15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Spurs OVER 234

The Spurs are a dead nuts OVER team right now going 8-0 OVER in their last eight games overall with 236 or more combined points in all eight games.  They rank dead last (30th) in defensive rating in those eight games as they clearly miss Victor Wembenyama on that end.

That was on display last night as they lost 145-134 to the Hornets for 279 combined points.  They have completely let go of the rope defensively allowing 127 or more points in six of their last eight games.  Look for them to get in another shootout with the New Orleans Pelicans tonight.

The Pelicans have plenty of offensive firepower with Murphy, McCollum, Brown and Olynyk and they play zero defense.  They rank dead last (30th) in defensive rating this season.  The OVER is 6-3 in Pelicans last nine games overall with 233 or more combined points in six of those nine games, and 240 or more in five of them.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* Knicks/Warriors ABC ANNIHILATOR on UNDER 229.5

The Knicks are without leading scorer Jalen Brunson (26.3 PPG, 7.4 APG) right now and are struggling offensively without him.  They were already struggling offensively since the All-Star Break with him in the lineup.  They have been a dead nuts UNDER team playing slower and upping their defensive intensity in recent weeks.

The UNDER is 7-2 in Knicks last nine games overall and would be 8-1 without OT.  They have gone to OT in three of their last six games.  They have gone for 228 or fewer combined points in 8 of those 9 games even with OT factored in.  The Knicks and their opponents have averaged 215.3 combined points per game at the end of regulation in their last nine games.  They rank 25th in pace, 25th in offensive rating and 8th in defensive rating during this 9-game stretch.

The Warriors are 14-2 SU in their last 16 games overall.  They are a better defensive team with Jimmy Butler and they were already a great defensive team.  They rank 8th in defensive rating on the season and 3rd in defensive rating in their last 15 games.  They rank in the middle of the pack in pace this season and haven't been playing any faster with Butler.

This is a rematch from less than two weeks ago when the Warriors beat the Knicks 114-102 on the road for just 216 combined points.  And neither team shot it terribly as the Warriors shot 49% from the field while the Knicks shot 45% and that was with Brunson in the lineup.  The Knicks and Warriors haven't topped 231 combined points at the end of regulation in any of their last 12 meetings, and they have finished with 228 or fewer in 10 of those 12 meetings.  Bet the UNDER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Chicago Bulls +10

The Chicago Bulls are the 10th seed in the Eastern Conference holding on to the final play-in spot.  But they have a great chance to improve their seeding as only 3.5 games separate the four play-in teams currently.  They are clearly fighting hard to try and improve their position.

Indeed, the Bulls are 6-5 SU & 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games overall with only two losses by more than 5 points in those 11 games.  They are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games upsetting Orlando as 7.5-point road dogs, Miami as 5-point road dogs, Indiana as 6-point home dogs and covering in a 6-point home win over Brooklyn.  What more do the Bulls have to do to get some respect?

They certainly aren't getting respect here as 10-point road dogs at Houston.  They are in the more favorable rest spot as well playing just their 2nd game in 5 days, while the Rockets will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 8th game in 13 days after a home win over the short-handed Mavericks last night.  They are also without one of their best players in Amen Thompson (14.0 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.2 BPG) and could decide to rest another starter or two tonight.  Bet the Bulls Saturday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Milwaukee Bucks -3.5

I love the spot for the Milwaukee Bucks tonight.  They get a shot at quick revenge after losing 115-114 at Indiana on Tuesday, March 11th on a 4-point play at the buzzer by Tyrese Haliburton.  Now they get to host the Pacers just four days later and they are in the much better spot tonight.

The Bucks had yesterday off following a 126-106 home win over the Lakers on Thursday.  Meanwhile, the Pacers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 112-100 win in Philadelphia last night.  The Pacers needed a big comeback to win that game so they were forced to play their starters big minutes.

Indiana is just 2-3 SU & 1-4 ATS in its last four games overall consistently being overvalued.  They lost consecutive road games to the Hawks and followed it up with an 18-point loss at Chicago to fall to 1-8 ATS in their last nine road games.

Milwaukee was a 2.5-point road favorite at Indiana on Tuesday and now is just a 3.5-point home favorite in the rematch.  The books have not adjusted enough for flipping home courts and the fact that the Pacers are in a tough spot playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  Bet the Bucks Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Total DOMINATOR on Raptors/Jazz OVER 234.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  They are 13-5 OVER in their last 18 games overall with 236 or more combined points in 12 of those 18 games.  They have had many different lineups during this stretch due to rest and injury, and they still keep going OVER.

But now the Jazz are actually supposed to have all of their top plays available tonight with the exception of John Collins.  They should get themselves into another shootout with the Toronto Raptors, who are lacking size inside with Poeltl out.  But they have Barrett and Quickley healthy and playing, and those two guards are the key to them being an OVER team.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Clippers/Hawks OVER 233

The Atlanta Hawks are a dead nuts OVER team as long as Trae Young is healthy, which he is right now and the Hawks in general are very healthy.  The Hawks and their opponents have combined for at least 233 points in eight consecutive games, making for an 8-0 system backing the OVER pertaining to this 233-point total.

The Clippers are 5-1 OVER in their last six games overall including 247 combined points with New Orleans, 238 without Detroit and 236 with Phoenix.  Adding Bogdanovic has really helped them out offensively and makes up for the loss of Norman Powell.  He scored 30 points last game and his shooting is a welcome addition to this offense.

The Clippers and Hawks have combined for at least 233 points in three of their last four meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Indiana Pacers -12

The Philadelphia 76ers are in full blown tank mode.  They've already shut down Embiid, George and Maxey and have seven played listed out tonight.  They have since added Oubre Jr. and Grimes to the injury report, and those were their two best remaining players.  They are questionable, as are Edwards, Drummond and Yabusele.

The 76ers are coming off a 13-point road loss at Toronto.  They will be playing their 4th game in 6 days which isn't good for being short-handed.  They must face a fully healthy Indiana Pacers team that will run them out of the building tonight.

The Pacers had lost three straight prior to beating the Bucks basically at the buzzer with a 4-point play.  Tyrese Haliburton returned from a 3-game absence to deliver said 4-point play.  They lost all three games without him, and they really go as he goes.  They are back to full strength now and have had the last two days off to rest and recover.  Bet the Pacers Friday.

20* Lakers/Bucks TNT No-Brainer on Milwaukee -5.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +14.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* Timberwolves/Nuggets ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 234

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Utah Jazz +12.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Charlotte Hornets +8.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* NBA Tuesday PLAY OF THE DAY on Bucks/Pacers OVER 232

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* Knicks/Kings NBA TV Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 226.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* NBA Monday Night BLOWOUT on Golden State Warriors -12

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* Nuggets/Thunder NBA TV ANNIHILATOR on UNDER 241

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Wizards/Raptors OVER 229.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* NBA Monday No-Doubt Rout on Atlanta Hawks -8.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Brooklyn Nets +6

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Charlotte Hornets +9.5

No analysis from Monday, March 10th through Thursday, March 13th. I'm on vacation for 4 days. I will be putting in the same amount of research as normal on every play I release and betting them all myself as well. I'm just saving myself some time by not writing analysis so I can enjoy my vacation a little more. Good luck everyone! I'll be back with analysis on Friday, March 14th.

15* Cavs/Bucks ESPN ANNIHILATOR on Milwaukee +9

The Cleveland Cavaliers are struggling to find much motivation since their big comeback win over the Celtics that basically cemented their spot in 1st place in the East.  They have failed to cover the spread in each of their last four games, and the one game they covered they were actually tied in the 4th quarter with the Bulls before pulling away late.

They only beat Charlotte by 1 as 16-point favorites, only beat Miami by 5 as 13.5-point favorites and needed OT to beat the Blazers as double-digit favorites.  They lead the Celtics by 7.5 games for 1st place and I think motivation will continue to be an issue for them the rest of the way.  I think you can fade them in every game and make money.

This line has been adjusted up too much for the Bucks playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  They lost to the Magic at home yesterday so there's no travel involved as they are home again today.  They also had 2 days off prior to that loss to the Magic, so they should still be pretty fresh.

Giannis, Lillard and Kuzma have all been ruled in and this line has since crashed a little.  I expected them all to play which is why I grabbed the +9.  I think they were looking ahead to this game and overlooking the Magic yesterday.  The Bucks are 8-2 SU & 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall with the two losses coming by 2 and 3 points.  Bet the Bucks Sunday.

20* NBA Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Spurs/Timberwolves OVER 233

The San Antonio Spurs are a dead nuts OVER team since losing Defensive Player of the Year favorite Victor Wembenyama to a season-ending injury.  They are going small ball and playing as fast as they can led by De'Aaron Fox.

The Spurs are 4-0 OVER in their last four games overall combining for 258 points with Memphis, 278 with Oklahoma City and even 240 against a dead nuts under team in Brooklyn.  They also went for 236 combined points with the Kings in their last game, a Kings team that was missing two key starters in Sabonis and Monk.

The Timberwolves have had to go more small ball without Rudy Gobert who is questionable again tonight.  It has unlocked their offense, but they are obviously much worse off defensively.  The Timberwolves are 6-3 OVER in their last nine games overall going for 233 or more combined points in six of those nine games.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

15* Suns/Mavericks ABC ANNIHILATOR on Phoenix -8

The Phoenix Suns are showing that they are fighting to make the playoffs.  They had a 20-point comeback to beat the Clippers two games ago, and they took the Nuggets to overtime on the road in their last game.

