15* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Charlotte Bobcats +8.5

The Charlotte Bobcats are showing solid value as an 8.5-point home underdog to the Los Angeles Clippers tonight. The value is simply too good to pass up, and I'll gladly fade the public and put my smart money on the big home dog in this one.

This is an extremely tough spot for a Clippers team that is way overvalued due to its seven-game winning streak. Los Angeles will be playing the second of a back-to-back and its 4th game in 5 days. It is coming off a big 94-89 road win at Chicago on National TV last night, setting it up for a big letdown spot tonight in Charlotte.

The Bobcats are way undervalued right now due to their current eight-game losing streak. This skid has come against a brutal schedule as their eight opponents have been the Thunder, Hawks, 76ers, Blazers, Knicks, Bucks, Spurs and Warriors. Four of their five home losses during this stretch have come by 8 points or less. Fresh on one days' rest, and motivated to put an end to this losing streak, the Bobcats will be giving better effort tonight than the Clippers.

The Clippers are 19-38 ATS after successfully covering the spread in 4 or more consecutive games since 1996. Los Angeles is 37-60 ATS in road games after 2 or more consecutive wins since 1996. The Clippers are 6-13-1 ATS in their last 20 road games vs. a team with a losing home record, and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games overall. Los Angeles only has one true road win by more than 5 points this season. Take the Bobcats Wednesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Nets/Raptors UNDER 188.5

There are two main reasons that I believe this game finishes well below the posted total tonight. Both the Brooklyn Nets and the Toronto Raptors will struggle to reach 90 points because of these two factors.

First, Brooklyn is a tired team right now as it will be playing the second of a back-to-back and its 3rd game in 4 days. I look for the Nets to play at a slower tempo offensively because of it. This is an excellent team defensively as the Nets are allowing just 94.0 points/game overall and 91.1 points/game on the road. They are only scoring 93.0 points/game on the road as well.

Toronto is likely to be without two of its top three scorers tonight. Andrea Bargnani (16.0 PPG) is doubtful with an elbow injury, while Kyle Lowry (15.8 PPG, 5.8 APG) is doubtful with a tricep injury. Not having Bargnani's shooting and Lowry's ability to run the offense and create open looks for teammates is really going to hamper Toronto's offense tonight.

Toronto is 10-1 to the UNDER in home games after a game where they made 85% of their free throws or better over the last 2 seasons. We're seeing an average of 176.5 points/game in this situation. The UNDER is 20-5-2 in Brooklyn's last 27 road games. The UNDER is 17-4 in Raptors last 21 vs. NBA Atlantic Division opponents. Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Line Mistake on Cleveland Cavaliers +7

The Cleveland Cavaliers should not be catching 7 points to the overrated Los Angeles Lakers tonight. I'll gladly side with the value and back the home dog in a game I believe the Cavaliers can win outright.

Cleveland welcomes back point guard Kyrie Irving from a broken finger. He practiced Monday and is expected to play tonight. His return will be a huge boost to a Cleveland team that has struggled to score of late. Irving leads the team in scoring (22.9) and assists (5.6), and he's the heart and soul of this team.

"I think all the guys are looking forward to having Irving back out there because he does make most of our guys' job a lot easier because he creates so much for himself and for his teammates," coach Byron Scott said. "I'm sure the guys will be happy to have him back out there."

The Lakers are way overvalued this season as they are just 9-12 straight up and 9-12 against the spread. They remain without two All-Stars in Pau Gasol and Steve Nash, and they have really struggled without these two. Los Angeles has lost four of its last five games overall. Its biggest weakness is defending quick point guards like Irving.

The Lakers are 0-11 ATS in their last 11 Tuesday games. Los Angeles is 16-34-1 ATS in its last 51 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. The home team has won four straight in this series, and three of those four meetings were decided by 6 points or less. Take the Cavaliers Tuesday.

20* Knicks/Nets ESPN Tuesday No-Brainer on UNDER 194

Both the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets are improved defensively this season. I believe oddsmakers have set the bar too high tonight in this rivalry. The defensive intensity will be very high between these two teams in a nationally televised game on ESPN.

These teams already met once this season with Brooklyn topping New York 96-89 at home on November 26th in overtime. That game was tied 84-84 at the end of regulation for 168 combined points, and I look for a similarly low-scoring affair tonight. The UNDER is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in this series.

The Knicks are yielding just 95.2 points/game this season. They have been an improved defensive team ever since Mike Woodson took over as head coach. The Nets have been even better on this end of the floor, yielding a mere 93.7 points/game on the season. Off four straight losses, I look for Brooklyn to up its defensive intensity even more tonight.

Brooklyn is 8-1 to the UNDER versus good ball handling teams - committing <=14 turnovers/game this season. New York is 32-17 to the UNDER as a favorite over the last 2 seasons. The Knicks are 14-4 to the UNDER in road games after a home game where both teams score 100 or more points over the last 3 seasons. The UNDER is 5-0-1 in Nets last 6 games playing on 1 days rest. Bet the UNDER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Raptors/Blazers UNDER 196

This contest between the Portland Trail Blazers and Toronto Raptors Monday sets up for a low-scoring affair. Both teams are in tough spots that will limit their ability to score the basketball.

Toronto will be playing the second of a back-to-back and its 5th road game in 8 days. It showed signs of wearing down last night, scoring just 83 points in a 19-point loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

Portland will likely be playing without two starters tonight. Nicolas Batum (16.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG) is expected to miss his third straight game with a back injury, while Wesley Matthews (16.0 PPG) is doubtful with a hip injury.

Portland has lost two straight without Batum, including an ugly 80-99 home loss to the Kings last time out. The Blazers really cannot afford to be down two starters because they have the worst bench in the league.

Their bench ranks 30th in scoring (14.9 points/game), which is 9.0 points worse than the 29th-ranked bench (Lakers). They are really going to miss the 32.4 points that Batum and Mathews combine to average. I look for Portland to slow down the tempo and run its offense through LaMarcus Aldridge in this one.

The UNDER is 19-7-1 in Raptors last 27 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points. The UNDER is 4-1 in Raptors last 5 vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. The UNDER is 9-3-1 in Blazers last 13 games following a ATS loss. Roll with the UNDER In this game Monday.

15* Hawks/Heat NBA Monday No-Brainer on UNDER 195

With first place on the line tonight in the NBA's Southeast Division, the Miami Heat (13-5) host the Atlanta Hawks (12-5) in a battle between easily the two best teams in this division. I look for the defensive intensity to rise more than your normal game in this one.

Miami has been talking about playing better defense after back-to-back losses to the Wizards and Knicks in which they allowed a combined 217 points. They did play much better their last time out on this end, limiting the Hornets to 90 points on 44.9 percent shooting.

"We didn't do everything right," coach Erik Spoelstra said. "We still had a handful of breakdowns. But the commitment on the defensive end was better than the past two games."

Atlanta continued its solid play defensively with a 93-83 road win at Memphis last time out. It is allowing just 93.6 points per game on 43.3 percent shooting on the season, including 90.4 points on 42.9 percent shooting on the road.

This has been a very low scoring series in the past. In fact, Miami and Atlanta have combined to score 195 or less points at the end of regulation in 15 straight meetings. Fourteen of those saw 194 or fewer points. That makes for a perfect 14-0 system backing the UNDER pertaining to tonight's total set. Take the UNDER 195 points in this game Monday.

15* NBA Sunday No-Doubt Rout on Phoenix Suns -3.5

The Phoenix Suns will roll at home tonight over the Orlando Magic. Phoenix comes into this game way undervalued, while Orlando is certainly overvalued due to recent results. Getting the Suns as only a 3.5-point home favorite is a gift from oddsmakers.

Phoenix is going to be highly-motivated for a win following six straight losses. The biggest reason for this losing streak is a tough schedule that has featured seven of their last eight games on the road. The Suns will certainly be looking forward to returning home tonight where they are 5-4.

Orlando is overvalued due to winning its first two games against the Lakers and Warriors on its current five-game road stand. It has lost its last two, and now it will be fatigued coming into this one as this will be its 5th road game in 8 days. The Magic are clearly one of the worst teams in the league, and they are just 3-7 on the road this season.

The home team has won eight of the last nine meetings in this series. The favorite is a perfect 7-0 ATS in the last 7 meetings dating back to 2009. The Magic are 4-14 ATS after playing 3 consecutive road games over the last 3 seasons. The Suns are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 Sunday games. Phoenix is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Bet the Suns Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday Total ANNIHILATOR on 76ers/Celtics UNDER 187.5

This one is about as obvious as it gets folks. It sets up perfectly for a low-scoring game, and I look for Boston and Philadelphia to not even come close to approaching this 187.5-point total.

Both teams will be playing the second of a back-to-back in this home and home situation. Making matters tougher for both teams is the fact that they went to overtime last night, and looked very tired down the stretch. They combined for just 178 points at the end of regulation, and 189 points after OT.

Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett were really dragging for the Celtics, while the 76ers time and time again were up against the shot clock down the stretch. The familiarity between these teams after playing last night will make points extremely tough to come by.

Pierce, Rajon Rondo and Jason Terry all played more than 42 minutes for the Celtics last night, while Jrue Holiday, Jason Richardson, Evan Turner and Thaddeus Young played more than 41 minutes for the 76ers.

The UNDER is 6-2 in 76ers last 8 road games. The UNDER is 7-3 in 76ers last 10 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes on the previous day. The UNDER is 4-1 in Celtics last 5 games playing on 0 days' rest. The UNDER is 13-4-1 in Celtics last 18 Saturday games. Take the UNDER in this game Saturday.

15* Magic/Kings NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Sacramento -2.5

The Orlando Magic are getting way too much respect from oddsmakers as just a 2.5-point underdog to the Sacramento Kings tonight. I look for the home team to roll to a double-digit victory and easily cover this generous spread Friday.

Sacramento realizes it needs to start stringing some wins together if it wants to have any chance of making the playoffs come season's send. It is coming off a solid 107-100 home victory over Toronto. This team will be fresh and ready to go tonight as this will be just their 2nd game in 6 days.

Orlando is on its fourth game of a grueling five-game road trip. It is getting way too much respect for victories over the Lakers and Warriors to start this trip as both of those teams were likely over looking the Magic. This will be their 4th road game in 6 days, and they won't be able to match the energy level of the Kings on their tired legs.

The Magic are 33-51 ATS after playing a road game over the last 3 seasons. Sacramento has won 10 of its last 15 home meetings with Orlando. The Kings are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS win. Roll with Sacramento Friday.

20* Lakers/Thunder ESPN Friday No-Brainer on UNDER 210.5

These familiar foes will do battle tonight on ESPN in front of a nationally televised audience. Oklahoma State took out Los Angeles in five games in the playoffs last season, so there is sure to be some added intensity in this one tonight.

I look for that added intensity to lead to a lower-scoring, defensive battle. I believe oddsmakers have simply set the bar too high in this one. When you look at recent meetings between these teams, it's easy to see that is the case.

Eight straight meetings (not including overtime) between the Lakers and Thunder have seen 209 or less combined points at the end of regulation. In fact, six of those eight meetings saw 196 or less points. That makes for a perfect 8-0 system backing the UNDER pertaining to tonight's total set.

Los Angeles is running a new system under Mike D'Antoni, but that system cannot be 100% effective without two important pieces. Steve Nash remains out with a leg injury, while Pau Gasol is doubtful as he deals with a knee injury. The Lakers' offense will not be hitting on all cylinders tonight.

This play falls into a system that is 35-9 (79.5%) to the UNDER since 1996. It tells us to bet the UNDER on home teams where the total is greater than or equal to 200 (OKLAHOMA CITY) - excellent shooting team (>=47.5%) against an average defensive team (43.5-45.5%), hot shooting team - 2 straight games making >=50% of their shots. Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Denver Nuggets +1.5

The Denver Nuggets should not be an underdog to the Indiana Pacers tonight in a game I believe they'll win outright. They are the better team and will simply want this one more.

Denver has lost four of its last five games, including three road losses by a combined 7 points to the Jazz, Warriors and Hawks. It will be highly motivated for a victory after this tough recent stretch, and I still believe this is one of the best teams in the league, which will show by season's end.

Indiana has won four of its last five coming in and will relax because of it. The Pacers are riding high right now because all four of those wins have come by a combined 18 points, so they have been pulling games late. With a road trip to Oklahoma City on deck, the Pacers could be overlooking the Nuggets here.

