of work on Monday, he enjoyed a +25.2 net rating with the team posting a 105.4 Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when he was on the court. The Celtics have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games when playing at home. Philadelphia made 50.6% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last five games. The 76ers got a superhuman performance from James Harden who scored 45 points to carry the team to victory. It looks like Joel Embiid will return to the court tonight after being out with his right ankle sprain. This remains a luxury game for the team after they seized home-court advantage with the upset win on Monday. This is the Sixers’ fourth game in a row on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning three games in a row on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after winning seven or more games in a row. And while they have covered the point spread in seven straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after covering the point spread in at least five games in a row. Philly did commit ten more personal fouls than the Celtics in Game One after closing out their series with Brooklyn by committing five more personal fouls in Game Four. Philadelphia has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after committing five or more personal fouls than their opponent in two straight games.

FINAL TAKE: Boston is 33-16-2 ATS in their last 51 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher — and they have still covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against the 76ers. 10* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Boston Celtics (522) minus the points versus the Philadelphia 76ers (521). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (519) and the Golden State Warriors (520) in Game One of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (48-41) has won three of their last four games after their 128-125 win against Memphis in Game Six of their opening-round series on Friday. Golden State (48-41) has won four of their last five games after their 120-100 upset win at Sacramento in the seventh game of that series on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Lakers nailed 53.8% of their shots on Friday which was the best shooting effort in their last 11 contests — so they are likely to see some regression. And while they played their best defensive game of the season by holding the Grizzlies to 30.2% shooting, their commitment to defense should continue in the opening game of this series. Los Angeles lead the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency since the trade deadline when they reshuffled their team. The Lakers have played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a win by 20 or more points at home — and they have played 3 of their last 4 games Under the Total after a win by 30 or more points. They have played 14 of their last 23 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 90 points in their last game. Additionally, Los Angeles has played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing with three or more days of rest — and they have played 34 of their last 53 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the sixth time in the last 14 days. Golden State has played 22 of their last 30 games at home Under the Total after not allowing more than 100 points in their last game. The Warriors return home where the Under is 10-4-1 in their last 15 games — and the Under is 6-2-1 in their last 9 home games against teams with a losing record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Golden State has also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and the Lakers have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total in the Western Conference Semifinals. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (519) and the Golden State Warriors (520). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the New York Knicks (518) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (517) in Game Two of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (51-37) was on a three-game winning streak before their 108-101 upset loss at home to the Heat as a 4-point favorite on Sunday. Miami (50-40) has won four straight games and six of their last seven while taking a 1-0 lead in this series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KNICKS MINUS THE POINTS: While New York made 47.7% of their shots on Sunday which was their best shooting effort in their last six games, that statistic is misleading for just how woeful the Knicks were with their shooting. They shot 20.6% from behind the arc by missing 27 of their 34 shots from downtown. They also made only 12 of their 20 free throws at a rough 60% clip. The deeper metrics suggest they deserved better with their 51.7% effective field goal percentage (eFG) far below their expected eFG of 54.7%. The Knicks are dealing with injuries with both Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson listed as questionable with ankle issues. Randle has been out since late in the previous round against Cleveland. Brunson still played 40 minutes on that bum ankle — so he should play and should improve on his 0 for 7 mark from behind the arc in Game One. New York has covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. And while they have played six straight games Under the Total, they have then covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after playing three or more Unders in a row — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after playing four or more Unders in a row. The Knicks are also 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 games at home. Miami has now pulled off four straight upset victories after stunning Milwaukee three times in a row last round — so they may be due for a letdown. As it is, the Heat have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after winning three or more games in a row. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 32 of their last 48 games after a straight-up win — and they are 10-28-1 ATS in their last 39 games after a point spread victory. Miami has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning six of their last seven games. Jimmy Butler is listed as questionable with the ankle injury he suffered late in Game One. While he played through it at the time, it is the swelling afterward that becomes the issue. He is considered a game-time decision — but it is tough to expect him to give it a go and risk making things worse with the Heat already seizing home-court advantage in this series. Game Three is on Saturday — so it would seem the prudent choice would be to just let Butler rest up.

FINAL TAKE: The Knicks have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 opportunities for same-season revenge. 10* NBA Tuesday Daily Discounted Deal with the New York Knicks (518) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (517). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (516) minus the points versus the Philadelphia 76ers (515) in Game One of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Boston (61-27) has won seven of their last nine games after their 128-120 win in Atlanta against the Hawks as a 6.5-point favorite to finish that series in six games last Thursday. Philadelphia (58-28) has won six games in a row after completing their four-game sweep against the Nets with a 96-88 win at Brooklyn as a 2-point favorite back on April 22nd.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: Boston shot 50.0% from the field on Thursday — but that was the worst shooting effort from them in their last three games. The Celtics are making 51.9% of their shots in their last five games — and now they return home to TD Garden where they are making 48.5% of their shots which is generating 120.2 Points-Per-Game. Boston has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread victory. They are also 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games when playing with three or more days of rest. The Celtics are also 34-16-2 ATS in their last 52 games against teams winning 60% or more of their games. Philadelphia will most likely be without James Embiid tonight as he continues to nurse a sprained right knee. He missed Game Four against the Nets — and the Sixers only made 39.6% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last 76 games. The 76ers have covered the point spread in six straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after covering the point spread in four straight games while also failing to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after covering the point spread in five straight games. Philly has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 road games as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. And in their last 13 games in Eastern Conference Semifinals, the 76ers have failed to cover the point spread 8 times.

FINAL TAKE: The 76ers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against the Celtics — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games against them when playing in Boston. 8* NBA Philadelphia-Boston TNT Special with the Boston Celtics (516) minus the points versus the Philadelphia 76ers (515). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (505) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Sacramento Kings (506) in Game Seven of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (47-41) had won three games in a row in this series before their 118-89 upset loss to the Kings as a 6.5-point underdog on Friday. Sacramento (51-37) forced a climactic seventh game in this best-of-seven series with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WARRIORS MINUS THE POINT(S): Golden State only made 37.2% of their shots which was a season-low for them all season. But they are the ones with the playoff experience in this series — and by going up 3-1 in this series, they earned the luxury of being able to play awful but still live to see another day. Look for the Warriors to play a very good game in this Game Seven after that embarrassing effort. As it is, Golden State has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit loss. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. Sacramento played their best game in their last 12 contests by holding the Warriors to 37.2% shooting. But it is safe to assume that defense has not suddenly become the Kings' forte — they allow their guests to nail 50.4% of their shots when playing at home which results in 119.9 Points-Per-Game. Sacramento has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit win as a 6-point or higher underdog. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road.  

FINAL TAKE: Golden State has covered the point spread in 32 of their last 52 games when motivated to avenge a same-season loss. 10* NBA Golden State-Sacramento ABC-TV Special with the Golden State Warriors (505) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Sacramento Kings (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (505) and the Sacramento Kings (506) in Game Seven of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (47-41) had won three games in a row in this series before their 118-89 upset loss to the Kings as a 6.5-point underdog on Friday. Sacramento (51-37) forced a climactic seventh game in this best-of-seven series with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Kings played one of their best defensive games of the season by holding the Warriors under 100 points. They limited Golden State to just 37.2% shooting which was a season-low for the reigning NBA champions. Head coach Mike Brown will implore his young team to maintain that type of effort on the defensive end of the court in this Game Seven. But Sacramento only made 40.4% of their shots on Friday in that elimination game — and I do not expect a significant improvement on that mark in this Game Seven with the pressure on this team that lacks deep playoff experience. As it is, the Kings have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a win on the road. They have also played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total after pulling off an upset win on the road. They have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a point spread win. Sacramento has also played 5 straight Unders when playing with one day of rest. The Warriors have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They have also played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing with one day of rest. And in their last 11 games after losing to a Pacific Division rival, they have played their next 7 games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Golden State has played 12 of their last 19 games Under the Total when attempting to avenge an upset loss at home by double-digits. The Under is also 13-6-1 in the last 20 meetings between these two teams in Sacramento. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Total of the Year is with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (505) and the Sacramento Kings (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (501) and the New York Knicks (502) in Game One of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Miami (49-40) has pulled off three straight upset victories to defeat the Bucks in five games after their 128-126 victory as a 12-point underdog on Wednesday. New York (51-36) eliminated the Cavaliers in five games after upsetting them in Cleveland as a 6-point underdog last Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Heat upset the Bucks in Game Five despite only making 45.5% of their shots from the field which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Miami has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after covering the point spread in three straight games — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after winning six or seven of their last eight games. The Heat have also played 4 straight Overs when playing with three or more days of rest. They have also played 4 straight Overs after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. They go on the road where they have played 6 straight Overs. New York shot 43.5% from the field on Wednesday to close out that series despite it being the worst shooting effort in their last three contests. The Knicks have played 13 of their last 21 games Over the Total after winning three or more games in a row. They return home where they have played 20 of their last 31 home games Over the Total when favored. The Over is also 9-2-1 in their last 12 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: New York won three of the four games between these teams in the regular season after a 101-92 victory at home as a 5-point favorite on March 29th. Miami has played 34 of their last 56 games Over the Total when avenging a same-season loss. These two teams have played 5 of their last 7 games against each other Over the Total. 10* NBA Sunday Afternoon Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (501) and the New York Knicks (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the New York Knicks (502) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (501) in Game One of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (51-36) eliminated the Cavaliers in five games after upsetting them in Cleveland as a 6-point underdog last Wednesday. Miami (49-40) has pulled off three straight upset victories to defeat the Bucks in five games after their 128-126 victory as a 12-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KNICKS MINUS THE POINTS: New York is rolling — and they should continue to build off their momentum as they are 25-9-1 ATS in their last 35 games after a win by 10 or more points. They are also 13-4-1 ATS in their last 18 games after a point-spread victory. And in their last 4 games when playing with three or more days of rest, the Knicks have covered the point spread all 4 times. They get to host the first two games in this series where they are 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 games at home at Madison Square Garden. New York has both Julius Randle and Quentin Grimes questionable for this game — but head coach Tom Thibodeau is hopeful that both players can take the court after the few days off. Randle has gone through individual workouts this week while Grimes told reporters that he plans to play. The Knicks were outstanding on defense against the Cavaliers and squeezed the will out of them in the first round. They held Cleveland to just 44.9% shooting which resulted in a mere 94.2 Points-Per-Game. They also dominated the offensive glass — they pulled down at least 40% of their missed shots in three of the five games. Miami may be due to a letdown after pulling off three upset wins in a row against a reeling Bucks team. The Heat have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after an upset loss victory on the road. They are 16-33-2 ATS in their last 51 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after a win on the road. They are 9-28-1 ATS in their last 38 games after a point-spread win. Additionally, Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after winning three games in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after covering the point spread in two or more games in a row. Furthermore, the Heat have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after scoring 125 or more points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing 125 or more points in their last contest.

FINAL TAKE: New York won three of the four regular-season meetings between these two teams while posting a 60.9% effective field goal percentage against them and pulling down a healthy 28.3% of their missed shots. The Knicks are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. 25* NBA Game of the Month with the New York Knicks (502) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (501). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (553) and the Denver Nuggets (554) in Game One of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Phoenix (57-30) has won four games in a row after their 136-130 win against the Los Angeles Clippers that ended that series in five games. Denver (57-30) has won five of their last six games after their 112-109 victory against Minnesota as a 10-point favorite on Tuesday that completed that series in five games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets allowed the Timberwolves to make 50.6% of their shots which was tied for the worst defensive effort in their last seven games. Denver should tighten things up tonight on the defensive end of the court. They have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a narrow win by three points or less — and they have played 33 of their last 55 games Under the Total after a straight-up win. The Nuggets have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. And they have played 22 of their last 34 games Under the Total after winning four of their last five games. Phoenix made 54.3% of their shots on Tuesday which was the best shooting effort in their last three games. The Suns certainly took advantage of a Clippers team that was without their best two defenders, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, for most of that series. Phoenix has played 13 of their last 19 games Under the Total after playing a game where at least 265 combined points were scored.

FINAL TAKE: Denver hosts the opening two games of this series have played 6 of their last 9 games at home Under the Total. 8* NBA Phoenix-Denver TNT O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (553) and the Denver Nuggets (554). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Denver Nuggets (554) minus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (553) in Game One of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (57-30) has won five of their last six games after their 112-109 victory against Minnesota as a 10-point favorite on Tuesday that completed that series in five games. Phoenix (57-30) has won four games in a row after their 136-130 win against the Los Angeles Clippers that ended that series in five games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NUGGETS MINUS THE POINTS: Denver closed out their series against the Timberwolves despite only making 40.0% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last ten games — and tied for the worst offensive effort in their last 38 contests. They should shoot better tonight with the benefit of the few days off. The Nuggets have covered the point spread in 4 straight games when playing with three or more days of rest. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with three or more days of rest. They get to host the first two games of this series where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games — and they have also covered the spread in 9 of their last 13 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 home games after winning three of their last four games — and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 home games after playing a game that finished Over the Total. Denver has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. Phoenix has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win at home against a divisional rival. And in their last 21 games on the road after playing a game that finished Over the Total, they have failed to cover the point spread 16 times. Defense is a significant concern for this team after they allowed a Clippers team playing without Kawhi Leonard and Paul George to post an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency rating of 120.0 or better in three of their four games last round. While Los Angeles ranked only 20th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in the regular season, they ranked fifth of all 16 playoff teams with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 117.6 despite the injuries to Leonard and George. Now this team is going to encounter a culture shock with the uber-efficient Nuggets offense led by Nikola Jokic operating out of the post. And while the Suns have won 12 of their 13 games with Kevin Durant healthy and on the court since acquiring him, 11 of those games were against teams in the bottom half of the league. The lone loss was against a Clippers team playing their only playoff game with a healthy Leonard. Durant and Devin Booker averaged more than 40 minutes per game in Round One — and now they go on the road to the altitude in Denver. They have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 21 road games with the Total set in the 220s. Tellingly, Phoenix has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams last played on April 6th with the Suns beating the Nuggets’ reserves by a 119-115 score. Denver has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 18 opponents for some same-season revenge. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month with the Denver Nuggets (554) minus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (553). Best of luck for us — Frank.   

At 10:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Lakers (550) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (549) in Game Six of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (47-41) looks to close out this series tonight after their 116-99 loss on the road against the Grizzlies as a 4.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Memphis (55-34) had lost four of five games before making this a 3-2 series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LAKERS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles only made 40.2% of their shots on Wednesday which was the worst shooting effort in their last 18 games. And while they held Memphis to 44.4% shooting, that was still the worst defensive performance in their last four contests. After taking a 3-1 series lead, the Lakers bought themselves the luxury to take a game off — and they took their foot off the gas pedal when the Grizzlies started to pull away in the third quarter. But now is the game where LeBron James and Anthony Davis will step it up to avoid a Game Seven back in Memphis. As it is, Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss by double-digits. The Lakers have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games again teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road. Memphis played their best defensive game in their last ten contests by holding the Lakers to 40.2% shooting. But the Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread victory. And in their last 7 games after a win by 10 or more points, they are just 1-5-1 ATS. Memphis has not been a good team on the road. They are getting outscored by -3.0 Points-Per-Game away from home which is bottom-ten in the league. They have lost 24 games on the road as an underdog with their last upset win away from home being on January 22nd. The Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 29 road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 16 road games as an underdog getting up to six points. Considering that the Grizzlies are still relatively inexperienced in the playoffs, look for these woes on the road to continue. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Game of the Year with the Los Angeles Lakers (550) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (549). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (551) and the Golden State Warriors (552) in Game Six of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Sacramento (50-37) has lost three games in a row in this series after their 123-116 loss at home to the Warriors on Wednesday. Golden State (47-40) has won six of their last eight games with the opportunity to close out this series tonight with their 3-2 lead.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Sacramento allowed the Warriors to nail 52.1% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last six games. The Kings should work harder on defense in this potential elimination game tonight. They have played 13 of their last 17 road games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They hit the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total. They have also played 15 of their last 21 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home. Golden State had their best shooting effort from the floor with their 52.1% mark in their last five games on Wednesday. The Warriors return home where the Under is 9-4-1 in their last 14 games.

FINAL TAKE: Golden State has played 12 of their last 16 home games Under the Total again teams with a winning record — and Sacramento has played 14 of their last 18 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. 8* NBA Friday Daily Discounted Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (551) and the Golden State Warriors (552). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (537) and the Atlanta Hawks (538) in Game Six of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Boston (60-27) has lost for the second time in the last three games in this series with their 119-117 upset loss as a 13-point underdog at home to the Hawks on Tuesday. Atlanta (44-44) still trails in this series by a 3-2 margin as they hope to stave off elimination tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Boston was cruising with a 111-99 lead with just 5:19 minutes left in the fourth quarter before complacency might have set in — and Atlanta’s Trae Young got scorching hot with his shooting to steal the game away for the Hawks. The Celtics need to tighten things up on the defensive end of the court after allowing Atlanta to average 115.2 Points-Per-Game in this series. Boston allows 111.6 PPG this season — and they rank second in the NBA in the regular season in defending inside the arc. The Hawks took the second most shots from midrange in the regular season while taking the fewest shots from behind the arc per possession. Their 35.3% shooting percentage from 3-point range, ranked 24th in the league. But head coach Quin Snyder has Atlanta shooting many more 3s in this series — and they nailed 19 of their 41 shots (46%) from behind the arc on Tuesday. The Hawks are due for regression as they only make 35.0% of their shots from behind the arc when playing at home. Speaking of regression, while the last three games have flown Over the Total with at least 236 combined points scored, Boston has played 19 of their last 29 games Under the Total after playin three or more Overs in a row. They have also played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total after an upset loss as a double-digit favorite. Atlanta has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a narrow win by three points or less. They have also played 19 of their last 29 games in the playoffs Under the Total. The Hawks pulled out Game Five despite Dejounte Murray being suspended for that game after bumping a referee — but there is a legitimate question regarding whether or not the Hawks are a better team without Murray. The offense seems to flow better when Young is the point guard and primary scorer. When Young and Murray are playing together on the court, Atlanta is getting outscored by -7.7 points per 100 possessions in this series. But when Young is on the court without Murray in this series, the Hawks are outscoring the Celtics by +2.0 points per 100 possessions.

