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.

15* NBA Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Toronto Raptors +9

This is a very tough spot for the Houston Rockets today.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  It will also be their 9th game in 15 days, which is about a tough a situation as there is in the NBA.

It's no wonder the Rockets are going through their worst stretch of the season right now going 0-6 SU in their last six games overall.  They have also been without Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith, which is a big reason for their struggles.  Now both Tari Eason and Steven Adams have been ruled out for this game.  Green played 41 minutes, Sengun 38, Brooks 37 and Thompson 37 yesterday.  I question now much those four have left in the tank as they'll have to carry the load again today.

This is more of a play against the Rockets than it is a play on the Raptors.  But I was impressed with Toronto hanging with Oklahoma City on the road last time out as 18.5-point dogs in a 12-point loss.  This is actually going to be a big step down in class for them after playing the Thunder, Grizzlies, Knicks and Clippers in their last four games.  They even upset the Clippers and took the Knicks to the wire during this brutal stretch.

Toronto is 4-2 SU in its last six meetings with Houston with one of the losses coming by just 4 points as 9-point dogs in their first meeting this season.  Asking the Rockets to win this game by double-digits to beat us given the extremely difficult rest spot they are in is asking too much.  Bet the Raptors Sunday.

20* Celtics/Knicks ABC No-Brainer on OVER 229.5

Two of the best offensive teams in the NBA square off Saturday when the New York Knicks host the Boston Celtics.  The Knicks are a dead nuts OVER team ranking 2nd in offensive rating this season, while the Celtics rank 4th in offensive rating and are shooting an alarming amount of 3-pointers.

One key injury here that will help us cash this OVER ticket is Jrue Holiday being out for Boston.  Holiday is one of the best defenders in the NBA, and not having him to defend Jalen Brunson is huge.  More Derrick White also benefits the OVER as he is much more known for offense than defense.

The Knicks will be without OG Anunoby, which is also a big loss for them defensively as he would match up with either Tatum or Brown.  Those two will likely have a field day not having to go up against him.

The OVER is 5-1 in Knicks last six games overall with 234 or more combined points in all six games.  They have scored 121 or more points in five of those six games.  The OVER is 5-2 in Celtics last seven games overall.  They have scored at least 112 points in all seven games and 118 or more in five of those.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Chicago Bulls +6.5

The Golden State Warriors are expected to start Jimmy Butler tonight to make his debut.  I think that is getting too much hype, and the Warriors aren't going to be hitting on all cylinders in his first game with his new team.  In fact, I expect the Warriors to be lost offensively.

The bigger problem is the Warriors just traded away several key rotational players including Wiggins and Shroeder, so they are short-handed and out of sync as it is.  They also remain without Jonathan Kuminga and have been terrible without him.  The Warriors are 7-10 SU & 6-11 ATS in their last 17 games overall.

This is a tough spot for the short-handed Warriors as well playing their 3rd road game in 4 days.  Meanwhile, the Bulls have had the last two days off and will be fresh and ready to go tonight.  Chicago has been very impressive in its last two home games beating Miami 133-124 as 3.5-point dogs and Denver 129-121 as 9.5-point dogs.  They are beating undervalued again tonight.  Bet the Bulls Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Thunder/Grizzlies OVER 240.5

Two dead nuts OVER teams square off tonight when the Memphis Grizzlies host the Oklahoma City Thunder.  This has the makings of one of the highest-scoring games of the season tonight.

The Thunder are a dead nuts OVER team right now.  They are 12-2-1 OVER in their last 15 games overall.  They rank 5th in pace and 1st in offensive rating during this stretch while scoring at least 115 points in 13 of those 15 games.

The Grizzlies have been a dead nuts OVER team all season.  They rank 1st in pace and 5th in offensive rating this season.  The OVER is 10-3 in Grizzlies last 13 games overall with 237 or more combined points in 11 of those 13 games.  They have scored at least 120 points in seven of their last eight games while allowing at least 119 points in five of those eight games.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Saturday UPSET SHOCKER on Memphis Grizzlies +2.5

This is such a favorable spot for the Memphis Grizzlies tonight.  Not only will they be max motivated to beat the No. 1 team in the Western Conference standings, but they will have a massive rest advantage over the Oklahoma City Thunder to boot.

Memphis has had the last two days off.  The Grizzlies are 35-16 SU & 34-17 ATS in all games this season despite battling through injury all season.  But now the Grizzlies are as healthy as they have been all season, and they are playing their best basketball of the season as a result going 10-1 SU & 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games overall with eight wins by 12 points or more.

The Oklahoma City Thunder will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 121-109 win over the Toronto Raptors as 18.5-point home favorites last night.  It was a pretty lackluster effort considering the Raptors were missing Barrett and Poeltl and were extra short-handed after recent trades.

The Thunder are 1-2 SU & 0-3 ATS in their last three road games with upset losses to the Warriors as 9-point favorites and the Mavericks as 3-point favorites.  The Grizzlies are 21-5 SU at home this season.  Bet the Grizzlies Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Night BLOWOUT on Orlando Magic -1

The spot really favors the Orlando Magic tonight.  The Magic had yesterday off while the San Antonio Spurs lost 117-116 in Charlotte last night.  De'Aaron Fox had a game-winning 3-pointer overturned on replay as it came just after the buzzer.  That's the type of loss that can beat a team twice.

So the Spurs are going to be tired as it is playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days, including their 4th consecutive road game.  I wouldn't be surprised if they decided to rest either Fox or Wembanyama tonight given the tough rest spot.