The Nuggets are 40-24 ATS as a road underdog over the last 3 seasons. Indiana is 5-17 ATS after covering 4 or 5 of their last 6 against the spread over the last 2 seasons. The Pacers are 17-37 ATS off a home win over the last 3 seasons. Denver is 12-2 ATS in its last 14 vs. NBA Central foes, and 11-4 ATS in its last 15 meetings with Indiana. Take the Nuggets Friday.

15* Knicks/Heat TNT Total ANNIHILATOR on UNDER 201

This is one of the biggest games of the early season. New York wants to show Miami that it is a legitimate contender in the East with a win tonight. I look for the defensive intensity to be at the highest level for both teams and for points to be very hard to come by.

These teams already met once this season on November 2nd with New York beating Miami 104-84 for 188 combined points. I look for a similar final combined total tonight as this one stays well below the number.

In fact, the Knicks and Heat have combined to score 200 or less points in 11 straight meetings. That makes for a perfect 11-0 system backing the UNDER pertaining to tonight's total set.

This play falls into a system that is 46-14 (76.7%) to the UNDER over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet the UNDER on home teams where the total is 200 to 209.5 (MIAMI) - after going over the total by 48 or more points total in their last ten games, with a winning record on the season playing another winning team. Take the UNDER in this game Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Utah Jazz -8

Off three straight losses to the Thunder, Rockets and Clippers, I look for the Utah Jazz to bounce back with a blowout home victory tonight over the Orlando Magic. There's no question the Jazz will be highly motivated after blowing a 14-point lead in the second half to lose 104-105 to the Clippers last time out.

This is the perfect storm. Utah will be hungry for a win, while Orlando is in a huge letdown spot following back-to-back road wins over the Lakers and Warriors. It's only human nature for the Magic to let down after those two big wins, and they won't be able to match the intensity of the Jazz because of it.

Utah is 6-1 SU & 5-2 ATS at home this season, outscoring opponents by an average of 7.8 points/game. It is only allowing 94.6 points/game on 42.0% shooting at home this year. Points will certainly be hard to come by for an Orlando team that is only averaging 90.6 points/game on 41.9% shooting on the road.

The Jazz are a 4-1 SU and a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last five meetings with Orlando. They have won each of their last three home meetings with the Magic by 9 points or more, and that was when they had Dwight Howard. Take the Jazz Wednesday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Charlotte Bobcats +8

The Miami Heat were overlooking the Washington Wizards last night and looking ahead to their Thursday showdown with the New York Knicks on TNT. They lost to the Wizards last night because they did not give Washington their full attention.

Now, the same will be the case for the Knicks tonight. They will not give the Charlotte Bobcats their full attention as they look ahead to tomorrow's big showdown with the Heat. There is a very good chance New York loses outright because of it as well.

Charlotte will have no problem getting motivated to face the Knicks tonight. It has lost four straight coming in, including the last three all by 6 points or less. The Bobcats blew a late 18-point lead to the Blazers last time out with just over five minutes remaining in regulation, eventually losing in overtime. They will be up for this game because of it.

The Knicks are unbeaten at home this season, but when they leave Madison Square Garden it's another story. New York is just 5-4 on the road this season, outscoring opponents by only 2.7 points/game. Charlotte is a very respectable 5-5 at home this season, and this is certainly a much-improved team from a year ago. Bet the Bobcats Wednesday.

15* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on Chicago Bulls -4

The Chicago Bulls will continue their solid play of late and win their 3rd straight with a victory over the Indiana Pacers tonight by 5-plus points. They have won their last two with home victories over Dallas (101-78) and Philadelphia (93-88).

Indiana ends its four-game road trip tonight. It won against the Lakers and Kings in its first two games on this trip, which has it overvalued. It lost against the Warriors 92-103 on Saturday, and I believe it is still getting too much respect from oddsmakers tonight against the Bulls.

The Pacers are just 4-7 on the road this season where they are scoring a mere 87.5 points/game. They will have a hard time putting the ball in the basket against a Bulls' team that is allowing just 89.6 points/game at home this year.

Chicago is 10-1 in its last 11 home meetings with Indiana, and all ten victories have come by 5 points or more. That makes for a 91% system backing Chicago pertaining to tonight's spread. Take the Bulls Tuesday.

20* Thunder/Nets NBA Tuesday No-Brainer on Brooklyn +4.5

The Brooklyn Nets should not be an underdog at home tonight to the Oklahoma City Thunder. This team has been underrated all season as evidenced by the fact that they are not only 11-5 SU, but a very profitable 10-5-1 ATS at the pay window.

Brooklyn had won five straight before an 89-102 loss at Miami on December 1st. That was a tough spot for the Nets as they were playing the second of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days. They have had two days' rest since and I believe they are battle-tested after that loss to the defending champs.

The Thunder come in way overvalued due to their five game winning streak which has seen them cover five straight as well. Those five wins came against the 76ers, Bobcats, Rockets, Jazz and Hornets, which is unimpressive to say the least. They finally meet their match tonight in Brooklyn.

The Nets are 7-1 SU & 5-2-1 ATS at home this season where they are giving up a mere 91.1 points/game. Brooklyn is 5-0-1 ATS in its last 6 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. This is a much-improved team and it will show that it is a contender for the title with a big win over the Thunder tonight. Bet the Nets Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Total ANNIHILATOR on Cavs/Pistons UNDER 191

I look for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons to take part in a defensive battle tonight. These are two of the worst teams in the league with a combined 9-26 record, and it's largely due to their struggles offensively.

Detroit is scoring just 93.2 points/game this season on 44.1% shooting. However, it has remained competitive due to its ability to defend. It is allowing 96.8 points/game overall and 94.0 points/game at home.

Cleveland is scoring 96.9 points/game on 42.3% shooting. A big reason I like this UNDER tonight is that the Cavs are likely to be without their top two scorers. Kyrie Irving (22.9 PPG) is out with a finger injury, while Dion Waiters (15.2 PPG) is doubtful with an ankle injury. Points will be very hard to come by without these two on the floor.

Both teams are tired right now as well, which usually leads to a low-scoring game. Cleveland will be playing its 7th game in 11 days, and it is coming off a double-overtime loss to Portland on Saturday. Detroit will be playing its 6th game in 9 days following Saturday's 77-92 loss at Dallas.

The UNDER is 40-15 in the last 55 meetings in this series. The UNDER is 9-3 in Pistons last 12 games overall. The UNDER is 6-1 in Pistons last 7 games following a S.U. loss. Roll with the UNDER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Monday No-Doubt Rout on Charlotte Bobcats PK

The Charlotte Bobcats are one of the most underrated teams in the league. They are off to a 7-8 start this season and should be laying more points to the Portland Trail Blazers (7-10) at home tonight.

Motivated for a win following three straight losses to the Thunder, Hawks and 76ers, the Bobcats will be ready to go as they come in on two days' rest since last playing Philadelphia on Friday, November 30th. They will certainly be the more rested, more motivated team in this one.

Portland is a very tired team right now. This will be its 6th road game in 9 days, and it is coming off a 118-117 double-overtime victory over Cleveland. It has lost four of its five games on this road trip thus far, including setbacks at Washington and Detroit. Off that emotional double OT victory Saturday, the Blazers simply don't have much left in the tank.

Making matters much tougher for the Blazers is the fact that they have the worst bench in the league. Their bench is averaging league-lows of 13.0 minutes and 13.9 points per game. The next-lowest scoring bench is the Lakers at 23.4, so the Blazers have by far the worst bench in the NBA, and it's not even close.

The home team has won four straight and eight of the last 10 meetings in this series. The Blazers are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 Monday games. Portland is 7-20-1 ATS in its last 28 games following a win. The Bobcats are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss. The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Take the Bobcats Monday.

15* Magic/Lakers NBA Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Orlando +13

The Los Angeles Lakers are overvalued heading into this contest after their best shooting performance of the season on ESPN against the Denver Nuggets on Friday. They scored 122 points, shot 54.0 percent from the floor, and 17-for-33 (51.5%) from 3-point range.

The Lakers are high right now in the eyes of the betting public because of that performance Friday night. Meanwhile, the betting public off afraid of backing a Magic team that has lost three straight to Boston, San Antonio and Brooklyn. That has created some excellent line value for us tonight.

Orlando is 11-1 ATS in road games after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons. Los Angeles is 5-15 ATS after scoring 105 points or more over the last 2 seasons. The Lakers are 17-35 ATS in their last 52 games following a S.U. win. Los Angeles is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Bet the Magic Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday No-Doubt Rout on Milwaukee Bucks -3

The Boston Celtics are short-handed right now as they are without Rajon Rondo for one more game as he serves the second of his two-game suspension tonight. The Celtics won without him at home against Portland last night, but they won't be so fortunate tonight.

Boston is a team that is getting up there in age and it doesn't handle these second of back-to-back situations very well because of it. That's especially the case tonight as they will be without the youthful Rondo, who can sometimes pull his team through these situations with his energy.

Milwaukee comes in highly motivated for a win after dropping two straight, and five of its last six games overall. It has faced the Heat, the Bulls twice, and the Knicks during this stretch, so the schedule makers have not been kind to them. I just think this is a great time to back the Bucks as they are motivated against a depleted Celtics' squad.

The Celtics are 14-29 ATS when playing on back-to-back days over the last 3 seasons. The Bucks are 39-14-2 ATS in their last 55 vs. NBA Atlantic. Boston is 8-22 ATS after a blowout win by 15 points or more over the last 3 seasons. Milwaukee is 11-1 ATS after playing 3 consecutive games as an underdog over the last 2 seasons. Take the Bucks Saturday.

15* Nuggets/Lakers ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 205

I look for a defensive battle tonight between the Nuggets and Lakers. For one, playing on the National TV stage always seems to bring out better effort defensively by both teams. Also, the Mike D'Antoni factor has Lakers' totals inflated right now.

That was certainly the case in their 77-79 home loss to Indiana last time out with a total set of 196 points. The Lakers are only giving up 95.5 points/game overall, including 91.3 points/game at home. This is a team that relies on defense to win games, and one that won't be explosive offensively until Steve Nash returns.

Denver is going to be tired following its 105-106 loss at Golden State last night. This is an improved defensive team as well as the Nuggets are only allowing 98.7 points/game this season. They are also down a bit offensively from last season as they average just 99.7 points/game.

When you look at recent history in this series, it's easy to see that there is a ton of value with the UNDER tonight. The Lakers and Nuggets have combined to score 204 or less points in 12 of their last 13 meetings, which makes for a 12-1 (92%) system backing the UNDER pertaining to tonight's total set. Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +13

The Washington Wizards are undervalued at this point of the season due to their 1-12 start. This team finally has some confidence after beating the Portland Trail Blazers last time out to snap their 12-game losing streak to start the season.

Washington is a much better team than its record would indicate, and there's no question that it should have more wins than one by now. Ten of its 12 losses have come by 10 points or less, which is why it is showing such great value tonight as a 13-point underdog. The Wizards have had a chance to win every game but two in the closing minutes of the 4th quarter.

The New York Knicks are way overvalued right now due to their 10-4 start. There's no question that this is a quality team under head coach Mike Woodson, but they are getting too much respect from the betting public and the oddsmakers tonight. New York could have a hard time getting up emotionally to face the team with the worst record in the NBA.

This play falls into a system that is 42-16 (72.4%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet against favorites of 10 or more points (NEW YORK) - tired team - playing 6 or more games in 10 days, first half of the season. The Wizards are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games. The Knicks are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. Roll with the Wizards Friday.

15* Spurs/Heat TNT Thursday No-Brainer on Miami -5.5

The Miami Heat should be a bigger favorite tonight at home against the San Antonio Spurs. They come in on a ridiculous four days' rest having last played on November 24th. They will be chomping at the bit to get back on the floor tonight, and I look for them to run the Spurs to death.

The reason the Heat will look to push the tempo is the fact that San Antonio will be playing the second of a back-to-back and its 4th game in 5 days. This is the toughest situation in the NBA. The Spurs will not be able to match the Heat's energy level, and as a result they'll get blown out of the building.

A blowout in Miami's favor has been a familiar result in recent meetings between these teams. Miami has won the last two meetings by a combined 52 points. It beat San Antonio 110-80 at home on 03/14/11, and then 120-98 on 01/17/12. I look for a similar result in this one given the situation coming in.