FINAL TAKE: Boston has played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total when avenging a loss at home. 8* NBA Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (537) and the Atlanta Hawks (538) Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (537) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (538) in Game Six of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Boston (60-27) has lost for the second time in the last three games in this series with their 119-117 upset loss as a 13-point underdog at home to the Hawks on Tuesday. Atlanta (44-44) still trails in this series by a 3-2 margin as they hope to stave off elimination tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: Boston was cruising with a 111-99 lead with just 5:19 minutes left in the fourth quarter before complacency might have set in — and Atlanta’s Trae Young got scorching hot with his shooting to steal the game away for the Hawks. Boston only made 12 of their 38 (32%) shots from behind the arc in that game. The Celtics should play better tonight as they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread loss. Boston has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road against teams with a winning record at home. Atlanta nailed 19 of their 41 shots (46%) from behind the arc — so they may be due for some regression there. They make 35.0% of their shots from 3-point range when playing at home. The inconsistent Hawks have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after an upset loss. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 44 of their last 64 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 26 games after a win by six points or less. Furthermore, Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 26 of their last 37 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 24 of their last 34 games after winning three of their last four games. Atlanta pulled out Game Five despite Dejounte Murray being suspended for that game after bumping a referee — but there is a legitimate question regarding whether or not the Hawks are a better team without Murray. The offense seems to flow better when Young is the point guard and primary scorer. When Young and Murray are playing together on the court, Atlanta is getting outscored by -7.7 points per 100 possessions in this series. But when Young is on the court without Murray in this series, the Hawks are outscoring the Celtics by +2.0 points per 100 possessions. Atlanta gets Game Six at home — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games at home while also failing to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Hawks have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games against teams winning 60% or more of their games. 25* NBA 1st Round Eastern Conference Playoff Game of the Year with the Boston Celtics (537) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (538). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (533) and the Sacramento Kings (534) in Game Five of their Western Conference Quarterfinals Series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (46-40) evened this series at 2-2 with their 126-125 win at home against the Grizzlies as a 7-point favorite on Sunday. Memphis (50-36) has lost two in a row and five of their last seven games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Warriors nailed 50.0% of their shots on Sunday which was the best shooting mark in their last four games. But they also allowed the Grizzlies to nail 47.1% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last six contests. Golden State has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. They have also played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point-spread loss. Additionally, the Warriors have played 41 of their last 63 road games Under the Total after a narrow win by three points or less. And in their last 24 games against teams with a winning record, the Under is 17-6-1. Sacramento enjoyed their best shooting mark with that 47.1% clip in their last seven contests. But they played their worst defensive game in their last four games with the Warriors shooting 50.0% from the field. The Kings have played 40 of their last 64 games Under the Total after a loss on the road. They have also played 4 straight Unders after a point spread loss.

FINAL TAKE: The Under is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings between these two teams. 8* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (533) and the Sacramento Kings (534). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Sacramento Kings (534) plus the point(s) versus the Golden State Warriors (533) in Game Five of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Sacramento (50-36) has lost two in a row and five of their last seven games after their 126-125 loss on the road against the Warriors as a 7-point underdog on Sunday. Golden State (46-40) evened this series at 2-2 with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KINGS PLUS THE POINT(S): De’Aaron Fox will attempt to play tonight after fracturing his left index finger. It would be foolish to expect his offensive game to remain at the high level that it has been so far in this series. But Sacramento has been a better team when playing at home — look for the role players to step up tonight. For example, Malik Monk has scored 25 Points-Per-Game for the Kings in the two games played in Sacramento in this series — as opposed to the 10 PPG he is scoring in the two games on the road. The Kings have gotten to the free throw line 61 times in their two home games in this series which is 20 more free throw attempts than what they have had in the two games in Golden State. Sacramento has also forced 35 turnovers in the two games at home as compared to their 22 forced turnovers in the two games on the road. The Kings have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a loss on the road to a divisional rival. They have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after losing two games in a row — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after losing four or five of their last six games. Additionally, Sacramento has covered the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after allowing 125 or more points in their last game. Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 road games after a point spread win. They are also 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. The Warriors have lost 33 of their 43 games on the road this season. It is easy to blame the younger players for this lack of success away from home. While Jordan Poole has scored 19.5 PPG at home in this series, that productivity drops to 10.5 PPG in the two games on the road. But Stephen Curry has turned the ball over five times in both games in Sacramento in this series but only turned the ball over once in each of the two games at home. The Warriors rank third in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when playing at home — but they rank third to last in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when playing on the road. Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 30 of their last 42 games on the road — and they are 15-38-1 ATS in their last 54 road games against teams with a winning record at home. They have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 29 road games with the Total set at 230 or higher. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 road games when favored by up to six points.

FINAL TAKE:  Sacramento has covered the point spread in 16 of their last 24 games when playing with revenge. 25* NBA Wednesday TNT Game of the Month with the Sacramento Kings (534) plus the point(s) versus the Golden State Warriors (533). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (523) and the Phoenix Suns (524) in Game Five of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (45-41) will attempt to stave off elimination tonight after losing Game Four of this series in a 112-100 loss at home to the Suns on Saturday. Phoenix (48-38) has won the last three games in this series to take a 3-1 lead.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Clippers only made 43.5% of their shots in Game Four which was the worst shooting mark in their last eight games. Los Angeles has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and the Over is 6-0-1 in their last 7 games after a point spread loss. They have also played 5 straight Overs after a loss by 10 or more points. They go back on the road where they have played 27 of their last 41 games Over the Total — and the Over is 25-9-2 in their last 36 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Phoenix played their best defensive game in their last seven contests by holding the Clippers to 43.5% shooting. The Sunday have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a double-digit victory. They return home where the Over is 3-0-1 in their last 4 games — and the Over is 17-8-1 in their last 26 home games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Clippers have played 12 of their last 15 games Over the Total on the road when avenging a loss to their opponent. The Over is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings between these two teams —  and the Over is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings between these teams when they are playing in Phoenix. 8* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (523) and the Phoenix Suns (524). Best of luck of run — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Denver Nuggets (522) minus the points versus the Minnesota Timberwolves (521) in Game Five of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (56-30) was on a four-game losing streak before their 114-108 loss on the road to the Timberwolves as a 4-point underdog on Sunday. Minnesota (44-44) had lost four of their last five games before pulling the upset and making this a 3-1 series.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NUGGETS MINUS THE POINTS: Denver lacked focus in Game Four with the series seemingly in hand. They tried to flip the switch late in the game by going on a 13-0 run to force overtime — but they could not beat the Timberwolves desperate to get a win on their home court. Back on their home court, the Nuggets should take care of business and end this series tonight. As it is, they have rebounded to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after suffering an upset loss — and they have covered 15 of their last 22 games after losing on the road in their last game. Additionally, Denver has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games at home after winning three of their last four games. They only made 44.2% of their shots on Sunday which was the worst shooting effort in their last eight games. They return home to the Pepsi Center where they make 51.3% of their shots — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games at home. Furthermore, they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. The Nuggets have won all three of their games in this series by at least nine points — so laying the wood tonight should not be a problem. They have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games as a double-digit favorite. Anthony Edwards is carrying the T-Wolves right now having scored at least 36 points in three straight games while averaging 37 Points-Per-Game on 50% shooting over that span. But it is probably too much to ask that he continues to produce at that level — especially on the road. Karl-Anthony Towns is not helping out with his scoring average down to 16.3 PPG in this series after averaging 20.8 PPG in the regular season. Minnesota will be without Kyle Anderson tonight due to an eye injury — and this team was already undermanned due to the injuries to Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid. The Timberwolves have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after beating a division rival in their last contest — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 25 games after pulling off an upset win at home. Minnesota goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 19 road games with the Total set in the 220s.

FINAL TAKE: Denver has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 25* NBA Northwest Division Game of the Year with the Denver Nuggets (522) minus the points versus the Minnesota Timberwolves (521). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (507) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (508) in Game Four of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (56-29) has won four games in a row after their 120-111 victory on the road against the Timberwolves as a 2-point favorite on Friday. Minnesota (43-44) has lost four of their last five games as they look to stave off elimination tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets made 54.1% of their shots in Game Two of this series on Wednesday which was the best shooting effort in their last 15 games. Rather than receiving a visit from the Regression Gods, Denver backed that up by making 57.1% of their shots on Friday which was the best shooting performance in their last 22 contests. The Nuggets are a great offensive team — but they are overachieving in this series. Michael Porter, Jr. is making 50% of his shots from 3-point range which is simply not sustainable. Denver has played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total after making 50% or more of their shots in two or more games in a row. The Achilles’ heel of this team is the play of their defense — but head coach Mike Malone has this group playing better on that end of the court as of late. While Denver ranked 21st in the regular season in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, they improved to 16th in that metric after the All-Star Break. While that is still the middle of the road, the market has been slow to adjust as the team trends I will cite indicates. Denver has played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a point spread win. They have also played 21 of their last 32 games Under the Total after winning four or five of their last six games. Minnesota played their worst game on defense in 28 contests by allowing the Nuggets to make 54.1% of their shots in Game Two. The T-Wolves have been an improved defensive club that ranked 16th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency during the regular season but was ranked eighth in that metric after the All-Star Break. They clamped down on Oklahoma City in the final Play-In Tournament game to just 95 points — and they limited the Nuggets to just 109 points in Game One which was almost seven points before their season average. Minnesota has played 16 of their last 20 games at home Under the Total after playing a game that finished Over the Total. The T-Wolves stay at home where the Under has an 11-5-1 record in their last 17 games — and they have played 7 of their last 11 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. Minnesota has played 11 of their last 18 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s — and they have played 11 of their last 16 home games Under the Total as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Minnesota has played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams winning 60% or more of their games — and they have played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total in the Western Conference Quarterfinals. 10* NBA Sunday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (507) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (505) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (506) in Game Four of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Boston (59-26) had their five-game winning streak snapped with a 130-122 upset loss on the road against the Hawks as a 5.5-point favorite on Friday. Atlanta (43-43) now trails in this series by a 2-1 margin.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: Boston allowed the Hawks to nail 56.0% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 47 games. The Celtics should tighten things up tonight as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. Boston has still covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. Atlanta enjoyed the best shooting effort in their last 23 games by nailing 56.0% of their shots. But the Hawks have then failed to cover the point spread in 43 of their last 63 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 24 games after a win on their home court. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 37 of their last 54 games after a point spread win. Additionally, Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games against teams winning 60% or more of their games.

FINAL TAKE: The Celtics have still covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games against the Hawks. 10* NBA Sunday Daily Discounted Deal with the Boston Celtics (505) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Sacramento Kings (503) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (504) in Game Four of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Sacramento (50-35) has lost four of their last six games after a 114-97 loss on the road against the Warriors as a 6-point underdog on Thursday. Golden State (45-40) now trails in this series by a 2-1 margin after winning for the fourth time in their last six games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KINGS PLUS THE POINTS: Sacramento only made 38.0% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort for them all season. Despite making 36.5% of their shots from behind the arc for the year, they only converted 11 of their 47 shots (23%) from 3-point range on Thursday. They should make more of their 3s this afternoon. As it is, the Kings have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss to a Pacific Division rival. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit loss. Sacramento has been a consistent team playing away from home after posting a 25-17 record on the road in the regular season. The fast pace the Kings play under head coach Mike Brown has helped them maintain their effectiveness in hostile environments. Sacramento has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, the Kings have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 35 road games with the Total set at 230 or higher — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. Golden State stepped up with Draymond Green suspended and Gary Payton II out with an illness by playing their best defensive game in their last 22 contests by holding the Kings to 38.0% shooting. But scoring remains an issue for the Warriors after they only made 40% of their shots while missing 34 of their 50 shots from behind the arc. Golden State is making only 32.8% of their 3-pointers in this series which is a problem when facing this Sacramento team that broke an NBA record in the regular season in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. With Green out, head coach Steve Kerr played Kevon Looney for heavy minutes with four perimeter players to spread out the offense and open up space in the lane. The dilemma Kerr now has is how to divide Green and Looney’s minutes in Game Four. Playing both of these players together is a problem since both are liabilities on the offensive end of the court. When both players are on the court in this series, the Warriors are scoring only 105.4 points per 100 possessions. Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a double-digit victory. And while the Warriors have covered the point spread in five of their last seven games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. Additionally, Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

FINAL TAKE: Sacramento has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games when attempting to avenge a same-season loss. 25* NBA Pacific Division Underdog of the Month with the Sacramento Kings (503) plus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Lakers (570) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (569) in Game Three of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (45-40) were on a four-game winning streak before their 103-93 loss on the road to the Grizzlies as a 1-point underdog on Wednesday. Memphis (52-32) snapped a two-game losing streak by evening this series at 1-1.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LAKERS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles only made 41.2% of their shots in Game Two which was the worst shooting effort in their last 15 games. While LeBron James and Rui Hachimura combined to score 48 points, the rest of the team only made 16 of their 50 shots. They also only made 56.2% of their shots at the rim. The Lakers should play better back at home. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after allowing no more than 105 points in their last contest. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 33 games when trailing in a playoff series. Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they are just 1-7-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a point spread win. Furthermore, they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 20 games after playing a game that finished Under the Total. Now they go on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 27 road games against teams with a winning record at home. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games as an underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 16 games on the road as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Ja Morant remains a game-time decision after taking part in the Grizzlies’ non-contact practice on Friday after missing Game Two with an injured hand. Memphis is still effective when they do not have Morant available since Tyrus Jones is so effective running the offense in his absence — so this good situation is not dependent on Morant not playing tonight. The Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in Los Angeles against the Lakers. 25* NBA Saturday ESPN Game of the Month with the Los Angeles Lakers (570) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (569). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Minnesota Timberwolves (560) plus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (559) in Game Three of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (43-43) has lost three of their last four games after their 122-113 loss on the road against the Nuggets as an 8.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Denver (55-29) has won three games in a row while taking a 2-0 lead in this best-of-seven series.  

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIMBERWOLVES PLUS THE POINTS: The Nuggets made 54.1% of their shots on Wednesday which was the best shooting effort in their last 15 games. Denver may suffer a letdown now as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after a victory at home against a Northwest Division rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after winning three or more games in a row. And while they have failed to cover the point spread in four of their last five games, the Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. Minnesota played their worst game on defense in 13 contests by allowing the Nuggets to make 54.1% of their shots in Game Two. The T-Wolves have been an improved defensive club that ranked 16th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency during the regular season but was ranked eighth in that metric after the All-Star Break. They clamped down on Oklahoma City in the final Play-In Tournament game to just 95 points — and they limited the Nuggets to just 109 points in Game One which was almost seven points before their season average. The T-Wolves have not covered the point spread in either game in this series — but they have then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 19 games after failing to cover the point spread in their last two games. They have also covered the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games after losing three of their last four games. Minnesota returns home where they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 home games when listed as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have covered the point spread in 31 of their last 47 road games when attempting to avenge a loss on the road. 8* NBA Friday Late Show Bailout with the Minnesota Timberwolves (560) plus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (559). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (559) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (560) in Game Three of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (55-29) has won three games in a row after their 122-113 victory at home against the Timberwolves as an 8.5-point favorite in Game Two on Wednesday. Minnesota (43-43) has lost three of their last four games after that loss.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets made 54.1% of their shots on Wednesday which was the best shooting effort in their last 15 games. And while they allowed the Timberwolves to make 50.6% of their shots, that was the worst defensive effort in their last four games. The Achilles’ heel of this team is the play of their defense — but head coach Mike Malone has this group playing better on that end of the court as of late. While Denver ranked 21st in the regular season in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, they improved to 16th in that metric after the All-Star Break. While that is still the middle of the road, the market has been slow to adjust as the team trends I will cite indicates. The Nuggets held Minnesota to no more than 27 points in three of the four quarters in Game Two after limiting them to 80 points in Game One — and that was on the heels of only giving up 95 points to the up-tempo Sacramento team (albeit with their backups playing) in the final game of the regular season. Denver has played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread win. And while they have covered the point spread in four of their last five games, they have then played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. The Nuggets took a 64-49 lead at halftime on Wednesday — and they have played 11 of their last 15 games Under the Total after holding a halftime lead of 15 or more points. Denver goes back on the road where they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total on the road. Minnesota played their worst game on defense in 13 contests by allowing the Nuggets to make 54.1% of their shots in Game Two. The T-Wolves have been an improved defensive club that ranked 16th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency during the regular season but was ranked eighth in that metric after the All-Star Break. They clamped down on Oklahoma City in the final Play-In Tournament game to just 95 points — and they limited the Nuggets to just 109 points in Game One which was almost seven points before their season average. The bigger problem for this team is that there can experience scoring lulls on the other end of the court. They exploded for 40 points in the third quarter on Wednesday but only scored 73 points for the rest of the game. They have scored 107 or fewer points in four of their last eight games including those 80 points in Game One. Aaron Gordon is doing an outstanding job in slowing down Karl-Anthony Towns. Towns has scored only 21 combined points in this series on 8 of 27 shooting. He has committed nine turnovers and gotten to the free throws line only four times. Game Two flew Over the 222.5-point total — but Minnesota has played 16 of their last 19 home games Uner the Total after playing an Over in their last game. The T-Wolves return home where the Under has an 11-4-1 record in their last 16 games — and they have played 7 of their last 10 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. Minnesota has played 11 of their last 17 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s — and they have played 11 of their last 16 home games Under the Total as an underdog. Additionally, the T-Wolves have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against teams winning 60% or more of their games — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total in the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