Now the Suns are in a must-win situation today because they play the team they are trailing to make the play-in in the Dallas Mavericks.  They are 2.5 games behind the Mavericks for that last play-in spot.

The Mavericks have a whopping 10 players on the injury report heading into this game with 8 of them ruled out.  They are basically fielding a G League team right now.  They are 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall with four straight blowout losses by 11 points or more.  I don't see them keeping this game competitive against the Suns today, either.  Bet the Suns Sunday.

15* Nuggets/Thunder ABC Early ANNIHILATOR on Oklahoma City -7.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are rested and ready to go today against the Denver Nuggets.  They rested all of their starters and still beat the Blazers 107-89 on Friday.  Their starters have now had the last three days off heading into this game and are primed for a big effort.

The Denver Nuggets are coming off a thrilling 149-141 (OT) home win over the Suns on Friday.  Jokic had the first 30-20-20 game in NBA history.  The Nuggets won't be nearly as fresh for this one, and you can bet the Thunder will rally around Shai-Gilgeous Alexander to try and get them a win to bolster his MVP case as he is neck and neck with Jokic.

The Thunder have won four of their last five meetings with the Nuggets as this has proven to be a terrible matchup for Denver.  Four of those games were on the road as well.  It's going to be a raucous home atmosphere for the Thunder today with the Nuggets coming to town, and the Thunder are 27-4 SU & 19-11-1 ATS at home this season.  Bet the Thunder Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday UPSET SHOCKER on Chicago Bulls +3.5

The Chicago Bulls are in the final play-in spot in the East currently so they still have something to play for here down the stretch.  They continue showing up every night and I think they'll give the Miami Heat a run for their money tonight.

The Bulls are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games overall including an upset road win at Orlando.  They have three losses by 5 points or fewer during this stretch, and they have been competitive in almost every game.

This is a terrible spot for Miami and the biggest reason I'm on the Bulls tonight.  The Heat will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 106-104 home loss to the Timberwolves last night.  This will also be the 5th game in 7 days for the Heat.

Adebayo played 43 minutes, Herro 39 and Mitchell 38 last night.  The Heat are already short-handed without Jovic and Smith, while Wiggins, Ware and Burks are all questionable to play tonight.  Bet the Bulls Saturday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Pacers/Hawks OVER 242.5

Two dead nuts OVER teams square off tonight when the Indiana Pacers visit the Atlanta Hawks.  Both teams like to play fast as the Hawks rank 2nd in pace while the Pacers rank 8th.  This game will see a ton of possessions and should sail OVER this 242.5-point total.

The Hawks have really been a dead nuts OVER team since trading for Georges Niang and Caris LeVert.  The Hawks are 6-1 OVER in their last seven games overall.  They have gone for 248 or more combined points in four of those seven games, including 291 with Detroit and 262 with Memphis.

The OVER is 9-2 in the last 11 meetings between the Hawks and Pacers with 255 or more combined points in seven of those 11 meetings.  They have gone for 259 or more combined points in five of their last seven meetings.  Enough said.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Indiana Pacers -2

The Indiana Pacers want revenge from a 124-118 road loss at Atlanta on Thursday just two nights ago.  They blew an 8-point lead heading into the 4th quarter.  But they didn't have Tyrese Haliburton for that game and still should have won.  There's a decent chance he returns to action tonight.

That was a rare loss for the Pacers in this head-to-head series as they simply own the Hawks.  The Pacers are 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings with the Hawks with three wins by 18 points or more.  I expect them to have their revenge in a big way tonight.  Bet the Pacers Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Total DOMINATOR on Knicks/Clippers UNDER 218.5

Both the Knicks and Clippers will be without their top scorers tonight due to injury.  The Knicks will be without Jalen Brunson (26.3 PPG, 7.4 APG) while the Clippers will be without Norman Powell (23.8 PPG).  Both offenses will really struggle as a result.

The Knicks have been a dead nuts UNDER team even with Brunson in the lineup here of late.  They have gone 5-1 UNDER in their last six games overall and would be 6-0 UNDER if not for OT.  The Knicks and their opponents have combined for 216 or fewer points at the end of regulation in four of their last five games.

The Clippers have been a dead nuts UNDER team all season.  They rank 21st in pace and 4th in defensive rating.  The Knicks rank 24th in pace this season.  The Knicks and Clippers have combined for 212 or fewer points at the end of regulation in six of their last seven meetings, making for a 6-1 system backing the UNDER pertaining to this 218.5-point total.  Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on San Antonio Spurs +5.5

The San Antonio Spurs will rally around De'Aaron Fox tonight and try and get him some revenge against the team that traded him away in the Sacramento Kings.  The Spurs are playing well in their last three games taking the Thunder to the wire in a loss, upsetting Memphis and beating Brooklyn by 14.

The Spurs now have two days off in between games to rest and prepare to beat the Kings.  The Kings are in a world of hurt right now in the injury department missing two starters in Sabonis (19.5 PPG, 14.1 RPG, 6.2 APG) and Mink (17.6 PPG, 5.9 APG).  They should not be this heavily favored over the Spurs without these guys.  Bet the Spurs Friday.

20* Spurs/Kings NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Spurs/Kings OVER 234.5

The San Antonio Spurs are a dead nuts OVER team since losing Defensive Player of the Year favorite Victor Wembenyama to a season-ending injury.  They are going small ball and playing as fast as they can led by De'Aaron Fox.

The Spurs are 3-0 OVER in their last three games overall combining for 258 points with Memphis, 278 with Oklahoma City and even 240 against a dead nuts under team in Brooklyn.  They won two of those three games so this fast pace is working, and they are going to stick with it tonight.

The Kings are lighting it up offensively here down the stretch scoring at least 118 points in seven of their last 10 games overall.  I expect them to get to that number again tonight while the Spurs keep up in a shootout.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA Friday UPSET SHOCKER on Portland Trail Blazers +3

The Oklahoma City Thunder are resting five starters in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Luguentz Dort, Isaiah Hartenstein and Cason Wallace tonight.  Chet Holmgren is questionable as well.  They are clearly throwing in the towel for this game to try and get their guys some rest for the stretch run.

The Portland Trail Blazers have too much to play for to take the Thunder lightly.  They are just 4 games back of the final play-in spot in the West, and the team they are chasing is the Mavericks who are in a world of hurt with all their injuries and likely to drop out of the playoffs.

The Blazers have quietly gone 15-7 SU & 16-6 ATS in their last 22 games overall to put themselves in this position.  They aren't going to pack it in now.  Look for them to win this game outright tonight.  Bet the Blazers Friday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Jazz/Raptors OVER 228.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 10th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating.  The Jazz are 12-2 OVER in their last 14 games overall with 233 or more combined points in 12 of those 14 games.

The Raptors are 9-5 OVER in their last 14 games overall.  These are two teams with not much to play for right now, so defense will likely be option.  It is optional for the Jazz every night.  

The OVER is 6-0 in the last six meetings with 230 or more combined points in each of their last five, including 238 or more combined points in each of their last four meeting.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* Knicks/Lakers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 228

Two key injury updates heading into this game is the reason I'm on the OVER.  Karl-Anthony Towns (24.5 PPG) is probable after sitting out their last game against the Warriors.  Austin Reaves (19.1 PPG, 6.0 APG) has been upgraded to probable after sitting out most of the last three games for the Lakers.

Both teams have been trending under the total lately largely due to injuries, which has this total sitting lower than it should be.  The Lakers have gone under the total in six of their last seven, but they are coming off a 251-point outburst with the Pelicans and they really profile as an OVER team with all offense and no defense.  They have just been getting fortunate with opposing teams missing a lot of wide open 3-pointers.

The Knicks have gone under the total in four of their last five games.  But now I think their offense will take off tonight with Towns back in the lineup.  This is a pretty low total for a game involving the Knicks considering nine of their last 11 games have seen a total higher than 228 points.  The Lakers have seen a total of 228 or higher in eight of their last 11 games.  So we are getting this OVER at a 'discount' tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Rockets/Pelicans OVER 228.5

The New Orleans Pelicans are a dead nuts OVER team that is all offense and zero defense.  That's the case since Zion Williamson, McCollum and Murphy have all been healthy and playing together here down the stretch.  Throw in Kelly Olynyk, who is all offense and no defense, and they really profile as an OVER team.

The OVER is 4-0 in Pelicans last four games overall with 233 or more combined points in all four games, including 240 or more in three of them.  The Houston Rockets are without Fred VanVleet right now and they actually play a lot faster without him slowing it down to run the offense.

The OVER is 3-0 in the last three meetings with 239, 246 and 232 combined points with two of those meetings coming this season.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Pacers/Hawks OVER 246.5

Two dead nuts OVER teams square off tonight when the Indiana Pacers visit the Atlanta Hawks.  Both teams like to play fast as the Hawks rank 2nd in pace while the Pacers rank 8th.  This game will see a ton of possessions and should sail OVER this 246.5-point total.

The Hawks have really been a dead nuts OVER team since trading for Georges Niang and Caris LeVert.  The Hawks are 5-1 OVER in their last six games overall.  They have gone for 248 or more combined points in four of those six games, including 291 with Detroit and 262 with Memphis.