Either way, I like the Magic to get the win at home tonight.  The Magic are as healthy as they have been in a long time and starting to play better.  They are 15-9 SU at home this season while the Spurs are 8-14 SU on the road.  Orlando won its last two home meetings with San Antonio in blowout fashion by 16 and 20 points.  Bet the Magic Saturday.

20* Pacers/Lakers ESPN No-Brainer on OVER 231.5

Note: I put this play in before LeBron James was announced doubtful.  If you haven't bet it already, I would downgrade this to a 15* play.

The Lakers have had to go more small ball without Anthony Davis.  They are 4-1 OVER in their last five games overall and thriving offensively, scoring 120 or more points in four straight coming in.

The Pacers are a dead nuts OVER team ranking 6th in pace, 9th in offensive rating and 19th in defensive rating.  The OVER is 5-2 in Pacers last seven games overall with 231 or more combined points in five of those seven games.

The Pacers and Lakers have combined for at least 231 points in five of their last eight meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

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

The Oklahoma City Thunder are a dead nuts OVER team right now.  They are 11-2-1 OVER in their last 14 games overall.  They rank 4th in pace and 4th in offensive rating during this stretch while scoring at least 115 points in 11 of those 13 games.

The Toronto Raptors rank 10th in pace and 27th in defensive rating this season.  They profile as an OVER team.  They are without their starting big man in Jakob Poeltl right now, so they have to go more small ball without him which favors the OVER.  Kelly Olynyk will get more playing time for them and he's an OVER play with terrible defense but solid offense with his ability to stretch the floor.

I know the Raptors are missing RJ Barrett, but Immanuel Quickley (15.0 PPG, 5.7 APG) is expected to play tonight and he makes them more of an OVER team with his ability to get the offense going 'quickly'.  The Raptors have some of the worst defenders in the NBA outside of Scottie Barnes.

The Raptors are 3-0 OVER in their last three games overall including 245 combined points with Memphis and 236 with New York in their last two games coming in, and it's worth noting they didn't have Barrett for either game.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Total DOMINATOR on Pacers/Clippers OVER 228.5

This is a very low total for a game involving the Indiana Pacers right now.  They are 4-2 OVER in their last six games overall with 234 or more combined points in four of those six games, including 250 or more three times.

The Clippers are also playing in higher-scoring games here of late now that they are healthy.  They have gone 4-2 OVER in their last six games overall. These teams only meet twice a season so they are very unfamiliar with one another, and that unfamiliarity favors offense over defense.  

That has played out in this series as the OVER 7-1 in the last eight meetings between the Pacers and Clippers with 238 or more combined points in six of their last seven meetings.  That includes 249, 278 and 261 combined points in their last three meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

20* Pacers/Clippers NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Los Angeles -3

The Los Angeles Clippers should be max motivated for a victory tonight.  They were embarrassed in their last two games getting upset at Toronto and getting crushed by 25 by the Lakers as 8.5-point home favorites.  Look for them to take out their frustration on the Indiana Pacers tonight.

The Clippers haven't lost more than three games in a row all season so they have been a pretty resilient team in these spots.  They are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three games following two consecutive losses.

This is a tough spot for the Pacers playing their 3rd road game in 4 days.  They were lucky to escape with a 112-111 win as 6.5-point favorites at Utah on Monday before falling 112-89 at Portland as 5.5-point favorites on Tuesday.  Bet the Clippers Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday UPSET SHOCKER on Portland Trail Blazers +2

The Portland Trail Blazers are the most underrated team in the NBA right now.  They have gone 9-1 SU & 10-0 ATS in their last 10 games overall with nine outright upsets as underdogs.  Many haven't even been close as they are coming off a 23-point win over Indiana as 5.5-point dogs.  They also beat Phoenix by 19, Orlando by 29, Milwaukee by 13, Orlando by 22, Miami by 9 and Chicago by 11 during this stretch.

This is a tough spot for the Sacramento Kings.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 130-111 home loss to the Magic last night.  They will also be playing in their 4th different city in 6 days.

The Kings just traded away their best player in De'Aaron Fox, and Zach LaVine is his replacement which is a big downgrade.  LaVine got his first minutes with his new team last night and the Kings were clearly out of sync.  He went just 4-of-13 from the field in his debut, but the Kings were more lost defensively than anything, and LaVine is not a good defender.  

The home team is 5-0 SU in the last five meetings.  Portland won 115-106 as 7.5-point dogs and 130-113 as 8.5-point dogs in its last two home meetings with Sacramento.  Bet the Blazers Thursday.

15* Warriors/Lakers TNT ANNIHILATOR on Los Angeles -6.5

The Los Angeles Lakers are playing their best basketball of the season right now and most of it has been without Anthony Davis anyway.  The Lakers are 7-1 SU & 6-1-1 ATS in their last eight games overall.

Their last three games without Davis resulted in a 134-96 win at Washington as 8.5-point favorites, a 128-112 win at New York as 11-point dogs and a 122-97 win at Los Angeles as 8.5-point dogs.  They have embraced small ball and their offense is thriving as a result, while also getting some great perimeter defense from the underrated duo of Finney-Smith and Vanderbilt.

The Lakers are excited right now with the Luka Doncic and Mark Williams news.  They have new life and they are playing like it.  They are also fresh and ready to go tonight playing just their 2nd game in 5 days.

The same cannot be said for the Warriors, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 131-128 loss in altitude in Salt Lake City as 6.5-point favorites to the Jazz last night.  The Warriors will also be playing their 3rd game in 4 days.  