FINAL TAKE: Minnesota has played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 25* NBA Northwest Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (559) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (560). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Clippers (552) minus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (551) in Game Three of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (45-39) was on a four-game winning streak before dropping Game Two of this series on the road to the Suns by a 123-109 score as an 8.5-point underdog on Tuesday. Phoenix (46-38) snapped a three-game losing streak with the victory to even this series at 1-1.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CLIPPERS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles will be without Kawhi Leonard tonight after he was declared out with a right knee sprain. The line has adjusted with the Clippers now a  home underdog in the 7-point range. Even without Leonard and Paul George, the depth on this Los Angeles roster and the energy they should bring to this game should help them keep it close (or pull the upset). They allowed the Suns to make 58.8% of their shots which was the worst defensive game of their season. They also only made 43.7% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last six games. Returning home the series is tied at 1-1, the Clippers should play better tonight. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit setback. The Clippers have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a point spread loss. And while the Clippers have only covered the point spread twice in their last seven games, they have then covered the point spread in 32 of their last 50 games after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. Los Angeles has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after allowing their previous opponent to nail 55% or more of their shots. The Clippers have covered the point spread in 46 of their last 76 home games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Phoenix has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win against a Pacific Division rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 39 games after a win at home by 10 or more points. And while Game Two finished Over the 227.5-point total, the Suns have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 19 road games after playing a game that finished Over the Total. They played their best defensive game in their last five by holding the Clippers to 43.7% shooting — and their 58.8% field goal percentage was their best offensive performance all season. But what head coach Monty Williams is asking his team to do is contradict all the current conventional wisdom regarding how to win games in the NBA. Since acquiring Kevin Durant, Phoenix leads the league in shot attempts from midrange. Durant joined a team with Devin Booker and Chris Paul who thrived in taking and making midrange shots. The Suns have taken this to the extreme so far in this series as they averaging only 21.5 attempts from behind the arc. For comparison sakes, Atlanta was last in the NBA in the regular season by averaging 28.9 shots from 3-point land per game. Phoenix is also only taking 17% of their shots at the rim — below the Golden State’s 17.7% shooting percentage at the rim in the regular season which was the league-low. Granted, if the Suns make 40 of their 61 shots (66%) inside the arc again as they did on Tuesday, they will overwhelm the “math problem” of not taking more shots that count for three points or high-percentage shots at the rim. But will Torrey Craig continue his 7 of 12 (58.3%) shooting from 3-point range in this series now playing on the road? As it is, Phoenix has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. The Suns have also failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games on the road with the Total set in the 220s.

FINAL TAKE: Clippers head coach Ty Lue is one of the best in the business — and Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals. 10* NBA Thursday Late Show Bailout with the Los Angeles Clippers (552) minus the points versus the Phoenix Suns (551). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (547) and the Brooklyn Nets (548) in Game Three of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (56-28) has won four games in a row with their 96-84 win at home against the Nets as a 10-point favorite on Monday. Brooklyn (45-39) has lost three games in a row as they trailing this series by a 0-2 margin.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nets only shot 37.5% from the field which was the worst shooting effort in their last 25 games. While I often consider these outlier shooting performances to be due for regression, in this instance it may the canary in the coal mine regarding the problems Brooklyn will have on that end of the court. Since the All-Star Break, the Nets rank 24th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency with the team struggling to generate consistent points after trading away Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. The Nets return home where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total — and they have played 10 of their last 14 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. Philadelphia only made 45.0% of their shots in Game Two with the Nets playing hard on defense — that was the Sixers’ worst shooting effort in their last ten games. The 76ers have played 13 of their last 16 road games Under the Total after beating an Atlantic Division rival in their previous game. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.

FINAL TAKE: Brooklyn has played 11 of their last 13 home games Under the Total when avenging a double-digit loss to their opponent. 8* NBA Thursday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (547) and the Brooklyn Nets (548). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Milwaukee Bucks (542) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (541) in Game Two of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (58-25) has now lost three games in a row after their 130-117 upset loss at home to the Heat as a 9-point favorite on Sunday. Miami (46-39) has won two in a row and six of their last eight contests.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKS MINUS THE POINTS: Giannis Antetokounmpo only played 11 minutes on Sunday before injuring his back which leaves him questionable to play tonight. I am assuming that Antetokounmpo is not playing — and even better if he does take the court. Everything went right for the Heat on Sunday as they made 15 of their 25 shots from behind the arc — and Miami’s 59.5% shooting percentage was the highest opponent’s field goal percentage for the Bucks all season. Milwaukee should tighten things up on defense tonight while also shooting better than the 26% from behind the arc that they managed in Game One. The Bucks have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games after an upset loss. And while Milwaukee has only covered the point spread twice in their last seven games, they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. The Bucks have one of the deepest rosters in the league with plenty of players that can step up in the Greek Freak’s absence. Look for Jrue Holiday and Grayson Allen, in particular, tonight. Holiday is scoring 22.6 Points-Per-Game with 9.5 Assists-Per-Game and 6.4 Rebounds-Per-Game when Antetokounmpo has been injured this season. Allen sports a 13.3 PPG, 3.5 APG, and 3.1 RPG average in the 13 games Antetokounmpo has missed this season. Milwaukee has covered the point spread in 4 of their 5 games at home with the Total set in the 210 to 219.5 point range. They are also 13-5-1 ATS in their last 19 games in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. Miami had their best shooting effort in their last 14 games with that 59.5% shooting percentage. But the Heat have not covered the point spread in 5 straight games after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. Furthermore, Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after an upset win as a road underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after a double-digit win. Consistency has been one of the hobgoblins for this team all season as they have failed to cover the point spread in 31 of their last 44 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after winning two games in a row. On the road, they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games.

FINAL TAKE: Milwaukee has covered the point spread in 24 of their last 35 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. 10* NBA Miami-Milwaukee NBA-TV Special with the Milwaukee Bucks (542) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (541). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Memphis Grizzlies (540) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Los Angeles Lakers (539) in Game Two of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Memphis (51-32) looks to rebound from their 128-112 upset loss at home as a 5-point underdog on Sunday. Los Angeles (45-39) has won eight of their last nine games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GRIZZLIES PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINT(S): Ja Morant is questionable to play tonight after he aggravated what was already a sore right hand. But this Grizzlies team has gotten comfortable playing without Morant given his history of injuries and then his recent time spent away from the team last month given his off-the-court issues. While Morant thrives in the open court, Memphis is probably more effective in their half-court offense when he is not on the court. Tyrus Jones will get more playing time if Morant is out — and he is a steadying presence as a game manager. The Grizzlies need to play better on defense after ending the regular season by allowing Oklahoma City to make 50% of their shots before the Lakers nailed 53.3% of their shots on Sunday in what was the worst defensive effort in their last seven games. Memphis has covered the point spread in 6 straight games after an upset loss by 15 or more points — and they have covered the point spread in 37 of their last 53 games after a double-digit loss. They have also covered the point spread in 18 of their last 25 home games after losing on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 home games when playing for the second time in five days. The Grizzlies have also covered the point spread in 26 of their last 38 games after losing two games in a row — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after allowing their last two opponents to shoot 50% or better from the field. Memphis has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after an upset win as a road underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after an upset win by 15 or more points. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 29 games after a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games after winning three or more games in a row. The Lakers had their best shooting performance in their last six games with their 53.3% shooting percentage — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. On the road, they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games with the Total set in the 220s.

FINAL TAKE: The Lakers have beaten the Grizzlies in their last two meetings — but Memphis has covered the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games when playing with double-revenge. The Grizzlies have also covered the point spread in 24 of their last 35 games when avenging a double-digit loss. 10* NBA LA Lakers-Memphis TNT Special with the Memphis Grizzlies (540) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Los Angeles Lakers (539). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (535) and the Phoenix Suns (536) in Game Two of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (45-38) won for the fourth straight time on Sunday with their 115-110 upset win on the road against the Suns as a 7.5-point underdog. Phoenix (45-38) has lost three games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Clippers pulled off the upset despite making only 44.1% of their shots which was the lowest field goal percentage in their last five games. The Over is 4-1-1 in their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have played 14 of their last 19 games Over the Total after a point spread win. They stay on the road where the Over is 24-9-1 in their last 34 games on the road — and the Over is 6-2-1 in their last 9 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher on the road. The Clippers have also played 5 of their last 7 road games Over the Total as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. By holding Los Angeles to 44.1% shooting, the Suns played their best defensive game in their last four contests. The Over is 5-0-1 in Phoenix’s last 6 games after a straight-up loss. The Over is also 9-1-1 in their last 11 games after a point spread loss.

FINAL TAKE: Phoenix has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total in the Western Conference Quarterfinals. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (535) and the Phoenix Suns (536). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (523) minus the points versus the Sacramento Kings (524) in Game Two of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (44-39) looks to rebound from their 126-123 loss on the road against the Kings in the opening game of this series. Sacramento (49-34) snapped a three-game losing streak with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WARRIORS PLUS THE POINTS: Golden State should respond with a strong effort tonight as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a loss to a Pacific Division rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss on the road by three points or less. Additionally, the Warriors have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. And in their last 12 games when playing for just the second time in seven days, they have covered the point spread in 9 of those contests. Golden State has also covered the point spread in 32 of their last 47 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 23 playoff games when trailing in the series. Sacramento has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games at home after winning their previous game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. They stay at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games — and they are 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 home games against teams with a winning percentage no higher than 40% on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Warriors have covered the point spread in 36 of their last 58 games when avenging a loss where their opponent scored 110 or more points. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show Bailout with Golden State Warriors (523) minus the points versus the Sacramento Kings (524). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (513) and the Denver Nuggets (514) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (43-41) has won four of their last five games after their 120-95 victory against Oklahoma City as a 5.5-point favorite on Friday in the Play-In Tournament. Denver (53-29) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 109-95 upset win against Sacramento as a 5.5-point underdog last Sunday to conclude their regular season.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 16 of their last 22 games Under the Total after a win on their home court. They have also played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a win by 10 or more points. They go back on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total. And in their last 5 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals, Minnesota has played 4 of these games Under the Total. Denver has played 7 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. They host this game where they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Under the Total against teams with a long record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams split their four regular season games with the Nuggets winning the most recent meeting in a 146-112 victory on February 7th. Minnesota has played 14 of their last 19 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on the road of 30 or more points. 8* NBA Sunday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (513) and the Denver Nuggets (514). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Milwaukee Bucks (512) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (511) in Game One of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (58-24) begins the postseason on a two-game losing streak after their 121-105 loss at Toronto as a 3.5-point underdog last Sunday. Miami (45-39) survived the Play-In Tournament by beating Chicago by a 102-91 score as a 5-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKS MINUS THE POINTS: The Heat did not look very impressive this week after getting upset at home to Atlanta on Thursday before pulling away from the Bulls on Friday. The long week will not help their chances this afternoon — and head coach Erik Spoelstra may eventually opt to rest his key players for Game Two with his group having a better chance to steal home-court advantage in this series. As it is, Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 31 of their last 43 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 30 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Heat have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a double-digit victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a win at home. Miami has won five of their last seven games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games on the road after winning five or six of their last seven games. The Heat have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. Milwaukee has had the luxury of resting their key players for the last two weeks — and while rust is a concern, they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after playing no more than five games in the last 14 days. Head coach Mike Budenholzer’s team should play fast and full of energy. The Bucks have not covered the point spread in their previous two games — but they have then covered the point spread in 22 of their last 33 games after a point spread victory while also covering the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not covering the point spread in two straight games. Milwaukee has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 19 home games with the Total set in the 220s. They have also covered the point spread in 24 of their last 34 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Bucks are 13-4-1 ATS in their last 18 games in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. 25* NBA 1st Round Eastern Conference Playoffs Game of the Year with the Milwaukee Bucks (512) minus the points versus the Miami Heat (511). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Lakers (515) plus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (516) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (44-39) has won three games in a row — and 10 of their last 12 games — after their 108-102 victory against Minnesota as an 8.5-point favorite in the Play-In Tournament on Tuesday. Memphis (51-31) has lost two of their last three games — and four of their last seven — after their 115-100 loss at Oklahoma City as a 2.5-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LAKERS PLUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles found their rhythm after the trade deadline by improving the supporting cast around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers boast the best defense in the NBA since the trade deadline. Their size gives them an advantage on most nights. They are also third in the NBA since the trade deadline in free throw rate. They only made 41.3% of their shots against the Timberwolves which was the worst shooting mark in their last 13 games. But their defense was the difference in that game — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game. The Lakers have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread victory. And Los Angeles will come into this game rested having played only once since Sunday — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing for just the second time in seven days. The Lakers have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. Memphis may be rusty from the week off — they are 7-19-1 ATS in their last 27 games when playing with three or more days of rest. The Grizzlies might have played their best ball in the first half of the season. Since the trade deadline, Memphis ranks just 17th in the league in defense. Back at home, they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 13 home games with the Total set in the 220s — and they are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 home games against teams with a losing record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals. The Lakers have the experience edge — expect a close opening game between these two teams with the value being in taking the points. 10* NBA LA Lakers-Memphis ABC-TV Special with the Los Angeles Lakers (515) plus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (516). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (507) plus the point(s) versus the Sacramento Kings (508) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (44-38) concluded the regular season winning three games in a row — and five of their last six games — after a 157-101 victory at Portland as a 17.5-point favorite on Sunday. Sacramento (48-34) has lost three games in a row — and four of their last five games — after their 109-95 upset loss at Denver as a 5.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WARRIORS PLUS THE POINT(S): Golden State has been flipping the proverbial switch in preparation for the postseason all month. Their three-game winning streak was all victories by 11 or more points — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games after winning two or more games in a row by double-digits. They are also 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 games when playing with three or more days of rest. Head coach Steve Kerr made a conscious effort to play more of his younger players this season to rest his core group while getting those players more experience. I suspect that is one of the reasons why the Warriors' record on the road was only 11-30 straight-up. But the playoffs are a different story — and the reigning NBA champions have a 21-3 straight-up record in Game Ones in an NBA Series under Kerr. Golden State’s metrics need to be taken with a grain of salt since Stephen Curry only played in 55 games. The Warriors also get back Andrew Wiggins for this game after playing only 37 games as he took a leave from the team to attend to some family matters. While Wiggins may need some time to shake off some rusty with his shooting, he is a do-it-all player for the team who should make an immediate positive impact for the team. Sacramento embarks on their first postseason campaign since 2006 — and nerves may play a role in front of their anxious home fans. As it is, the Kings have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games when playing with three or more days of rest. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight home games against teams with a losing record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Sacramento may have broken an NBA record for Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — but their struggles on defense may catch up with them now. They ranked 25th in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency with an opponent’s effective field goal percentage that ranked 26th in the NBA. They will likely engage in the style of play in which this Warriors’ team thrives. Golden State has covered the point spread in 32 of their last 46 games in the Western Conference Quarterfinals. 10* NBA Golden State-Sacramento ABC-TV Special with the Golden State Warriors (507) plus the point(s) versus the Sacramento Kings (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (504) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (503) in Game One of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Boston (57-25) closed out their regular season winning five of six games — and eight of their last ten contests — after a 120-114 win against Atlanta as a 4-point favorite last Sunday. Atlanta (42-41) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 116-105 upset win at Miami as a 5.5-point underdog in the Play-In Tournament on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: The Hawks held the Heat to just 42.9% shooting on Tuesday which was the best defensive effort in their last 11 games — but that might have more to do with the listless shooting from Miami than the quality of Atlanta’s defense. A letdown is likely as the Hawks have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games after an upset win in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a double-digit victory. Additionally, Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with three days of rest. The Hawks stay on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 21 road games as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 30 of their last 44 road games in the first round of the NBA playoffs. And in their last 6 games against teams winning 60% or more of their games, Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread all 6 times. Boston has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win. The Celtics have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games at home after winning at least four of their last five games. They host the first two games of this series where they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games. They are also 19-8-1 ATS in their last 28 games in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.

FINAL TAKE: Boston has covered the point spread in 5 straight games against the Hawks — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against Atlanta on their home court. 20* NBA Atlanta-Boston ESPN Special with the Boston Celtics (504) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (503). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Oklahoma City Thunder (571) plus the points versus the Minnesota Timberwolves (572). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (41-42) is on a three-game winning streak after their 123-118 upset win at New Orleans as a 5.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Minnesota had their three-game winning streak snapped in their 108-102 loss in Los Angeles against the Lakers as an 8.5-point underdog on Tuesday. The winner of this game advances to the Quarterfinals of the Western Conference playoffs to play Denver.

