Indiana at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Pacers over Thunder - Well, here it is, Game seven of the NBA Championship and I heard from some experts out in Las Vegas that Indiana is the worst team to ever reach the Finals.  Now, I haven't seen all the NBA Finals match-ups but I assure you that any team that can take Oklahoma City to the limit is not the worst of anything. But, the Pacers have to face the fact that the Home team in NBA Game Seven has won 15 of 19 times. The Thunder are 10-2 at home during the playoffs and have not lost two in-a-row during the playoffs and lost two in-a-row only twice all season. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Indiana at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Pacers - As old Dandy Don used to sing, the ‘party’s over sweet darling.’ Oklahoma City blew past the Pacers in Game 5 of this best of seven series and now lead 3-2 with their improbable wins and cover in Games 4 & 5. It looked as though the Thunder would fall behind 3-1 in games to Indiana (a 7-1 underdog) but no. The Pacers have to be down trodden after blowing their lead in game four and for the first time they don’t hold a 3-1 series lead. The mine set for the Pacers has been completely altered. with or without Tyrese Haliburton this game ends the series. Thunder get serious here. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Indiana at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Pacers - As old Dandy Don used to sing, the ‘party’s over sweet darling.’ Oklahoma City tied the best of seven series at 2-2 with their improbable win and cover in Game 4. It looked as though the Thunder would fall behind 3-1 in games to Indiana (a 7-1 underdog) but no. The Pacers have to be down trodden after blowing their lead in game four and for the first time they don’t hold a 3-1 series lead. The mine set for the Pacers has been completely altered. Thunder get serious here. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Oklahoma City at Indiana 8:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Thunder - Oklahoma City is 4-4 on the playoff road straight-up but against the number they are 0-8 and are still looking for their first road ATS win. Indiana has done an amazing job at coming from behind with more fourth quarter come back victories then ever established in the NBA playoffs. The Thunder have set more playoff scoring margin records that and team in NBA history and the have not lost consecutive road games in the playoffs. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Oklahoma City at Indiana 8:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Thunder - Without a doubt Oklahoma City has been the most dominant team in the NBA this season winning by unheard of margins in both the regular and post seasons. Indiana has match the Thunder game for game since mid January and have proven to be a team that you can never count out. OKC is an incredible 63-34-4 ATS from the season opener up till today including 36-11 SU on the road. But, the playoff road is not an easy path the are 4-3 straight-up in seven road game but are 0-7 against the spread…0-7 ATS on the playoff road. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Indiana at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Thunder (-) over Pacers - Aw, come on…again! Really now, how long will this continue? This sucks for Oklahoma City backers after laying 10 or less in game One and you have o be thinking about taking Indiana in Game 2 because the thunder are just cruising along with a 15-point lead in the four wait until the game is over and then what! See, I mean what are Thunder Game 1 backers supposed to do, should they lay 11 of more against a team that just beat you and have beaten everyone else  that they play and on the road. This line I getting more absurd to me the more I look at it. It looks so inviting with a double-digit dog…Maybe I’m the sucker…take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Indiana at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Pacers - It has been 25 years since Indiana made to the NBA Finals and a lifetime for Oklahoma City but not the franchise. The Seattle Super Sonics were NBA Champions before they were run out of Washington to Middle America Oklahoma City. Last season when the Thunder had the best record in the NBA they were ousted early from the NBA post season and this year the once again posed the best record and have made it to the finals.The Pacers lost both meetings this season after winning both meetings last season. The Thunder have defeated teams by the widest margin in NBA history through out the season and continue through the playoffs. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

New York at Indiana 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Pacers - There are plenty of good reasons to have the Knicks Saturday night and my buddy Larry Ness would say ‘you can only lose once down 3-games and getting points’, and he is right but that has nothing to do with my reasoning. I am a numbers guy and the book maker is giving me all the signs of a New York victory. The line of minus-4 is fair enough but when I look into the personal prop bets they can be very telling. One thing I believe that the ‘bookies’ are telling ‘us’ is that the Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton, who had one of the greatest playoff stat lines for a guard in NBA Playoff history, followed that performance with an eight point effort last time out and that he is in trouble again. Now, many would naturally think that Ty will bounce back when returning to his home floor where that ‘historic’ game took place. But, the bookmaker does not believe it…his over/under total for points opened at 19.5. Tibs puts the defensive pressure on and Knicks must win! Take NEW YORK!