They are short-handed right now after trading away Wiggins and Schroeder for Jimmy Butler.  They gave important minutes to Post, Spencer and Rowe last night out of necessity.  Those same terrible players will have to get more big minutes tonight.  Bet the Lakers Thursday.

20* Mavs/Celtics TNT No-Brainer on OVER 229

The Dallas Mavericks are really having to go small ball now without C Lively, C Powell, PF Washington and PF Davis.  They are going to be fine offensively going small ball, but defense will be a big problem tonight against the Celtics.

The OVER is 7-1 in Mavericks last eight games overall with 229 or more combined points in seven of those eight games.  They are likely to give up a big number to the Celtics, who rank 4th in offensive rating this season.  They have allowed 115-plus points in seven of their last eight games.

These teams just met on January 25th with the Celtics winning 122-107 for 229 combined points.  It should be an even higher-scoring affair in the rematch, especially with the Mavericks lacking big men and going small ball.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Nuggets UNDER 240

Familiarity favors defense and low scoring games.  This will be the 2nd meeting in 3 days between the Pelicans and Nuggets.  They combined for 238 points on Monday and both teams shot great from the floor.

The Pelicans shot 47% from 3-point range connecting on 18-of-38 attempts while the Nuggets shot 50% from the field.  I cannot see either team shooting any better in the rematch.

The Nuggets are without Russell Westbrook and he's an OVER player.  The Pelicans are without Dejounte Murray and he's an OVER player.  Both are great offensively but terrible defensively.

The Nuggets and Pelicans have combined for 238 or fewer points at the end of regulation in each of their last five meetings.  Make it six in a row tonight as this one stays UNDER the 240-point total.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on New Orleans Pelicans +10.5

I love this spot in the NBA.  The Pelicans and Nuggets will be meeting for a 2nd time in 3 days in Denver.  The Nuggets won by 12 at home over the Pelicans on Monday. I like backing the team that lost the 1st meeting especially if they did not cover.

Now the Pelicans will clearly be the more motivated team for revenge, while the Nuggets will have a hard time being motivated to beat them again and will likely relax in the rematch.

The Nuggets will be without Russell Westbrook and Peyton Watson, and Aaron Gordon is questionable.  They can't afford to be without all these guys because they lack depth as it is.

The Nuggets are short-handed and tired right now.  They will be playing their 13th game in 23 days.  They haven't had two days off in a row since the beginning of January.  They are 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall and showing that fatigue.  Asking Denver to win this game by double-digits to beat us is asking too much.  Bet the Pelicans Wednesday.

20* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Memphis Grizzlies -7

The Toronto Raptors will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back tonight.  They had a valiant comeback against the Knicks that came up short in a 121-115 loss last night.  They put a lot of effort into that comeback and made it short-handed nonetheless.

RJ Barrett (21.6 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 5.7 APG) was a late scratch with a concussion yesterday and Jakob Poeltl (14.2 PPG, 10.1 RPG) was knocked out of the game with a hip injury.  I have to think both are out again tonight.  Chris Boucher (10.5 PPG) is questionable with an illness.

The books can't set these Memphis spreads high enough.  The Grizzlies are 34-16 SU & 33-17 ATS this season.  They are 9-1 SU & 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games with seven wins by 12 points or more.  

They beat Toronto by 29 at home in their first meeting this season.  The Grizzlies are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four trips to Toronto.  It will be another blowout in the rematch tonight.  Bet the Grizzlies Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night Line Mistake on Detroit Pistons +6

This is a very tough spot for the Cleveland Cavaliers.  They lost 112-105 at home to the Boston Celtics last night.  All five starters played big minutes including 36 from Mitchell and 34 from Garland.

If you asked the Cavaliers to a man, the team they'd like to beat the most is the Celtics.  So they won't be nearly as motivated to beat the Pistons tonight.  They have to try and get back up off the mat and play this 2nd of a back-to-back, and I don't think it will go well for them.

The Cavs also will be lacking motivation due to just beating the Pistons 110-91 at home a little over a week ago on January 27th.  Meanwhile, the Pistons will be motivated to avenge that defeat.

The Pistons are 7-4 SU in their last 11 home games with only one loss by more than 4 points in those 11 games.  They have been extremely competitive at home here of late, and they have the potential to pull off this upset tonight given the tough spot for the Cavs.  Bet the Pistons Wednesday.

15* Spurs/Hawks ESPN ANNIHILATOR on OVER 241.5

The Atlanta Hawks are a dead nuts OVER team as long as Trae Young is healthy and playing, which he is right now.  The Hawks rank 2nd in pace this season.  They are a terrible defensive team, and even worse now with Clint Capela out.

The Hawks have had to go even more small ball here of late.  The OVER is 3-0 in Hawks last three games overall combining for 252 points with Cleveland, 259 with Indiana and 262 with Detroit all in regulation.  The Hawks allowed 130 or more points in all three games.

The Spurs welcome De'Aaron Fox to make his debut Wednesday night.  I love betting OVERS in games involving Fox because he pushes the tempo and makes everything easier on his teammates offensively.

The OVER is 8-2 in Spurs last 10 games overall.  The Spurs rank 3rd in pace in their last 10 games and will play even faster with Fox moving forward.  They rank 28th in defensive rating in their last 10 games.  The OVER is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between the Hawks and Spurs.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* Lakers/Clippers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 220.5

The Lakers have had to go more small ball without Anthony Davis due to injury.  Now they are going to continue to go more small ball after trading him to the Mavericks.

The Lakers are 3-0 OVER in their last three games overall combining for 222 points with Philadelphia, 230 with Washington and 240 with the New York Knicks.  Their offense has taken off going for 134 points against the Wizards and 128 against the Knicks.