REASONS TO TAKE THE THUNDER PLUS THE POINTS: Oklahoma City is playing with house money since they were expected to tank for (slightly) better odds to win the draft lottery to gain the right to pick Victor Wembanyama. The Thunder have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 19 games after winning two games in a row. This team has been capable on the road where they have covered the point spread in 23 of their last 35 games as an underdog getting up to six points. Minnesota held the Lakers to just a 41.3% field goal percentage which was the best defensive effort in their last 13 games. The Timberwolves have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games when playing with two days of rest. Minnesota has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. The T-Wolves have also failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 23 games at home when favored.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma City will be looking to avenge a 112-110 upset loss at home to Minnesota as a 2.5-point favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games when playing with revenge from a loss by three points or less. The Thunder have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games in Minnesota against the Timberwolves. 8* NBA Friday Late Show Bailout with the Oklahoma City Thunder (571) plus the points versus the Minnesota Timberwolves (572). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (570) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (569) in the NBA Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: Miami (44-39) has lost two of their last three games after their 116-105 upset loss to Atlanta as a 5.5-point favorite on Tuesday. Chicago (41-42) has won three games in a row after their 109-105 upset win at Toronto as a 6.5-point underdog on  Wednesday. The winner of this game advances to play Milwaukee in Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HEAT MINUS THE POINTS: Miami lacked energy on Tuesday against a Hawks team that they had beaten in seven of their previous nine matchups. In hindsight, it looked like they took Atlanta for granted — especially with a game in hand tonight against the Bulls-Raptors winner the next night. The Heat got out-rebounded by a 63-39 margin which is indicative of their lack of work ethic in that game. Jimmy Butler only made six of his 19 shots from the field as he threw up a bad bunny after bad bunny that rattled off the rim. Miami only made 42.7% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last seven games. The Heat have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after losing to a Southeast Division rival — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after an upset loss to a divisional rival. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. And while Miami started slow against the Hawks and went into halftime trailing by 15 points, they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after going into halftime with a deficit of 15 or more points. They get to host this single-elimination game where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Chicago pulled off a 19-point comeback to upset the Raptors on Wednesday. While they have covered the point spread in all three of their current three-game winning streak, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning three games in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after covering the point spread in three straight games. The Bulls have only allowed 186 combined points in their last two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 105 points in two straight games. They stay on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home.

FINAL TAKE: Chicago swept all three games against the Heat this season with the last two meetings being by double-digits — so this dynamic should remove any chance of Miami taking this team for granted. The Heat have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when avenging a double-digit loss — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games when playing with double-revenge. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when playing with triple revenge. 25* NBA Game of the Month with the Miami Heat (570) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (569). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (567) and the New Orleans Pelicans (568) in the Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (40-42) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 115-100 victory against Memphis as a 2.5-point favorite on Sunday. New Orleans (42-40) ended the regular season with a 113-108 loss at Minnesota as a 3-point underdog on Sunday. The winner of this game travels to Minnesota to play for the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs — and the loser has their season end tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: New Orleans boasts the top Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in the league in their last 12 games. Overall, the Pelicans rank sixth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency with head coach Willie Green focusing on that end of the court with his group once again learning to live life without a healthy Zion Williamson who has missed much of the season again due to injuries. New Orleans has played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They earned the right to host this game having played 8 of their last 9 home games Under the Total against teams not winning more than 40% of their games on the road. We should not read too much into the Thunder’s victory on Sunday against a Grizzlies team locked into the second seed in the Western Conference playoffs — but they did make 50% of their shots which was the best shooting in their last six games. Oklahoma City has a 16-25 record on the road while scoring -3.4 fewer Points-Per-Game and making 45.0% of their shots as opposed to their 46.6% shooting percentage for the season. They have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total on the road.

FINAL TAKE: New Orleans won three of the four meetings between these two teams but lost the last encounter between these squads in a 110-96 upset loss as a 2-point home favorite on March 11th. The Pelicans have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when avenging a loss at home by ten or more points. 8* NBA  Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (567) and the New Orleans Pelicans (568). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans (568) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (567) in the Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: New Orleans (42-40) ended the regular season with a 113-108 loss at Minnesota as a 3-point underdog on Sunday. Oklahoma City (40-42) has won two games in a row with a 115-100 victory against Memphis as a 2.5-point favorite on Sunday. The winner of this game travels to Minnesota to play for the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs — and the loser has their season end tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PELICANS MINUS THE POINTS: New Orleans has an experience edge in this game after competing in the Play-In Tournament last season and earning the eighth seed and some valuable playoff experience. Zion Williamson remains out for this team — but when the Pelicans have a healthy Brandon Ingram to complement the veteran C.J. McCollum, this becomes a very formidable team. Ingram has missed 37 games this season — but they have won nine of their last twelve games with him back on the court to close out the regular season. Not only is that the fourth-best record in the NBA over that span, but New Orleans boasts the top Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in the league in their last 12 games. Overall, the Pelicans rank sixth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency with head coach Willie Green focusing on that end of the court with his group once again learning to live life without a healthy Williamson. New Orleans only made 44.4% of their shots on Sunday against the Timberwolves -- their most shooting effort in their last three contests — while making only 3 of their 21 shots (14.3%) of their shots from bending the arc. But the Pelicans have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. Ingram was spectacular in the losing effort by scoring 42 points on 16 of 28 shooting. They get to play this game at home where they are 4-1-1 ATS in their 6 games — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. We should not read too much into the Thunder’s victory on Sunday against a Grizzlies team locked into the second seed in the Western Conference playoffs — but they did make 50% of their shots which was the best shooting in their last six games. And by holding Oklahoma City to just 43.5% shooting, they played their best defensive game in their last 13 contests. But the Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games when playing no more than their fourth game in the last ten days. Many observers predicted that this team would spend the season tanking to improve their draft prospects — so the campaign has been a surprising success. But this is a very young group with an average age on the roster of 22.6 which is three years younger than the average age for the Pelicans roster. Charlotte has demonstrated recently that young teams can quickly get overwhelmed in this Play-In Tournament. Second-chance scoring opportunities should be an area where New Orleans will hold an edge tonight. The Thunder are the third-worst defensive rebounding team in the league — and the Pelicans are tenth in the NBA by pulling down 27.7% of their missed shots. Oklahoma City was much better at home where they owned a 24-17 record — but they have a 16-25 record on the road while scoring -3.4 fewer Points-Per-Game and making 45.0% of their shots as opposed to their 46.6% shooting percentage for the season. The Thunder have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road — and they are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home.

FINAL TAKE: New Orleans won three of the four meetings between these two teams but lost the last encounter between these squads in a 110-96 upset loss as a 2-point home favorite on March 11th. Ingram did not play in that game while both Jonas Valuncianas and Herbert Jones played less than 20 minutes in the game. Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 25 games in April. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month with the New Orleans Pelicans (568) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (567). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (565) and the Toronto Raptors (566) in the Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: Chicago (40-42) enters the NBA postseason coming off a 103-81 win against Detroit as an 8-point favorite on Sunday. Toronto (41-41) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 121-105 win against Milwaukee as a 3.5-point favorite on Sunday. The winner of this game travels to Miami to play the Heat to claim the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs on Friday — and the loser ends their season tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Chicago has been a much better team since acquiring Patrick Beverley at the trade deadline. The Bulls rank second in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency since adding the gritty perimeter defender. The Bulls have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a win at home by 20 or more points — and they have played 13 of their last 21 games Under the Total when playing for the second time in five days. Additionally, Chicago has also played 38 of their last 59 games Under the Total with the number in the 210 to the 219.5-point range. The Under is also 34-16-1 in the Bulls’ last 51 road games against teams winning 60% or more of their games at home. Toronto made 50.5% of their shots in their win against the Bucks on Sunday — but that was the best shooting effort in their last four games. The Raptors have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a point-spread victory. Adding center Jakob Poetl significantly improved the play of this team on defense since it provided them with a rim protector they were lacking. With Poelt on the court, Toronto gives up -5.6 points per 100 possessions. They have played 8 of their last 11 home games with the Total set from 210 to 219.5. They have also played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Chicago has played 5 straight games in the playoffs Under the Total. 8* NBA Chicago-Toronto ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (565) and the Toronto Raptors (566). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (563) and the Los Angeles Lakers (564). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (42-40) has won three games in a row — and seven of their last ten contests — after their 113-108 victory against New Orleans as a 3-point favorite on Sunday. Los Angeles (43-39) has won two in a row and six of their last seven after a 128-117 win against Utah as a 17-point favorite on Sunday to close out their regular season.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves made 47.6% of their shots on Sunday against the Pelicans which was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. Minnesota has played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after making 47% or more of their shots in four or more games in a row. Now they will have to play this game without their two best defensive players in Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels. Gobert was suspended for this game after throwing a punch at teammate Kyle Anderson in that game against New Orleans. McDaniels later injured his hand by taking out his frustrations by punching a wall. The absence of these two players means the T-Wolves will have to play small ball — so look for them to play fast and try to outrun this older Lakers team. They have played 26 of their last 41 road games Over the Total after a point spread win. Los Angeles shot 48.5% from the field on Sunday against the Jazz which was the worst shooting effort in their last eight contests. The Lakers have played 6 straight Overs after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight Overs after a point spread loss.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams last played on March 31st with the Lakers winning by a 123-111 scorer as a 2.5-point favorite — and the Timberwolves have played 27 of their last 41 games Over the Total when avenging a loss on the road. 8* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (563) and the Los Angeles Lakers (564). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (561) and the Miami Heat (562). THE SITUATION: Atlanta (41-41) enters the postseason having lost two games in a row after their 120-114 loss at Boston as a 4-point underdog on Sunday. Miami (44-38) has won four of their last five games after their 123-110 win against Orlando as a 5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Miami has been a disappointment this season by making only 34.4% of their 3-pointers. But in their last five games, they are nailing 37.9% of their shots from behind the arc which has helped them post an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency number of 123.4. The Heat’s rediscovery of their shooting touch this month — just in time for the playoffs. Miami has played 5 straight Overs after winning their last game — and they have played 4 straight Overs after a point-spread victory. The Heat get to host this game where they have played 7 straight Overs — and they have played 5 straight Overs at home against teams with a losing record on the road. Miami’s defense has taken a step back lately. After ranking fifth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, they have fallen to 22nd in that metric since the All-Star break. They did hold the Magic to 42.2% shooting but that was the best defensive effort in their last 26 games in that meaningless contest to end the regular season. Atlanta ranks 22nd in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency with a 115.4 mark — and that number worsens to 117.4 when on the road. In their last 15 games, their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency has been even worse at 118.5, the sixth-worst mark in the league during that stretch. But this team can score — they have an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 119.1 in their last 15 games. The Over is 3-1-1 in the Hawks’ last 5 games on the road against teams with a winning record. Atlanta has also played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total against Southeast Division rivals.

FINAL TAKE: These teams last played on March 6th with the Heat winning at home by a 130-128 score to register their second straight victory against the Hawks. Atlanta has played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total when playing with double-revenge. 8* NBA Atlanta-Miami TNT O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (561) and the Miami Heat (562). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Miami Heat (562) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (561). THE SITUATION: Miami (44-38) has won four of their last five games after their 123-110 win against Orlando as a 5-point favorite on Sunday. Atlanta (41-41) enters the postseason having lost two games in a row after their 120-114 loss at Boston as a 4-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HEAT MINUS THE POINTS: Miami has been a disappointment this season by making only 34.4% of their 3-pointers. But in their last five games, they are nailing 37.9% of their shots from behind the arc which has helped them post an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency number of 123.4. The Heat’s rediscovery of their shooting touch this month — just in time for the playoffs — has helped them play five straight Overs which is a good sign for them. Miami has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after playing four or more Overs in a row — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after playing five straight Overs. The Heat get to host this game where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Miami loves playing the Hawks — especially since acquiring Jimmy Butler. The Heat have won three of the four meetings between these two teams this season after beating them in the playoffs in five games last season. Not only do they have a 14-6 straight-up record against them in their 20 games against Atlanta with Butler on the team, but they have also covered the point spread in 12 of those games. The numbers are even starker when Miami is playing at home — they have won ten of their last eleven games when hosting the Hawks while covering the point spread in 8 of those games. The Heat also thrive in close games. They have played 54 games this season defined as “clutch” situations where the score was within five points with five minutes to go. They have won 32 of these games while posting the second-best Adjusted Net Efficiency rating in the NBA in those situations. Atlanta, on the other hand, ranks second-to-last in Adjusted Net Efficiency in clutch time this season — so the Heat have a good chance to pull away in this game late if the score is close. We should not read much in their six-point loss at Boston on Sunday since both teams were resting starters — but their 136-131 loss at home to Philadelphia on Friday is troubling since the Hawks played all their starters while the 76ers rested their top-six rotation players. Miami’s switching defense usually frustrates Trae Young who only scored 15.4 Points-Per-Game with a 32% shooting percentage and an 18% mark from behind the arc in their playoff series last year — way down from his 26.2 PPG scoring average last year. In their four games this season, Young has made only 36% of his shot with an ugly 25% clip from behind the arc. Atlanta has struggled this season which eventually led to the firing of head coach Nate McMillan. New head coach Quin Snyder probably needs an entire off-season to implement his system with this team. They have only gone 7-8 in their last 15 regular season games with the problem continuing to be on the defensive end of the court. The Hawks rank 22nd in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency with a 115.4 mark — and that number worsens to 117.4 when on the road. In their last 15 games, their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency has been even worse at 118.5, the sixth-worst mark in the league during that stretch. Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 road games with the Total set in the 220s — and they are 11-27-1 ATS in their last 39 road games against teams with a winning percentage at home of 60% or higher. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games against the Heat in Miami. Atlanta has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against winning teams.