Indiana at New York 8:00 ET

Knicks (-) over Pacers - Most of the people I speak with think that that New York is done and will lose the series 4-1. I have trouble accepting the knee jerk reaction and jumping on Indiana. My thought are that the Knicks will win the game outright and might struggle to cover the number. The Knicks can’t get past blowing a 116-102 lead with 2:57 left in the 4th quarter losing game 2 at home and for the most part blowing the series. But, it is the Knicks or nobody here. Take NEW YORK!

Minnesota at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Timberwolves - Minnesota will be scrambling for their NBA playoff lives and they will need another super effort from Anthony Edwards and for Julius Randle to at least show up. But, that might be a bit of a problem with The Wolves who often go into the tank on the road when falling behind and that is what I expect here. The Thunder much like Minnesota is more comfortable when playing at home where they have won 42-of-49. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

New York at Indiana 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Pacers - I guess the thing to do in this series is to expect the unexpected! Also, with the ability to make ‘in-game’ wagers just wait for any team to trail by 20 points or at least 15 and then bet them on the money line to win the game outright! Yeah sure, that’ll happen. The truth of the matter is New York has been out-played for the most part are still considered the better team with a better record. It is just that the Knicks do not go very deep and there is content talk of fatigue, but my God they are barely (except for Brunson) playing 30 minutes of a 48 minute game. Take NEW YORK!

Oklahoma City at Minnesota 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Thunder - Usually when a team especially a good team like Oklahoma City get beat the way they did in Game 3, I take them to come out and play with more urgency next time out. Minnesota played with so much more confidence at home and Anthony Edwards feels really comfortable on his home floor. As I mentioned the Thunder didn’t have the intensity needed and still with a lead in the series I do not believe that they feel the urgency. Wolves stay hot on their court. Take MINNESOTA!

New York at Indiana 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Pacers - Although Indiana is 2-0 in the series and are at home the bookmakers still feel that New York is the better team. After two straight wins over the Knicks and 7-of-10  is favored by less than a long shot ball where last season in the Playoffs while the Pacers won when the line was minus-6. Now, the team with the NBA’s clutch player they have fold down the stretch in both games One and Two. The Knicks will try and get the ball low and hope that the Pacers long balls fail. The pressure is only to rise and it is the Knicks last salvo. Take NEW YORK!

Oklahoma City at Minnesota 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Thunder - It is said that an NBA Playoff series doesn’t begin until a team wins one on the road, well, for Minnesota if the series is to being with a Thunder road win then the series hasn’t began it has virtually ended. Oklahoma City showed all its firepower at home winning and getting the cover in both meetings. Playing at home will aid Minnesota as they have defeated the Thunder 3-of-4 times that they have hosted in the series. Rake MINNESOTA!

Indiana at New York 8:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Knicks - The impossible happened…Indiana came from 16-points down (to tell the truth it is still a blur) with three minutes remaining to shock the Knicks and everyone watching in amazement. ESPN reported that New York had a 99.4% chance of winning…HA! I don’t understand why the Knicks have become stronger favorites in Game 2 despite their failure in Game 1 and added pressure. It is difficult to lay the points with the Knicks after what we saw but the Pacers might  believe that they have accomplished their goal of taking one game at MSG.

Take INDIANA!

Minnesota at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Timberwolves - These two have split the last 10 meeting each winning five and each posted a pair of road wins. Finally the Thunder showed their stuff in Game 1 of this series by running away from the Timberwolves in the second half. Using the zig-zag system most of the public will come back and bet on Minnesota, especially if they had the visitor in the opener. I see more of the same here and look for another impressive win. Take  OKLAHOMA CITY!

Indiana at New York 8:00 ET

Knicks (-) over Pacers - These two have seen each other enough over the years including last years playoffs when Indiana celebrated at the Garden in New York after defeated the Knicks to move on in the playoffs. Now, let get up to speed… and it is here that the Pacers Tyrese Haliburton controversy was on display. Tyrese was voted by the players the leagues ‘most over-rated player’ and it was because of his behavior not his play, as he is disliked by his peers. Last year after Indiana had defeated the Knicks at MSG as he wore a hoodie with Reggie Miller’s image to harass the Knicks after their series victory as he was rubbing salt into the wounds.  On the opposite end of the scale the Knicks Jalen Brunson was voted the ‘best clutch’ player in the NBA. Revenge is sweet.Take NEW YORK!