The OVER is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between the Hawks and Pacers with 255 or more combined points in seven of those eight meetings.  They have gone for 259 or more combined points in five of their last six meetings.  Enough said.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday. 

25* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Detroit Pistons ML -125

The Detroit Pistons are 12-3 SU & 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games overall and playing some of their best basketball of the season.  Two of the losses came to Denver and Cleveland and the other was a 2-point loss at the buzzer to the Hawks.

But this is more of a play against the Clippers than anything.  They'll be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after blowing a 19-point lead heading into the 4th quarter in a 119-117 loss at Phoenix last night.  Four starters played at least 36 minutes and all five starters played at least 31 minutes.

The Clippers were already without two key players in Norman Powell (23.8 PPG) and Derrick Jones Jr. (10.4 PPG).  Now it has already been announced that Kawhi Leonard will sit out this game.  It's safe to say the Clippers' depth will be tested tonight.

Not only are the Clippers playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, but they are playing their 7th game in 11 days as well.  They are coming off an 8-game road trip, so this looks to be one of the toughest spots for any team all season.  They have really struggled since losing Powell to injury.  They are 1-6 SU in their last seven games.  The Clippers are 0-8 ATS In their last eight games.  I don't know how they get back up off the mat after that loss to the Suns last night and being so short-handed tonight.

If you missed the early -125 ML bet I made, I would still play the Pistons all the way up to -200 tonight.  Bet the Pistons on the Money Line Wednesday.

15* Thunder/Grizzlies ESPN ANNIHILATOR on OVER 246.5

Two dead nuts OVER teams square off tonight when the Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Memphis Grizzlies.  The Grizzlies rank 1st in pace while the Thunder rank 6th in pace, so this game is going to see a ton of possessions.

The Thunder are 15-4-1 OVER in their last 20 games overall.  They have gone for seven straight OVERS with 250 or more combined points in each of their last six games.  The Grizzlies are 4-1 OVER In their last five games overall with 252 or more combined points in four of those five games.

Jaren Jackson Jr. is out for the Grizzlies with an injury, and he is the current favorite to win NBA Defensive Player of the Year.  Now the Grizzlies are without their best defender, so they will be even more offense and less defense with Zach Edey taking his place in the lineup.  The Thunder will be without Alex Caruso, who is one of their best defenders and provides very little offensively.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Mavs/Bucks UNDER 225.5

Injuries just keep piling up for the Dallas Mavericks.  It was announced yesterday that Kyrie Irving suffered a season-ending torn ACL.  They were already without Davis, Gafford, Lively and PJ Washington which is basically 5 starters.  SG Jaden Hardey is out with an ankle injury suffered in the same that that Kyrie got hurt.

The Mavericks were held to just 98 points by the Kings in that game.  They are going to be fielding a G League roster for this game with Milwaukee.  I would be surprised if the Mavericks exceed 100 points tonight as they'll be lost without Irving.

I considered taking the Bucks, but they are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 127-121 shootout win in Atlanta last night.  I wouldn't be surprised if they rest one or more of Giannis, Lillard and Kuzma.  They probably thing they can beat the Mavericks without these guys.

Familiarity favors defense and low-scoring games.  These teams just played on Saturday, March 1st, so they are very familiar with one another.  Irving had 31 points and Hardy had 16 points in that game, so that's 47 points they will be without in the rematch.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Jazz/Wizards OVER 230.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 10th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating.  They play another dead nuts OVER team tonight in the Washington Wizards, who rank 4th in pace and 28th in defensive rating.

The Jazz are 11-2 OVER in their last 13 games overall with 233 or more combined points in 11 of those 13 games.  The Wizards get Jordan Poole back for this game and he means everything to them offensively, but he's also one of the worst defenders in the NBA.  They played two low-scoring games without him, but the last time he suited up they went for 250 combined points with Portland.

The Jazz and Wizards have combined for at least 231 points in each of their last four meetings, making for a 4-0 system backing the OVER pertaining to this 230.5-point total.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Portland Trail Blazers +10.5

Don't look now but the Blazers are just four games back from the play-in in the WEst.  The teams they are chasing are the Mavericks and Suns, who both look to be tanking and in downward spirals.  The Blazers have put themselves in this position by going 15-6 SU & 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games overall.

Portland boasts one of the most talented young rosters in the NBA that doesn't get much publicity playing in the Pacific Northwest.  The Blazers showed what they were capable of by taking the Cavaliers to OT on the road two games ago, then avoided the letdown the very next night with a 17-point win in Philadelphia, which was almost equally impressive.

Now I expect the Blazers to give the Celtics a run for their money tonight.  The Celtics are in a precarious position right now.  They know they can't catch the Cavs for 1st place in the East, so they are pretty much locked into the No. 2 seed.  They will have questionable motivation the rest of the way because of it.

The Celtics are also dealing with a ton of injuries heading into this game.  They are without Porzingis and Holiday, and now both Tatum and Brown are questionable to play tonight.  Boston should not be favored by double-digits here.  Bet the Blazers Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Nets/Spurs OVER 224

The San Antonio Spurs are really trying to push the tempo with De'Aaron Fox.  That was on display in their last two games beating Memphis 130-128 for 258 combined points and losing to Oklahoma City 146-132 for 278 combined points.  This total of 224 is too low for a game involving the Spurs, who will control the tempo playing at home tonight.

The Brooklyn Nets got good news on the injury front heading into this one as they are expected to have both Cam Thomas (24.3 PPG) and De'Angelo Russell (12.9 PPG, 5.1 APG) healthy for this one.  That makes them a much more potent offensive team, and they should be able to keep up with the Spurs tonight in a shootout as a result.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Minnesota Timberwolves -12

The Minnesota Timberwolves are 3-6 SU in their last nine games overall to fall into 9th place in the West in in danger of missing the playoffs.  But this was their toughest stretch of the seasons as they played OKC three times and actually beat them twice.  Five of the losses came to Cleveland, Milwaukee, Houston, OKC and the LA Lakers.

Now the Timberwolves get a break in the schedule and should do some damage moving forward, starting tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers.  I like the fact that the Timberwolves can't afford to take anyone lightly right now, so there will be no letdown for them.  Look for them to put it on the 76ers for four quarters.

Philadelphia (21-39) has nothing to play for at this point.  The 76ers are playing like it going 1-10 SU & 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games overall.  They are coming off a 119-102 home loss to Portland last night, a Blazers team that was playing the 2nd of a back-to-back off an OT game against the Cavaliers the night before.  It was a pitiful performance by the 76ers.

Now it's the 76ers who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, and injuries are mounting.  They have already ruled out Tyrese Maxey for this one.  Kyle Lowry is also out, and Paul George, Quentin Grimes and Justin Edwards are all questionable.  Kelly Oubre is battling illness as well.  This one has blowout written all over it tonight.  Bet the Timberwolves Tuesday.

15* Warriors/Knicks TNT ANNIHILATOR on UNDER 231.5

Stephen Curry suffered an ankle injury last night in a 119-101 win at Charlotte.  He is listed as questionable to play tonight, and I would like the UNDER even if he does play.  The Warriors may be cautious with him and sit him anyway since it's the 2nd of a back-to-back.

The Warriors have been dominant defensively all season, but especially since trading for Jimmy Butler.  They rank 8th in defensive rating on the season, including 4th in their last seven games where they have gone 6-1 SU during this stretch.

The New York Knicks have clearly put an emphasis on defense coming out of the All-Star Break.  The UNDER would be 5-1 in their six games since the break if not for OT.  They have gone for 227 or fewer combined points at the end of regulation in five of those six games.  They have allowed 105 points or fewer at the end of regulation in three of those six games.

Karl-Anthony Towns is questionable to play for the Knicks tonight as well, and he means everything to them offensively.  The Knicks and Warriors have combined for 231 or fewer points at the end of regulation in each of their last 11 meetings, making for an 11-0 system backing the UNDER pertaining to this 231.5-point total.  Bet the UNDER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Indiana Pacers -4

The Houston Rockets have really struggled without Fred VanVleet, whom they will be without again tonight.  Their performance on the road has been very concerning going 0-5 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last five road games including upset losses at Brooklyn and at Utah.

This is a tough spot for the Rockets playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 137-128 loss at Oklahoma City last night.  Now they have to play an Indiana Pacers team that loves to push the tempo and will test their tired legs.  This is a very banged up Rockets team with now with several guys playing through injury.

The Pacers have been dominant at home going 18-9 SU at home this season, including 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five home games with their only loss coming to the Nuggets on the 2nd of a back-to-back while the Nuggets were rested.  They beat the Bulls by 15, the Raptors by 20, the Clippers by 18 and the Grizzlies by 14 in their four home wins during this stretch.  Bet the Pacers Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Total DOMINATOR on Raptors/Magic UNDER 209.5

This will be a rematch from a 104-102 victory by Toronto on Sunday just two days ago.  Familiarity favors defense and low scoring games, and I love backing UNDERS in this situation when teams play each other for a 2nd time in 3 days.

Amazingly, the Magic and Raptors combined for just 206 points on Sunday despite these teams combining to make 58 of 72 free throws.  There won't be that many free throws again in the rematch as that is an absurd amount.