FINAL TAKE: These teams last played on March 6th with the Heat winning at home by a 130-128 score to register their second straight victory against the Hawks. Atlanta has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when attempting to avenge a loss by three points or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games when playing with double revenge. 25* NBA Southeast Division Game of the Year with the Miami Heat (562) minus the points versus the Atlanta Hawks (561). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (557) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (558). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (42-39) has won four of their last five games after their 113-105 victory against New York as an 8.5-point favorite on Friday. Minnesota (41-40) has won two in a row with their 151-131 victory at San Antonio as a 15.5-point favorite yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The winner of this game earns the eighth seed in the Play-In Tournament next week (with the Timberwolves holding the tie-breaker if they get the win) — so this is a meaningful game for both teams. The playoff-like atmosphere should ensure the intensity is high on defense for both teams. The Pelicans made 53.2% of their shots against the Knicks which was the best shooting effort in their last six contests. New Orleans has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up win. The Pelicans are an outstanding defensive team that ranks sixth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they rank second in that category in their last ten games. They have played 12 of their last 14 games Under the Total on the road — and they have played 5 of their last 6 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. New Orleans has also played 26 of their last 37 road games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. Minnesota nailed 55.4% of their shots against the Spurs which was the best shooting mark in their last eight games. They also let San Antonio make 52.6% of their shots in the blowout win which was the worst defensive effort in their last seven contests. None of the Timberwolves players logged in more than 29 minutes — so this should be a group with plenty of energy to play hard on the defensive end of the court. Minnesota ranks 10th in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they have a slew of capable wing defenders who can give C.J. McCollum trouble in his attempts to lead the Pelicans’ offense. The Timberwolves have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. They have also played 15 of their last 18 games Under the Total at home after playing an Over in their last game. The Under is 10-4-1 in their last 15 games on their home court. They have also played 17 of their last 25 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: New Orleans will be looking to avenge a 111-102 upset loss at home to the T-Wolves as a 3-point favorite on January 25th — and they have played 22 of their last 33 road games Under Toal when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. These two teams have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing in Minnesota. 10* NBA Sunday Afternoon Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (557) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (558). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (579) and the Utah Jazz (580). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (38-42) has lost three games in a row — and six of their last eight games — after their 136-125 loss at Golden State as an 8-point underdog on Tuesday. Utah (36-43) has lost three games in a row — and seven of their last eight contests — after a 135-133 loss in overtime against the Los Angeles Lakers as a 10-point underdog on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Thunder allowed the Warriors to make 49.5% of their shots — and that was still the second-lowest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last five games. Oklahoma City has played 13 of their last 17 games Over the Total after losing three of their last four games. And while they have not covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then played 13 of their last 16 games Over the Total after not covering the point spread in two games in a row. The Over is 7-3-1 in Utah’s last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. The Jazz have also played 20 of their last 30 games Over the Total after losing four or five of their last six games. And in their last 5 games against teams with a losing record, Utah has played 4 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma City has won their last two games against the Jazz after their 129-119 victory at home against them on March 5th. The Thunder have played 12 of their last 15 games Over the Total when avenging a loss by 10 or more points — and they have played 19 of their last 28 games Over the Total when playing with double-revenge. 8* NBA Thursday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (579) and the Utah Jazz (580). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans (568) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (567). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (40-39) was on a two-game winning streak before their 121-103 upset loss at home to Sacramento as a 3.5-point favorite last night. Memphis (50-29) has split their last four games after a 119-109 win against Portland as an 18.5-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PELICANS MINUS THE POINTS: New Orleans shot only 44.0% from the field last night which was the lowest-shooting effort in their last ten games. They also allowed the Kings to make 50.5% of their shots which was the worst defensive performance in their last three contests. < b>The Pelicans have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. Memphis made 48.3% of their shots last night which was the best shooting effort in their last three games. Ja Morant and Luke Kennard combined for 43 points against the Trail Blazers but both are doubtful to play tonight due to small injuries that head coach Taylor Jenkins does not want to risk when playing tonight’s game without rest. The Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games on the road — and they are 8-20-1 ATS in their last 29 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher when playing at home. Memphis has also failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: New Orleans is currently in seventh place in the Western Conference — and they are one game behind the Los Angeles Lakers for sixth place in the conference which avoids the play-in tournament and gives them plenty of motivation. They have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games at home hosting the Grizzlies. Memphis is undermanned tonight while sitting comfortably two games ahead of the Kings for second place in the conference with three games left in the regular season. 8* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the New Orleans Pelicans (568) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (567). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Portland Trail Blazers (549) and the Memphis Grizzlies (550). THE SITUATION: Portland (33-45) snapped a five-game losing streak with a 107-105 upset win at Minnesota as a 19-point underdog on Sunday. Memphis (49-29) has lost two of their last three games after their 128-107 loss at Chicago as a 1.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Trail Blazers are in full-tank mode now at this point of the season. Damian Lillard is out the season with a calf injury — and starters like Anfernee Simmons, Jusuf Nurkic, and Jerami Grant are not playing tonight. Portland has another handful of players listed as questionable as they embrace the soft tanking approach for the rest of the season. The players at rookie head coach Chauncey Billups’ disposal tonight are playing for jobs in the league — so they will work hard on the defensive end of the court. Portland has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. They have also played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after an upset victory — and they have played 7 straight games Under the Total after a win on the road by six points or less. They stay on the road where they have played 7 of their last 10 road games Under the Total against teams winning 60% or more of their games at home. Additionally, the Under is 19-7-2 in the Trail Blazers last 28 games against teams winning 60% or more of their games — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total as a double-digit underdog. Memphis has played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 15 of their last 22 games Under the Total after a loss on the road. The Grizzlies have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after allowing 125 or more points in their last game. Memphis ranks second in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — so hosting this Blazers team presents an importunity to get back to playing good defense after the Bulls made 53.2% of their shots against them. The Grizzlies have an opponent’s field goal percentage of 44.2% when playing at home. They have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: Memphis looks to avenge a 122-112 upset loss at home to the Trail Blazers as a 5.5-point underdog on February 1st. The Grizzlies have played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from an upset loss. These two teams have played 5 of their last 6 games against each other Under the Total. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Portland Trail Blazers (549) and the Memphis Grizzlies (550). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (531) and the Detroit Pistons (532). THE SITUATION: Miami (41-37) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 129-1122 win against Dallas as a 1-point favorite on Saturday. Detroit (16-62) has lost nine games in a row after their 128-102 loss at Orlando as an 11-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pistons allowed the Magic to make 57.3% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 12 games. Detroit has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They return home where they have played 8 of their last 11 home games Under the Total against teams winning no more than 40% of their games on the road. The Pistons have also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. Miami made 52.3% of their shots on Saturday which was the best shooting effort in their last four games. But they also played their worst defensive game of the season by allowing the Mavericks to nail 61.0% of their shots. The Heat go back on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on their home court. Miami has also played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 5 of their last 6 games against each other Under the Total — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when these two teams are playing in Detroit. 8* NBA Tuesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (531) and the Detroit Pistons (532). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Atlanta Hawks (518) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (517). THE SITUATION: Atlanta (38-39) has lost two of their last three games after their 124-107 upset loss at Baltimore as a 1.5-point underdog on Friday. Dallas (37-41) has lost six of their last seven games after their 129-122 loss at Miami as a 1-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKS MINUS THE POINTS: Dallas made 61% of their shots on Friday which was their best shooting effort of the season. They have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after making 55% or more of their shots in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing without a day of rest. The Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning percentage in the 40-49% range. Atlanta allowed the Nets to make 55.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last eight contests. But the Hawks have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after an upset loss by 10 or more points — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after a loss on the road. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams not winning more than 40% or their games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Atlanta has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games against Dallas — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 opportunities to host the Mavericks on their home court. 8* NBA Sunday Daily Discounted Deal with Atlanta Hawks (518) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (517). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Utah Jazz (505) and the Boston Celtics (506). THE SITUATION: Utah (36-40) snapped a four-game losing streak with their 128-117 victory at San Antonio as a 2.5-point favorite. Boston (53-24) won for the fourth time in their last five games with their 140-99 upset victory at Milwaukee as a 2-point underdog last night.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Jazz have played 4 straight Overs after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. They stay on the road where the Over is 20-7-1 in their last 28 games — and the Over is 9-3-1 in their last 13 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Boston held the Bucks to just 37.8% shooting which was the second-best defensive effort in their last ten games — and the third-best defensive performance in their last 28 contests. The Over is 19-6-1 in the Celtics’ last 26 games when playing without a day of rest. They return home where they have paled 19 of their last 28 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Boston has played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record — and these two teams have played 4 of their last 5 meetings Over the Total. 8* NBA Friday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Utah Jazz (505) and the Boston Celtics (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (551) and the Denver Nuggets (552). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (38-38) was on a five-game winning streak before their 120-109 loss at Golden State as an 8.5-point underdog on Tuesday. Denver (51-24) has won four games in a row with their 116-111 victory against Philadelphia as a 7-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pelicans allowed the Warriors to make 52.4% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last 11 games. New Orleans has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They complete their four-game road trip tonight having played 5 of their last 6 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. They have played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. Denver has shot at least 50% from the field for the eighth straight game by nailing 50.6% of their shots against the 76ers — but they have played 34 of their last 52 games Under the Total after making 50% or more of their shots in two straight games. The Nuggets have played 5 straight Unders after a straight-up win — and they have played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total after winning two or more games in a row. The Nuggets complete their three-game home stand tonight having played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: Nikola Jokic is questionable tonight with a calf injury — and Denver scores -22.8 fewer points per 100 possessions this season when he is not on the court. These two teams have played 9 of their last 12 meetings against each other Under the Total — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing in Denver. 8* NBA Thursday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (551) and the Denver Nuggets (552). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Utah Jazz (539) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (540). THE SITUATION: Utah (35-40) has lost four straight games after their 117-103 loss to Phoenix as an 8-point underdog on Monday. San Antonio (19-56) has lost four in a row after their 137-93 loss at Boston as a 16.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE JAZZ MINUS THE POINTS: Despite the recent losing streak, Utah is only 1 1/2 games out of the play-in tournament in the Western Conference. The Jazz have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. This team has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams not winning more than 40% of their games. San Antonio has failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 27 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 27 of their last 38 games after a point spread loss. The Spurs’ four-game losing streak has involved defeats by 12 or more points each time — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after losing two or more games in a row by double-digits. They have not covered the point spread in four straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after not covering the points pad in four or more games in a row. They return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road.

FINAL TAKE: San Antonio may be just what the doctor ordered for this Jazz team still playing hard for head coach Will Hardy. Utah will want to avenge a 102-94 loss at home to the Spurs on February 28th. The Spurs have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 28 games against teams with a losing record. 8* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with Utah Jazz (539) minus the points versus the San Antonio Spurs (540). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (533) and the Philadelphia 76ers (534). THE SITUATION: Dallas (37-39) snapped their four-game losing streak with their 127-104 win at Indiana as a 6.5-point favorite on Monday. Philadelphia (49-26) has lost three in a row — and four of their last five — after a 116-111 loss at Denver as a 7-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks stepped to make 56.6% of their shots against the Pacers which was the best shooting effort in their last 36 games. But Dallas has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after shooting 55% or better from the field in their last game. Despite that effort, the Mavericks are only scoring 113.9 points per 100 possessions in their last ten games, ranking 23rd in the league over that span. The acquisition of Kyrie Irving has not worked in generating a healthy and cohesive “big two” with Luka Doncic who recently conceded he is miserable right now. Dallas is too reliant on making 3s — they lead the NBA by attempting 48.6% of their shots from behind the arc. They make 37.2% of their 3s which ranks ninth in the league — but it comes at the expense of being last in the NBA in rebounding. The Mavericks pull down only 22.9% of their missed shots, the lowest mark in the league. Dallas has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight Unders after a point-spread win. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a win by 10 or more points. On the road, the Mavericks have played 4 straight Unders — and they have played 6 straight road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. They have also played 8 of their last 12 road games Under the Total when the total is set at 230 or higher. An encouraging development for head coach Jason Kidd’s team was the play of their defense as they held the Pacers to 41.9% shooting. The Mavs’ defense has been bad this year — but a better effort on that end can make a difference. Dallas is tied for the last spot in the Western Conference playoff race — they would lose out to Oklahoma City to qualify for the play-in game so this is an important contest. The Mavericks have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. Philadelphia will want to tighten things up on the defensive end of the court after allowing the Nuggets to make 50.6% of their shots, the highest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last five games. The 76ers have played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total after losing two games in a row — and they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after losing four of their last five games. Philly has seen a dip in their 3-point shooting — they are making only 36.6% of their 3-pointers in their last ten games as opposed to their 38.6% shooting mark from behind the arc overall. But the Sixers are defending the perimeter better as of late as they rank second in the NBA by holding their opponents to hit just 32.1% of their 3-pointers in their last ten games. In their last ten games, Philly ranks fifth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. Back at home, the 76ers have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total — and the Under is 4-0-1 in their last 5 home games against teams not winning at least 40% of their games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Joel Embiid and James Harden are listed as questionable tonight with nagging injuries. While Embiid is an MVP candidate who excels at both ends of the court, Harden’s potential absence certainly helps our Under play. These two teams have played 5 of their last 6 games against each other Under the Total — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total when playing in Philadelphia. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (533) and the Philadelphia 76ers (534). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (527) and the Golden State Warriors (528). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (38-37) has won five games in a row after their 124-90 victory at Portland as an 11.5-point favorite on Monday. Golden State (39-37) had their three-game winning streak snapped with a 99-96 upset loss to Minnesota as a 6.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pelicans shot 57.0% from the field yesterday which was the best shooting mark in their last 46 contests — so expect a visit from the Regression Gods. As it is, New Orleans has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a point spread win. And while the Pelicans have covered the point spread in five straight games, they have then played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four straight games. They stay on the road where they have played 6 of their last 8 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. Golden State has played two straight Unders — and they have played 14 of their last 19 home games Under the Total after playing an Under in their last game. They have also played 9 of their last 10 games at home Under the Total after playing two straight Unders. They stay at home where they have played 22 of their last 35 games Under the Total — and the Under is 5-0-1 in their last 6 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. The Warriors rank third in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when playing at home.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 10 of their last 12 meetings against each other Under the Total — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games against each other in Golden State Under the Total. 8* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (527) and the Golden State Warriors (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:40 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Clippers (516) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (515). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (39-36) has lost two of their last three games after their 131-110 upset loss to New Orleans as a 4.5-point favorite on Saturday. Chicago (36-38) has won two games in a row and five of their last six games after their 118-108 upset loss in Los Angeles to the Clippers as a 5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CLIPPERS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles allowed the Pelicans to make 53.1% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last five games. But the Clippers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss by 10 or more points — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss by 20 or more points. They have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. This team is without Paul George for the next few weeks after he injured his ankle — but they still have a healthy Kawhi Leonard who is playing at a top level right now. The Clippers have lost seven in a row and fourteen of their last seventeen games when Leonard is not playing. Chicago is playing better basketball since acquiring Patrick Beverley — they crushed Portland on the road by a 124-96 win in their previous game before their upset win against the Lakers. But the Bulls have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after winning two games in a  row by ten or more points. They have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after winning six or seven of their last eight games in a row. And while they have covered the point spread in four of their last five games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. They stay in Los Angeles having failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games on the road against teams from the Western Conference.

FINAL TAKE: Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record — and the Clippers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a losing record. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month with the Los Angeles Clippers (516) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (515). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (511) and the Sacramento Kings (512). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (38-37) has won three straight games after their 99-96 upset win at Golden State as a 6.5-point underdog on Sunday. Sacramento (45-29) has won five of their last six games after their 121-113 win against Utah as a 9.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL:  The Timberwolves made only 42.5% of their shots yesterday which was the worst shooting effort in their last eight games. But they pulled off the upset by holding the Warriors to just 41.5% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last five games. Minnesota’s previous four opponents all shot 52.9% or better against them. The T-Wolves have played 15 of their last 18 games on the road Over the Total after playing their previous game on the road. They have played 21 of their last 31 road games Over the Total in the second half of the season — and they have played 6 of their last 8 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home. Sacramento has won two games in a row — and they have played 10 of their last 12 games Over the Total at home after winning two games in a row. They have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a point spread loss — and they have played 14 of their last 18 games Over the Total at home after a point spread loss. The Kings have also played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total at home.

FINAL TAKE: These teams last played on March 4th when Sacramento won by a 138-134 score as a 4-point underdog. These two teams have played 5 straight Overs when playing in Sacramento. 8* NBA Monday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (511) and the Sacramento Kings (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (575) and the Portland Trail Blazers (576). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (36-38) has lost two games in a row after their 116-111 loss in Los Angeles to the Lakers as a 5-point underdog on Friday. Portland (32-41) has lost seven of their last eight games after their 124-96 loss to Chicago as a 5-point underdog on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Thunder lost to the Lakers despite holding them to 46.2% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last five games. Oklahoma City has played 15 of their last 21 games Over the Total after losing two of their last three games. They have also played 5 of their last 7 road games Over the Total against teams with a losing record at home. Portland has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after losing their previous contest — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after losing their previous game by 20 or more points. The Blazers stay at home where they have played 5 of their last 7 home games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage no higher than 40% on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Trail Blazers will be undermanned in this one with Damian Lillard, Josef Nurkic, Anfernee Simmons, and Jerami Grant all getting the night off due to injury. Those absences will not help their defensive effort tonight. Portland has lost seven in a row to the Thunder with the last three setbacks being upset losses — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing with at least double revenge. 8* NBA Sunday Night Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (575) and the Portland Trail Blazers (576). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (503) and the Toronto Raptors (504). THE SITUATION: Indiana (32-40) has lost three of their last four games after their 115-109 loss at Charlotte as a 2-point favorite on Monday. Toronto (35-37) had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 118-111 loss at Milwaukee as a 7.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Pacers lost to the Hornets despite holding them to 45.6% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last ten games. But they only shot 45.1% from the field themselves which was the worst shooting performance in their last three games. Indiana has played 17 of their last 24 games Under the Total after an upset loss — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They did get back rookie Benedict Mathurin for this contest who scored 18 points in the losing effort. But the team misses Tyrese Haliburton who has been out for five straight games with a knee injury — and he is questionable to play tonight. The offense has not suffered with Haliburton — the team is making 48.3% of their shots in their last five games which have generated 117.4 Points-Per-Game. Both of those marks are above their season averages of 115.8 PPG and a 46.6% field goal percentage. But the Pacers' defense has let their last five opponents make 50.5% of their shots which has resulted in them scoring 122.2 PPG, a 3.9 PPG bump above their season average. Indiana has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 5 straight road games Over the Total against teams with a winning record at home. They have also played 4 straight Overs against teams with a losing record. And in their last 33 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points, they have played 22 of these games Over the Total. Toronto only made 44.4% of their shots on Sunday which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Acquiring Jakob Poetl from San Antonio at the trade deadline has ignited their offensive attack that sorely needed another big man in the middle. They have made 49.7% of their shots in their last five games which have generated 119.6 PPG. But the defense for the Raptors remains an issue as they have allowed nine of their last 11 opponents to shoot 50% or better from the field. Their last five opponents have made 50.1% of their shots against them which is resulting in 113.6 PPG. Toronto has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 15 of their last 22 games Over the Total after a point-spread victory. And while they have covered the point spread in five of their last seven games, the Raptors have then played 15 of their last 19 home games Over the Total after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. They return home where they have played  6 of their last 8 games Over the Total — and they have played 9 of their last 13 home games Over the Total against teams not winning more than 40% of their games on the road. Furthermore, Toronto has played 10 of their last 12 home games Over the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: Toronto will be looking to avenge a 122-114 upset loss at Indiana as a 1.5-point favorite on the road back on January 22nd — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total when playing with revenge from an upset loss as a road favorite. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (503) and the Toronto Raptors (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (567) and the Memphis Grizzlies (568). THE SITUATION: Dallas (36-35) has won two games in a row after their 111-110 upset win in Los Angeles against the Lakers on Friday. Memphis (43-27) has won five of their last six games after their 133-119 win against Golden State as a 1-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks allowed the Lakers to make 51.2% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last six games. This team is playing undermanned tonight with Luka Doncic still out and both Kyrie Irving and Tim Hardaway, Jr. are questionable. Dallas has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total on the road. Memphis made 54.7% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last 15 games. This team is also missing key pieces of their offensive attack with Ja Morant out indefinitely and both Brandon Clarke and Steven Adams are out with injuries. Jalen Jackson, Jr. is questionable with a calf injury. The Under is 7-3-1 in the Grizzlies’ last 11 games at home.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 6 of their last 7 meetings Under the Total after Memphis beat Dallas by a 104-88 score back on March 13th with the Total set at 220 for that game. 8* NBA Monday Night Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (567) and the Memphis Grizzlies (568). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Philadelphia 76ers (560) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (559). THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (48-22) has won eight games in a row with their 141-121 win at Indiana as a 5-point favorite on Saturday. Chicago (33-37) has won four of their last five games with their 113-99 upset victory against Miami as a 2.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE 76ERS MINUS THE POINTS: Philadelphia took care of business against the Pacers despite allowing them to make 51.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last four games. The 76ers have then covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after a double-digit victory. Philly returns home where they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Chicago made 56.2% of their shots on Saturday which was the best shooting effort in their last five contests. But the Bulls are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up win. They go back on the road where they are just 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home. Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher.