The Clippers are fully healthy right now and get back Norman Powell from injury tonight.  Powell may be the most improved player in the NBA.  The Clippers are 4-1 OVER in their last five games overall with 220 or more combined points in four of those five games.

The OVER is 5-2 in the last seven meetings with 228 or more combined points in five of those seven meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Toronto Raptors +6.5

The New York Knicks will be running on fumes tonight.  They overcame an 11-point deficit in the 4th quarter last night to beat the short-handed Rockets 124-118 behind 46 points in the 4th.

Now the Knicks have to play the 2nd of a back-to-back after all five starters played at least 34 minutes last night, including 38 from Towns, 39 from Bridges, 40 from Hart and 37 from Brunson.  They will be without OG Anunoby so they are already short-handed as it is.

The Raptors have quietly gone 8-2 SU & 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  They had yesterday off and will be the fresher, more prepared team.  They also want revenge from losing each of their first three meetings with the Knicks this season. I fully expect the Raptors to win this game outright, but at the very least they'll stay within this number.  Bet the Raptors Tuesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Brooklyn Nets +9.5

The Houston Rockets will be running on fumes tonight.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 6th game in 9 days after a 124-118 loss at New York last night.  Brooks played 39 minutes, Thomson 37 and Green 36 last night in the loss.

The Rockets won't have much left in the tank for the Nets tonight.  They are short-handed as it is without Fred VanVleet, Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr. tonight.  The Rockets have now lost three straight, including a 110-98 home loss to the Nets on Saturday.

The Nets have played two of their best games of the season in their last two games winning 104-83 as 1.5-point dogs at Charlotte and 110-98 as 12.5-point dogs at Houston.  Now they are catching 9.5 points at home in the rematch, which is too much given the terrible spot for the Rockets.  The Nets have had the last two days off and will give the Rockets another run for their money tonight.  Bet the Nets Tuesday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Mavs/76ers OVER 224.5

The Philadelphia 76ers have had to go more small ball without their two best big men.  That has opened things up for their offense especially with the new big man in Yabusele showing he belongs in the NBA.  He is coming off 28 points against the Nuggets and 21 points against the Celtics in his last two games.  His ability to stretch the floor has been on display going 13-of-31 from 3-point range in his last seven games.

The 76ers and their opponents have combined for at least 221 points in seven of their last eight games overall while going 6-2 OVER during this stretch.  This total of 224.5 is very low for a game involving the 76ers right now.

The OVER is 6-1 in 76ers last seven games overall with 229 or more combined points in six of those seven games.  Kyrie Irving is expected to play tonight, and the Mavericks are also having to go more small ball without Lively and Powell.  Anthony Davis will not make his debut tonight, but Max Christie will and his shooting will be a nice addition.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on New Orleans Pelicans +11

The New Orleans Pelicans are playing their best basketball of the season.  They have two losses to the Celtics by a combined 3 points in their last 10 games to show what they are capable of considering they were double-digit dogs in both games.

The Pelicans are fresh and ready to go tonight after having the last two days off.  They want revenge from a 132-129 (OT) home loss to the Nuggets in their first meeting this season.  Zion Williamson is healthy and expected to pay, and the Pelicans should be able to make up for the loss of Dejounte Murray with his presence on the floor.

The Nuggets are in a terrible spot.  They return home from a lackluster 5-game road trip in which they went 2-3 SU & 0-5 ATS with their two wins coming by 3 over the Hornets as 12.5-point favorites and by 3 over the 76ers as 9.5-point favorites.  They also lost by 10 at the Knicks, by 8 at the Bulls and by 29 at the Timberwolves.

The Nuggets have distractions to deal with back at home, and they will be playing in their 6th different city in 10 days.  They aren't a very deep team as it is, and now they are without two key depth piecers in Russell Westbrook (13.0 PPG, 6.4 APG) and Peyton Watson (8.1 PPG). Asking them to win by 12-plus points to beat us tonight is asking too much.  Bet the Pelicans Monday.

20* NBA Monday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Pacers/Jazz OVER 238

The Indiana Pacers are a dead nuts OVER team going 4-0 OVER in their last four games overall with 234 or more combined points in all four games, including 250 or more in three of them.  The Pacers are fully healthy right now and a potent offensive team when that's the case.

The Utah Jazz are also fully healthy right now and a dead nuts OVER team when that's the case.  Makkanen (19.4 PPG), Sexton (18.7 PPG), Collins (18.0 PPG) and Clarkson (15.9 PPG) have all missed significant time this season, but all four are healthy right now.  The Jazz rank 29th in defensive rating this season.

The Pacers and Jazz have combined for at least 237 points in each of their last five meetings with the OVER going 4-1 in those five meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Oklahoma City Thunder -9

The Oklahoma City Thunder want revenge from a 97-81 loss to the Bucks in the NBA Cup Championship Game on December 17th.  They have had this game circled since.  They had their worst shooting game of the season hitting 34% as a team and 5-of-32 (16%) from 3-point range.

Now the Thunder get to take on a completely different Bucks team that has been extremely soft on defense of late.  The Bucks are 1-4 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall losing by 13 at home to Memphis, by 26 at San Antonio, by 13 at Portland and by 10 at the Clippers.  They have allowed 132, 144, 125 and 127 points in those four losses with their lone victory during this stretch coming against the Jazz.

This is a terrible spot for the Bucks.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 132-119 home loss to Memphis last night.  Both Giannis and Lillard played 37 minutes last night.  They are without Bobby Portis, and his absence has been a big reason for their struggles.  They won't have much left in the tank tonight for the Thunder.