The Spurs are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. The Heat are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games. Miami is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games playing on 3 or more days rest. These three trends combine for a 19-1 (95%) system backing Miami. Roll with the Heat Thursday.

20* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Boston Celtics -3.5

This is a big letdown spot for the Brooklyn Nets. They are coming off a huge 96-89 overtime victory over their new biggest rivals in the New York Knicks on Monday. Having already beaten Boston 102-97 at home on November 15th less than two weeks ago, the Nets will have a hard time getting up emotionally for this one.

Boston wants revenge from that 102-97 loss as it gets Brooklyn at home this time around. The Celtics are also playing very solid basketball over the past month as they have won eight over their last 12 games overall. Brooklyn has been dealt an easy schedule thus far as eight of its 13 games have come at home. It is just 2-3 on the road this year.

The home team has won five of the last six meetings in this series. Boston has won six of the last eight meetings. The home team is 4-1-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings. The favorite is 3-0-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings.

The Nets are 10-21-1 ATS in their last 32 vs. NBA Atlantic opponents. The Celtics are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. Brooklyn is 3-14 ATS in road games after covering 4 or 5 of their last 6 against the spread over the last 3 seasons. Bet the Celtics Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +3.5

The Washington Wizards are 0-12 on the season. As a result, the betting public doesn't want to touch them. I'm predicting they get their first win of the season tonight against a very beatable Portland team, but I'll take the points for some insurance.

Washington has had several chances to get that first win, and it is a much better team than its record would indicate. Five of its last six losses came by 7 points or less with the lone exception being the Spurs last time out.

Portland is just 6-8 on the season and a very beatable team. It has lost three straight road games to the Suns, Nets and Pistons to fall to 2-5 SU & 2-5 ATS away from home this season. It is getting outscored by a whopping 8.2 points/game on the road in 2012.

The Trail Blazers are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games playing on 1 days rest. Portland is 1-6-1 ATS in its last 8 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. The Wizards are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Wednesday games. The home team is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings. Take the Wizards Wednesday.

20* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on Sacramento Kings ML -109

I'll side with the Sacramento Kings on the Money Line Tuesday at home against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Sacramento is undervalued in the early going, and it should be a bigger favorite here with the way it has been playing of late.

Sacramento has gone 2-1 straight up and 3-0 against the spread in its last three games overall. It has blowout home wins over the Lakers (113-97) and the Jazz (108-97) during this stretch. Its only loss came at Utah (102-104) as a 9-point underdog. All four of the Kings' wins have come at home this year.

Minnesota is playing its worst basketball of the season heading into this one. It is 0-5 straight up and 0-5 against the spread in its last five games overall. That includes losses to Charlotte, Portland and Golden State twice. A big reason for the Timberwolves' struggles is that they are banged up health-wise.

The home team is 5-0 in the last five meetings in this series dating back to last season. The Kings are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU win of more than 10 points. Minnesota is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games overall. These five trends combine for a perfect 15-0 system backing the Kings. Also, the Timberwolves are 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Sacramento. Bet the Kings Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Cleveland Cavaliers +12.5

The Cleveland Cavaliers should not be catching double-digit points to the Memphis Grizzlies tonight. This line is simply an overreaction for point guard Kyrie Irving being out for at least three more weeks with a broken index finger.

Cleveland has been very competitive without Irving. It has gone 3-0 ATS it its last three games without him, which just shows that he is overvalued as a player when it comes to setting spreads. The Cavs beat Philly 92-83 as a 4.5-point dog, lost at Orlando 104-108 as a 4.5-point dog, and lost at Miami 108-110 after blowing a late 7-point lead as a 15-point dog.

Memphis is certainly overvalued right now due to winning nine of its last 10 games overall. It has created expectations for itself against the spread that it simply cannot live up to right now. Memphis' biggest spread so far has been 7 points, so this 12.5-point spread is by far the most it has been favored by this season.

The Cavaliers have lost their last three meetings at Memphis by a combined 17 points with their biggest loss coming by 8 points. In fact, Cleveland is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 meetings with Memphis. The Grizzlies are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. Roll with the Cavaliers Monday.

15* Knicks/Nets TNT Monday No-Brainer on Brooklyn +1

The Brooklyn Nets should not be an underdog at home to the New York Knicks in what is going to be a great rivalry for years to come. I'll side with the undervalued home dog in this one as the Nets take care of business in their new building.

Brooklyn has been dominant at home this season. It is 6-1 SU & 4-2-1 ATS through seven home contests, outscoring opponents by 6.5 points/game on average while limiting them to just 91.4 points/game.

The Knicks are a quality team under head coach Mike Woodson, but I simply believe they are overvalued due to their 9-3 record. All three of their losses have come on the road this season as they are giving up 101.0 points/game away from home.

Both teams are in a tough spot as each will be playing the second of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days. However, I believe that favors the Nets a lot more considering they have the deeper bench. The Knicks really only go 8 guys deep, while the Nets go as many as 11 deep.

The Nets are 6-1-2 ATS in their last 9 games overall. Brooklyn is 4-0-1 ATS in its last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. The Nets are 4-0-2 ATS in their last 6 games following a S.U. win. The Knicks are 7-19 ATS after leading in their previous game by 20 or more points at the half since 1996. Take the Nets Monday.

15* NBA Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Detroit Pistons +12

The New York Knicks are way overvalued due to their 8-3 start. They have created expectations for themselves from oddsmakers and the betting public that they simply cannot live up to because of it. Detroit is undervalued due to its 3-10 start as the betting public doesn't really want to touch the Pistons.

New York has started showing signs of coming back down to reality here in recent weeks. They have lost two straight to Dallas (111-114) and Houston (103-131) coming in. I do believe this will be a playoff team this year, but the Knicks are not as good as their perception after an 8-1 start. As a result, they are overvalued.

Detroit is really coming around of late. It has won three of its last five contests, including blowout wins over the 76ers (94-76) and Celtics (103-83). This team is going to be improved from a year ago as the season progresses. It's just that they started 0-8 so the perception on them is down, which provides us with excellent line value game to game, especially here tonight.

This play falls into a system that is 41-15 (73.2%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet against of 10 or more points (NEW YORK) - tired team - playing 6 or more games in 10 days, first half of the season. Take the Pistons Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday PLAY OF THE DAY on Los Angeles Lakers -1

Off two straight losses, the Los Angeles Lakers are highly motivated for a victory here Saturday night against the Dallas Mavericks. I believe they get it against one of the most overrated teams in the league.

Dallas is 9-24 ATS after covering 2 of their last 3 against the spread over the last 2 seasons. The Mavericks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Dallas is 18-41-2 ATS in their last 61 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. The Mavs are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games overall. Roll with the Lakers Saturday.

15* NBA Friday PLAY OF THE DAY on Warriors/Nuggets OVER 201

Oddsmakers have set the bar too low Friday night between these two potent offensive teams in the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors. I have no doubt they'll combine to score over 201 points as both come in well-rested and ready to get up and down the floor.

Neither team has been putting up points to their full potential to this point, which is the reason this total is much lower than it should be. Denver has been one of the best offensive teams in the league since George Karl took over, but one of the worst defensive squads. That will be the case once again by season's end.

Denver is scoring 102.0 points/game at home this season. Golden State is allowing 101.1 points/game on the road this season. The Warriors are 4-0 OVER in their last 4 games overall with three of those contests coming on the road. All three of those road games saw 204 or more combined points.

Golden State and Denver have combined to score 207 or more points in six straight meetings. In fact, they have combined to score 207 or more points in 15 of their last 16 meetings. That makes for a 15-1 (94%) system backing the OVER pertaining to tonight's total set. Roll with the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Denver Nuggets -3

The Denver Nuggets will crush the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight in an absolute mismatch. Denver is undervalued due to its 5-6 start against a tough schedule, and I still believe this will be one of the top teams in the West by season's end.

Minnesota is in a world of hurt right now due to injuries. It is without Kevin Love, Ricky Rubio, Chase Budinger and Brandon Roy. The Timberwolves are overvalued due to their 5-4 start against a much softer schedule. They have lost their last two games to Charlotte and Golden State, both at home, and they have no chance against the Nuggets tonight.

Denver is 19-2 in its last 21 meetings with Minnesota. It has won 90% of those meetings, which dates back to 2007. It's certainly safe to say that the Nuggets have the Timberwolves' number.

The Nuggets are 42-20 ATS in their last 62 road games. The Timberwolves are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. The Nuggets are 7-1-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings in Minnesota. The road team is 19-6-1 ATS in the last 26 meetings. Bet Denver Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +10

The betting public does not want to back a team that is 0-9 on the season. The Washington Wizards are the last team in the league without a win, and as a result they are undervalued right now. I'll gladly take the points tonight against the Atlanta Hawks.

There's no question that these Wizards' players want to get their first taste of victory. As a result, they will fight, scratch and claw until they get it. This is a big letdown spot for the Hawks as they will have a hard time getting motivated to face a winless team, which will make it very tough to cover this double-digit spread.

Washington hasn't been nearly as bad as its record would indicate. Eight of its nine losses have come by 10 points or less, so it simply hasn't been able to execute down the stretch of games. Atlanta has only won one game all season by more than 9 points en route to its 5-4 start.

This play falls into a system that is 24-5 (82.8%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet on road underdogs of 10 or more points (WASHINGTON) - after failing to cover 3 of their last 4 against the spread against opponent after failing to cover 5 or 6 of their last 7 against the spread.

Atlanta is 1-11 ATS in home games in November games over the last 3 seasons. The Hawks are 7-23 ATS in home games after playing a game as a home favorite over the last 3 seasons. Atlanta is 0-6 ATS in its last 6 home games. The Wizards are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 road games. Take the Wizards Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on New Orleans Hornets +7

The New Orleans Hornets are showing great value as a big home underdog to the New York Knicks tonight. I'll gladly take advantage and side with the value. I realize that this line is +6 in most places, and I would still recommend a bet at that number as I believe the Hornets have an excellent chance to win this game outright.

New York is way overvalued due to its 7-1 start. Sure, this team is improved, but it should not be laying this big of a number on the road against almost any team in the league. This will be the Knicks' 4th game in 6 days.

The Hornets are one of the most underrated teams in the league in the early going. They made some great improvements this offseason in bringing in Ryan Anderson (16.4 PPG, 8.0 RPG) and Anthony Davis (16.0 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 2.2 BPG).

While they are just 3-5 on the season, three of those losses came by 4 points or less. New Orleans comes in the more rested, more hungry team tonight. It has lost three straight and it comes in on two days' rest.

This play falls into a system that is 23-6 (79.3%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet on home underdogs (NEW ORLEANS) - after going over the total by more than 30 points in their previous game, in non-conference games.

The Hornets are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 2 days rest. New Orleans is 5-0 ATS in their last 5 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. The Hornets are 12-2 ATS in their last 14 home games. These three trends combine for a 24-2 (92%) system backing New Orleans. Bet the Hornets Tuesday.

15* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Denver Nuggets +7

The Memphis Grizzlies are way overvalued right now due to their 8-game winning streak. Sure, this is one of the better teams in the Western Conference, but they are not 7 points better than the Nuggets tonight.

Denver comes in undervalued due to a 4-6 start which includes a three-game losing streak. It will be highly motivated to put an end to this skid tonight. It will also want to put an end to a three-game losing streak in this series with the Grizzlies with three straight losses by 3 points or less.

The Nuggets also come in the fresher team as this will only be their 3rd game in 7 days. The Grizzlies will be a bit fatigued playing their 4th game in 6 days. They won't be able to match the energy level of the Nuggets, who like to push the ball up the court and fast break more than any other team in the league.

The Nuggets are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. Denver is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games following a S.U. loss. The Nuggets are 41-20 ATS in their last 61 road games. The Grizzlies are 3-11 ATS in their last 14 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. Take the Nuggets Monday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Charlotte Bobcats +5.5

The Charlotte Bobcats are showing solid value as a 5.5-point home underdog to the Milwaukee Bucks tonight. There's no question that this Bobcats team is improved from a year ago, but they aren't getting treated like it from oddsmakers.

Charlotte has opened 4-4 this season and it is way undervalued right now. It has won three of its last four with its only loss to the Grizzlies, who are currently on an 8-game winning streak. This is basically a completely new team and one that will be a lot more competitive all season.