The Magic are a dead nuts UNDER team going 39-23 UNDER in all games this season.  The Magic rank 29th in pace, 28th in offensive rating and 2nd in defensive rating this season.  They just got the news that Jalen Suggs would undergo season-ending surgery, and they have been so poor without him offensively running the show.  Now backup PG Cole Anthony is questionable.

The Raptors are playing slower right now and really struggling offensively.  They rank 24th in pace, 28th in offensive rating and 10th in defensive rating in their last nine games.  They have been held to 108 points or fewer in six of those nine games.

The UNDER is 5-0 in the last five meetings with 207 or fewer combined points in each of the last four.  Bet the UNDER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Wizards/Heat UNDER 219.5

The Miami Heat are a dead nuts UNDER team.  They rank 28th in pace, 19th in adjusted offense and 12th in adjusted defense.  They combined for just 210 points with New York at the end of regulation in their last game.

The Washington Wizards were more of an over team before trades and injuries.  They were an over team before trading away Kyle Kuzma, and they are even less of an over team now that Jordan Poole (21.0 PPG) is out with an injury.  Malcolm Brogdon (12.7 PPG) is also out.

So the Wizards are relying on old veterans like Kris Middleton and Marcus Smart, and they are a dead nuts UNDER team in their current form.  That has played out recently with the Wizards going 4-1 UNDER in their last five games with 213 or fewer combined points in four of those five games.

The UNDER is 3-1 in the last four meetings between the Heat and Wizards with 218 or fewer combined points in three of those four meetings.  Bet the UNDER in this game Monday.

20* Timberwolves/Suns ESPN No-Brainer on OVER 231.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been without Rudy Gobert in each of their last five games and will be without him again tonight.  Four of the five were shootouts because they have had to go more small ball and are a much better offensive team with their small ball lineups, but they miss the Defensive Player of the Year on the other end immensely.

The OVER is 4-1 in Timberwolves last five games overall combining for 236 points with Houston, 253 with Oklahoma City, 242 at the end of regulation with OKC and 233 with Utah.  Naz Reid has been thriving playing center scoring at least 22 points in six of his last seven games.  Small ball has also meant more minutes for youngsters Terrance Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham, who are all offense and zero defense.

The Suns are a dead nuts OVER team right now.  They are 11-4 OVER in their last 15 games overall with 227 or more combined points in all 15 games.  They have gone for 233 or more combined points in each of their last five games out of the All-Star Break.

The OVER is 4-0 in the last four meetings between the Timberwolves and Suns with 234 or more combined points in all four.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

15* Thunder/Spurs ESPN ANNIHILATOR on OVER 236

The Oklahoma City Thunder are a dead nuts OVER team right now going 13-4-1 OVER in their last 17 games overall.  They have gone for 250 or more combined points in four consecutive games coming in.  That includes their 129-121 win at Brooklyn against a Nets team that ranks dead last in offensive rating and dead last in pace.

The San Antonio Spurs are certainly more of an OVER team with De'Aron Fox running the show and without Defensive Player of the Year candidate Victor Wembenyama.  We saw their potential last night when they beat Memphis 130-128 for 258 combined points.  This total of 236 is too short tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Portland Trail Blazers +11.5

This is the ultimate letdown spot for the Cleveland Cavaliers.  They had a huge 4th quarter comeback last time out to beat the Boston Celtics 123-116.  That win all but locked up the No. 1 seed in the East for the Cavaliers.  They are fat and happy now, and they won't be nearly as motivated to beat the Blazers today.  I expect them to fall flat on their faces.

Helping our cause is the fact that the Cavaliers will be without their best player in Donavan Mitchell (24.3 PPG), who scored 41 to lead the comeback against Boston on Friday.  They don't have their leader on the court which is another reason they are ripe for a letdown.

The Blazers have quietly gone 14-5 SU & 14-5 ATS in their last 19 games overall.  That includes 4-0 SU & 3-1 ATS in their last four games coming out of the All-Star Break.  They have a ton of young talent that not too many bettors know about because they get buried in terms of NBA coverage.  They'll give the Cavaliers a run for their money today.  Bet the Blazers Sunday.

15* Nuggets/Celtics ABC ANNIHILATOR on Denver +5

The Boston Celtics blew a huge lead in the 4th quarter to the Cleveland Cavaliers last time out and lost 123-116.  That was their last stand to try and catch the Cavaliers in the East for the top seed.  Now they are pretty much locked into the No. 2 seed, and I question their motivation the rest of the way.  I think it's the type of loss that can beat a team twice.

The Denver Nuggets are fighting for the No. 2 seed in the West and are playing their best basketball of the season. The Nuggets are 11-2 SU in their last 13 games overall and will give the Celtics a run for their money tonight.  That's especially the case with the Celtics without two starters in Holiday and Porzingis.  Bet the Nuggets Sunday.

15* Nuggets/Celtics ABC Total DOMINATOR on UNDER 234.5

I love taking UNDERS in these early start time games in the NBA because players aren't used to playing this early.  They tend to be sleep walking through these games.

I also like the fact that the Celtics will be without Kristaps Porzingis, so they aren't nearly as explosive offensively with him on the sidelines.  They have to hang their hats more on defense.  Bet the UNDER in this game Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday PLAY OF THE DAY on Memphis Grizzlies -9

The Memphis Grizzlies are very predictable.  They struggle against the top teams in the NBA, but they crush the worst teams in the NBA like the San Antonio Spurs.  I think we are getting the Grizzlies at a discount after an upset home loss to the New York Knicks last night.

The books are factoring in that that Grizzlies are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  But the Grizzlies are one of the deepest teams in the NBA so they can handle these situations better than most.  Plus, there is zero travel involved as the Grizzlies get to stay at home, and they should still be pretty fresh considering they had two days off prior to last night's loss to New York.  The Grizzlies are 8-2 SU & 7-3 ATS when playing the 2nd of a back-to-back this season.

The San Antonio Spurs have been a disaster since losing Victor Wembenyama to a season-ending injury.  The Spurs are 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall losing by 15 at home to Detroit, by 18 at New Orleans, by 6 at New Orleans and by 12 at Houston.

The Grizzlies have owned the Spurs this season going 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in three meetings.  They won by 14 and by 28 in San Antonio and by 19 at home.  Wembenyama had 27 points in that 19-point loss, 13 points, 12 rebounds and 8 blocks in that 14-point loss, and 19 points, 12 rebounds and 6 blocks in that 28-point loss.  He'll be missed in the 4th and final meeting to say the least.  Bet the Grizzlies Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Kings/Rockets OVER 227

The Sacramento Kings are fully healthy and thriving offensively right now.  They have scored at least 118 points in six of their last seven games overall.  I think they'll at least reach that number again tonight.

The Houston Rockets are also thriving offensively scoring at least 115 points in three of their four games coming out of the All-Star Break.  They have been playing faster without PG Fred VanVleet and they are fully healthy otherwise.

This will be the 3rd meeting between the Kings and Rockets this season.  Each of the first two were high-scoring as the Kings won 120-111 for 231 combined points and 132-127 for 259 combined points.  It will be more of the same here tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Friday UPSET SHOCKER on Utah Jazz +2.5

This is a very tough spot for the Minnesota Timberwolves.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 111-102 road loss to the Los Angeles Lakers last night.  This comes after an OT game against the Thunder in their previous game.

Making matters wore for the Timberwolves is that they will be without Gobert and Randle tonight and likely Anthony Edwards, who is in line to be suspended after receiving his 16th technical.

Now the Timberwolves have to travel to Salt Lake City to face the Jazz in altitude.  They won't have much left in the tank tonight, and this is a game I fully expect the Jazz to win outright.

They Jazz are 7-2 ATS in their last nine home games with outright upset wins over the Rockets as 7.5-point dogs, the Lakers as 9.5-point dogs, the Warriors as 6.5-point dogs and the Magic as 4-point dogs.  Bet the Jazz Friday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Timberwolves/Jazz OVER 225

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  The Jazz are 8-2 OVER in their last 10 games overall with 236 or more combined points in eight of those 10 games.  The Jazz rank 12th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating this season.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been without Rudy Gobert in each of their last four games and will be without him again tonight.  Three of the four were shootouts because they have had to go more small ball and are a much better offensive team with their small ball lineups, but they miss the Defensive Player of the Year on the other end immensely.

The OVER is 3-1 in Timberwolves last four games overall combining for 236 points with Houston, 253 with Oklahoma City and then 242 at the end of regulation with OKC.  Terrible shooting last night kept their game against the Lakers under the total as the Wolves shot 41.7% and the Lakers shot 41.5%.  

Naz Reid has been thriving playing center scoring at least 22 points in five of his last six games.  Small ball has also meant more minutes for youngsters Terrance Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham, who are all offense and zero defense.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Memphis Grizzlies -2.5

I love the spot for the Memphis Grizzlies tonight.  They want revenge from their worst loss of the season falling 143-106 at New York on January 27th.  That was a tough spot for the Grizzlies playing their 3rd game in 4 days while the Knicks were playing just their 2nd game in 6 days.

Now it's the Grizzlies in the favorable spot in the rematch.  They come in on two days' rest and fully healthy with the exception of Desmond Bane listed as questionable.  The Knicks will be playing their 5th game in 9 days and are dealing with some key injuries.

Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart are both questionable for the Knicks tonight.  They haven't played well at all out of the All-Star Break.  They are 0-5 ATS in their last five games overall with narrow home wins over the Hawks by 1 and the Bulls by 2 both in OT.  They lost by 37 at Cleveland and by 13 at Boston, and they needed a late run to put away the lowly 76ers by 5 as 10-point home favorites.

The Grizzlies are 22-6 SU & 18-10 ATS at home this season with one of the best home-court advantages in the NBA.  Bet the Grizzlies Friday.

15* NBA Friday Total DOMINATOR on Raptors/Bulls OVER 234.5

The Chicago Bulls are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 3rd in pace and 26th in defensive rating this season.  The Bulls are 7-3 OVER in their last 10 games overall with 235 or more combined points in eight of those 10 games.  This total of 234.5 is very short for a game involving the Bulls.

The Toronto Raptors are 7-4 OVER in their last 11 games overall with 230 or more combined points in six of their last 10 games.  They have plenty of guard talent with Barrett, Quickley, Dick and Mitchell.  Both teams will be going a lot of small ball tonight which favors OVERS.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Thunder/Hawks OVER 240.5

Two dead nuts OVER teams square off tonight when the Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Atlanta Hawks.  Both teams like to run and gun as the Hawks rank 2nd in pace while the Thunder rank 7th in pace.  This will be the highest-scoring game of the night Friday.

The Thunder are 12-4-1 OVER in their last 17 games overall.  They have gone for 250 or more combined points in three consecutive games coming in.  That includes their 129-121 win at Brooklyn last time out against a Nets team that ranks dead last in offensive rating and dead last in pace.

The Atlanta Hawks are 7-5 OVER in their last 12 games overall.  They have gone for 240 or more combined points in seven of those 12 games, including 251 or more in six of them.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* Cavs/Celtics ESPN No-Brainer on UNDER 232

Familiarity favors defense and low-scoring games.  This will already be the 4th meeting between the Cavaliers and Celtics this season.  These are also the top two teams in the East, so defensive intensity will be high tonight in this National TV game.

After combining for 237 points in their first meeting this season. the Celtics and Cavs have gone on to combine for just 226 points in their 2nd meeting and 217 points in their 3rd meeting.  This trend toward the under should continue tonight in their 4th and final meeting.

The Celtics have been a dead nuts UNDER team since returning from the All-Star Break.  They are 5-1 UNDER in their last six games overall with 228 or fewer combined points in all six games, and 223 or fewer in five of them.

The Cavaliers have been impressive defensively allowing 108 or fewer points in five of their last six games overall.  The only team that topped 108 was the Grizzlies, who are a dead nuts over team.  Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

20* Timberwolves/Lakers NBA TV Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 227.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been without Rudy Gobert in each of their last three games.  All three were shootouts because they have had to go more small ball and are a much better offensive team with their small ball lineups, but they miss the Defensive Player of the Year on the other end immensely.

The OVER is 3-0 in Timberwolves last three games overall combining for 236 points with Houston, 253 with Oklahoma City and then 242 at the end of regulation with OKC last time out.  Naz Reid has been thriving playing center scoring at least 22 points in five consecutive games.  Small ball has also meant more minutes for youngsters Terrance Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham, who are all offense and zero defense.

The Lakers have also had to go more small ball without Anthony Davis.  They have been one of the best offensive teams in the league during their 9-2 run in their last 11 games.  They have scored at least 119 points in eight of those 11 games.  They should hang another big number on the Timberwolves tonight, but expect Minnesota to be able to keep up in another shootout.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

20* Nuggets/Bucks TNT No-Brainer on Denver -3.5

The Denver Nuggets are playing their best basketball of the season right now.  They have gone 10-1 SU in their last 11 games and 7-2 ATS in their last nine games.  A big reason for their success is that they are finally as healthy as they have been all season.

The Bucks are overvalued after going 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.  They have benefited from a very easy schedule coming out of the All-Star Break with wins over the banged up Clippers, the Wizards by 3 and the Heat.  They lost on the road to the Rockets who were without Fred VanVleet and then lost Amen Thompson to an ejection.

The rest really favors the Nuggets, who have had the last two days off while the Bucks will be playing their 5th game in 8 days coming out of the All-Star Break.  The Bucks have been able to get by without Bobby Portis (13.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG) thus far, but his 25-game suspension will really hurt them against higher quality teams because they miss his presence off the bench.  Bet the Nuggets Thursday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Golden State Warriors -4

The Golden State Warriors have new life and are a new team with Jimmy Butler.  They have gone 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall with five wins coming by 14 points or more.  I look for them to make easy work of the struggling Orlando Magic tonight as well.

The Magic just haven't been the same since losing PG Jalen Suggs.  It's hard to be effective in the NBA without a point guard, and that's what the Magic have been dealing with for quite some time.  Now backup PG Cole Anthony is banged up and questionable as well.

The Magic are 6-13 SU & 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games overall.  They lost by 40 to the Cavaliers at home last time out.  It won't go much better for them tonight against a Warriors team playing their best basketball of the season.  Bet the Warriors Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Kings/Jazz OVER 236

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  The Jazz are 8-1 OVER in their last nine games overall with 236 or more combined points in eight of those nine games.  The only game that didn't get to 236 was their last game against Portland where they shot 39.8% and the Blazers shot 41.8%.

The pace was there to get the OVER against Portland but the shooting for both teams was awful.  The Jazz rank 11th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating this season.  Jordan Clarkson is expected back in the lineup after sitting the Portland game, and he's all offense and no defense.

The Jazz have scored at least 110 points in 10 of their last 11 games.  The Jazz have allowed at least 114 points in nine consecutive games and 119 points or more in seven of those nine games.

The Kings are 7-3 OVER in their last 10 games overall.  They have gone for 230 or more combined points in eight of those 10 games.  They are fully healthy and thriving offensively scoring at least 119 points in five of their last six games.  I expect both teams to get 120-plus in this one.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night BLOWOUT on Oklahoma City Thunder -17

I love the spot for the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight.  They will be motivated to erase the memory of blowing a 25-point lead to the Timberwolves and giving up a 16-0 run to end regulation before losing in OT.  It was one of the most shocking results of the season.

The Thunder are fully healthy and should make easy work of the Brooklyn Nets.  The Nets were a feisty team when D'Angelo Russell (13.8 PPG, 5.8 APG with Nets) was healthy, but he's out now.  They are also going to be without Nicolas Claxton (10.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 1.5 BPG), who is serving a suspension.  I don't think they can keep up offensively without these guys.

The Nets have been held to 105 points or fewer in 16 of their last 17 games while failing to reach 100 points eight times.  They rank dead last in offensive rating during this stretch.  Now they must face the Thunder, who rank 1st in defensive rating this season.

The Thunder have scored at least 121 points in nine of their last 11 games overall while ranking 3rd in offensive rating during this stretch.  The Thunder beat the Nets 127-101 at home in their first meeting this season, and that was even with a healthy Russell and Claxton for the Nets.  It's going to be another blood bath in the rematch without them tonight.  Bet the Thunder Wednesday.

15* 76ers/Knicks ESPN ANNIHILATOR on New York -9.5

The New York Knicks will be highly motivated for a win after consecutive blowout road losses to the two best teams in the East in Cleveland and Boston.  They have had two days off since that loss to Boston to rest and heal up.  I expect a big effort from them tonight at home on National TV.

The Philadelphia 76ers are giving zero effort right now.  All you need to know about their effort is that they trailed the Bulls by 50 points at home in their last game and lost by 32 despite being 6.5-point favorites.  The 76ers have fallen to 0-8 SU & 0-8 ATS in their last eight games, including 0-9 ATS in their last nine games.

Philadelphia is just ready for this season to be over already.  They are dealing with a plethora of injuries, and Paul George might be the most disappointing player in the NBA if it's not teammate Joel Embiid, who is likely out for the season.  Backup C Yabusele is out as well, and that's a big blow because he was playing good basketball in Embiid's absence.  The Knicks should run away by double-digits tonight.  Bet the Knicks Wednesday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH on Golden State Warriors -16.5

The Golden State Warriors are a new team with new life since trading for Jimmy Butler.  They have gone 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall with four wins by 14 points or more and three by 21 points or more.

I know the Warriors won't have a letdown tonight because they still sit in 9th place in the West, but they are only one game behind the 6th place Clippers to get out of the play-in completely.  They have tomorrow off so no reason to rest anyone, either.

The Charlotte Hornets have completely quit coming out of the All-Star Break.  After their 129-115 loss to Denver, the last two games have been very concerning with a 141-88 loss at Portland and a 130-88 loss at Sacramento last night.

Now the Hornets will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th road game in 7 days.  They have nothing left in the tank, and they are so banged up right now that they simply cannot even be competitive.  I would be surprised if Golden State isn't covering by halftime and cruising to another blowout win in the 2H of this one.  Bet the Warriors Tuesday.

20* Mavs/Lakers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 232

The Mavericks and Lakers are both going small ball right now.  The Lakers just don't have many big man options outside Jaxson Hayes, while the Mavericks are without their three best big men in Davis, Lively and Gafford.  Small ball favors high-scoring games and OVERS.

The Lakers are thriving on offense scoring 119 or more points in eight of their last 10 games overall.  The Mavericks have scored at least 111 points in seven of their last eight games.  But Dallas has allowed 115 or more points in 10 of its last 15 games overall.  I expect both teams to top 115 points in this one.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Houston Rockets -3.5

The Houston Rockets are 18-9 SU at home this season.  They host a Milwaukee Bucks team that is just 14-15 SU & 12-17 ATS on the road.  I like the value we are getting on the Rockets as a short home favorite tonight.