FINAL TAKE: The 76ers will be looking to avenge a 126-112 upset loss at home to Chicago as a 4.5-point favorite on January 6th — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight home games when playing with revenge from a double-digit loss. The Sixers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games against the Bulls — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against them when hosting them in Philadelphia. 10* NBA Monday Daily Discounted Deal with the Philadelphia 76ers (560) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (559). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (581) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (582). THE SITUATION: Boston (47-22) had their two-game winning streak snapped with a 111-109 upset loss at Houston as a 12.5-point favorite on Monday. Minnesota (35-34) has won four of their last six games after their 136-115 victory as a 5.5-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves nailed 58.7% of their shots on Monday against the Hawks — but that was the second-highest field goal percentage in their last 39 games. They have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a win by 10 or more points. They return home where they have played 10 of their last 14 games Under the Total as an underdog. Boston continues their road trip having played 21 of their last 32 games Under the Total away from home. They have also played 10 of their last 15 road games Under the Total with the total set at 230 or higher.

FINAL TAKE: The Celtics have played 12 of their last 16 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. 8* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Boston Celtics (581) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (582). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (563) and the Toronto Raptors (564). THE SITUATION: Denver (46-22) has lost three games in a row after their 122-120 upset loss to Brooklyn as a 9-point favorite on Sunday. Toronto (32-36) has lost three in a row and five of their last seven after a 122-112 loss in Los Angeles against the Lakers as a 2.5-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: After playing better defense for much of the season, the Nuggets have taken a step back again on that end of the court. They have allowed their last four opponents to make at least 50% of their shots after the Nets accomplished that feat against them on Sunday. Denver has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. Toronto has allowed seven straight opponents to make at least 50% of their shots against them. The Raptors have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after losing their previous game. They have also played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have seen the Over go 23-9-1 in their last 33 meetings against each other after Denver beat Toronto last Tuesday by a 118-113 score as a 6-point favorite with the Total set at 229. This rematch is in Toronto — and these two teams have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total when playing in the Raptors’ building. 8* NBA Tuesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (563) and the Toronto Raptors (564). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Utah Jazz (551) plus the points versus the Miami Heat (552). THE SITUATION: Utah (33-35) has erased a four-game losing streak with the two victories in a row after a 119-111 win at Charlotte as a 1-point favorite on Saturday. Miami (36-33) has lost two of their last three games after a 126-114 loss at Orlando as a 2.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE JAZZ PLUS THE POINTS: The Heat have been overvalued by the betting market all season. They rank just 26th in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — with the biggest problem being that they can’t make their 3-pointers. After making 37.9% of their shots from behind the arc last season, they are only shooting 33.7% from 3-point range this season. Miami has failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a double-digit loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after an upset loss by 10 or more points. The Heat return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or lower on the road. Miami is not a reliable favorite as they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 24 games when laying 3.5 to 9.5 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 home games when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. Utah may have been sellers at the trade deadline but they continue to play hard. They are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up win. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 road games after losing four or five of their last six contests. The Jazz have a 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home. They will be without Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton who are dealing with injuries — but both players did not play in either game of their two-game winning streak. Utah has covered the point spread in 24 of their last 34 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Utah will be looking to avenge a 126-123 upset loss at home to the Heat as a 4-point favorite on December 31st — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 opportunities for revenge. 10* NBA Monday Daily Discounted Deal with the Utah Jazz (551) plus the points versus the Miami Heat (552). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (545) and the Detroit Pistons (546). THE SITUATION: Indiana (31-37) has won two straight games after their 121-115 victory at Detroit as a 3.5-point favorite on Saturday. Detroit (15-53) has lost 11 games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Pacers made 46.2% of their shots in that game which was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. They also held the Pistons to nail 45.7% of their shots which was the best defensive effort in their last five contests. Indiana has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after a win against a Central Division rival. And while they have won three of their last four games, they have then played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total after winning three of their last four games. The Pacers have also played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total against Central Division opponents. Indiana’s 46.2% shooting percentage on Saturday was the best defensive effort in their last seven games. But Detroit has covered the point spread only once in their last four games — and they have played 15 of their last 21 games Over the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games.

FINAL TAKE: Both of these teams have been hit hard with injuries — and that means role players get the opportunity to score points against suspect defensive players. These two teams have played 4 of their last 5 games against each other Over the Total. 8* NBA Monday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (545) and the Detroit Pistons (546). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Philadelphia 76ers (538) minus the points versus the Washington Wizards (537). THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (44-22) has won four games in a row after their 120-119 win against Portland as an 8.5-point favorite on Friday. Washington (31-36) has lost four of their last five games after their 114-107 loss to Atlanta as a 2-point underdog on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE 76ERS MINUS THE POINTS: Philadelphia nailed 51.8% of their shots on Friday which was the fifth straight game where they made at least 49.4% of their shots. Philadelphia is making 53.4% of their shots in their last five games which are generating 128.6 Points-Per-Game. The Sixers have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games after making 47% or more of their shots in three straight games. They have all covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They stay at home where they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 30 games. Washington lost to Atlanta by seven points despite holding them to a 44.2% shooting percentage which was the best defensive effort in their last nine games. The Wizards have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss. And while Washington lost both their games at home to the Hawks this week, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after losing two games in a row on their home court. The Wizards have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Philadelphia will be motivated to avenge a 116-111 loss at Washington as a 4.5-point favorite on December 27th. The 76ers have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games when avenging an upset loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games when playing with revenge from a loss on the road. 10* NBA Sunday Daily Discounted Deal with the Philadelphia 76ers (538) minus the points versus the Washington Wizards (537). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (558) minus the points versus the Toronto Raptors (557). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (38-25) looks to snap a three-game losing streak after a 136-119 loss at Atlanta as a 1-point underdog on Friday. Toronto (30-31) has won four in a row and seven of their last eight contests after a 95-91 victory at Detroit yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS MINUS THE POINTS: Cleveland was riding a seven-game winning and was one of the hottest teams in the NBA before a loss at Philadelphia heading into the All-Star Break. But the Cavs have been slugging coming back out of the break. They should end their slide tonight as they are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 7-1-2 ATS in their last 10 games after a double-digit loss. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after losing three of their last four games. They only shot 45.5% from the field on Friday which was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. But now Cleveland returns home where they are nailing 49.4% of their shots — and they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 32 games on their home court. The Cavs have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 home games with the Total set in the 210 to the 219.5-point range. Cleveland has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a losing record — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 31 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. Toronto held the Pistons to just 40.4% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last five contests. The Raptors have played their two games out of the break Under the Total — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after playing two or more Unders in a row. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after winning four or five of their last six games. This is just their fourth game since February 14th — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 14 games on the road when it is not more than their fourth game in ten days. Toronto has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher on their home court.

FINAL TAKE: Toronto has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games in Cleveland against the Cavaliers. They did beat the Cavs in their last meeting back on December 23rd by a 118-107 score as a 5-point road dog — but Cleveland has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 opportunities to avenge a loss on their home court. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Month is with the Cleveland Cavaliers (558) minus the points versus the Toronto Raptors (557). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (506) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (505). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (38-23) had their seven-game winning streak snapped in a 118-112 loss at Philadelphia as a 1-point underdog on February 15th. Denver (41-18) has won seven of their last nine games after a 118-109 win against Dallas as a 5-point favorite last Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS MINUS THE POINTS: Cleveland should respond with a strong effort coming out of the All-Star Break after their disappointing performance against the 76ers. The Cavaliers have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after losing their previous game — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a loss on the road in their previous contest. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. Cleveland returns home where they have a dominant 25-6 record with a +8.8 net point differential. They are making 49.5% of their shots on their home court which is generating 113.6 Points-Per-Game. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games at home. They have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Denver made 57.1% of their shots against the Mavericks last week which was the third straight game where they made at least 50.5% of their shots. But the Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games on the road after shooting 50% or better from the field in their last two games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games on the road after nailing 50% or more of their shots in three straight games. They go back on the road where they are just 14-14 this season — and they have a -4.0 net PPG differential in those 28 games away from home. Denver has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 road games after winning two or more games in a row. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 22 road games with the Total set at 220 or higher.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams last played on January 6th when the Nuggets beat the Cavaliers by a 121-108 score. Cleveland has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 10* NBA Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with Cleveland Cavaliers (506) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (505). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Washington Wizards (504) plus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (503). THE SITUATION: Washington (24-28) has lost two games in a row after their 125-123 upset loss at Brooklyn as a 1.5-point favorite on Saturday. Cleveland (33-22) has won two in a row after their 122-103 win at Indiana as a 4-point favorite yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WIZARDS PLUS THE POINTS: The Cavaliers have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit victory. Additionally, Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after a point spread victory. And in their last 17 games when playing without a day of rest, they are 5-11-1 ATS. The Cavaliers stay on the road where they are just 11-16 this season as compared to their 22-6 record on their home court. The Cavaliers are 6-14-2 ATS in their last 22 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 41 games on the road with the Total set at 220 or higher. Washington was on a six-game winning streak while playing some of the best basketball in the league. At that point, they ranked 4th in the NBA in Net Adjusted Efficiency in their last 15 games. But the Trail Blazers then got upset by Portland before suffering their second-straight upset loss to the Nets on Saturday. The Wizards have covered the point spread in 5 o their last 8 games after a loss on the road by three points or less. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when playing for the third time in four games. Furthermore, Washington has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 23 games after winning six or seven of their last eight games. They will be without Kyle Kuzma tonight as he deals with an ankle sprain — and Bradley Beal is questionable with a foot injury. The Wizards still have Kristaps Porzingis tonight — and they have a 12-11 record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Washington has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams outscoring their opponents by +3.0 or more points per game. Cleveland is outscoring their opponents by +4.9 PPG — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games in the second half of the season against teams with a losing record. 10* NBA Monday Daily Discounted Deal with the Washington Wizards (504) plus the points versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (503). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Sacramento Kings (575) minus the point(s) versus New Orleans Pelicans (576). THE SITUATION: Sacramento (29-22) had their two-game winning streak snapped with a 107-104 upset loss at Indiana as a 1-point favorite on Friday. New Orleans (26-27) ended their ten-game losing streak with their 131-126 victory against the Los Angeles Lakers as a 1.5-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KINGS MINUS THE POINTS: Sacramento shot only 43.0% from the field against the Pacers which was the worst shooting effort in their last 16 contests. The Kings are still second in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Rating this season — and they maintain that ranking in their last 15 games despite their subpar shooting efforts against Indiana. Sacramento has bounced back to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after an upset loss in their last game. They stay on the road where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games when favored. They will be playing with De’Aron Fox but they still have a balanced team led by Domantas Sabonis and Harrison Barnes. New Orleans is dealing with even more attrition for this game. Zion Williamson remains out with a hamstring injury. Jonas Valuncianus is out with a knee injury. Furthermore, Brandon Ingram is out tonight with his toe injury after scoring 35 points in his 32:19 minutes last night. The Pelicans shot 52% from the field which was the best shooting effort in their last 13 contests. But New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after scoring 130 or more points in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point-spread victory. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games played without a day of rest. They stat at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. And in their last 24 games as an underdog, the Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of these games.

FINAL TAKE: New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record — and the Kings have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a losing record. 10* NBA Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Sacramento Kings (575) minus the point(s) versus New Orleans Pelicans (576). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (522) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (521). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (31-22) has lost two of their last three games after their 100-97 upset loss to Miami as a 4-point favorite on Tuesday. Memphis (32-19) has lost six of their last seven games after a 122-112 upset loss to Portland as a 5.5-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS MINUS THE POINTS: Cleveland should bounce back with a strong effort tonight. They have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a point spread loss — and they are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games after a straight-up loss. The Cavaliers struggled with their shooting on Tuesday. Not only did they make only 11 of their 40 (27.5%) of their shots from behind the arc, they hit just 6 of their 12 (50%) free throws. The Cavaliers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not scoring more than 100 points in their last contest. Cleveland is tough to beat at home despite the results from two nights ago. They have a 21-6 record on their home court with a +8.0 net point differential. They are making 49.4% of their shots at home which is helping them generate 113.6 Points-Per-Game. The Cavs have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 27 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 home games after playing a game that finished Under the Total in their last game. They have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. The Grizzlies got blasted by a 38-22 score in the fourth quarter last night — and now they are playing without a day of rest. This team misses Steven Adams in the middle — and it is impacting them on both ends of the court. In their last four games, since Adams suffered his knee injury, Memphis has seen their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency rise to 113.0 as compared to their 109.9 clip for the season. And while they have an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 113.9 for the season, their mark has lowered to 108.4 in their last seven games with their offense being dragged down by a low 28.9% shooting clip from behind the arc. The Grizzlies have a -34 net point differential playing without Adams in their last four games — and now they will probably be without Jaren Jackson, Jr. to a thigh injury and Danny Green to load management for this game. Memphis has not been near as effective on the road as they have been in the past since they drafted Ja Morant. They are only 11-15 away from home this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. Furthermore, the Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 road games against teams with a winning home record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games on the road as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Cleveland will be looking to avenge a 115-114 loss at Memphis on January 18th — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when playing with revenge from a loss by three points or less. The Grizzlies had Adams in that contest to help defend the interior — and his absence will hurt against this Cavaliers team that scores 51.0 PPG in the paint. 10* NBA Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers (522) minus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (521). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Oklahoma City Thunder (513) minus the points versus the Houston Rockets (514). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (24-26) has lost two of their last three games after their 128-120 loss to Golden State as a 5-point underdog on Monday. Houston (12-38) snapped a two-game losing streak in a 117-114 upset win at Detroit as a 4-point underdog last Thursday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE THUNDER MINUS THE POINTS: The preseason expectations for Oklahoma City was that they would be in the mix to be tanking for the right to draft the french superstar Victor Wembanyama. Instead, they are in the thick of the Western Conference playoff mix. Rookie Josh Gibley has emerged as a very good player for this team — and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a legitimate All-Star. The Thunder play hard almost every night (a rarity in the NBA) with a bruising style of play that wears down their opponents. They are just behind Denver this month for the best Net Adjusted Efficiency Margin in the league. Oklahoma City has covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after allowing at least 125 points in their last contest. They go back on the road where they are 42-19-1 ATS in their last 62 games — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 road games with the Total set at 230 or higher. Furthermore, they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record — and they have covered the point spread in all 3 of their games this season when laying 3.5 to 9.5 points as the favorite. Houston has only won two games in their last 21 games as they are firmly in the tanking process. They are also undermanned with Jalen Green and Kevin Porter, Jr. out tonight with injuries. The Rockets are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they are 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a point-spread victory. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games when playing with at least three days between games. They return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games — and they are 16-34-1 ATS in their last 51 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 27 of their last 38 home games as an underdog getting up to six points.

FINAL TAKE: The Thunder will be motivated to avenge a 118-105 upset loss at Houston as a 2-point favorite on November 26th — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 28 games when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed 110 or more points. 10* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder (513) minus the points versus the Houston Rockets (514). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Oklahoma City Thunder (520) minus the point(s) versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (519). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (23-25) has lost two of their last three games after a 137-133 loss to Atlanta as a 1.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Cleveland (30-20) has won two of their last three games after their 113-95 win at Houston as a 9-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE THUNDER MINUS THE POINT(S): Oklahoma City allowed the Hawks to make 59.5% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort of their season. But the Thunder have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after allowing 125 or more points in their last game. They have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 27 games after a loss by six points or less. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. They are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games after scoring 125 or more points in their last contest. And they have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 38 games when playing their second game in five days. While Oklahoma City was considered one of the many teams who would tank the season to help their chances of winning the NBA draft lottery to then select the phenom Victor Wembanyama, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been simply too good leading this team. In their last 13 games, the Thunder rank 3rd in the NBA in Net Rating. They have a 14-10 record at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on their home court. They have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. They are also 7-0-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. Cleveland had failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a double-digit victory. The Cavaliers have covered the point spread in four of their last six games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games on the road after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six contests. Cleveland completes a three-game road trip that started on Tuesday — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 27 games when playing their third game on the road in five days. They are just 10-15 on the road — and they are 5-13-2 ATS in their last 20 games on the road. They are also 5-12-1 ATS in their last 18 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games as an underdog getting up to six points. The Cavaliers finish their road trip undermanned with Ricky Rubio taking the night off for load management and Kevin Love being out with a back injury. Donovan Mitchell is also listed as doubtful with a groin.