The Bobcats made some great improvements to their roster this offseason with the additions of Ramon Sessions (15.8 PPG, 4.2 APG), Ben Gordon (13.8 PPG, 42.3% 3-pointers), Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (11.2 PPG, 1.6 BPG, 7.0 RPG) and Brendan Haywood (7.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG).

Milwaukee is overvalued right now due to its 6-2 start. Only one of those six wins has come against a team with a winning record, and that was the mediocre Boston Celtics (6-5). There's no question that the Bucks are improved this season as well, but they should not be this heavily favored on the road against the Bobcats tonight.

Milwaukee is 45-72 ATS after 3 or more consecutive wins since 1996. The Bucks are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games following a S.U. win. The Bobcats are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. Milwaukee is 4-12 ATS in its last 16 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. Roll with the Bobcats Monday.

15* NBA PLAY OF THE DAY on Portland Trail Blazers +1

The Portland Trail Blazers should not be an underdog at home tonight to the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls will be playing the second of a back-to-back, so they'll be tired heading into this one.

This play falls into a system that is 23-6 (79.3%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet on home underdogs (PORTLAND) - after going over the total by more than 30 points in their previous game, in non-conference games. Bet the Blazers Sunday.

15* Bulls/Clippers NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Chicago +6.5

The Los Angeles Clippers have played very well against the top teams in the league this season. However, they have been prone to the letdown with home losses to the Warriors and Clippers as well.

I believe the Clippers are overvalued here tonight after their home win over the Miami Heat on Wednesday. In fact, they have won four straight games heading in. That means the betting public is going to be all over them, and oddsmakers know this. They are in a letdown spot here after that Heat win.

Chicago is a team that rarely gets blown out and is in every game. All three of its losses have come by 7 points or less this season. The Bulls are 2-0 on the road this year and will be looking forward to this contest at Los Angeles Saturday.

The Bulls are 25-10-1 ATS in their last 36 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. The Clippers are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 vs. NBA Central opponents. The road team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Chicago is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 meetings in Los Angeles. The road team has won four straight and eight of the last 10 in this series. Bet the Bulls Saturday.

15* Suns/Lakers NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Phoenix +9

The Phoenix Suns are showing great value as a 9-point underdog to the Los Angeles Lakers tonight. The hype surrounding the Lakers and head coach Mike D'Antoni has them way overvalued right now.

Remember, this is just a 3-5 Lakers team that is trying to find its way. It's going to take a few weeks for these players to catch on to D'Antoni's system. The Lakers' three wins have come at home against teams that are a combined 7-18.

Phoenix has won three of its last five contests coming in. Its only losses came at Utah and at home in overtime to the Chicago Bulls. This team is better than it gets credit for, and unlike the Lakers, the Suns are undervalued at this point of the season.

The Suns are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. The Lakers are 8-22 ATS in their last 30 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. Los Angeles is 8-17-1 ATS in its last 26 home games. The Lakers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Take the Suns Friday.

15* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Portland Trail Blazers -1.5

The Portland Trail Blazers should be a much heavier home favorite tonight against the Houston Rockets. Portland is hungry to put an end to three-game home losing streak, and I expect them to do so against a Houston team that it beat on the road 95-85 on November 3rd.

Houston is overvalued due to James Harden. The former OKC Thunder guard has been putting up big numbers in Houston, but he doesn't make this an elite team. However, bettors like to back star players like Harden, which is why the Rockets are overvalued. Their four wins have come against the Pistons twice, Hawks and Hornets.

Portland is undervalued this season because it doesn't have any star players. LaMarcus Aldridge and Nicolas Batum are two of the most underrated players in the entire league. Point guard Damian Lillard is well on his way to earning Rookie of the Year honors, too.

The Rockets are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. NBA Northwest opponents. Houston is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 road games vs. a team with a losing home record. The Rockets are 1-11 ATS in their last 12 vs. Western Conference foes. These three trends combine for a 21-1 (95%) system backing Portland. Roll with the Blazers Friday.

15* Heat/Nuggets TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Denver -3

The Denver Nuggets should be a much heavier favorite tonight over the Miami Heat. This is an extremely tough spot for Miami and a great one for Denver, and that's the reason the Nuggets bring home the cash in this one.

Miami will be playing the second of a back-to-back and its 4th game in 5 days. This is one of the hardest situations for any team in the league, and they only come across it a couple times a year. The Heat showed signs of wearing down last night in a 100-107 loss at Los Angeles.

Denver is one of the most up-tempo teams in the league, which will make life even harder on the Heat in this one. The Nuggets push the ball up the floor faster than any other team in the NBA. Miami is going to wear down in the second half as I expect the Nuggets to pull away in the 3rd and 4th quarters. The Nuggets come in on two days' rest, and this is just their 2nd game in 5 days.

The home team has won six straight meetings in this series. Denver is a perfect 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings. The Nuggets are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. Denver is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 games following a S.U. loss. Roll with the Nuggets Thursday.

15* Hawks/Warriors NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Golden State -1

The Golden State Warriors are hungry for a victory after dropping back-to-back games to the Lakers and Nuggets. I like their chances tonight with a step down in competition as the Atlanta Hawks visit Oracle Arena.

The Warriors have had some time to steam over those losses as they haven't played a game since Saturday, November 10th. They have had three full days to prepare for Atlanta, and they will be well-rested and ready to go coming in. Those are two huge advantages for Golden State tonight.

Atlanta will be playing its 3rd game in 4 nights as it continues its grueling 4-game road trip to the West Coast. The Hawks won't be able to give as much effort on the court tonight as the Warriors because of it.

The Warriors are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a S.U. loss. Golden State is 18-8 ATS in its last 26 games following two or more consecutive losses. It simply wants this one more tonight folks. Bet the Warriors Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Detroit Pistons +7.5

The Detroit Pistons (0-8) are going to fight, scratch and claw to try and get their first win of the season. There's no question they are undervalued due to this winless start, and I'll pull the trigger on them tonight as a big road underdog to the Philadelphia 76ers.

Detroit has played six of its first eight games on the road, so it has faced a very difficult schedule. It proved it could play with one of the best teams in the league last time out. The Pistons lost 92-90 to Oklahoma City Monday after blowing a 13-point lead in the third quarter.

"The thing I liked is our guys, when you went in that locker room, very, very disappointed," coach Lawrence Frank told the team's official website. "Laid it all out there, felt like we could have won the game - should have won the game - and you hate where you kick a game. Just to see how much that loss hurt ... it should, and then we had a really good day of practice and you move forward."

The 76ers are just 1-2 at home this season. They are getting outscored 89.3 to 96.7 at home this year with losses to the Knicks and Bucks. Philadelphia will have a hard time getting motivated to play a winless team tonight, which will be the case for many of Detroit's opponents until they get that first "W".

This play falls into a system that is 57-26 (68.7%) ATS since 1996. It tells us to bet against home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (PHILADELPHIA) - after 1 or more consecutive losses against opponent after 8 or more consecutive losses. Roll with the Pistons Wednesday.

20* NBA Tuesday GAME OF THE NIGHT on Orlando Magic +7

The Orlando Magic should not be catching 7 points at home Tuesday. This is a team that came into the season undervalued due to the Dwight Howard trade, and that hasn't changed through the first few weeks of the 2012-13 campaign.

The New York Knicks are getting way too much respect from oddsmakers due to their 4-0 start. This will only be their second road game of the season, and they shouldn't be favored by 7 points away from home against almost any team in this league.

Orlando has gone a very profitable 4-2 ATS in its six games this year. Off four straight losses, the Magic will be the more motivated team heading into this one. Three of those four losses have come on the road, and there's no question that this skid has them undervalued right now.

This play falls into a system that is 38-11 (77.6%) ATS since 1996. It tells us to bet on home underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points (ORLANDO) - average team from last season that won between 45-55% of their games.

The Magic are 19-6 ATS in home games vs. top caliber teams - outscoring their opponents by 9+ points/game since 1996. They are winning in this spot by an average of 4.7 points/game. Orlando is 7-3-1 ATS in its last 11 games playing on 1 days rest. Bet the Magic Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Detroit Pistons +6.5

The Detroit Pistons are very motivated to get their first win of the season. Because this team has opened 0-7, there's no question they are undervalued right now. The betting public does not want to back them, and that's why they are showing such great value as a 6.5-point underdog here Monday.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are going to be disinterested heading into this one. They are going to have a hard time getting up to play a winless Pistons team. That's especially the case considering the Thunder just beat them at home 105-94 this past Friday.

The Thunder will be playing the second of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days. So not only will they be disinterested, but they won't have the energy level it's going to take to win this game by 7-plus points, let alone win it at all.

A big reason why the Pistons have opened 0-7 is due to a brutal schedule that has featured six straight road games. This will be just their second home game of the season, and there's no question these players are looking forward to getting back in front of their home fans. The home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Roll with the Pistons Monday.

15* NBA Sunday No-Doubt Rout on Miami Heat -2

The Miami Heat are showing great value as only a 2-point favorite at Memphis. The Grizzlies are way overvalued due to their 4-1 start against one of the easiest schedules you will ever see. They meet their match tonight in the defending NBA champs.

Lebron James and Dwayne Wade both are banged up a bit coming into this one, which is probably the biggest reason why the Heat are a small favorite here. But the oddsmakers are putting too much stock into it. "It's a little sore right now," James said after his last game. "I knew I would get through it. It would take a lot for me not to go back out there with my teammates."

The Heat are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games playing on 1 days rest. Miami is 4-0 ATS in its last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. The 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. The Grizzlies are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 Sunday games. Take the Heat Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday GAME OF THE NIGHT on Boston Celtics +1

The Boston Celtics are coming off a loss last night, while the Milwaukee Bucks are coming off a win. There's no question the Celtics are going to be the more motivated team heading into this contest Saturday.

Boston is 2-3 while the Bucks are 3-1, so the Celtics need this one more. They also want revenge from an 88-99 home loss to the Bucks in their second game of the season. There's a reason why the Bucks are only a 1-point favorite in this one, and that's because the oddsmakers realize the Celtics will want this game more.

Milwaukee is 1-9 ATS vs. teams who are called for 2+ less fouls/game than their opponents over the last 2 seasons. Boston is 11-1 ATS off a loss against a division rival over the last 3 seasons. The Bucks are 1-9 ATS in home games off a road win over the last 2 seasons. Bet the Celtics Saturday.

15* Jazz/Nuggets ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on Denver -4.5

The Denver Nuggets are under the radar in the early going due to their 0-3 start against a brutal schedule. I believe they should be a heavier favorite tonight against the Utah Jazz at home. This Nuggets team is one of the best in the league in my opinion and as the season progresses, you will see that.

Denver opened with three straight tough road games at the 76ers, Magic and Heat for their 0-3 start. They picked up their first win of the year with a 109-97 home victory over Detroit, then went on the road to beat Houston 93-87. You would be hard-pressed to find another team with a tougher schedule thus far.

Utah is in a big letdown spot following its 95-86 home win over the Los Angeles Lakers. This has been a great home team throughout the years, and they have opened 2-0 at home this season. However, the Jazz are 0-3 SU & 0-3 ATS on the road this year, falling to the Hornets, Spurs and Grizzlies.

The Jazz are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 road games. The Nuggets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games. Utah is 19-39 ATS in its last 58 games following a ATS win. The favorite is 31-15-3 ATS in the last 49 meetings. The Jazz are 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 meetings in Denver. Take the Nuggets Friday.

15* NBA on TNT GAME OF THE NIGHT on Oklahoma City Thunder -2.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder want to make up for their meltdown last Thursday on TNT. They were leading the Spurs by 3 points in the final minute, but managed to squander that lead and eventually lost 84-86 on the road.

The Thunder will be looking to make a statement a week later against a much weaker Chicago team tonight on TNT. The Bulls may be 3-1, but they've played about as easy of a schedule as you will find with wins against the Kings, Cavs and Magic. They lost to the Hornets at home, too.

Oklahoma City is coming off its best game of the season in a 108-88 home victory over the Toronto Raptors. This team is off to just a 2-2 start this season, so I look for it to build off of that win and to stay highly motivated tonight to get back above .500 on the season.

The Thunder are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. OKC is 16-5-1 ATS in its last 22 Thursday games. The Thunder are 9-3-2 ATS in their last 14 games following a S.U. win. The Bulls are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 vs. Western Conference opponents. OKC is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 meetings in Chicago. Bet the Thunder Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Lakers/Jazz UNDER 196.5

Oddsmakers have set the bar too high tonight in this game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Utah Jazz. Both teams featured great post play as the Lakers feature Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard, while the Jazz feature Al Jefferson, Paul Millsap, Derrick Favors and Enes Kanter. Look for both teams to slow down the pace tonight and run their offense through their big men.