Oklahoma City had yesterday off and will be playing just its 4th game in 11 days.  The Thunder couldn't possibly be more fresh than they are right now.  I fully expect them to run the tired Bucks out of the gym and to win by double-digits tonight.  The Thunder are 20-3 SU & 15-7-1 ATS at home this season and outscoring opponents by 14.0 points per game.  Bet the Thunder Monday.

15* NBA Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Celtics/76ers OVER 223

The Philadelphia 76ers have had to go more small ball without their two best big men.  That has opened things up for their offense especially with the new big man in Yabusele showing he belongs in the NBA.  He is coming off 28 points against the Nuggets, and his ability to stretch the floor has been on display going 11-of-27 from 3-point range in his last six games.

The Celtics are fully healthy right now and a potent offensive team when that's the case.  They have scored at least 112 points in eight of their last nine games overall.  The 76ers have scored at least 117 points in four of their last five games, and 109 points or more in seven straight coming in.

The OVER is 3-1 in the last four meetings with 224 or more combined points in three of those four.  The 76ers and their opponents have combined for at least 221 points in six of their last seven games overall while going 5-2 OVER during this stretch.  The Celtics and their opponents have gone for at least 222 combined points in four straight games with the OVER going 3-1.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* Celtics/76ers ESPN No-Brainer on Philadelphia +11

The Philadelphia 76ers are grossly undervalued right now.  They have gone 4-1 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last five games overall with their only loss coming by 3 as 9.5-point dogs to the Denver Nuggets.  They upset the Kings by 13 as 8-point dogs, the Lakers by 14 as 4.5-point dogs, the Bulls by 12 as 3.5-point dogs and the Cavaliers by 3 as 9-point dogs.

The Boston Celtics have been grossly overvalued all season.  They are just 19-29-1 ATS in their 49 games.  They needed a buzzer beater to beat the Pelicans as 12-point road favorites last time out.  I think this is now a letdown spot for them.

The Celtics haven't fared well following a win.  In fact, the Celtics are 5-24-1 ATS in their last 30 games following a win this season.  They have a way of playing to the level of their competition, and they just aren't that motivated this season after winning the title last year.  Bet the 76ers Sunday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Kings/Thunder OVER 233.5

The Sacramento Kings are a dead nuts OVER team going 9-3 OVER in their last 12 games overall with 223 or more combined points in nine of those 12 games.  The Kings are fully healthy right now and rank 4th in pace in their last 12 games.  They have scored 120 or more points in five of their last seven games coming in.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are 9-1-1 OVER in their last 11 games with 225 or more combined points in nine of those 11 games.  The Thunder have scored at least 115 points in nine of their 11 games during this stretch. OKC will be without one of its best defenders in Alex Caruso who doesn't provide a lot offensively.

The Kings and Thunder have combined for at least 231 points in seven of their last nine meetings, and 239 or more in six of those.  This has been a high-scoring series and will continue to be tonight given the very good health of both teams.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Night BLOWOUT on Indiana Pacers -7.5

The Indiana Pacers are rolling right now going 10-2 SU & 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games overall.  They are getting back to playing the way they did that led them to the Eastern Conference Finals last season.  They beat San Antonio by 38 in Paris followed by a 14-point home win over Detroit in their last two games.

Now the Pacers are rested and ready to go after having the last two days off and playing just their 2nd game in 7 days.  The Hawks are 0-7 SU & 2-5 ATS in their last seven games overall with six of those seven losses coming by 8 points or more.

The biggest proven for the Hawks right now are injuries.  They are without Jalen Johnson, Clint Capela and Bogdan Bogdanovic.  Trae Young pops up on the injury report on a nightly basis and clearly isn't 100% either, and he can't do it all on his own.

The Pacers own the Hawks going 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.  The last three have been absolute blowouts winning by 42 at home, 18 on the road and 34 at home.  Bet the Pacers Saturday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Magic/Jazz OVER 215.5

The Utah Jazz have battled injuries all season.  But tonight they are expected to have each of their top eight scorers healthy and on the court.  All eight average at least 10 points per game.

The Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team when they are healthy because they play fast, they rank 29th in defensive rating, and they are a pretty dangerous offensive team.  They will do enough to get us the OVER tonight.  Utah and its opponents have combined for at least 217 points in each of their last 10 games despite not being healthy during this stretch.  That makes for a 10-0 system backing the OVER pertaining to this 215.5-point total.

Orlando recently got Wagner and Banchero back and will start to gel more offensively with these two back healthy.  There's a chance they get Suggs back tonight as well.  Either way, I think the Magic are in line for one of their best offensive outputs of this season against this putrid Utah defense.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Celtics/Pelicans OVER 231.5

The New Orleans Pelicans are a dead nuts OVER team.  The Pelicans are 13-6 OVER in their last 19 games overall with 232 or more combined points in 12 of those 19 games.  They have basically had to go a lot of small ball without a center, and now Daniel Theis is out tonight as well.  They are playing a lot faster during this stretch and they also rank 28th in defensive rating this season.

The Boston Celtics are 3rd in offensive rating and shoot a ton of 3-pointers this season.  They do play pretty good defense, but they haven't been nearly as lock down on that end as they were last season as they are going through a championship hangover.

This will be a rematch from a 120-119 win by the Celtics on January 12th earlier this month that saw 239 combined points.  It's not like either team shot the lights out in that game either with the Celtics shooting 44% as a team and the Pelicans 47%.  This rematch should sail OVER this 231.5-point total as well.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on New Orleans Pelicans +11

Amazingly, the Boston Celtics are 0-16-1 ATS in their last 17 games following an ATS win.  They haven't covered in consecutive games since the first two games of the season!  They are clearly going through a championship hangover this season.