The Rockets are pretty healthy and they could even get Fred VanVleet back tonight.  They recently got Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason back from injury as well.  They come in on two days' rest so they should be fresh and ready to go tonight.

The Milwaukee Bucks are overvalued after winning all three games coming out of the All-Star Break.  But two of those were at home against Miami and the Clippers, and the other was a lackluster 3-point road win at Washington, the worst team in the NBA.

The Bucks have been able to get by without Bobby Portis (13.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG), but I think this is where his absence is felt.  The Bucks will be playing their 4th game in 6 days with a lot of travel in between.  Bet the Rockets Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Total DOMINATOR on Bucks/Rockets OVER 226.5

The Houston Rockets have played two very high-scoring games coming out of the break.  They beat Minnesota 121-115 for 236 combined points and then lost 124-115 at Utah the following night for 239 combined points.

The Milwaukee Bucks are more of an OVER team now since trading for Kyle Kuzma.  He brings a lot offensively but is a negative defensively.  The Bucks have scored 116 points on the Clippers and 120 on the Heat in their two games where both Lillard and Giannis were on the court since the break.

The OVER is 6-3 in the last nine meetings with 230 or more combined points in six of those nine meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Blazers/Jazz OVER 231.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  The Jazz are 8-0 OVER in their last eight games overall with 236 or more combined points in all eight games.  They rank 11th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating.

The Jazz are a pretty efficient offensive team because they are so deep and have been able to make up for injuries to their top players.  They have scored at least 110 points in nine of their last 10 games and 15 of their last 18 games overall.  They will be without Walker Kessler, who is their most important defender.  They will be playing a lot of small ball with all the guys they are missing.

The Blazers are also going more small ball without starting C De'Andre Ayton.  They just scored 141 points on the Hornets in their last game.  The OVER is 3-1 in their last four games overall including two extremely high-scoring games with the Nuggets combining for 263 and 253 points.

The OVER is 4-0 in the last four meetings with 231 or more combined points in all four games, including 236 or more in each of their last three.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

20* Timberwolves/Thunder NBA TV No-Brainer on OVER 227

The Minnesota Timberwolves will be without Rudy Gobert tonight.  They will have to go more small ball, and small ball favors OVERS and high-scoring games.  Look for this to be another shootout between the Thunder and Timberwolves tonight.

We saw what happened without Gobert last night as the Thunder won 130-123 for 253 combined points.  While it likely won't be that high-scoring in the rematch, we have 26 points to work with, and it should still sail OVER this 227-point total.

The OVER is 14-6-1 in Thunder last 21 games overall.  They also profile as an OVER team ranking 8th in pace and 5th in offensive rating.  They come out of the All-Star Break very healthy with their full compliment of weapons as one of the deepest teams in the NBA.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Eastern Conference PLAY OF THE DAY on Heat/Hawks OVER 229

The Atlanta Hawks are a dead nuts OVER team ranking 2nd in pace this season.  This total of 229 is very low for a game involving the Hawks right now.  The Hawks and their opponents have combined for at least 236 points in seven of their last 10 games overall, including 251 or more in six of those.

The Miami Heat are 3-0 OVER in their last three games overall with 231 or more combined points in all three.  The Heat and Hawks have combined for at least 226 points in seven of their last nine meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Nuggets/Pacers OVER 244.5

The Denver Nuggets are fully healthy and humming offensively.  They have scored at least 122 points in six of their last eight games.  They have gone for 244 or more combined points with their opponents in three of their last four games, and that was against Portland (twice) and a Charlotte team that was without La'Melo Ball.

The Indiana Pacers are thriving offensively right now scoring 134, 127 and 129 points in their last three games despite facing the Clippers and Grizzlies, two of the best defensive teams in the NBA.  Now they should hang another big number on the Nuggets, who have allowed at least 115 points in four straight games coming in.

The Pacers are a poor defensive team allowing at least 111 points in 10 consecutive games.  The Pacers are 9-3 OVER in their last 12 games overall.  Despite the high total, the books have failed to set it high enough in a matchup between two of the best offensive teams in the NBA up against two sub-par defenses.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

20* Thunder/Timberwolves ESPN No-Brainer on OVER 229

The Minnesota Timberwolves will be without Rudy Gobert tonight.  They will have to go more small ball, and small ball favors OVERS and high-scoring games.  Look for this to be a shootout between the Thunder and Timberwolves tonight.

The OVER is 13-6-1 in Thunder last 20 games overall.  They also profile as an OVER team ranking 8th in pace and 5th in offensive rating.  They come out of the All-Star Break very healthy with their full compliment of weapons as one of the deepest teams in the NBA.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

15* NBA Sunday UPSET SHOCKER on Toronto Raptors +2

This is a terrible spot for the Phoenix Suns.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd road game in 4 days.  They won't have anything left in the tank for the Toronto Raptors tonight.

After losing 120-109 as 2.5-point favorites at San Antonio, the Suns also failed to cover last night in a 121-117 win at Chicago as 5.5-point favorites.  Durant, Booker and Beal all played roughly 38 minutes last night.  Don't be surprised if one of more of those guys sit out to rest.  Bet the Raptors Sunday.

15* NBA Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Pistons/Hawks OVER 239

The Atlanta Hawks are a dead nuts OVER team ranking 2nd in pace this season.  This is a rematch from a 132-130 Hawks win on February 3rd that saw 262 combined points.  So we have 23 points to work with.

The Pistons are rolling offensively scoring at least 125 points in six of their last eight games overall.  They will hang a big number on the Hawks again today, and both teams should top 120 in this one to get up and OVER this 239-point total.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Rockets/Jazz OVER 228.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team especially when they are as healthy as they are right now.  The Jazz are 7-0 OVER in their last seven games overall with 236 or more combined points in all seven games.  They rank 10th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating.

The Jazz are a pretty efficient offensive team when they are as healthy as they are right now.  They have scored at least 110 points in eight of their last nine games and 14 of their last 17 games overall.  Markkanen (19.2 PPG), Collins (18.4 PPG), Clarkson (17.1 PPG) and George (16.5 PPG) are all healthy right now.

This has been a high-scoring series.  The OVER is 4-1 in the last five meetings between Utah and Houston with 245 or more combined points in four of those five meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* Lakers/Nuggets ABC No-Brainer on OVER 240.5

The Denver Nuggets are fully healthy and humming offensively.  They have scored at least 122 points in six of their last seven games.  They have gone for 244 or more combined points with their opponents in each of their last three games, and that was against Portland (twice) and a Charlotte team that was without La'Melo Ball.

Now the Nuggets will hang a big number on a Los Angeles Lakers team that is one of the worst defensive teams in the league with the addition of Luka Doncic and the subtraction of Anthony Davis.  The Lakers have proven to be an OVER team since losing Davis.

The OVER is 7-3 in Lakers last 10 games overall.  They have been fine offensively scoring at least 119 points in seven of their last nine games overall.  They will continue to form better chemistry with Doncic with each passing game, especially as he works his way into shape.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Eastern Conference PLAY OF THE DAY on Nets/76ers UNDER 213

The Brooklyn Nets are a dead nuts UNDER team.  They are 11-1 UNDER in their last 12 games overall with 208 or fewer combined points in 11 of those 12 games.  They rank dead last (30th) in pace, 1st in defensive rating and dead last (30th) in offensive rating in their last 12 games.

Now the Nets are even more of an UNDER team after losing PG De'Angelo Russell to injury in their last game.  He kept the Nets competitive averaging 14.5 points and 5.8 assists per game since getting traded from the Lakers.  Now the Nets will have even fewer answers offensively without him.

The 76ers aren't exactly lighting it up offensively despite getting Embiid and George back in the lineup for a few games recently.  They have scored 104 or fewer points in each of their last three games.

That includes their 100-96 loss to the Nets that saw just 196 combined points in their final game prior to the All-Star Break.  The UNDER is 3-1 in the last four meetings with 111 or fewer combined points in three of those four.  Bet the UNDER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Thunder/Jazz OVER 234.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team especially when they are as healthy as they are right now.  The Jazz are 6-0 OVER in their last six games overall with 236 or more combined points in all six games.  They rank 10th in pace and 28th in defensive rating.

The Jazz are a pretty efficient offensive team when they are as healthy as they are right now.  They have scored at least 110 points in eight consecutive games and 14 of their last 16 games overall.  Markkanen (19.6 PPG), Collins (18.1 PPG), Clarkson (17.0 PPG) and George (16.4 PPG) are all healthy right now.

The OVER is 12-6-1 in Thunder last 19 games overall.  They also profile as an OVER team ranking 8th in pace and 6th in offensive rating.  They come out of the All-Star Break very healthy with their full compliment of weapons as one of the deepest teams in the NBA.

The OVER is 5-1 in the last six meetings between the Jazz and Thunder with 237 or more combined points in five of those six meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Utah Jazz +15.5

The Utah Jazz are a tough out when they are healthy, and they are completely healthy right now with the exception of Collin Sexton.  But they are very deep at the guard position to make up for his absence.  Markkanen (19.6 PPG), Collins (18.1 PPG), Clarkson (17.0 PPG) and George (16.4 PPG) are all healthy right now.