The Lakers have clearly been out of sync offensively in the early going due to the moves they made this offseason. Now, without Steve Nash running the show due to injury, they are going to be even worse off offensively, but better defensively. They allowed just 79 points to the Pistons last time out.

This has been a low-scoring series between the Lakers and Jazz. The UNDER is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings as they have combined to score 183 or fewer points in five of those six contests. There's no question the oddsmakers have missed their mark given these recent head-to-head results.

The UNDER is 41-19-1 in Lakers last 61 games playing on 2 days rest. The UNDER is 4-0 in Jazz last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. The UNDER is 18-7 in Jazz last 25 vs. NBA Pacific opponents. The UNDER is 4-0-1 in the last 5 meetings in Utah. Roll with the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Denver Nuggets +2.5

The Denver Nuggets are undervalued due to their 1-3 start. This is still one of the best teams in the league in my opinion, and they should not be an underdog to the overvalued Houston Rockets in this one.

Houston is getting too much respect for its 2-1 start that featured two wins against Detroit and Atlanta. It came back down to reality with an 85-95 home loss to Portland last time out. It has certainly played the easier schedule to this point.

Denver lost three road games against the 76ers, Magic and Heat to open the season before a 109-97 home victory over the Pistons last night. This team is going to be playing with a sense of urgency for a few weeks after their 0-3 start, which should make them a moneymaker in the short-term.

The Nuggets are 39-18 ATS in their last 57 road games. The Rockets are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 vs. Western Conference. Houston is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 home games. The Nuggets are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 0 days rest. The underdog is 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Denver three of four against Houston last season, including both meetings in Houston. Take the Nuggets Wednesday.

15* NBA Tuesday GAME OF THE NIGHT on Denver Nuggets -10.5

The Denver Nuggets are off to an 0-3 start this season thanks to a brutal schedule with three straight road games. They did not play well in their first two contests in losses at Philly and Orlando, but they did give the defending champion Miami Heat a run for their money in a 116-119 road loss.

I believe the Nuggets are still one of the best teams in the league despite their 0-3 start. In their home opener Tuesday, this team is going to be highly motivated to pick up its first win of the season against the Detroit Pistons. This has the makings of one of the biggest blowouts of the season.

The Detroit Pistons are clearly one of the worst teams in the league. They have hardly been competitive this season in losses to the Rockets, Suns and Lakers. Los Angeles was able to get its first win against the Pistons with a 108-79 home victory on Sunday, and I look for a similar blowout here tonight.

The Nuggets are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games following a S.U. loss. Denver is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game. The Nuggets are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 vs. NBA Central opponents. Denver is 29-10 ATS in its last 39 vs. Eastern Conference foes. Roll with the Nuggets Tuesday.

15* Warriors/Kings NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Sacramento -2

The Sacramento Kings are very hungry for their first win of the season. They have been dealt a brutal schedule in the early going with three road games at Chicago, Minnesota and Indiana. They lost in double overtime to the Pacers Saturday to fall to 0-3 on the season.

Golden State is getting too much respect for its 2-1 start. It beat Phoenix 87-85 on the road, and the Suns are clearly in rebuilding mode. It also beat the Clippers on the road 114-110, but it caught them in a huge letdown spot after beating the Lakers the previous night.

Sacramento is simply going to want this game more tonight as it plays in front of its home fans for the first time this season. The home team has won seven of the last 10 meetings in this series. The Warriors are 6-15 ATS in their last 21 Monday games. Roll with the Kings Monday.

15* NBA Monday No-Doubt Rout on Brooklyn Nets -7.5

The Brooklyn Nets are amped up to ball. They are the only NBA team that has been able to play just one game thus far this season due to the New York game getting postponed. These players have a ton of energy they're just waiting to let out on the floor tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

I was impressed with Brooklyn in its lone contest, a 107-100 home victory over Toronto. Five different players scored in double figures, led by Brook Lopez and his 27 points. This is a very deep team and it will be one of the top squads in the Eastern Conference come season's send.

Minnesota has not impressed me in the early going one bit. Its lone win came at home against the Kings, and it was demolished at Toronto 86-105 Sunday. It turned the ball over 24 times against the Raptors, and this team simply isn't very talented this season. The Wolves will be playing the second of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days, so they won't be able to match the energy level the Nets bring to the court.

The Timberwolves are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games. The home team is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings in this series. Without Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio, the Wolves are one of the worst teams in the league in the early going talent-wise. Take the Nets Monday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Denver Nuggets +8

Denver has clearly underachieved with an 0-2 start to the season. It will be highly motivated for a victory when it travels to Miami tonight. Both teams are on a second of a back-to-back, but the Nuggets are built better for it.

The Nuggets go 10 deep and they are one of the most talented teams in the league. I have no doubt this will be one of the top teams in the West by season's end, so they are certainly undervalued right now after an 0-2 start. I'm not reading into it too much, and you shouldn't either.

The Nuggets are 38-18 ATS in their last 56 road games. Denver is 28-10 ATS in its last 38 vs. Eastern Conference. The Nuggets are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games following a S.U. loss. Denver is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on 0 days rest. The Nuggets are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Bet the Nuggets Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Line Mistake on Sacramento Kings +8

The Sacramento Kings have won their last two meetings with the Pacers outright as 5.5 and 6.5 points underdogs. Indiana is still without Danny Granger, and it will not play up to its potential until he returns.

The Pacers needed to come from behind against the Raptors to win 90-88 in their opener, and then they lost to the Bobcats 89-90 last night. Clearly, losing to Charlotte shows that this team is in a world of hurt.

Sacramento will be extra motivated to pick up its first win of the season after losses at Chicago and at Minnesota in its first two contests. This is a deep team that has stockpiled talent over the last few years, and it will handle this second of a back-to-back much better than the short-handed Pacers.

The road team is 8-2-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings. The Kings are 4-0-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Indiana. The underdog is 9-3-1 ATS in the last 13 meetings. Bet the Kings Saturday.

15* Clippers/Lakers ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on Los Angeles Clippers -1.5

The Los Angeles Lakers are still trying to find their way. They are off to an 0-2 start this season, which shouldn't come as a surprise considering they have new players and a new system. Now, they'll be without PG Steve Nash for a few games due to injury. This team is simply a mess right now and it's going to take some time for them to jell.

After losing the race for the NBA Pacific division title by one game to the Lakers last season, the Clippers want to make a statement with a win here tonight in the first meeting between these teams. They are off to a solid start this season with a 101-92 home victory over Memphis on Wednesday. The bench scored 49 points in the win, led by newcomer Jamal Crawford's 29.

The Lakers are 3-14 ATS in their last 17 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. The Lakers are 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 home games. The Clippers are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 meetings with the Lakers. Roll with the Clippers Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Charlotte Bobcats +7

The Charlotte Bobcats finished with the worst winning percentage in NBA history last season. Clearly, this team is going to be undervalued heading into the 2012-13 season. That's certainly the case in their opener against Indiana tonight.

I really like some of the new pieces on this team that are going to make the Bobcats much more competitive this season. They have added Ramon Sessions, Brendan Haywood, Ben Gordon and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. These four newcomers join a trio of Gerald Henderson, Byron Mullens and Kemba Walker, who were the three best players on this team last year.

The Indiana Pacers were fortunate to come away with a 90-88 victory at Toronto in their opener. They won on a last-second jumper from George Hill after trailing for the majority of the game. Indiana was without Danny Granger, their top scorer, and it will be without him again tonight. There's no question the Pacers are a much worse team without Granger in the line-up. Take the Bobcats Friday.

15* Thunder/Spurs TNT Thursday No-Brainer on Oklahoma City +2.5

The San Antonio Spurs will be playing the second of a back-to-back tonight. This is an aging team that will not handle these situations very well, especially without arguably their best player in Manu Ginobli. He is expected to miss a second straight game with a back injury.

San Antonio had to rally from a double-digit deficit in the first half to squeak out a 99-95 win at New Orleans last night. Its task gets a lot tougher tonight with the defending Western Conference champs coming to down Thursday.

Oklahoma City is still as strong of a team as it was a year ago even with the loss of James Harden. Kevin Martin averaged 17.1 points last season, and he had averaged more than 20 points in each of his previous five seasons. Martin will fill the scoring void left by the departed Harden.

The Thunder will be out to prove that they won't miss Harden with all of the talk that has been in the media since the trade. They will also be looking to win a 5th straight meeting with the Spurs after winning the final four games of a 4-2 series victory in the Western Conference Finals last season.

The Thunder are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Oklahoma City is 4-0 ATS in its last 4 meetings with San Antonio. The Spurs are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. Western Conference foes. These three trends combine for a perfect 15-0 system backing Oklahoma City. Roll with the Thunder Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total ANNIHILATOR on Warriors/Suns OVER 200

Oddsmakers have set the bar too low for this contest between the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns. These have been two of the best offensive teams in the league for years, and also two of the worst defensive teams. That likely won't change this season with the way their rosters are made up.

Stephen Curry is healthy to start the season for the Warriors, which is going to be huge for them offensively. He'll be leading a talented corps of players that includes David Lee, Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes. All four of these players are below-average defensively, but each is above-average on offense.

The Suns will be without Steve Nash, but he's far past his prime. They have brought back Goran Dragic, who started the final 26 games for Houston last season and averaged 18.2 points and 8.3 assists. Dragic will be the face of the franchise for years to come, and he'll help the Suns pick up right where they left off with Nash as he does many of the same things offensively.

23 of the last 26 meetings between these teams have seen 200 or more combined points. That makes for a 23-3 (88%) system backing the OVER pertaining to tonight's total set. Roll with the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on New Orleans Hornets +6.5

The New Orleans Hornets are showing great value Wednesday the San Antonio Spurs as a home underdog in their opener. This is a team that will be improved this season, and one that is under the radar in the early going.

New Orleans was gifted the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft and it selected Kentucky's Anthony Davis. Eric Gordon opens the season healthy and ready to go, which will be a huge boost if he can stay that way. They also signed Ryan Anderson, a big man that can stretch the court with his ability to shoot the 3-ball.

This team will be much better off offensively with Gordon and Anderson, while Davis will be able to erase defensive mistakes inside. They added both Robin Lopez and Hakim Warrick to add to a very nice rotation of post players.

The Hornets are 9-0 ATS in their last 9 home games. The Spurs are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games. These two trends combine for a perfect 13-0 system backing the Hornets. The home team is 19-7 ATS in the last 26 meetings as well. Take the Hornets Wednesday.

20* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Denver Nuggets +1.5

The Denver Nuggets are one of the most underrated teams heading into the 2012-13 season. I believe they will challenge the Lakers and Thunder come season's end, and they could end up with the best record in the Western Conference.

Denver goes 10 deep and everyone can score. It traded for Andre Iguodala, giving them the wing defender and offensive slasher it needed. With Ty Lawson running the show, this is going to be one of the best offensive teams in the league once again.

The Philadelphia 76ers are going in a different direction after trading for Andrew Bynum. It will take some time for this team to jell as they go from a guard-led team to one that runs their offense through Bynum. The Nuggets are the more-ready team heading into this opener.

The Nuggets closed out last season with a loss in the playoffs, and they are a perfect 9-0 ATS in their last 9 games following a S.U. loss. Denver is 22-6 ATS in its last 28 vs. Eastern Conference opponents. The 76ers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 vs. Western Conference foes. Denver is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 meetings in Philadelphia. Bet the Nuggets Wednesday.

20* Mavs/Lakers 2012-13 NBA Season Opener on Dallas +8.5

The Dallas Mavericks are showing great value in their season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday. The hype surrounding the Lakers has them way overvalued early in the season due to the additions of Dwight Howard and Steve Nash.

It's going to take some time for this new-look team to jell in the early going. That has been evident by their 0-8 start in the preseason. Plus, Kobe Bryant is a game-time decision tonight with a foot injury.

Dallas has added some nice pieces this season in PG Darren Collison, SG O.J. Mayo, F Elton Brand and C Eddy Curry. You'll likely see these four in the starting line-up tonight along with Shawn Marion. This team easily has enough talent even without Dirk to give the Lakers a run for their money in the opener.