I don't see the Celtics being all that motivated to beat the Pelicans tonight, either.  They just beat them 120-119 as 14.5-point home favorites on January 12th earlier this month in their first meeting this season.

It will be the Pelicans who will be the more motivated team with revenge in mind.  The Pelicans are just 12-36 this season, but they have to be the most talented team in the history of the NBA with a 25% winning percentage or worse at this point in the season.  They are as healthy as they have been in a long time right now, and I expect them to give the Celtics a run for their money tonight.

The Pelicans haven't lost any of their last 10 meetings with the Celtics by more than 12 points as all of these games tend to go down to the wire.  It will be more of the same tonight.  Bet the Pelicans Friday.

15* Nuggets/76ers ESPN ANNIHILATOR on OVER 231.5

The Philadelphia 76ers have had to go more small ball without their top two big men in Joel Embiid and Andre Drummond.  The result of small ball has been going 4-2 OVER in their last six games overall with 232 or more combined points in three of their last six.  They have scored at least 109 points in all six games.  They rank 10th in offensive rating and 26th in defensive rating during this stretch.

The Denver Nuggets are fully healthy right now and a dead nuts OVER team when that's the case.  The OVER is 7-2 in Nuggets last nine games overall with 234 or more combined points in eight of those nine games.  They have allowed at least 122 points in four consecutive games.  They rank 6th in offensive rating and 21st in defensive rating in their last nine games.

The OVER is 4-2 in the last six meetings.  Denver beat Philadelphia 144-109 on January 21st for 253 combined points earlier this month.  I think this rematch sails OVER 231.5 combined points in the rematch tonight as well.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday Night Line Mistake on Toronto Raptors -2.5

The Toronto Raptors have quietly gone 7-1 SU & 7-1 ATS in their last eight games overall and are clearly playing their best basketball of the season.  A big reason for their success is the fact that they have remained healthy.  They have six outright wins as underdogs during this stretch.

Now the Raptors are 2.5-point home favorites over the Chicago Bulls tonight.  They are favored for good reason.  The Bulls are watching their season slip away going 2-8 SU & 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  Each of their last four losses came by double-digits, including at home to the short-handed 76ers and on the road to the Blazers.  The Bulls are without Zach LaVine due to personal reasons right now which is a big reason for their struggles.  Bet the Raptors Friday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Los Angeles Clippers -13.5

The Los Angeles Clippers are pretty much fully healthy right now and showing what they are capable of when that's the case.  Kawhi Leonard is showing he still has a lot to give after scoring 27 points against the Spurs last time out for his 6th consecutive game scoring 15-plus points since returning from injury.

The Clippers are 29-17-1 ATS this season as one of the most underrated teams in the NBA.  And they did the majority of that without Kawhi.  Now that he's back in the lineup, the Clippers are legitimately one of the best teams in the NBA.  They are 7-3 SU & 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall with a 2-point loss at Phoenix and a OT loss to the Celtics despite not having all their top guys for that game.

But this is as much of a fade of the Charlotte Hornets as anything.  The Hornets just cannot catch a break in the injury department.  They are now without six of their top seven scorers in Ball (28.2 PPG), Miller (21.0 PPG, Williams (15.5 PPG, 9.4 RPG), Mann (14.1 PPG), Williams (10.4 PPG) and Martin (7.8 PPG).

We saw just how poor the Hornets were in their first game without all these guys last time out losing 104-83 as 1.5-point home favorites to the short-handed, terrible Brooklyn Nets.  It won't go any better for them tonight against the Clippers, who have won 10 consecutive meetings with the Nets.  Bet the Clippers Friday.

15* Rockets/Grizzlies TNT ANNIHILATOR on Memphis -4

The Memphis Grizzlies will be max motivated tonight.  They will be paying with triple revenge after losing the first three meetings of the season to the Houston Rockets.  They lost the last two meetings by a combined 6 points.

The Grizzlies will also be motivated coming off one of their worst losses of the season in a 143-106 road loss to the Knicks.  They have had the last two days off to rest up and get healthy, and now they will be more healthy than they have been in any of their first three meetings with the Rockets this season.

Memphis is 19-5 at home this season with one of the better home-court advantages in the NBA.  Expect one of their biggest efforts of the season tonight against a Rockets team playing their 4th consecutive road game and their 3rd road game in 4 days.  Bet the Grizzlies Thursday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Rockets/Grizzlies OVER 236

The Memphis Grizzlies are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 1st in pace and 5th in offensive rating this season.  The OVER is 9-3-1 in Grizzlies last 13 games overall with 234 or more combined points in 10 of those 13 games.  That includes 238 or more combined points in seven of their last nine coming in.

The OVER is 8-3-1 in Rockets last 12 games overall.  The OVER is 3-0-1 in the last four meetings between the Grizzlies and Rockets with 234 or more combined points in all four meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday Total DOMINATOR on Timberwolves/Jazz OVER 224

The Utah Jazz have battled injuries all season.  But tonight they are expected to have each of their top eight scorers healthy and on the court.  All eight average at least 10 points per game.

The Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team when they are healthy because they play fast, they rank 29th in defensive rating, and they are a pretty dangerous offensive team.  They will do enough to get us the OVER tonight.

The OVER is 12-6 in Timberwolves last 18 games overall with 226 or more combined points in seven of their last 10 games overall.  Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.