FINAL TAKE: The Thunder will be looking to avenge a 110-102 loss at Cleveland on December 10th — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 26 games when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed 110 or more points. 25* NBA Non-Conference Game of the Month with the Oklahoma City Thunder (520) minus the point(s) versus the Cleveland Cavaliers (519). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Denver Nuggets (549) minus the point(s) versus the New Orleans Pelicans (550). THE SITUATION: Denver (33-14) had their nine-game winning streak snapped in a 101-99 upset loss against Oklahoma City as a 5-point favorite on Sunday. New Orleans (26-21) has lost four games in a row after their 100-96 loss at Miami as a 7.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NUGGETS MINUS THE POINT(S): Denver gets back Nikola Jokic who has been confirmed to be returning to action tonight after missing the last two games to a hamstring injury. Without Jokic on Sunday against the Thunder, the Nuggets only made 43.9% of their shots which was the lowest shooting effort in their last 32 games. Denver is an elite offensive team — especially with Jokic leading the way — they rank 2nd in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. They have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a loss to a Northwest Division rival — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after an upset loss to a divisional rival. The Nuggets have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread loss. Denver’s play on the other end of the court has been their biggest weakness — but don’t look now but head coach Michael Malone has this group playing the 6th best defense in terms of Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in their last 15 games. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. New Orleans held the Heat to just a 43.7% shooting percentage which was the best defensive effort in their last eight contests. The Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss by six points or less. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread victory. New Orleans is dealing with their share of injuries as well with both Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram on the shelf. The Pelicans have a 7-6 record when playing without both of these players which is a testament to C.J. McCollum's talent and head coach Willie Greene’s commitment to defense. They return home to the Big Easy where they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE:  New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. Denver has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and the Nuggets have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 trips to New Orleans to play the Pelicans. 25* NBA Western Conference Game of the Month with the Denver Nuggets (549) minus the point(s) versus the New Orleans Pelicans (550). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Utah Jazz (538) minus the points versus the Charlotte Hornets (537). THE SITUATION: Utah (24-25) had their two-game winning streak snapped in a 117-106 upset loss to Brooklyn as a 5-point favorite on Friday. Charlotte (13-34) has won two games in a row after their 122-118 win at Atlanta as a 7.5-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE JAZZ MINUS THE POINTS: Utah only made 42.0% of their shots against the Nets which was the worst shooting effort in their last 12 games. They also allowed Brooklyn to nail 53.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 11 contests. The Jazz have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 47 of their last 73 games after an upset loss a home when they were favored — and they are 4-1-2 ATS in their last 7 games after a double-digit loss at home. Utah has a 15-9 record at home where they have a +4.6 net Points-Per-Game differential. They make 48.1% of their shots which has them generating 120.6 PPG. The Jazz have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less. Charlotte nailed 50.6% of their shots against the Hawks which was the best shooting effort in their last four contests. But the Hornets have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after an upset victory. Charlotte’s previous game was a 122-117 win in Houston on Wednesday — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games after winning their previous two games by six points or less. The Hornets were on a five-game losing streak before winning these last two contests — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games after losing four or five of their last six games. They stay on the road where they have an 8-18 record with a -5.2 net PPG differential. They allow their home hosts to make 48.6% of their shots which has resulted in these home teams scoring 120.1 PPG. Charlotte is also dealing with some injuries with LaMelo Ball being questionable with an ankle injury and Cody Martin being doubtful with a foot injury. The Hornets have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 24 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Charlotte has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games in Utah against the Jazz. 10* NBA Monday Late Show Bailout with Utah Jazz (538) minus the points versus the Charlotte Hornets (537). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (501) and the Washington Wizards (502). THE SITUATION: Chicago (19-22) had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 107-99 loss at Boston as an 8.5-point underdog on Monday. Washington (17-24) has lost three games in a row after a 132-113 upset loss to New Orleans as a 1.5-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Bulls only made 45.3% of their shots against the Celtics which was the worst shooting effort in their last 18 games. Chicago has played 10 of their last 13 games Over the Total after a point spread loss — and they have played 12 of their last 15 games Over the Total after winning two of their last three games. And while they have not covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total after covering the point spread in two straight contests. Chicago is playing better basketball as of late having won eight of their last 12 contests — and they own the 6th most efficient offense in the league over that span. Zach LaVine has stepped up his game by scoring 26.9 Points-Per-Game in the last three weeks on 52% shooting and a sizzling 47.3% clip from behind the arc. The Bulls stay on the road where they have played 6 of their last 8 road games Over the Total with the Total set in the 220s. Washington has not covered the point spread in three straight games — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after not covering the point spread in three straight contests. The Wizards have also played 12 of their last 15 home games Over the Total when playing their second game in five days. They have allowed each of their last three opponents to nail 48% or more of their shots from the field — and they have played 10 of their last 16 games over the Total after allowing three straight opponents to shoot 47% or better from the field. Washington stays at home where they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total — and they have played 22 of their last 24 home games Over the Total with the Total set at 220 or higher. They have also played 11 of their last 15 home games Over the Total against opponents with a winning percentage of 40% or lower on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Wizards’ recent slide on defense has coincided with Bradley Beal's hamstring injury against Milwaukee on January 3rd. They have played 7 of their last 8 home games Over the Total as an underdog of six points or less. 10* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (501) and the Washington Wizards (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Oklahoma City Thunder (567) plus the points versus the Miami Heat (568). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (18-22) has won two in a row and three of their last four games after a 120-109 victory against Dallas as a 4-point favorite on Sunday. Miami (21-20) has lost two of their last three games after a 102-101 loss to Brooklyn as a 2-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE THUNDER PLUS THE POINTS: The Heat are a M*A*S*H* unit right now with a host of injuries. The biggest loss for this team is Bam Adebayo who is out with a wrist injury. Miami scores -2.2 points per 100 possessions without Adebayo on the court — and they allow +1.4 points per 100 possessions without him. Adebayo is the foundation for what this team wants to do on both ends of the court — and they are already struggling to score points this season as they rank 24th in the league in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. This team is missing several other important players including Kyle Lowry, Tyler Herro, and Duncan Robinson among others. The Heat are 4-14-1 ATS in their last 19 games after a point-spread win. They stay at home where they are 6-16-1 ATS in their last 23 games on their home court — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 home games when favored. Oklahoma City should be energized tonight as they play on national television for the first time since September 2020 (the COVID year when NBA teams played in the bubble). This could be a national coming-out party for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder are 10-3-1 ATS in their last 14 games after a double-digit victory — and they are a decisive 45-22-3 ATS in their last 80 games after a point spread win. Oklahoma City goes back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 24 road games against teams from the Eastern Conference. The Thunder have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 30 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma City looks to avenge a 110-108 loss at home to the Heat on December 14th when they rallied from a 21-point 2nd quarter deficit to just fall short of winning that game as a 2.5-point underdog. The Thunder have covered the point spread in 8 straight games when playing with revenge from a loss by three points or less — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against the Heat in Miami. 10* NBA Tuesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder (567) plus the points versus the Miami Heat (568). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (521) and the Los Angeles Lakers (522). THE SITUATION: Atlanta (18-20) snapped their four-game losing streak with their 120-117 upset win at Sacramento as a 1-point underdog on Wednesday. Los Angeles (17-21) has won three games in a row and four of their last five after their 112-109 upset win against Miami as an 8.5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Hawks are playing high-scoring games given their offensive weapons and fast pace combined with listless efforts on defense. Over their last ten games, they are playing at the 4th quickest pace in the league. Atlanta is making 47.1% of their shots in their last five games which is resulting in 120.6 Points-Per-Game. But they are allowing their opponents to make 49.2% of their shots in their last five games which are allowing their opponents to put up 125.4 PPG. The Hawks have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight Overs after a point spread victory. And while the game finished well below the 245-point total, they have then played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total after playing an Under in their last game. They stay on the road where they have played 5 of their last 7 games — and they have played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning record at home. LeBron Hames and Russell Westbrook are expected to play tonight with both players upgraded to probable for tonight’s game. James got Wednesday’s night game off after logging at least 39 minutes in each of his two previous games. James is scoring 36.6 PPG in his last five games. Los Angeles has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a win on their home court. The Lakers have also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after winning four or five of their last six games. Los Angeles is making 51.0% of their shots in their last five games which are generating 118.0 PPG. They have played 12 of their last 17 games Over the Total with the Total set in the 230s. Additionally, the Lakers have played 12 of their last 18 games Over the Total against teams from the Eastern Conference — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: Both of these teams are dealing with injuries. Anthony Davis remains out for Los Angeles — and Austin Reeves and Troy Brown, Jr. are also out tonight. Clint Capela is out for the Hawks. These two teams last played on December 30th with the Lakers upset Atlanta on the road by a 130-121 score as a 6.5-point underdog despite the Hawks making only 28.9% of their shots from behind the arc. Atlanta allows their opponents to make 47.4% of their shots — and Los Angeles has played 19 of their last 27 games Over the Total against teams with a defensive field goal percentage of 46.0% or higher. 10* NBA Friday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (521) and the Los Angeles Lakers (522). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 10:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Sacramento Kings (532) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (531). THE SITUATION: Sacramento (17-14) has lost two of their last three games after their 125-111 upset loss to Washington as an 8-point favorite on Friday. Denver (21-11) has won four games in a row -- and seven of their last eight — with their 128-125 win in overtime against Phoenix as a 4-point favorite on Sunday night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KINGS PLUS THE POINTS: Sacramento was flat on Friday night as they probably looking ahead to getting a few days off for the holidays. They only made 44.0% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Even worse, they allowed the Wizards to nail 55.7% of their shots in what was the defensive effort of the season. The Kings should play well tonight as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a loss at home. They have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after a double-digit loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a loss by 10 or more points at home. Furthermore, Sacramento has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in all 3 of their games after an upset loss this season. Head coach Mike Brown is doing a great job with this team — but he needs to get his group to reinvest their efforts on defense after allowing their last three opponents to make at least 50% of their shots. The Kings have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after allowing their last three opponents to make at least 47% of their shots — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after their last opponent shot 55% or better from the field. They will be without Domantas Sabonis tonight who is dealing with a thumb injury — but they still have De’Aaron Fox and the role players are better when playing at home. Sacramento has covered the point spread in 4 straight home games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight home games as an underdog getting up to six points. Denver has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after scoring at least 125 points in their last game. Additionally, the Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning three or more in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games on the road after winning two or more in a row. Now after completing a four-game home stand, Denver goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning two or more games in a row. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road with the Total set at 230 or higher. The Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Denver has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against the Kings — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against the Kings in Sacramento. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show Bailout with the Sacramento Kings (532) minus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (531). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Golden State Warriors (594) plus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (593). THE SITUATION: Golden State (15-18) has lost two straight games — and five of their last six — after their 143-113 loss at Brooklyn as an 11.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Memphis (20-11) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 125-100 win at Phoenix as a 2.5-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WARRIORS PLUS THE POINTS: Golden State head coach Steve Kerr called out his team for their bad play after allowing the Nets to make 64.3% of their shots on Wednesday. That was the worst defensive effort for the defending NBA champions all season. The team remains without the injured Stephen Curry — but his absence does not come close to explaining this poor effort against Brooklyn. Klay Thompson got the night off in that game — and he will be back on the court tonight. The Warriors have been inconsistent from night to night — but after that bad effort and with this game on at the prestigious prime-time Christmas Day slot, expect a spirited effort from this proud group even without Curry. Golden State has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss. They have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a double-digit loss — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games at home after a loss by 10 or more points. The extra days off will help — as will returning home after playing their last six games on the road. The Warriors are a disaster on the road where they are just 3-16 — but they have a 12-2 record back on their home court. Granted, Curry’s 45% shooting percentage from behind the arc on their home court plays a role in Golden State’s better play at home, but the team’s young players perform much better in their friendly and familiar confines. The Warriors are 48-23-2 ATS in their last 73 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games after being on the road for at least seven days. And while the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in five of their last six games, they have then covered the point spread in 23 of their last 33 home games after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Memphis finishes up their four-game road trip for this contest. While the Grizzlies have a 13-2 record at home, they are just 7-9 on the road where they are getting outscored by -3.2 Points-Per-Game. They allow their home hosts to shoot 47.0% from the field. Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 road games against teams with a winning record on their home court. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games with the Total set at 230 or higher. Additionally, the Grizzlies are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games played at Golden State against the Warriors. Even without Curry and the injured Andre Wiggins, the reigning champions should bring their A-Game tonight. 25* NBA Western Conference Underdog of the Month with the Golden State Warriors (594) plus the points versus the Memphis Grizzlies (593). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Portland Trail Blazers (575) plus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (576). THE SITUATION: Portland (17-15) has lost three of their last four games after a 101-98 upset loss at Oklahoma City as a 3.5-point favorite on Wednesday. Denver (19-11) has won two straight games and five of their last six contests after their 105-91 win against Memphis as a 1-point favorite on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TRAIL BLAZERS PLUS THE POINTS: Portland has been upset twice this week in Oklahoma City on Monday and Wednesday — but they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games on the road playing their third game in five days. The Trail Blazers have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not scoring more than 110 points — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after playing their last game Under the Total with that game finishing far below the 236-point total. We had the Blazers on Wednesday and recognized they the team had been playing better with star Damian Lillard back from injury. Lillard only scored 16 points on Wednesday — but in his previous seven games this month, Lillard was scoring 32.6 Points-Per-Game. He was leading a scoring attack that is nailing 50.9% of their shots in their last five games which is generating 119.8 PPG before their flat effort against the Thunder — but they were still covering the point spread at the 2:29 minute mark of the fourth quarter. Against fellow Northwest Division opponents, Portland is still making 50.8% of their shots and scoring 120.0 PPG. The Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 19 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games as an underdog getting six points or less. Portland has also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Additionally, the Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning record. Denver has failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 31 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after a point spread victory. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit victory. And while the Nuggets raced out to a 55-40 halftime lead against the Grizzlies on Tuesday, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after taking a 15-point or better lead into halftime. Furthermore, the Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing no more than 105 points in their last contest. Denver continues to struggle with their play on defense despite their strong effort against Memphis — they allow their opponents to make 48.7% of their shots which results in them giving up 114.0 PPG. The Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after winning two games in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after winning five or six of their last seven games. They stay at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 27 of their last 42 home games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Denver has also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points . They may be without Jamal Murray tonight who is questionable with an ankle injury. But Michael Porter, Jr. may return to the court after missing time with a heel injury — although he may need some time to get rid of the rust. The Nuggets have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games when Porter returns to the court after missing the prior game which was a victory for Denver.

FINAL TAKE: Portland will be looking to avenge their 121-120 loss at home to the Nuggets in a heartbreaker on December 8th — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games when avenging a loss where they allowed 110 or more points. 25* NBA Northwest Division Underdog of the Month with the Portland Trail Blazers (575) plus the points versus the Denver Nuggets (576). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Portland Trail Blazers (541) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (542). THE SITUATION: Portland (17-14) has lost two of their last three games after a 123-121 upset loss at Oklahoma City as a 4-point favorite on Monday. Oklahoma City (13-18) has pulled off two straight upset victories after their win to begin the week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TRAIL BLAZERS MINUS THE POINTS: Portland has had two days in Oklahoma City to stew about that loss to the Thunder. This is the fifth game in a seven-game road trip — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when playing their third game on the road in a five-game stretch. The Blazers have been playing better with star Damian Lillard back from injury. In his last seven games this month, Lillard is scoring 32.6 Points-Per-Game. He is leading a scoring attack that is nailing 50.9% of their shots in their last five games which is generating 119.8 PPG. Against fellow Northwest Division opponents, Portland is making 51.0% of their shots and scoring 123.1 PPG. The Trail Blazers have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record at home. Oklahoma City has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after a win by three points or less against a divisional rival. The Thunder continue to defy expectations by covering the point spread in four of their last five games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Oklahoma City gets this rematch at home — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games at home with the Total set at 230 or higher. The Thunder allow Northwest Division rivals to make 49.5% of their shots which translates into 120.9 PPG.

FINAL TAKE: Portland has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 opportunities for revenge against an opponent that scored 110 or more points against them. 25* NBA Northwest Division Game of the Month with the Portland Trail Blazers (541) minus the points versus the Oklahoma City Thunder (542). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Cleveland Cavaliers (530) minus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (529). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (21-11) has won four games in a row after their 122-99 victory against Utah as a 7-point favorite on Monday. Milwaukee (22-8) has won two games in a row after their 128-119 upset win at New Orleans as a 1-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS MINUS THE POINTS: Cleveland should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home after a double-digit victory — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by 20 or more points. They are also 36-16-2 ATS in their last 54 games after a point-spread win. The Cavaliers play their fourth game at home during their six-game home stand having covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after winning their two previous games at home. Cleveland is 14-4-1 ATS in their last 19 games on their home court — and they are 17-3-1 ATS in their last 21 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Milwaukee has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after an upset win — and they are 3-8-2 ATS in their last 13 games after a straight-up win. They are also 2-5-2 ATS in their last 9 games after a point-spread victory. The Bucks did make 55.6% of their shots against the Pelicans which was the best shooting mark in their last 11 contests — but they are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after scoring 125 or more points in their last game. That effort came on the heels of them making 53.3% of their shots in their previous game against Utah — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after shooting 50% or better in two straight games. While the Cavaliers have only been on one airplane flight in the last ten days amidst their home stand, the Bucks are racking up their frequent flyer miles during that span. Since December 11th, Milwaukee has flown to Houston -- then back home -- then to Memphis -- then back home before going south to New Orleans and now back up to Cleveland for this contest. They are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Bucks trail the Cavaliers in Adjusted Net Rating this season with their +3.7 mark behind Cleveland’s league-leading +6.3 clip. Granted, Milwaukee’s Khris Middleton has missed much of the season — but Cleveland has been without Jarrett Allen for much of the year. Middleton is out again tonight with his knee issues. Allen is in good form — the Cavs hold their opponents to just a 22.2% rebounding mark on the offensive glass with Allen on the court. Cleveland will be motivated to avenge a 117-102 loss in Milwaukee on November 25th — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games when playing with revenge from a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 10* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers (530) minus the points versus the Milwaukee Bucks (529). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Boston Celtics (573) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (574). THE SITUATION: Boston (21-7) looks to snap a two-game losing streak after their 113-93 loss in Los Angeles against the Clippers as a 4.5-point favorite last night. Los Angeles (11-15) ended a three-game losing streak with their 124-117 win at Detroit as a 5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CELTICS MINUS THE POINTS: Boston may have been still shaken up from losing to Golden State on Saturday as they failed to earn a small measure of revenge against a Warriors team that beat them in the NBA Finals. The Clippers are a tough match-up for them because of all the quality wing defenders they can throw at Jayson Tatum — especially with Kawhi Leonard back on the floor for them. But the Lakers are not nearly as strong a defensive team as the Warriors or Clippers. The Celtics have bounced back to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a double-digit loss. And while Boston has suffered upset losses in their last two games, they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after not covering the point spread in two straight games. The Celtics only shot 43.4% from the field last night which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games — but they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after not scoring more than 95 points in their last contest. They remain the top offense in the league scoring at a historic 119.7 points per 100 possession rate. They stay on the road where they are 24-11-1 ATS in their last 36 games — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 road games with the Total set at 220 or higher. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record. They have been without Al Horford in the last four games — and they miss the size and intangibles he brings to the floor as a veteran leader. But the Lakers lack the size — outside of Anthony Davis — to take advantage of the absent Horford. Too often, Davis gets lulled into playing on the perimeter rather than playing the traditional center role for the Lakers. Los Angeles nailed 54.8% of their shots against the defensively-deprived Pistons — that was the best shooting effort in their last eight games. But the Lakers have failed to cover the point spread in 40 of their last 59 games after a straight-up win. Now after being on the road since December 2nd, they return home to play for the first time since November 30th. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games after being on the road for seven or more days. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games with the Total set at 230 or higher — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher on the road. The Lakers are playing better basketball with Davis showing more effort and Russell Westbrook embracing a role off the bench leading the second unit — but this team has still failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. Five of their last nine victories have been against San Antonio (three) and Detroit (two). Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Boston has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against the Lakers. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show Bailout with the Boston Celtics (573) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Lakers (574). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Milwaukee Bucks (568) minus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (567). THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (19-7) saw their four-game winning streak snapped on Sunday in a 97-92 upset loss at Houston as a 10-point favorite. Golden State (14-13) ended a two-game losing streak with a 123-107 upset win at home against Boston as a 2.5-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKS MINUS THE POINTS: Milwaukee comes off their worst shooting performance of the season as they made only 36.7% of their shots which was a season-low while making only 28% of their 3-pointers. But the Bucks have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. Now they return home where they are making 47.7% of the shots from the field. They have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against teams not winning at least 40% of their games on the road. The Bucks are slumping a bit on offense — but their defensive effort remains outstanding as they have held their last five opponents to 101.6 Points-Per-Game on a 42.6% shooting percentage. Milwaukee should step up tonight on national television against the reigning NBA champions. They are 3-0-2 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. Golden State held the Celtics to just 43.7% shooing which was the best defensive effort in their last 11 games. But the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a straight-up win. Additionally, they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a double-digit win. Golden State demonstrated their championship potential against the Celtics — but we have seen these glimpses from them before this year before they took a step back to the lackluster selves they have demonstrated too often this season. The Warriors had won five of six games at the end of last month — but then they hosted an Indiana team playing without Tyrese Halliburton and Myles Turner and Stephen Curry played his worst game of the season in an 8-point loss as an 11-point favorite. Now Golden State begins a six-game road trip where they are just 2-10 this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games away from home. Going into last week (before their loss at Utah), the Warriors were just 15th in the league in Adjusted Offense Efficiency on the road -- but they were even worse on the other end of the court where they ranked second-to-last in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. Before that Jazz game (please forgive me for not updating the data yet), Golden State was allowing -12.8 points per 100 possessions more when on the road versus their defensive numbers at home.