Minnesota at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Timberwolves - I’ve seen the media has made a point of making a big deal of the difference of time between games for Minnesota and OKC. The Thunder are supposed to be tired after an easy walk-over victory Sunday defeating Denver 125-93. The Timberwolves took Golden State out in five games and have had six days to reflect on how good they are as they are in the conference for the second straight year, when losing to Dallas last season. It has been nine years since the Thunder have made it to the finals and the bring the best playoff defensive rating of 101.6 and the Wolves come in with a 106.8 rating. Add the home foor…take OKLAHOMA CITY!  

Denver at Oklahoma City 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - Oklahoma City has moved a step closer this season to the NBA Championship series something the club hasn’t reached since the franchise was in Seattle. This season they have gone past the first round and need a win here to take another huge step toward their goal after posting the best record in the West for the second straight season. Denver who went through incredible coaching and front off chances three days before the playoffs responded and have rallied behind the ‘Joker’ who exploits the Thunders weak defense. The Nuggets Aaron Gordon is questionable for the visitors and even if he goes his effectiveness has to be questioned. Denver has more game experience but the thunder have explosive power. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Boston at New York 8:00 ET

Celtics (+) over Knicks - A good friend of mine would always take the team down 3-2 in a seven game series and his thinking that you can only get beat once if you don’t win. I have always felt that each match-up is different and I would always take the side I thought was going to win no matter what the series record may be. Tonight it is do or die for Boston and even without Tatum they have won 10 of 12 and should win here and force a Game 7. The Celtics used a balanced attack with six player scoring in double-figures while the hustling Knicks rely on Jalen Brunson as he is their focus on offense and Towns on a pressure defense. Take BOSTON!

Oklahoma City at Denver 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - Sure Oklahoma City has won the past two games but Denver has covered three straight and are at home and getting points. That seems so attractive when you have Jokic and Murray a streak shoot both at home. The question to me is maturity, does Oklahoma City who has shown the best balance and talent all season long and have yet to show the ability to handle the big game pressure…But, the pressure here isn’t as great as they will still have a Game 7 at home if they should fall short. The pressure is on the Nuggets who face elimination. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

New York at Boston 7:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Knicks - The Celtics are in a bad spot (DUH) as the trail New York 3-1 in the series and as we all know they will be without their superstar Jayson Tatum (yes he is truly one) the rest of the way. Boston is one of the deepest teams in the NBA and they have played without Tatum a number of times with much success and are 9-2 in games without him. The Knicks have trailed by double digits at one time or another in all four games but have not been able to maintain the leads down the stretch. The strangest thing about the Knicks is that they are still undefeated on the road winning all five games outright. The Celtics will man-up here and extend the series. Take BOSTON!

Denver at Oklahoma City 9:39 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - I have been saying for months now that 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic is not even a ‘basketball player’… now of course that is silly but my goodness, he doesn’t move or jump but he does take up a lot of space, a lot of space and he can shoot and pass and rebound…ah, okay, I guess he’s a basketball player! But, one basketball player is no match for five thoroughbreds or lets make that 10 Thunder’s that run the floor and will easily be able to create space from that huge orb. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Boston at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics - So, what do ya think? Boston swept the season series 4-0 by average margin of 16.7 PPG per victory, in the playoffs Game 1 they had a 27 point lead and Game 2 they had a 20 point lead and they routed the Knicks by 22 points in Game 3 at MSG. In spite of all that the Knicks lead the series 2-1 and understand that this may be the most important game of the series. I expect a stronger Thibodeau inspired defensive intensity. Take NEW YORK!

Cleveland at Indiana 6:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers - It appears to me that the media is going to make this a game between Indiana’s (most over-rated voted by the players) Tyrese Haliburton and Cleveland’s prolific scorer Donovan Mitchell. So far the Pacers are up 2-1 and Mitachell is on the rise scoring 40 and 43 points in the past two games while Haliburton had just four points in Friday’s home loss. The Cavaliers’ Hunter, Mobley and Garland were questionable on Friday and all played and made contributions, they won’t catch the Pacers again. Tyrese rebounds and…take INDIANA!