20* Thunder/Warriors ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 227

The Oklahoma City Thunder are 8-1-1 OVER in their last 10 games with 226 or more combined points in eight of those 10 games.  The Thunder have scored at least 115 points in nine of their 10 games during this stretch.

Steph Curry sat the front end of a back-to-back last night in a 114-103 win over the Utah Jazz.  The Warriors were confident they could beat the Jazz without him, and I'm anticipating he plays tonight.  If he does this total will only go up, but I still wouldn't hate it even if he doesn't play.  The Warriors are without Draymond Green, who is their most important defender.

The OVER is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings between the Warriors and Thunder with 237 or more combined points in nine of those 10 games.  The only game that went under the total Curry did not play in.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* Nuggets/Knicks ESPN ANNIHILATOR on OVER 239

The Denver Nuggets are 6-1 OVER in their last seven games overall.  They have gone for 236 or more combined points in six of those seven games.  They are fully healthy right now and playing a lot more small ball which has them taking off offensively, but also being one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA.  The Nuggets rank 3rd in offensive rating and 25th in defensive rating in their last seven games.

The Knicks are 6-3 OVER in their last nine games overall with 243 or more combined points in six of those nine games.  They have scored 143 points in consecutive wins over Memphis and Sacramento.  The Knicks rank 2nd in the NBA in offensive rating this season.

Both teams are fully healthy right now and I expect them both to top 120 points in this one.  The Knicks beat the Nuggets 145-118 for 263 combined points in their first meeting this season in Denver.  It will be more of the same in the rematch in New York tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Miami Heat +8.5

The Cleveland Cavaliers are overvalued after a blistering start to the season that has them sitting in 1st place in the East.  They have gone 1-3 SU & 1-3 ATS in their last four games overall.

The Cavaliers shouldn't be 8.5-point road favorites over the Miami Heat tonight considering they will be without three key role players in Wade, LeVert and Okoro.  It has since been announced that Darius Garland (21.7 PPG, 6.8 APG) will rest on the front end of a back-to-back here.  This line should have crashed more than it has since that announcement.

The Heat are getting no respect right now because of the Jimmy Butler drama.  But players are over it, and the Heat have won and covered their last two games coming in.  They are playing with a chip on their shoulder right now.  The Heat are 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings with the Cavs, so this has been a good matchup for them.  Bet the Heat Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Kings/76ers OVER 225

The Sacramento Kings are a dead nuts OVER team going 9-2 OVER in their last 11 games overall with 223 or more combined points in nine of those 11 games.  The Kings are fully healthy right now and rank 4th in pace in their last 12 games.  They have scored 120 or more points in five of their last six games coming in.

The Philadelphia 76ers have had to go more small ball without their top two big men in Joel Embiid and Andre Drummond.  The result of small ball has been going 4-1 OVER in their last five games overall with 232 or more combined points in three of their last five.  Paul George may return tonight after sitting out the front end of a back-to-back in a win over the Lakers last night.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night BLOWOUT on Toronto Raptors -6.5

The Toronto Raptors have quietly gone 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall and are clearly playing their best basketball of the season.  A big reason for their success is the fact that they have remained healthy.

The Washington Wizards are the worst team in the NBA at 6-39 SU & 17-27-1 ATS this season.  This is a terrible spot for the Wizards returning home from a 6-game road trip out West.  They lost all six games by 8 points or more and have now lost 14 straight overall with all 14 coming by 6 points or more, and 13 by 7 points or more.

Now the Wizards will be playing in their 7th different city in 12 days and I question how much they have left in the tank. They will also be dealing with distractions from returning home as they were last at home on January 16th.  Bet the Raptors Wednesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Total DOMINATOR on Jazz/Warriors OVER 228.5

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 13th in pace and 29th in defensive rating.  They are reasonably healthy right now which is the key to them being an OVER team.  But they are without Walker Kessle (11.3 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 2.4 BPG), who is their most important defender.

The OVER is 5-2 in Jazz last seven games overall with 228 or more combined points in six consecutive games coming in.  Golden State is 5-1 OVER in its last six games overall with 226 or more combined points in five of those six contests.

The Warriors are without their most important defender in Draymond Green right now.  Jonathan Kuminga is also a great, lengthy, athletic defender that they are missing right now.  They are going more small ball with Brandon Podziemski back and healthy.  Small ball favors OVERS.

Utah and Golden State have combined for at least 228 points in four of their last five meetings and six of their last eight meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

20* Lakers/76ers TNT No-Brainer on Philadelphia +4

This is a terrible spot for the Los Angeles Lakers.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back following a narrow 112-107 win at Charlotte last night.  It's worth noting the Hornets lost their best player in La'Melo Ball early in that game and the Lakers still struggled to put away the short-handed Hornets.

It's a great time to 'sell high' on the Lakers, who have won four straight coming in including wins over the rival Celtics and Warriors.  They weren't that motivated to beat the Hornets last night, and they won't be that motivated tonight either.  This will be the 9th game in 16 days for the Lakers and I question how much they have left in the tank.

The 76ers are missing some guys, but it hasn't stopped them from pulling off consecutive impressive upset wins over the Cavs as 9-point home dogs and the Bulls the very next night as 3.5-point road dogs.  Now the 76ers have had the last two days off so they will be fresh and ready to go, plus they will be motivated to beat the Lakers on National TV tonight.  Bet the 76ers Tuesday.

20* Clippers/Suns NBA TV Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 224

Both the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns are as healthy as they have been all season.  The only players they are both missing are known more for defense than offense.  That's Kris Dunn (6.0 PPG, 42.3% FG's) for the Clippers and Ryan Dunn (7.3 PPG, 45.2% FG's) for the Suns.