The road team is 15-7-1 ATS in the last 23 meetings in this series. The Mavericks are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 meetings in Los Angeles. Bet Dallas Tuesday.

15* Thunder/Heat ABC No-Doubt Rout on Oklahoma City +3.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder won't pack it in and let Miami just run away with the championship tonight. I fully expect the Thunder to fight until the end knowing that if they can just get Game 5, this is a whole new series with two games remaining in Oklahoma City.

While this is a 3-1 series, it has been much closer than that. The Thunder have lost each of the last three games by 6 points or less. "We're going to keep fighting," Kevin Durant said. "Frustrating to lose like that. It was just frustrating. But we're going to keep fighting, man. That's how we've been since I got here. We're going to keep fighting and just take it a possession and a game at a time."

The Thunder are 60-31 ATS in their last 91 games following a S.U. loss. Oklahoma City is 40-23 ATS revenging a road loss vs. opponent over the last 3 seasons. The Thunder are 73-45 ATS after a game where they failed to cover the spread over the last 3 seasons. Roll with Oklahoma City in Game 5 Thursday.

25* NBA Finals GAME OF THE YEAR on Oklahoma City Thunder +3.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder represent my strongest side release for the 2012 NBA Finals in Game 4 tonight. This is basically a must-win game for them, and I'm expecting their best effort of the series tonight as they steal one at Miami.

The Thunder have been one of the most resilient teams in the NBA over the last few years. They dug themselves some early holes in each of the last two games, but fought back to have a chance late only to fall a little short. I look for OKC to dominate from start to finish in this one.

The Thunder are 18-6 ATS after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons. OKC is 60-30 ATS in its last 90 games following a S.U. loss, and 20-9 ATS in its last 29 games following a loss. The Thunder are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 meetings in Miami. Bet Oklahoma City in Game 4 Tuesday.

15* Thunder/Heat ABC Game 3 No-Brainer on Oklahoma City +4.5

After falling short of a comeback in Game 2, I'm siding with the Oklahoma City Thunder to bounce back with a victory in Game 3. This has been one of the most resilient teams in the league as they almost always respond well following a defeat.

With two days in between games to prepare, I certainly think it benefits the Thunder more. I believe their coach makes the better adjustments and will come up with the right game plan for tonight. Plus, Miami is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on 2 days rest.

The Thunder are 60-29-1 ATS in their last 90 games following a S.U. loss. Oklahoma City is 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 playoff games as an underdog. The Thunder are 29-15 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons. Roll with Oklahoma City in Game 3 Sunday.

15* Heat/Thunder ABC Game 2 No-Brainer on OVER 196

Oddsmakers have once again set the bar too low in Game 2 between the Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder. These are the two most athletic teams in the league, and until the books set the total above 200 there's likely going to be a lot of value with the OVER.

Oklahoma City has scored 102 or more points in six straight games, and 98 or more in nine straight. The OVER is 8-2 in Thunder's last 10 playoff games. OKC had 24 fast break points in Game 1 and I look for them to continue to push the tempo tonight as this game is played at their pace.

After scoring 94 points in Game 1, the Heat are certain to make some adjustments. They only had 4 fast break points, and there's no question Miami is going to look to get out and run more in Game 2. They looked lost at times in the half court offensively, so their only option is to look to get out in transition more. The OVER is 9-2 in Miami's last 11 playoff games.

The OVER is 43-15-1 in Thunder last 59 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5. The OVER is 11-2 in Thunder last 13 games as a favorite. The OVER is 5-0 in Thunder last 5 games following a ATS win. The OVER is 7-1 in Heat last 8 games playing on 1 days rest. The OVER is 14-6 in Heat last 20 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points. Take the OVER in Game 2 Thursday.

25* NBA Playoffs TOTAL OF THE YEAR on Heat/Thunder OVER 195.5

I believe oddsmakers have set the mark far too low for Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder. I look for both teams to come in very amped up and to play at a frantic pace in Game 1 because of it.

After playing a half-court team like Boston with little athleticism, the Heat aren't going to be ready for the fast-breaking style of the Thunder in this one. Look for Oklahoma City to run at every opportunity to take full advantage. The Heat will be forced to play at OKC's pace as they have to speed up their tempo as well.

The Thunder have scored 102 or more points in five straight games, and 98 or more in eight straight. They are averaging a whopping 107.4 points/game over their last five contests. Miami has averaged 99.5 points/game in winning its last two over Boston.

The OVER is 8-2 in Miami's last 10 games overall, while the OVER is 7-2 in Oklahoma City's last 9 games. The OVER is 10-2 in Thunder last 12 games as a favorite. The OVER is 42-15-1 in Thunder last 58 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5. The OVER is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings in Oklahoma City. Bet the OVER in Game 1 Tuesday.

20* Celtics/Heat ESPN Game 7 No-Brainer on Boston +8

The Boston Celtics have been extremely resilient in this series. After falling behind 0-2, they fought back for a 3-2 lead. After a poor effort in Game 6, I have no doubt the Celtics will show up tonight in Game 7.

Lebron James was unstoppable in Game 6, scoring 45 points on 19-of-26 shooting. It was an amazing game for him, but there's no way he has the same type of game tonight. He was hitting jump shots to score most of his points, so it was somewhat of a fluke. Doc Rivers will make sure to get the ball out of Lebron's hands early and often in this one.

The Celtics are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 meetings with the Heat, cashing 80% of the time. They are also 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings in Miami. This team has won six of 10 meetings with Miami this season, yet they don't get treated like the better team from oddsmakers. I'll take full advantage once again in Game 7. Bet the Celtics Saturday.

20* Heat/Celtics ESPN Game 6 No-Doubt Rout on Boston +2

The Boston Celtics continue to get no love despite outplaying Miami for four straight games now. After blowing a big lead in Game 2 to lose in overtime, the Celtics have grabbed a stranglehold on this series. They are making all the big plays down the stretch, and that won't change tonight.

Doc Rivers is coaching circles around Eric Spoelstra in this series. He has his team playing together and making all the right adjustments, while Spoelstra has his team playing as individuals and looking lost offensively. Miami's role players have not showed up, and their chances of doing so in a hostile atmosphere tonight in Boston are slim to none.

It's amazing that the Celtics are an underdog considering the fact that they've owned Miami this season. After going 3-1 in the regular season, the Celtics are now 6-3 in all meetings with the Heat this season, including a sensational 8-1 ATS. Miami is 1-10 ATS in their last 11 meetings in Boston.

Boston is 9-1 ATS in home games versus poor passing teams, averaging <=20 assists/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons. Miami is 6-20 ATS after a loss by 6 points or less over the last 2 seasons. The Celtics are 16-5-2 ATS in their last 23 games as a home underdog. Bet Boston in Game 6 Thursday.

20* Spurs/Thunder TNT Game 6 No-Brainer on San Antonio +5

I have backed the Oklahoma City Thunder against the spread with success in each of their last three games. However, I'm switching gears tonight and going with the San Antonio Spurs in Game 6 of this series for a few simple reasons.

Oklahoma City is still a young team and has few key players that have ever been to the NBA Finals. Close-out games are the toughest, especially when trying to advance to a stage as big as the NBA Finals. I don't believe the Thunder will be up to the task tonight.

The Spurs' lives are at stake tonight, and they'll be giving 110% for 48 minutes to try to stay alive. There's no question the Thunder will be trying hard as well, but they will likely be trying too hard which will lead to turnovers and quick shots. I just don't think they're ready to win a big game like this with what's at stake.

San Antonio, meanwhile, is a veteran bunch with several players that have been to the NBA Finals before. They have been through these elimination games, and they won't be phased by it. I look for Greg Popovich to rally his troops, and for his players to go out and execute better than Oklahoma City does.

The Spurs are a perfect 8-0 ATS in road games revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a home favorite over the last 2 seasons, winning in this spot by 6.5 points/game. San Antonio is also 20-6 ATS revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a favorite over the last 2 seasons, winning in this spot by 8.8 points/game. Bet the Spurs in Game 6 Wednesday.

20* Celtics/Heat ESPN Game 5 No-Brainer on Boston +8

The Boston Celtics have all of the momentum heading into Game 5. They have outplayed the Miami Heat in three straight games now, though they gave away Game 2. Boston nearly blew an 18-point lead in Game 4, but managed to win 93-91 in overtime which gives them the belief they can win this series.

Last year, the Celtics lost Game 4 to the Heat in heartbreaking fashion, which put them down 3-1 in the series, thus it what basically over. Now even at 2-2, the Celtics understand they have a great shot at advancing to the NBA Finals, and I fully expect them to take advantage.

The Celtics have had an excellent game plan these last three contests, with the key being double-teaming both James and Wade with great help defense. While Chris Bosh is expected to return tonight, it could actually hurt the Heat as they've been getting used to playing without him. Plus, he'll certainly be rusty his first game back.

The Celtics are 26-11 ATS in their last 37 in road games after scoring 55 points or more in the first half in 2 straight games. Miami is 6-19 ATS after a loss by 6 points or less over the last 2 seasons. Boston is 8-2-2 ATS in their last 12 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. The Celtics are 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings with Miami as they clearly have their number. Bet Boston in Game 5 Tuesday.

20* Thunder/Spurs TNT Game 5 ATS ANNIHILATOR on Oklahoma City +5

The Oklahoma City Thunder have all of the momentum heading into Game 5 tonight. They made all the right adjustments in Games 3 and 4, and I expect them to steal one in San Antonio Monday. Getting the five points is just an added bonus.

Oklahoma City has gone to a smaller line-up more frequently in the last two games, which allows them to match up with the Spurs much better. They can switch pick and rolls on defense, which takes away many of the options that San Antonio likes to use.

The biggest adjustment has been putting Thabo Sefolosha on Tony Parker defensively. Parker scored 16 and 12 points in Games 3 and 4, respectively. The Thunder won Game 4 109-103 despite off nights from Russell Wesbrook (2-10, 7 points) and James Harden (4-13, 11 points), which is a great sign for them going forward.

The Thunder are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 games as a road underdog of 5.0-10.5. OKC is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. San Antonio's 20-game winning streak came to an end, and now they're rattled and lacking the confidence they had during their streak. Bet Oklahoma City in Game 5 Monday.

20* Heat/Celtics ESPN Sunday No-Brainer on Boston +2

Boston realistically should be up 2-1 in this series after blowing a late lead in Game 2. But they responded well in Game 3, topping the Heat 101-91 at home. I fully expect the Celtics to roll at home in Game 4 as well.

The home team has been absolutely dominant in this series thus far. The home squad is 13-5 ATS in the last 18 meetings overall. Miami has really struggled against the number in Boston, going 1-9 ATS in their last 10 visits to the TD Garden.

The Celtics are 14-6-1 ATS in their last 21 home games. Boston is 26-9 ATS in their last 35 Sunday games. The Celtics are 15-5-2 ATS in their last 22 games as a home underdog. The Heat are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Bet the Celtics Sunday.

20* Spurs/Thunder TNT Game 4 ATS ANNIHILATOR on Oklahoma City -3.5

I'm siding with the Oklahoma City Thunder once again in Game 4 Saturday. They have figured out the Spurs, and they'll even this series up with a blowout victory tonight. This line is an absolute gift from oddsmakers as the Thunder should be a much bigger favorite.

Oklahoma City is 32-7 at home this season, including a perfect 6-0 at home in the playoffs. You could argue that they have the best home-court advantage in the history of the NBA. Head coach Mark Brooks has decided to put Thabo Sefolosha on Tony Parker, and it worked wonders in Game 3 as Parker was held to just 16 points.

The Spurs are 8-20 ATS in their last 28 playoff games as an underdog. San Antonio is 2-12 ATS in their last 14 playoff games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5. The Thunder are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a favorite. Oklahoma City is 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a S.U. win. Bet the Thunder in Game 4 Saturday.

20* Heat/Celtics ESPN Game 3 No-Brainer on UNDER 180.5

After a 115-111 overtime thriller in Game 2, I look for Game 3 to be a much more low-scoring affair. Boston knows they cannot afford to get in a track meet with Miami, and they'll control the tempo playing at home this time around.

I look for this one to be played at a pace similar to Game 1, which saw 172 combined points in a 93-79 Heat victory. Miami did figure out how to slow down Rajon Rondo in the second half of Game 2, and the Celtics figured out how to slow down Wade and James in the 4th quarter of Game 2 as neither player had a field goal in that period.