We saw what the Jazz were capable of when having all these guys available down the stretch.  They upset the Lakers 131-119 as 9.5-point dogs two games prior to the break and took the Clippers to the wire in a 120-116 loss as 10-point dogs in their final game before the break the very next night.

Now I think the Jazz give the Thunder a run for their money tonight.  The Thunder may be a little relaxed coming out of the break with a commanding 8-game lead for 1st place in the West.  I don't think they'll be playing with a huge sense of urgency.

You're paying a tax to back the Thunder now after opening 44-11 SU & 34-17-4 ATS thus far this season.  Utah beat OKC outright in two of their last four home meetings and lost by just 5 in another.  The Thunder should not be 15.5-point road favorites here.  Bet the Jazz Friday.

20* NBA Friday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Mavs OVER 235

The Dallas Mavericks have to go small ball right now due to injuries to their three tallest players in Davis, Gafford and Lively.  Small ball makes them more of an OVER team, and that has played out in recent games.

The OVER is 10-3 in Mavericks last 13 games overall with 229 or more combined points in 10 of those 13 games.  One of those games was a 137-136 win at New Orleans for 273 combined points at the end of regulation.

Now the Mavericks play the Pelicans again out of the All-Star Break and it should be another high-scoring affair.  The OVER is 10-4 in Pelicans last 14 games overall with 234 or more combined points in 11 of those 14 games.  That includes 230 or more combined points in eight straight and 234 or more in seven of those.

The Pelicans rank 3rd in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating over the last 14 games.  They profile as a dead nuts OVER team.  They still have plenty of offensive firepower with McCollum, Williamson and Murphy, but they have literally quit playing defense.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* Knicks/Cavs ESPN ANNIHILATOR on UNDER 241.5

Both the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  I think both teams won't be looking to push the tempo as much on tired legs, especially the Knicks, who went to OT with the Bulls last night.

The Knicks remain without Josh Hart again tonight and OG Anunoby is questionable.  They are short-handed and don't have a deep bench.  Their replacements are Precious Achiuwa and Miles McBride, which is a big downgrade offensively.

The Knicks and Bulls were tied 104-104 at the end of regulation last night for just 208 combined points.  The Cavaliers beat the Nets 110-97 for just 207 combined points.  Both teams are a little rusty coming out of the break and that will continue tonight.

Cleveland beat New York 110-104 for just 214 combined points in their first meeting this season.  That total was set at 222.  So this total has been adjusted up 19.5 points from that first meeting.  The UNDER is 9-0 in the last nine meetings with 214 or fewer combined points in all nine.  Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +8

The Washington Wizards have quietly gone 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall.  That includes three outright upset victories, while also taking the Cavaliers and Pacers to the wire.

The spot really favors the Wizards tonight.  They will be playing their first game out of the break so will be fresh and ready to go.  Meanwhile, the Bucks will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a hard-fought 116-110 home win over the Clippers last night.

Making matters worse for the Bucks is that Damian Lillard (25.5 PPG, 7.4 APG) has been ruled out, while Bobby Portis (13.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG) has been suspended 25 games.  Giannis Antetokounmpo (31.4 PPG, 12.2 RPG) is expected to play but he is on a minutes restriction as he makes his way back from injury.  He played just 23 minutes last night.

This is also the Kris Middleton revenge game.  He is expected to make his debut for the Wizards after the Bucks traded him for Kyle Kuzma.  I think the Wizards will rally around Middleton and try and get him some revenge here.  Bet the Wizards Friday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Memphis Grizzlies -2.5

I love the spot for the Memphis Grizzlies.  They were upset by the Pacers last night in a 127-113 road loss.  The blowout nature of the loss allowed their starters to rest in the 4th quarter as only one starter played more than 30 minutes last night.

Now the Grizzlies come back highly motivated for a victory as they don't want to drop two in a row out of the break.  The Grizzlies are one of the deepest teams in the NBA so they can handle these back-to-back situations better than most.  The Grizzlies are 7-2 SU & 7-2 ATS on the 2nd of a back-to-back this season.

The Orlando Magic got revenge on the Hawks with a 114-108 road win last night.  They are satisfied and won't be nearly as hungry tonight.  The Magic also lack depth relying heavily on Franz Wagner and Paulo Banchero to do the bulk of their scoring.  Four starters played at least 32 minutes for Orlando last night including 37 from Banchero and 33 from Wagner.  

The Magic are 4-5 SU & 4-5 ATS on the 2nd of a back-to-back this season.  The Grizzlies are 6-1 SU & 5-2 ATS in their last seven meetings with the Magic.  Bet the Grizzlies Friday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Brooklyn Nets +13.5

The Brooklyn Nets have quietly gone 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall with four outright upsets.  They have formed a chemistry since trading for De'Angelo Russell and they are flying under the radar right now.

The Nets are only 1.5 games out of the play-in in the East, and the team they are trailing is the Chicago Bulls, who look to be in tank mode.  They believe they can make the play-in and will be an undervalued commodity down the stretch as they continue to play hard.

You're paying a tax to back the Cleveland Cavaliers now due to their 44-10 SU & 35-19 ATS records.  The Cavaliers are comfortably in 1st place in the East, 5.5 games ahead of the Boston Celtics.  I question their motivation coming out of the All-Star Break, and I think they could relax for a few games starting with tonight's game at Brooklyn.  Bet the Nets Thursday.

20* Hornets/Lakers NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 224

I've been riding these Lakers OVERS since they have been without Anthony Davis due to injury and trade.  They are such a poor defensive team without him, but they have picked up their pace of play on offense and are shooting a lot more 3-pointers without him.

Luka Doncic being in the mix now just makes the Lakers even more of an OVER team moving forward.  They have had to go a lot more small ball without Davis.  The Lakers are 7-1 OVER in their last eight games overall with 230 or more combined points in six of their last seven.  That includes 241 or more combined points in three straight games.

As soon as I got confirmation that La'Melo Ball was listed as probable for this game I pulled the trigger on the OVER. Ball makes everything go for the Hornets offensively, averaging 27 points per game and 7 assists per game.  Mark Williams is also probable, and he averages 16 points per game.  The Hornets added Jusuf Nurkic who will provide even more inside scoring, something the Lakers have a weakness defending right now.

The Lakers beat the Hornets 112-107 in their first meeting this season on January 27th.  However, Ball got hurt in the 1st quarter in that game and the Hornets had to play the rest of the game without him.  As long as he stays healthy for four quarters the Hornets are going to hang a big number on the Lakers in what should be a shootout.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Utah Jazz +10

The Utah Jazz avenged their 132-113 road loss to the Lakers on Monday with a 131-119 home win over the Lakers on Wednesday.  Now they have their sights set on revenge on the Clippers after losing 130-110 to them on the road on Saturday.

That loss was anticipated considering the Jazz were without Markkanen and Collins and they were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a OT loss in Phoenix the nights prior.  The Clippers had the previous night off and were motivated from a 3-game losing streak.

Now the Jazz should be much healthier and much more competitive in the rematch.  The Clippers have already announced they will sit Kawhi Leonard after a win over the Grizzlies last night at home, a Memphis team that was missing JA Morant.  The Clippers have to travel so this is a worse spot for them.  

The Jazz get to stay at home with no travel, and they got to rest their starters in the 4th quarter since they were blowing out the Lakers.  I think we get a big effort from the Jazz tonight to stay within this double-digit spread and push for the outright upset.  Bet the Jazz Thursday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Clippers/Jazz OVER 224.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team when they are as healthy as they are right now.  The Jazz are 5-0 OVER in their last five games going for 250 combined points with the Lakers, 245 combined points with the Lakers, 259 with the Warriors, 262 with the Suns and 240 with the Clippers.

The only player the Jazz might be missing is Collin Sexton, but they are very deep at the guard position with Collier, Clarkson and George filling Sexton's shoes nicely.  The Jazz rank dead last (30th) in defensive rating which is a big reason they are such an OVER team.

The Jazz lost 130-110 to the Clippers on Saturday for 240 combined points.  It's worth noting the Jazz did not have both Markkanen and Collins in that game, and those are arguably their two most important offensive players and it was still a shootout.

The Clippers put up 130 on the Jazz in that game and will likely hang another big number.  They put up 128 on the Grizzlies last night as well.  While Kawhi will not play, they still have plenty of offensive firepower without him, especially since trading for Bogdan Bogdanovic of the Hawks to give them another elite shooter.  These teams combined for 251 points in their previous meeting this season as well.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday Total DOMINATOR on Warriors/Rockets UNDER 218.5

Two elite defensive teams square off tonight when the Houston Rockets host the Golden State Warriors.  The Rockets rank 4th in the NBA in defensive rating while the Warriors rank 9th.  Both teams rank in the bottom half of the league in pace as well.

That's why it's no surprise these teams have played two extremely low-scoring games in their last two meetings.  The Warriors won 99-93 at home over the Rockets on December 5th for just 192 combined points.  The Rockets got revenge on December 11th in a 91-90 home win for just 181 combined points.

Both teams are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back tonight so there's a chance some key guys rest.  That includes Steph Curry of the Warriors.  But I like this UNDER either way.  Bet the UNDER in this game Thursday.