The Clippers just hung 127 points on the Bucks in a 127-117 victory for 244 combined points.  The Suns have hung 117 or more points in five of their last seven games overall and 114 or more in eight of seven of their last nine.

The OVER is 6-1 in the last seven meetings with 229 or more combined points in six of those seven meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

20* NBA Monday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Grizzlies/Knicks OVER 240.5

The Memphis Grizzlies are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 1st in pace and 5th in offensive rating this season.  The OVER is 8-3-1 in Grizzlies last 12 games overall with 234 or more combined points in nine of those 12 games.  That includes 238 or more combined points in six of their last eight coming in.

The New York Knicks rank 2nd in offensive rating which has turned them into an OVER team this season.  They just combined for 263 points in a 143-120 home win over the Sacramento Kings last time out, a Kings team that profiles similarly to Memphis.

The OVER is 8-1 in the last nine meetings between the Grizzlies and Knicks.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Charlotte Hornets +6

The Los Angeles Lakers are in the ultimate letdown spot tonight.  After upsetting the rival Boston Celtics at home on Thursday, the Lakers backed it up with a 118-108 win at Golden State on Saturday.  Those are arguably their two biggest rivals.

Now the Lakers have to travel clear out east to take on the Charlotte Hornets.  They won't be nearly as motivated to beat the Hornets as they were to beat those two previous teams.  They are 'fat and happy' right now and ripe for the picking.

The Hornets have quietly gone 5-5 SU & 6-3-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall and are playing their best basketball of the season.  La'Melo Ball and Mark Williams are healthy and playing tremendous to lead the way.  THey are coming off a 31-point home win over the Pelicans as 1.5-point dogs.

The Lakers are 16-6 at home but just 9-12 on the road this season.  The Hornets have played much better at home than on the road this season.  They have outright upset home victories in three of their last four including wins over Phoenix and Dallas in the West.  Bet the Hornets Monday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Lakers/Hornets OVER 222

The Charlotte Hornets rank in the Top 10 in pace in their last 10 games.  The key has been having PG La'Melo Ball healthy.  He pushed the tempo for them and makes everything go for them offensively.  The Hornets have scored at least 110 points in seven of their last eight games overall, including 120 or more in three of their last five.

The Lakers just hung 118 on Golden State and 117 on Boston in consecutive victories.  Those are two of the best defensive teams in the NBA.  Now the Lakers get a step down in class here against the Hornets.

The OVER is 5-1 in the last six meetings between the Lakers and Hornets with 231 or more combined points in all six games.  We have a lot of room to spare here with this low total of 222 points.  Bet the OVER in this game Monday.

15* NBA Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Thunder/Blazers OVER 225.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder have had to go more small ball here of late with injuries to their big men.  They are also going to be without their best perimeter defender in Lu Dort today against the Portland Trail Blazers.

The OVER is 8-1 in Thunder last nine games overall with 227 or more combined points in seven of those nine games.  They have gone for 251 and 248 combined points in their last two trips to Portland.

The Blazers are fully healthy at the guard positions with Simons running the show.  They are playing well with four straight victories.  But they have played seven of their last eight games against teams that profile as under teams due to poor offense and good defense, plus slow tempo.  

The Blazers will open things up today against the Thunder because they are going to have to with the Thunder guaranteed to get their points.  This game should sail OVER this 225.5-point total. Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Wizards/Suns OVER 231

The Phoenix Suns are fully healthy right now which has been rare for them.  They are an elite offensive team when that's the case, and I fully expect them to hang a big number on the Washington Wizards tonight to lead the way in us cashing this OVER ticket.

The Wizards are an OVER team as long as Kuzma and Poole are healthy, and that's the case for them right now.  The Wizards rank 4th in pace and dead last (30th) in defensive rating this season.  They have allowed at least 120 points in six of their last eight games overall.

The OVER is 2-0 in the last two meetings and 7-3 in the last 10 meetings.  The Suns beat the Wizards 130-123 for 253 combined points in their first meeting this season on January 16th just over a week ago.  It will be more of the same in the rematch tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Jazz/Grizzlies OVER 241.5

The Memphis Grizzlies are a dead nuts OVER team.  They rank 1st in pace and 5th in offensive rating this season.  They will control the tempo playing at home tonight.

The OVER is 8-2-1 in Grizzlies last 11 games overall with 234 or more combined points in nine of those 11 games.  That includes 238 or more combined points in six of their last seven coming in.

The Utah Jazz are a dead nuts OVER team as long as Markannen and Sexton are in the lineup.  They are both expected to play tonight.  The Jazz are 13th in pace and 29th in defensive rating.

The OVER is 5-0 in Jazz last five games overall with 237 or more combined points in each of their last three games.  The Grizzlies and Jazz combined for 250 points in their lone meeting earlier this season.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Kings/Knicks OVER 232.5

The Sacramento Kings are getting back to their roots under interim head coach Doug Christie.  They are playing faster and their offense has thrived since upping the tempo.  The OVER is 8-2 in Kings last 10 games overall with 240 or more combined points in seven of those 10 games.  They have scored at least 123 points in eight of those 10 games.

The New York Knicks profile as an OVER team this season thanks to ranking 2nd in offensive rating.  They are fully healthy right now with Josh Hart questionable the only concern.  But as long as Towns is healthy and on the court, the Knicks are one of the best offensive teams in the NBA.

The Knicks will be looking to run more with the last three days off, so they are fresh and ready to go.  The Kings are always looking to run ranking 1st in pace in their last 10 games.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.