Miami is 10-2 to the UNDER after a combined score of 205 points or more this season. The UNDER is 5-0 in Heat last 5 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. Miami is 4-0 to the UNDER in their last 4 games as a road underdog. The UNDER is 9-2 in Celtics last 11 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. The UNDER is 19-7-1 in the last 27 meetings in Boston. Bet the UNDER in Game 3 Friday.

25* NBA Playoffs GAME OF THE YEAR on Oklahoma City Thunder -3.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder represent my strongest release for the entire 2012 NBA playoffs tonight. I know the San Antonio Spurs have won 20 straight, but they haven't faced an atmosphere nearly as tough as the one they'll face in Game 3 tonight.

This is a "must win" situation for the Thunder, and I fully expect them to roll at home tonight. They found out what works in the second half of Game 2, which is a smaller line-up to counter the line-up the Spurs have on the floor. The Thunder cut a 22-point deficit down to 6 when going to small ball.

The Thunder are 31-7 at home this season, outscoring opponents 105.3 to 95.5 on average. They are a perfect 5-0 at home in the playoffs. Oklahoma City has the best home-court advantage of any team left in the playoffs. They are favored for good reason tonight as oddsmakers know this is their game to win.

The Spurs are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 playoff games as an underdog. San Antonio is 0-4 ATS in their last 4 playoff games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5. The Thunder are 16-6 ATS in their last 22 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5. Oklahoma City is 59-29-1 ATS in their last 89 games following a S.U. loss. Bet the Thunder Thursday.

15* Celtics/Heat ESPN Wednesday No-Brainer on Boston +8

I'm siding with the Boston Celtics tonight in Game 2. Boston had their chances in Game 1, but they tried to give the game away with technical foul after technical foul in a game where the calls simply didn't go their way.

Instead of talking, I look for the Celtics to let their play speak for itself tonight. Boston has vowed to be more physical, which will be needed after giving up too many layups in Game 1. Nothing is going to come easy for Lebron James and Dwyane Wade tonight.

Head coach Doc Rivers is one of the best in the business at making adjustments. He's also excellent at getting the most out of his players. He'll be looking to do just that after their poor performance in Game 1, and I look for his veteran players to respond.

Boston is 22-7 ATS in road games off an embarrassing road loss scoring less than 80 points since 1996. The Celtics are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a S.U. loss. Boston is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings with Miami, only once losing by more than 8 points. The Celtics went 3-1 S.U. against the Heat during the regular season. Take the Celtics in Game 2 Wednesday.

20* Thunder/Spurs Game 2 ATS ANNIHILATOR on Oklahoma City +5

The Oklahoma City Thunder gave away Game 1 by allowing 39 points to the San Antonio Spurs in the 4th quarter, blowing an 11-point lead in the second half. I believe they'll come back highly motivated from that collapse and steal Game 2 tonight.

I look for the Thunder to make the proper adjustments in between games to make sure to cut off the penetration by Parker and Ginobli much better than they did in Game 1. Oklahoma City did a decent job of it through the first three quarters, but simply forgot what they were doing in the 4th, yet still only lost by 3 points.

The Thunder are 59-28-1 ATS in their last 88 games following a S.U. loss, so they are certainly one of the most resilient teams in the league. The Thunder are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 road games. OKC is as a road underdog over the last 3 seasons. OKC is a perfect 10-0 ATS in road games revenging a road loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons. Roll with the Thunder in Game 2 Tuesday.

20* Celtics/Heat ESPN Game 1 No-Brainer on Boston +8.5

The Boston Celtics are getting no respect from oddsmakers in Game 1 tonight. I'll take full advantage and back the Celtics at this inflated number Monday. Boston is a tough match-up for Miami, especially considering the Heat are still without Chris Bosh.

Doc Rivers is a defensive genius of a head coach. He knows how to stop superstars, and he'll have the perfect game plan to defend Lebron James and Dwyane Wade by double-teaming them often, making other players try and beat them. Boston has proven in the past that they know how to stop these two.

Boston is 8-1 ATS after a combined score of 160 points or less this season. The Celtics are 5-1-2 ATS in their last 8 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Boston is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings with Miami. The Celtics won three of four meetings this season with their lone loss coming by 8 points. Bet Boston in Game 1 Monday.

20* Thunder/Spurs Game 1 Total ANNIHILATOR on OVER 204

I am siding with the OVER in Game 1 Sunday. These are two of the best offensive teams in the league, and they should have no problem combining to score 204-plus points in Game 1. Playing Game 1 OVERS has certainly been a profitable investment over the years in the playoffs.

The Thunder score 102.7 points/game on the year, while the Spurs put up 103.5 points/game. San Antonio scores a whopping 106.0 points/game at home this season. Both teams have mismatches all over the board offensively that they can exploit, and that will be evident after Game 1.

These teams have combined for 203 or more points in four straight meetings. The OVER is 4-0 in Thunder last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. The OVER is 4-0 in Spurs last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. The OVER is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings. Bet the OVER in Game 1 Sunday.

20* 76ers/Celtics ABC Game 7 No-Brainer on Boston -5.5

Home-court advantage has proven to be huge in these last two games with a lot on the line with the series tied at 2-2. Boston won Game 5 in convincing fashion 101-85, while Philly responded with a 82-75 triumph in Game 6.

I believe the Celtics will feed off their home crowd tonight, and their role players will be the difference in this one. Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce played well in Game 6, but the rest of the Celtics players shot a combined 12-of-47 (25.5 percent) from the field. These role players will be much more confident at home in Game 7.

Philly is a very young team that is not ready to shine on a stage like tonight's. Boston is a veteran franchise that has been in these spots before, so the pressure of a Game 7 won't phase them. Their veteran leaders in Garnett, Pierce, Allen and Rondo will lead the team to victory as their role players follow suit.

Boston is 10-1 ATS off a loss against a division rival over the last 2 seasons. The Celtics are also 9-1 ATS off a road loss against a division rival over the last 2 seasons. Boston is 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a S.U. loss. Bet the Celtics in Game 7 Saturday.

15* Heat/Pacers Game 6 Total DOMINATOR on UNDER 182

With what's at stake in Game 6 tonight, I look for a defensive battle between the Indiana Pacers and Miami Heat. After giving up 115 points to the Heat in a Game 5 loss, the Pacers were called "soft" by Larry Bird.

I look for the Pacers to respond in a big way by buckling down defensively, while also trying to feed the ball inside for buckets around the rim. Look for Indiana to slow down the pace playing at home as they know they cannot run with the Heat.

Miami is going to be without Udonis Haslem, who after Chris Bosh went out with an injury, became their biggest big man threat to score the basketball. Joel Anthony and Ronny Turiaf aren't going to be able to give the Heat anything offensively, leaving the burden on James and Wade.

The Heat are 18-5 to the UNDER after a game where they made 50% of their 3 point shots or better over the last 2 seasons. The UNDER is 24-6 in Heat last 30 games playing on 1 days rest. The UNDER is 7-1 in Heat last 8 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. The UNDER is 5-1 in Pacers last 6 games playing on 1 days rest. Take the UNDER in Game 6 Thursday.

20* Celtics/76ers Game 6 ATS ANNIHILATOR on Boston +1.5

In a potential elimination game tonight, these young Philadelphia 76ers aren't going to be able to handle the pressure. I fully expect these veteran Boston Celtics to rise to the occasion and put an end to this series tonight. They will be in a better state of mind heading into this one.

"It's not really doom and gloom," Andre Iguodala said. "You get in a situation like this, you get thoughts creeping in your mind it could be over in a day or two. Our guys are talking about tomorrow and what we've got to do to try and win that game."

The comments from many of the 76ers young players, and coach Doug Collins, lead me to believe that they are putting way too much into this game. Obviously, it's win or go home, but Sixers guard Jrue Holiday says he looks at Game 6 as, "kind of like the end of the world." They are basically over-hyping themselves heading into this one, which doesn't usually work.

The Celtics are 10-3-1 ATS in their last 14 games following a SU win of more than 10 points. Boston is 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 road games. The 76ers are 10-23 ATS in their last 33 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. Philly is 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5. Bet the Celtics in Game 6 Wednesday.

15* Pacers/Heat TNT Tuesday No-Brainer on Indiana +6.5

Despite losing Game 4 at home to the Miami Heat, the Indiana Pacers are still in better position in this series. That's because they are fully healthy, while the Heat remain without Chris Bosh.

Lebron James and Dwyane Wade came up huge in Game 4, combining for 70 of the team's 101 points in a 101-93 victory. You can bet the Pacers are going to have a game plan to make sure that James and Wade don't beat them again, forcing other unproven players to take and make big shots.

Indiana has outscored Miami by 5 points in this series. The Pacers should not be the underdog in Game 5 given the Heat's health situation. The betting public is going to flock to the Heat after their Game 4 performance, but I'm going the other way with this one and backing the better team.

The Pacers are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 Tuesday games. Indiana is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 1 days rest. The Pacers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog. The Heat are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 Tuesday games. This is a combined 20-1 (95%) system backing Indiana tonight. Take the Pacers Tuesday.

20* 76ers/Celtics TNT Monday No-Brainer on Boston -5.5

The Boston Celtics are showing solid value as a small home favorite in Game 5 of this series with the Philadelphia 76ers. Boston knows they did not play well in their first two home games in this series, and they want to come out and make a statement with a blowout home victory tonight with the series tied at 2-2.

Adding fuel to the fire is the fact that the Celtics blew an 18-point lead in the second half of Game 4. You can bet this team will come out hungry tonight, similarly to when they did in Game 3. After losing Game 2 at home, the Celtics went on the road and stole Game 3 with an emphatic 107-91 victory.

Boston is 9-1 ATS off a loss against a division rival over the last 2 seasons. The 76ers are 10-22 ATS in their last 32 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. The Celtics are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games following a S.U. loss. This team plays their best in big games. Bet the Celtics in Game 5 Monday.

20* Spurs/Clippers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 190.5

I'm siding with the UNDER in Game 4. These teams combined for 182 points last night in a 96-86 San Antonio victory. I expect another defensive battle in Game 4 with the Clippers playing for their playoff lives.

This play falls into a system that is 56-30 (65.1%) to the UNDER over the last 5 seasons. It tells us to bet the UNDER on any team (LA CLIPPERS) - poor free throw shooting team - making <=71% of their free throws, on Sunday games.

The UNDER is 4-0-1 in Spurs last 5 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5. The UNDER is 5-0-1 in Spurs last 6 games following a ATS win. The UNDER is 5-0 in Clippers last 5 games following a S.U. loss. The UNDER is 4-0 in Clippers last 4 playoff games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5. These four trends make for a perfect 18-0 system backing the UNDER. Bet the UNDER in Game 4 Sunday.

20* Thunder/Lakers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 189

Playing on back-to-back days after a grueling 99-96 Game 3 victory by the Lakers, I fully expect both Los Angeles and Oklahoma City to be tired for Game 4. That will lead to tough shots and fewer buckets in transition as both teams work their offenses through the half court.

After combining for 152 points in Game 2, these teams combined for 195 points in Game 3. However, they combined to shoot 67-70 (96%) from the free throw line, which is the only reason that game went over the posted total of 191.5. Both teams won't shoot that well from the free throw line again on tired legs tonight.

Oklahoma City is 9-1 to the UNDER after a close loss by 3 points or less over the last 2 seasons. The Lakers have controlled the tempo the last two games, and that will be the case again in Game 4 as this one gets slowed down to a snails pace. Don't expect there to be 70 free throws between these teams again. Bet the UNDER in Game 4 Saturday.

15* Spurs/Clippers ABC Total ANNIHILATOR on UNDER 191

Game 1 saw 200 combined points and Game 2 saw 193 combined points. I look for this trend to continue as the Spurs and Clippers don't combine to score more than 190 points in Game 3.

San Antonio controlled the tempo in the first two games at home, but Los Angeles figures to control the tempo at home this time around. The Spurs like to push the pace, while the Clippers operate best in the half court. This will be a half court game in Los Angeles tonight.

The Clippers are 17-6 to the UNDER in home games after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games over the last 2 seasons. The Clippers are 11-3 to the UNDER in home games after 1 or more consecutive losses this season. The UNDER is 17-3-1 in the last 21 meetings in Los Angeles.