FINAL TAKE: The Warriors are catching the Bucks at the wrong time tonight after their effort against the Rockets. Golden State has failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 37 road games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 10* NBA Golden State-Milwaukee TNT Special with the Milwaukee Bucks (568) minus the points versus the Golden State Warriors (567). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Saturday, we will bhe playing Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (525) and the Washington Wizards (526). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (14-13) has lost two straight -- and four of their last five contests — after their 115-110 loss at Miami as a 7-point underdog on Thursday. Washington (11-15) has lost five in a row — and eight of their last nine contests — after a 121-111 loss at Indiana as a 4-point underdog last night.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Clippers have played 4 straight games Over the Total after a point spread loss. And while this is their fourth game since Monday, Los Angeles has played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total when playing for the fourth time in seven days. The Clippers have Kawhi Leonard back on the court and reunited with Paul George — yet the team is not playing hard on the defensive end of the court. In their last five games (with Leonard back for the last three), they are allowing their opponents to nail 49.3% of their shots which is translating into 119.2 Points-Per-Game. They complete their four-game road trip having played 6 straight games Over the Total on the road — and the Over is 7-1-1 in their last 9 home games against teams with a winning record a home. Los Angeles has also played 23 of their last 31 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record. Washington has allowed three straight opponents to make at least 50% of their shots after the Pacers made 50.6% of their shots last night. The Wizards have allowed their last three opponents to hit 48.7% of their shots which has resulted in them giving up 119.2 PPG during that span. The Over is 5-0-2 in their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and the Over is 4-0-1 in their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They have also played 13 of their last 17 games Over the Total after losing four or five of their last six games. Washington has also played 35 of their last 51 games Over the Total when playing without a day of rest. They are undermanned right now with several injuries including Bradley Beal and Will Barton being out tonight. They return home where they have played 19 of their last 28 games Over the Total on their home court. Additionally, the Wizards have played 13 of their last 16 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 25 of their last 34 meetings Over the Total — and they have played 4 straight Overs when playing in Washington. 25* NBA Non-Conference Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (525) and the Washington Wizards (526). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Indiana Pacers (506) minus the points versus the Washington Wizards (505). THE SITUATION: Indiana (13-16) has lost four of their last five games after their 121-115 loss at Minnesota as a 5-point underdog on Wednesday. Washington (11-14) has lost four in a row after their 115-111 loss at Chicago as a 5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACERS MINUS THE POINTS: Indiana should bounce back to play better as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread setback. Now after playing their last seven games on the road, the Pacers return home where they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against teams with a losing record. They may be without Myles Turner who is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury. But the Wizards are undermanned as well with both Bradley Beal and Will Barton out tonight with injuries. Washington made 48.8% of their shots on Wednesday which was the best shooting mark in their last four contests. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss by six points or less. They stay on the road where they are just 1-3-2 ATS in their last 6 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 29 road games with the Total set at 220 or higher. Furthermore, the Wizards are 7-20-2 ATS in their last 29 road games against teams with a winning record at home. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 21 games in December.

FINAL TAKE: Washington looks to avenge a 127-117 upset loss at home to the Pacers on October 28th as a 5-point favorite — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when playing with revenge from a double-digit loss to their opponent. The Wizards are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games at Indiana against the Pacers. 10* NBA Friday Daily Discounted Deal with the Indiana Pacers (506) minus the points versus the Washington Wizards (505). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Denver Nuggets (552) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (551). THE SITUATION: Denver (14-9) has lost two in a row after their 121-106 loss at New Orleans as a 1.5-point underdog on Sunday. Dallas (12-11) has won three of their last four games after their 130-111 win against Phoenix as a 3-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NUGGETS MINUS THE POINTS: Denver made 50.6% of their shots on Sunday which was actually the lowest shooting percentage in their last four games. The Nuggets rank 5th in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games at home after shooting 50% or better from the field in at least three straight games. Denver has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss on the road. Furthermore, the Nuggets have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a double-digit loss. They are banged up a bit with Michael Porter out and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope along with Jeff Green questionable with injuries — but they are scoring at a 118.1 points per 100 possession rate without Porter on the court this year. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games. Dallas held the Suns to just 43.5% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last five games. The Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 straight games off a win at home. Additionally, Dallas has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring 125 or more points in their last contest. They are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games when playing without a day of rest. They go back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better at home. Furthermore, the Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: Dallas will be looking to avenge a 98-97 upset loss at home to the Nuggets as a 10-point favorite — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when avenging an upset loss where they were laying 7 or more points. 25* NBA Tuesday TNT Game of the Month is with the Denver Nuggets (552) minus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (551). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Detroit Pistons (554) plus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (553). THE SITUATION: Dallas (10-10) snapped their four-game losing streak with a 116-113 upset win at home against Golden State as a 1-point underdog on Tuesday. Detroit (5-18) has lost three in a row after a 140-110 loss to New York as a 4.5-point underdog on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PISTONS PLUS THE POINTS: The Mavericks are very reliant on Luka Doncic who has been spectacular this season — but they lack reliable secondary scoring options. In games like this when playing a bad team or a team undermanned due to injuries, Doncic tends to coast — and the team underachieves. Dallas has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games when favored.       They come off that upset win against the Warriors but they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight games after a win at home. And while Dallas has covered the point spread just twice in their last 14 games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Rebounding is another concern — they rank 29th in the NBA in Rebounding Rate. They have been outrebounded in five straight games and 10 of their last 11 contests. Now they go on the road where they are just 1-7 this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games when favored. Detroit allowed the Knicks to make 56.2% of their shots which was a season-worst mark. They also allowed New York to pull down 61.2% of the available rebounds which was also a season-worst mark. The Pistons should work harder on defense and in crashing the boards after that embarrassing effort. They are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a double-digit loss — and they are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They are also 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games after allowing at least 125 points in their last game. Detroit is undermanned themselves with Cade Cunningham out indefinitely with a shin injury and Jaden Ivey questionable with a knee. But Isaiah Stewart did return to the court on Tuesday — and the Pistons pull down +3.1% more rebounds when he is on the court. Detroit has also covered the point spread in 37 of their last 56 games after losing three in a row.

FINAL TAKE: The Pistons have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or lower on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games against Western Conference opponents. 10* NBA Dallas-Detroit NBA-TV Special Detroit Pistons (554) plus the points versus the Dallas Mavericks (553). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (525) and the Portland Trail Blazers (526). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (12-9) has won four of their last six games after their 114-100 upset win against Indiana as a 2-point underdog on Sunday. Portland (11-9) has lost five of their last six games after a 111-97 loss at Brooklyn as a 7.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Clippers will be undermanned tonight with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and John Wall all out due to various ailments. As it is, Los Angeles ranks 29th in the league in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. They are also 2nd in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency (but playing without George does not help their cause on that end of the court). The Clippers have played 18 of their last 24 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory. They have played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total after an upset win at home — and they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread win. They go back on the road where they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total. They have also played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210-219.5 point range. Portland is playing with Damian Lillard who is dealing with a calf injury. The Trail Blazers return home for one game after being on the road since November 20th. The Under is 16-7-1 in their last 24 home games after being on the road for seven or more days. The Under is 18-7-2 in Portland’s last 27 games at home — and the Under is 5-1-2 in their last 8 home games against teams with a losing record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing against each other in Portland. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (525) and the Portland Trail Blazers (526). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Indiana Pacers (534) plus the points versus the Brooklyn Nets (533). THE SITUATION: Indiana (10-7) had their five-game winning streak snapped in a 115-101 loss to Minnesota as a 1.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Brooklyn (9-10) has won three of their last four games after a 112-98 victory as a 2.5-point favorite at Toronto on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACERS PLUS THE POINTS: Indiana played their worst game of the season on Wednesday. Their 38.5% shooting percentage was the worst offensive effort of the season. They allowed the Timberwolves to make 61.0% of their shots in that game which was the worst defensive performance of the new season. But Indiana has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss. While many expected this team to tank after beginning a rebuild when they traded Domantas Sabonis midseason last year, they are playing well. They may have the Rookie of the Year in Benedict Mathurin who they drafted as the sixth pick in the NBA draft from Arizona. Point guard Tyrese Haliburton has been a dynamic floor general and scorer for the team. And while they may still deal Myles Turner and Buddy Hield for draft assets before the trade deadline, those are two nice complementary players in the meantime. Indiana has covered the point spread in 7 straight games after winning two of their last three games. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games this month. Furthermore, they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. The laptops like them a lot as they rank 11th in the league in net Adjusted Efficiency Margin. They rank 8th in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and now they host a Nets team that can lack effort on defense and ranks 19th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. Sacramento scored 153 points against them earlier this month. The Nets have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win against a divisional rival — and they are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a double-digit victory. Furthermore, Brooklyn is 12-31-1 ATS in their last 44 games after a point spread win. This team is playing better under new head coach Jacques Vaughn — and Ben Simmons’ productivity has improved. But Simmons is still an issue for the team since he can lack aggressiveness on offense to avoid getting fouled — and the team lacks interior size on defense. The Nets have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games with the Total set in the 230s. And in their last 40 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points, Brooklyn has failed to cover the point spread in 28 of those contests.

FINAL TAKE: Indiana looks to avenge a 116-109 loss in Brooklyn to the Nets on October 31st — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when they have the opportunity for revenge. The Nets were 7.5-point favorites in that game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against the Pacers. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Underdog of the Month with the Indiana Pacers (534) plus the points versus the Brooklyn Nets (533). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Milwaukee Bucks (578) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (517). THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (12-4) has won two of their last three games after their 119-111 win against Portland as a 9.5-point favorite on Monday. Chicago (7-10) snapped a four-game losing streak with a 121-107 upset victory against Boston as a 5.5-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKS MINUS THE POINTS: Milwaukee opened the season with nine straight victories despite playing with an injured Khris Middleton. A rash of short-term injuries played a role in their losing three of four, but the Bucks are getting healthy again (besides for Middleton) — and they were 13-6-1 ATS in their last 20 games after a point spread loss. They return home where they are 9-1 this season with an average winning margin of +9.9 Points-Per-Game. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8  home games against teams with a winning percentage no better than 40% on the road. Chicago continues to play without Lonzo Ball — and veteran guard Goran Dragic is out with an injury which leaves them thin at the point guard position. The Bulls have played two straight Unders — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 27 games on the road after playing an Under in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games after playing two straight Unders. Furthermore, Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher.

FINAL TAKE: Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez defending the rim, Milwaukee leads the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. This is a bad matchup for an undermanned Bulls team that ranks only 20th in the league in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against the Bucks. 10* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Milwaukee Bucks (578) minus the points versus the Chicago Bulls (517). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Memphis Grizzlies (545) plus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (546). THE SITUATION: Memphis (9-5) looks to bounce back from a 102-92 loss at Washington as a 1.5-point underdog on Sunday. New Orleans (7-6) has won two of their last three games after a 119-106 win against Houston as a 10.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GRIZZLIES PLUS THE POINTS: Memphis only made 39.6% of their shots on Sunday which was the lowest shooting percentage for them since their opening game of the season. The Grizzlies have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games after failing to score more than 105 points in their last game. Memphis should play better tonight as they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 20 games after a loss on the road. Additionally, they have covered the point spread in 31 of their last 42 games after a double-digit loss — and they have covered the point spread in 12 straight games after a loss on the road by 10 or more points. And in their last 28 games after a point spread loss, they have covered the point spread in 20 of those contests. They will be without Desmond Bane and Zaire Williams tonight but Jaren Jackson, Jr. is expected to make his season debut tonight. He should have an instant impact to help improve the play on defense for this team. He was a first-teamer on the All-Defensive team last year after leading the league with 2.3 blocks per game. The Grizzlies held their opponents to 106.0 points per 100 possessions with Jackson on the court last year. Memphis has been a disappointment on the defensive end of the court so far this season — but they have been better as of late. They have held their last five opponents to 106.6 Points-Per-Game on 45.1% shooting which is a significant improvement over the 113.4 PPG and 45.8% opponent’s field goal percentage numbers they have posted for the season. And the Grizzlies still have Ja Morant who is scoring 28.1 PPG and dishing out 7.0 assists per game. Morant is nailing 41.0% of his shots from behind the arc — if he continues to come close to that mark, he will be unstoppable on the offensive end of the court. Memphis has covered the point spread in 29 of their last 46 games on the road with the Total set in the 220s. New Orleans might be without Zion Williamson tonight as he is listed as questionable with his right ankle injury. The Pelicans have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit victory. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. New Orleans allowed the Rockets to make 50.6% of their shots on Saturday which continued a disturbing trend on defense. The Pelicans have allowed three of their last four opponents to make at least 50% of their shots.

FINAL TAKE: New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. 10* NBA Memphis-New Orleans TNT Special with the Memphis Grizzlies (545) plus the points versus the New Orleans Pelicans (546). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (547) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (548). THE SITUATION: Phoenix (7-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 100-88 upset loss at Utah as a 2.5-point favorite on Monday. Minnesota (5-6) has lost four of their last five games after their 120-107 upset loss to New York as a 2.5-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Suns are dealing with injuries with Chris Paul and Cameron Johnson out for tonight’s game. Paul has struggled with his shot so far this season — but he remains elite as a floor general so the team will miss his point guard skills. Johnson was elevated to the starting lineup this season with Jae Crowder sitting out demanding a trade — so his injury leaves the team thin at the wing lacking 3-point shooters. Johnson scored 29 points in the Suns’ 116-107 win against the Timberwolves on November 1st. Phoenix has played 20 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 13 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a loss on the road. Additionally, the Suns have played 26 of their last 39 games Under the Total after an upset loss — and the Under is 8-3-1 in their last 12 games after a double-digit loss. The Suns only made 43.8% of their shots on Monday — but that was still the best shooting effort in their last three games. They are holding things down on the defensive end of the court — they have held four of their last five opponents to 109 or fewer points and no better than 43.7% shooting from the field. On the road, they are scoring only 103.7 Points-Per-Game — but they are holding their home hosts to 102.7 PPG on 42.2% shooting. Phoenix ranks 3rd in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They have played 6 straight Unders on the road — and the Under is 20-8-2 in their last 30 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Minnesota has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss. The Timberwolves are struggling to find cohesion with the addition of Rudy Gobert. The play on the defensive end of the court has been good — they rank 9th in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. But the T-Wolves are bottom-ten in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. The problem appears to be the mix between Karl Anthony-Towns and Gobert are scoring only 101.4 points per 100 possessions in their 206 minutes together which would be the lowest offensive efficiency in the league. They stay at home where they have played 8 of their last 11 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road (Phoenix: 1-2 on the road).

FINAL TAKE: Minnesota has played 4 straight Unders against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s. 10* NBA Wednesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (547) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (548). Best of luck for us — Frank.