15* Warriors/Mavericks ESPN ANNIHILATOR on Golden State -4

The Golden State Warriors look revived since trading for Jimmy Butler.  They are 2-0 SU & 2-0 ATS in their two games since he joined them with blowout road wins over Chicago by 21 and Milwaukee by 14.

The Dallas Mavericks made a statement in Anthony Davis' first game with his new team in a blowout home win over the Rockets.  But Davis suffered an injury in that game that will keep him out for multiple weeks.

PJ Washington also suffered an ankle injury in that game that kept him out of their next game and have him questionable for this game.  Daniel Gafford suffered an injury last game that will sideline him for multiple weeks.  They were already missing Lively, Martin and Powell, and Exum is questionable.

This is just a brutal break for the Mavericks having all of these key injuries happen at the same time.  There's not much to like about this team outside Kyrie Irving, but he cannot carry them by himself right now.  The Warriors should roll again.  Bet the Warriors Wednesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Lakers/Jazz OVER 236.5

The Los Angeles Lakers have been a dead nuts OVER team without Anthony Davis.  They are 6-1 OVER in their last seven games overall with 230 or more combined points in five of their last six.  They are playing faster and shooting more 3's while simultaneously being much worse off defensively without Davis.

The Utah Jazz are an OVER team when they are as healthy as they are right now.  The Jazz are 4-0 OVER in their last four games going for 245 combined points with the Lakers, 259 with the Warriors, 262 with the Suns and 240 with the Clippers.

The only player the Jazz might be missing is Collin Sexton, but they are very deep at the guard position with Collier, Clarkson and George filling Sexton's shoes nicely.  The Jazz rank dead last (30th) in defensive rating which is a big reason they are such an OVER team.

The OVER is 9-2 in the last 11 meetings between the Jazz and Lakers with 230 or more combined points in 10 of those 11 meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Wednesday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Bucks/Timberwolves OVER 225

Anthony Edwards is questionable but he almost always plays when he has the questionable label.  He was questionable last game and put up 44 points against Cleveland.  He has been questionable in several games here of late and has scored at least 41 points in three straight, so he clearly is fine.  If he's announced in this total will go up.

The Bucks will be without Giannis but are fully healthy otherwise.  They traded for Kyle Kuzma which makes them more of an OVER team.  He is a terrible defender, but he can get buckets.  Kuzma had 21 points on just 9 shots in his last game with Milwaukee.

The Bucks have sailed OVER the total in their two games with Kuzma and without Giannis.  They went for 262 combined points with the 76ers and 236 with the Warriors.  Giannis is their best defender so they miss him on that end just as much.

The Timberwolves are 6-2 OVER in their last eight games overall with 230 or more combined points in six of those eight games.  Some of their younger players are getting more playing time and they are all offense and no defense, especially Dillingham and Shannon Jr.  The OVER is 5-3 in the last eight meetings with 234 or more combined points in five of those eight.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* Spurs/Celtics ESPN ANNIHILATOR on OVER 232.5

De'Aaron Fox is a dead nuts OVER player.  He likes to play fast and push the tempo while making everything easier on his teammates offensively.  But he's not known for his defense, and that's a big reason the Kings were always such an OVER team with him.

The Kings are 4-0 OVER in their first four games with Fox in the lineup.  They combined for 251 points with Atlanta, 233 with Charlotte, 223 with Orlando and 252 with Washington.  Charlotte and Orlando are two of the best under teams in the NBA.

Now the Kings face the Celtics, who rank 4th in offensive rating and will hang a big number on them.  The Celtics will be without Jrue Holiday, who would be tasked with guarding Fox.  Now Fox should have a huge game not having to go up against Holiday.  This total is too low given the trajectory of the Spurs right now.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Hornets/Magic UNDER 207.5

Two of the best UNDER teams in the NBA square off Wednesday night.  The Charlotte Hornets are 31-19-1 UNDER in all games this season while the Orlando Magic are 33-22 UNDER in all games.  Injuries are a big reason why both teams have struggled so mightily on offense.

Both rank in the Bottom 3 in the NBA in offensive rating.  The Magic are 2nd-to-last in pace while the Hornets are 23rd in pace.  The Magic are 3rd in defensive rating while the Hornets rank in the top half of the league in defensive rating, a big improvement for them over previous years.

The Hornets are decimated by injuries right now without La'Melo Ball, Mark Williams, Brandon Miller, Grant Williams and Tre Mann.  Those are 5 of their top 6 scorers, and the key is being without Ball as he makes everything go for them offensively.

The Magic are without Suggs and have really struggled without him, showing his importance to this team.  They have even struggled since getting Banchero and Franz Wagner back because Suggs makes everything go.

The UNDER is 4-1 in the last five meetings between the Hornets and Magic with 204 or fewer combined points in four of those five, including 179 combined points i their last meeting this season.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* Jazz/Lakers ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 234

The Los Angeles Lakers have been a dead nuts OVER team without Anthony Davis.  The Lakers are 5-1 OVER in their last six games overall with 230 or more combined points in four of their last five.

The Lakers are playing faster, shooting more 3's, and playing worse defense without Davis.  Now they are expected to get even more offensive help with Luka Doncic making his debut tonight.  LeBron James and Austin Reaves are also probable, and both are huge to them being an OVER team.

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team when they are as healthy as they are right now.  They are 3-0 OVER in their last three games combining for 259 points with Golden State, 262 with Phoenix and 240 with the Clippers.  They are only missing Collin Sexton tonight, but they are deep at the guard positions with Collier, Clarkson and George to fill his shoes.  They are a terrible defensive team regardless ranking dead last (30th) in defensive rating this season.

The OVER is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between the Jazz and Lakers with 230 or more combined points in nine of those 10 meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Monday Night Line Mistake on Sacramento Kings +1.5

The Sacramento Kings are right in the thick of the play-in race in the Western Conference.  I like the fact that the Kings are fully healthy right now, and Zach LaVine now has a couple games under his belt with his new team so the chemistry should be pretty good moving forward.

The Dallas Mavericks were extra motivated to beat the Rockets last time out in Anthony Davis' first game with his new team.  They showed that emotion on the court, especially Davis, who was on a mission in their 116-105 win over Houston.

Unfortunately for the Mavs, Davis suffered another injury and now could miss up to a month.  PJ Washington also hurt his ankle and was knocked from that game and is questionable to return tonight.  Lively, Powell and Martin are already out, and Christie and Exum are both questionable.  

The Mavs are a mess in the injury department right now to say the least.  I think they are in a letdown spot off that big win over the Rockets which followed up a bigger road win over the Celtics.  This is the spot they fall flat on their faces due to being deflated from the Davis injury news.  Bet the Kings Monday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Miami Heat +6.5

Jrue Holiday is out, and both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown both did not participate in shootaround this morning.  That means they are doubtful to play tonight, meaning the Celtics will be without three of their best players.  They should not be 6.5-point road favorites over the Miami Heat if that's the case.

The Heat sit at 25-25 on the season and desperate to make the playoffs.  They are also playing with a chip on their shoulder in the aftermath of the Jimmy Butler trade.  Andrew Wiggins is expected to make his Miami debut tonight and that is a big deal for this team that was lacking proven scorers without Butler.  

I expect a big effort from the Heat tonight with the defending champs coming to town.  It's a great rest spot for the Heat as well coming on on two days' rest.

The Celtics are in a letdown spot after a 131-104 road win over the Knicks on Saturday.  They have been terrible following a win and especially following a cover all season.  Amazingly, the Celtics are 0-18-1 ATS in their last 19 games following an ATS win.  Bet the Heat Monday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Spurs/Wizards OVER 236.5

De'Aaron Fox is a dead nuts OVER player.  He likes to play fast and he makes everything easier on his teammates offensively.  But he's not known for his defense, and that's a big reason the Kings were always such an OVER player with him.

The Kings are 3-0 OVER in their first three games with Fox in the lineup.  They combined for 251 points with Atlanta, 233 with Charlotte and 223 with Orlando, which is a dead nuts under team.

Now the Kings face another dead nuts OVER team in the Wizards, who rank 29th in defensive rating and 4th in pace.  They went for 236 combined points with Atlanta and 258 with Cleveland in their last two games coming into this one.

The OVER is 3-1 in the last four meetings with 269, 231, 258 and 260 combined points.  That 269-point effort came in their first meeting this season.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Monday Night BLOWOUT on San Antonio Spurs -10.5

After consecutive 1-point losses to the Hornets and Magic on back-to-back nights, the San Antonio Spurs will take out their frustration on the Washington Wizards tonight.  The Spurs are fully healthy and now have three games under their belts with De'Aaron Fox in the lineup.  The chemistry should be much better moving forward, starting tonight with a blowout win at Washington.

The Wizards are the worst team in the NBA at 9-43 SU & 21-30-1 ATS this season.  They traded away Kyle Kuzma, and his replacement in Khris Middleton is out.  Marcus Smart is also out, as is Alex Sarr.  Kyshawn George is questionable as well.  The Wizards are in a world of hurt right now playing short-handed.

The Wizards have been particularly bad at home here of late going 0-9 SU in their last nine home games with eight of those losses coming by double-digits.  That includes a 14-point loss to Atlanta, a 38-point loss to the Lakers, a 24-point loss to the Raptors, a 14-point loss to the Timberwolves, a 41-point loss to the Thunder, a 23-point loss to the Rockets and a 12-point loss to the Pelicans.  Bet the Spurs Monday.