The UNDER is 5-0-1 in Spurs last 6 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. The UNDER is 4-0 in Spurs last 4 games following a SU win of more than 10 points. The UNDER is 4-0 in Clippers last 4 games following a S.U. loss. These three trends make for a perfect 13-0 system backing the UNDER. Take the UNDER in Game 3 Saturday.

25* NBA 2nd Round TOTAL OF THE YEAR on Lakers/Thunder UNDER 191.5

After a high-scoring affair in Game 1 with 209 combined points in a 119-90 Thunder victory, these teams came back to score 152 combined points in a 77-75 win for Oklahoma City in Game 2. I look for Game 3 to finish somewhere in between the first two contests, but it will play out closer to the Game 2 result.

Los Angeles returns home where they'll control the tempo tonight at Staples Center. They did a good job of controlling the pace in Game 2. The fact of the matter is it's simply tough to run in the playoffs, and the Thunder won't be able to in Game 3 against a hungry, motivated L.A. defense. This is a must-win game for the Lakers, and they'll be playing like it defensively.

This play falls into a system that is 88-43 (67.2%) to the UNDER since 1996. It tells us to bet the UNDER on any team (LA LAKERS) - after going under the total by more than 30 points in their previous game, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%).

The Lakers are 14-4 to the UNDER when playing with double revenge - 2 straight losses vs. opponent over the last 2 seasons. The UNDER is 5-1 in Thunder last 6 games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5. The UNDER is 13-6 in Thunder last 19 road games. The UNDER is 16-5 in Lakers last 21 games as a home favorite of 0.5-4.5. Bet the UNDER in Game 3 Friday.

20* Clippers/Spurs TNT ATS ANNIHILATOR on Los Angeles +11

It has certainly been a nice trend of backing teams that lose Game 1 in Game 2. I'm going to follow that path tonight as well by taking the Los Angeles Clippers as a double-digit underdog against the San Antonio Spurs.

Los Angeles hung tough in Game 1, but they simply didn't have the energy needed to keep up following their grueling 7-game series against the Memphis Grizzlies last round. With an extra day of rest, and knowing they cannot afford to go down 0-2, the Clippers will be giving max effort tonight for 48 minutes. It will be enough to cover this inflated spread.

San Antonio shot a ridiculous 13-of-25 (52.0 percent) from 3-point range in Game 1, and the odds are simply against them shooting that well again. They still only won by 15 points despite shooting so well from the perimeter. Look for Los Angeles to make the proper adjustments and to show better effort in rotating to San Antonio's 3-point shooters.

This play falls into a system that is 33-11 (75%) ATS since 1996. It tells us to bet against home favorites (SAN ANTONIO) - when leading in a playoff series, a top-level team (>=75%) playing a team with a winning record.

The Spurs are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 playoff games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5. Los Angeles is a perfect 8-0 ATS in road games revenging a same season loss vs opponent this season. They are actually outscoring their opponents by 6.8 points/game in this spot. Bet the Clippers Thursday.

15* Lakers/Thunder TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Los Angeles +8

I really like taking teams in Game 2 of a playoff series after a bad loss in Game 1. That's precisely what I'll do tonight by backing the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 2 Wednesday over the Oklahoma City Thunder. You can bet that the Lakers are going to give a much better showing in this one.

Los Angeles was simply tired from their Game 7 victory over Denver. The Lakers had to fly out to Oklahoma City, and they really didn't have a lot of time to prepare for the Thunder. After facing them once, and getting a practice day, the Lakers will be much more prepared for Game 2.

This is a team that sometimes just doesn't show up for whatever reason. However, when they really need a win, Kobe, Andrew Bynum and Co. really do give it their all, and usually come out on top. I look for that to be the case tonight and for this one to go right down to the wire as the Lakers make the proper adjustments on both sides of the ball.

"Everything's fixable. It's just about making adjustments. That's really what the postseason is," said Kobe Bryant, a five-time NBA champ. "They came out, took us out back and whooped us. It's on us to make adjustments, to make changes and come back with a better effort - and we will."

Oklahoma City is 0-7 ATS after a blowout win by 20 points or more this season. They are only outscoring opponents in this spot by an average of 3.7 points/game. The Thunder are also just 3-12 ATS after scoring 110 or more points this season. They are winning in this spot by a mere 0.6 points/game. Take the Lakers in Game 2 Wednesday.

20* Celtics/76ers TNT Wednesday No-Brainer on Boston +2

After a poor performance in Game 2 in which the Boston Celtics didn't even look like they were trying, I look for them to come out hungry and motivated in Game 3. Even though they didn't put their best foot forward, the Celtics still had a chance to win that game. You can bet the 76ers will be getting Boston's best effort tonight, which will be good enough for a Celtics win.

"I don't like the fact that we took, to me, almost three quarters to play the right way offensively," coach Doc Rivers said. "We knew the blueprint before the game. It took us three quarters to get into it. I always say that's on me. Somehow, I have to figure that out with our guys."

"Being in their building really isn't going to affect us," Ray Allen said. "It's all about how we play them when we get out there, how we take care and work together better than what we did (in Game 2)."

Boston is 11-1 ATS off a loss against a division rival over the last 3 seasons. The Celtics are also 8-0 ATS off an upset loss to a division rival as a favorite over the last 3 seasons. Take these 100% & 92% systems straight to the bank tonight. Bet the Celtics in Game 3 Wednesday.

25* NBA 2nd Round GAME OF THE YEAR on Indiana Pacers +7

The Indiana Pacers represent my favorite bet for the second round of the 2012 NBA playoffs Tuesday. I look for Indiana to not only cover this inflated 7-point spread in Game 2, but to likely win it outright as well.

Miami is really going to miss Chris Bosh. The Pacers already have a huge length advantage in this series over the Heat, and now their height is going to be an even bigger edge. Bosh is underrated as he averages 18.0 points and 7.9 rebounds, and that's production that simply cannot be replaced.

The Pacers proved they could play with the Heat in Game 1. They held a 48-42 lead at halftime, and were tied 70-70 at the end of the 3rd quarter before getting outscored 16-25 over the final period. I look for Indiana to finish much stronger in this all-important Game 2 tonight.

The Pacers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Tuesday games, while the Heat are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 Tuesday games. The underdog is 24-10-1 ATS in the last 35 meetings in this series overall. Indiana is a very profitable 217-163 ATS revenging a road loss vs opponent since 1996. Bet the Pacers in Game 2 Tuesday.

20* Lakers/Thunder Game 1 ATS ANNIHILATOR on Los Angeles +7.5

I look for Game 1 of this series to go right down to the wire. Throughout the years, there's no question that Game 1 has been THE GAME for the road team to steal. At full strength with Metta World Peace back, the Lakers are as dangerous as any team left in the playoffs.

The Lakers are riding high following their impressive Game 7 victory over the Denver Nuggets a few nights ago. They have the momentum heading into this contest. That's because while Oklahoma City swept Dallas in the first round, they haven't played a game in 8 days. Look for the Thunder to come out rusty in this one.

The Thunder are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5. Oklahoma City is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 playoff games as a favorite. The Thunder are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games overall. Bet the Lakers in Game 1 Monday.

20* Pacers/Heat ABC Sunday No-Brainer on Indiana +8.5

The Indiana Pacers are the most dangerous threat to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference. They are way undervalued coming into this Game 1 showdown against the Heat Sunday, and I'll take full advantage.

These teams met four times in the regular season, and the Pacers got progressively better. Indiana lost by 35 in their first meeting, and by 15 in their second. Then, in their third meeting, the Pacers lost in overtime 93-91, and won their 4th meeting 105-90.

The Pacers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 3 or more days rest. The Heat are 7-15 ATS in their last 22 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game. The Underdog is 24-9-1 ATS in the last 34 meetings in this series. Bet the Pacers Sunday.

20* Nuggets/Lakers TNT Saturday No-Brainer on Los Angeles -260

"Everything that has happened in this series has to be behind us, whether it's good or bad," said Pau Gasol, who managed three points on 1-for-10 shooting and three rebounds in Game 6. "We've got to rely on aggressiveness tomorrow, on energy. We've got to want it more than they do."

The Lakers are clearly focused and ready to play this game tonight. They can beat anyone in the league when that's the case, and I fully expect them to make easy work of the Nuggets in Game 7. And the cavalry is coming, in the form of an intense defender with dangerous elbows: Metta World Peace will start Game 7 after finishing his seven-game suspension for viciously hitting Oklahoma City's James Harden in the regular season.

"I expect him to come out and play with the tenacity that he's known for," Kobe Bryant said. "He's the one guy I can rely on, night in, night out, to compete and play hard, and play with that sense of urgency, play with no fear. I'm looking forward to having that on my side again." He called out his teammates, and I expect them to respond in this one.

The Lakers are 10-0 in their last 10 Game 7's at home. This is the biggest reason I'm taking them on the Money Line instead of the spread. I have no doubt they'll get it done as they put together their best effort in these 2012 playoffs. Bet the Lakers on the Money Line in Game 7 Saturday.

20* Grizzlies/Clippers ESPN Friday No-Brainer on Memphis -1.5

The Memphis Grizzlies are favored for good reason tonight. I'll side with the oddsmakers in this one and back the Grizzlies in Game 6 Friday. Despite being down 3-2 in this series, I have no doubt that the Grizzlies are the better team.

Los Angeles has simply had good fortune late in games, which is the reason they lead this series. That good fortune has appeared to run out as their two superstars both suffered injuries in their Game 5 loss to the Grizzlies, and each is banged up heading into this one.

Griffin suffered a hyperflexed left knee in the loss. Though he was able to return, Griffin wasn't very effective in Game 5. Paul aggravated a right groin injury during the fourth quarter of Wednesday's defeat. He played through the injury for most of the final quarter before sitting out the final minute of the game. Paul is actually a game-time decision tonight.

The Grizzlies are 37-16-2 ATS in their last 55 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Memphis is 22-10 ATS in their last 32 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5. The Clippers are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games as an underdog. Bet Memphis in Game 6 Friday.

20* Lakers/Nuggets TNT Thursday No-Brainer on UNDER 197

You could make the argument that every game in this series should have gone UNDER the total. The UNDER is 3-2 in the first five games, with the two OVERS going over by a combined 5.5 points. It took a 60-point combined 4th quarter in Game 5 for it to go OVER.

What I'm saying is that the clear value in Game 6 is with the UNDER. The defensive intensity in this game will be greater than any other game in this series yet. The Lakers have taken two games off defensively, and those are the two games that went OVER as Denver topped 100 points in each.

The Lakers will not take tonight off defensively. They realize they let a big opportunity slip away in Game 5, and now Kobe Bryant will rally the troops and make sure that his team executes on defense. Andrew Bynum has been called out by the media, so look for him to be a defensive stopper in the paint.

Los Angeles also got out of their game offensively in Game 5. They tried to run with Denver, which doesn't work. Look for the Lakers to slow down the pace and run their offense through their big men inside. This game will be played at a much slower tempo than Game 5 as the Lakers get back in transition defensively, and execute better offensively.

These teams have combined to average 191.8 points/game through the first five games, which is more than 5 points less than the posted total tonight. The UNDER is 22-7 in the last 29 meetings in this series. The UNDER is 13-3 in the last 16 meetings in Denver. These teams combined for 183 and 180 points in Games 3 and 4 in Denver, respectively.

The Lakers are 10-2 to the UNDER versus explosive offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game this season. The UNDER is 21-6 in Lakers last 27 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. The UNDER is 20-7 in Nuggets last 27 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record. Bet the UNDER in Game 6 Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday No-Doubt Rout on Boston Celtics -6.5

After failing to close out the Atlanta Hawks in Game 5 with a tough 1-point loss in Atlanta, the Boston Celtics won't waste another opportunity in Game 6 tonight. I fully expect the Celtics to roll in blowout fashion and put the Hawks out of their misery.

I look for this game to take a similar path to Game 4, where the Celtics led huge the entire way. Boston would win that contest 101-79 at home in a game that was a much bigger blowout than the final score would indicate.

Atlanta is a very tired team right now as they had four of their five starters play 41 or more minutes in Game 5. The other, Marvin Williams, played nearly 36 minutes. The Hawks didn't have one bench player play more than 8 minutes in Game 5. Look for Atlanta to ware down in the 4th quarter tonight.

The Hawks are 9-24 ATS in road games in all playoff games since 1996. The Celtics are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Boston is 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a S.U. loss. The Celtics are 11-3-1 ATS in their last 15 home games. Take the Celtics in Game 6 Thursday.