Minnesota at Golden State 8:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Timberwolves - Well, it looks like the NVA got this one right as Number 7 seed Golden State will host No. 5 seed Minnesota and the stats and trends couldn’t be ant closer. Both clubs have won 54 games and both squads have lost 44 games ATS with the Warriors having posted one more point spread win. The Timberwolves have won 28 road games and State has won 27 home games. No curry…no problem as Warriors are 8-4 SU in playoff games without the sharpshooter. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Oklahoma City at Denver 10:00 ET

Nuggets (-+ over Thunder - We all got to see the real Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 as they won their second playoff game by 40 points or more. With the best scoring average and best defensive average the Thunder had the larger average margin of victory that ant other team in NBA history. I keep hearing that the are still too young but they have depth and talent and have plenty of confidence. Denver of course has who many consider the best player in basketball the 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic and a supporting cast that plays much better at home. The Nuggets have Playoff and Championship experience while OKC has yet to win anything in the postseason. The Nuggets will use their Mile High experience to their advantage. Take DENVER!

Cleveland at Indiana 7:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers - Do you or anyone else expect to see Cleveland a team that won 64 regular season games (3 more than Boston) and is the Number One seed in the Eastern Conference lose two home games in open the playoffs. Both the Pacers and Cavaliers have mirror records at 32-11 with Cleveland in the road and Indiana at home. So, shouldn’t this game be closer to a pick-em. But, it will still be hard to take the Pacers here and I’m sure the ‘public’ and even the Vegas ‘pros’ will lay the Cavaliers. To be truthful, there is so much action coming in on the Cavs that I believe there is a good chance that they could win by less than three points. Cleveland is hurting with Garland, Mobley and Hunter all still questionable. Take INDIANA!

Golden State at Minnesota 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Warriors- These two combatants have met five times this season with Minnesota taking their first meeting and Golden State won two days later and the following four meetings including Game 1 of this series. But, at least one thing aside from Jimmy Butler is different this time around as Stephen Curry will be out for at least a week. Surprisingly enough the Warriors are 8-3 in playoff games without Curry since coming into the league in 2009. The Wolves’ Anthony Edwards has had tow poor playoff games in-a-row and I expect him to break out tonight. Take MINNESOTA!

Denver at Oklahoma City 9:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - Is it experience? Are the Thunder too young and still a year away…we will know real soon.! Oklahoma City dropped two-in-a-row just twice during the regular season and have dropped Game-One as the Nuggets with 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic getting another Triple-double rallied from a 13-point 4th quarter deficit for the upset win. I am worried about Russel WestBRICK who seems to have new life. Thunder rebound and take this one going away. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!  

New York at Boston 7:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Knicks - It took five tries buy the New York Knicks finally defeated the Boston Celtics and it was actually their third win(only wins) in Boston in their last 11 meetings overall. The Celtics can use the Kristaps Porzingis excuse as he was injured early but it is more like the Beantowners shot just 15 of 60 from 3-point range. in the third quarter of Game One the Celtics had a 20-point lead but took 16 three-point shots and only one two-point field goal attempts. New York got what the wanted and that is at least one win on the road. Take BOSTON!

Golden State at Minnesota 9:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Warriors - Minnesota wen the first meeting of the season between these two and two days later the Warriors returned the favor and won the next two meetings as well. But,before that stretch, the  T’woves had won the five previous meetings. Because the NBA is totally F’d up the No. six seed will be hosting the No. 7 seed I will explain later why it is way wrong). The No. 1 seed Oklahoma City is playing th2 No. 4 seed Denver. Which means that Minny gained a huge advantage over the Thunder by drawing the No. 7 seed Golden State (this could never happen in the NFL or NCAA tourneys). Playing against the lower seed who is coming off a seven game series Minny take advantage of the seeding. The wolves were no more than a 3-point home favorite against GS this season and now in the playoffs…take MINNESOTA!

Indiana at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Pacers -  The question here is are the Pacers satisfied going home with a 1-1 split. We know Cleveland doesn’t want to be down 0-2 blowing a pair of games at home and having to going to Indiana. But, the Cavs have physical problems with a trio of players who are hurting of which we can expect the return of Darius Garland and a better shooting night from Donovan Mitchell (1 of 11 from three and 11 for 30 overall. Take CLEVELAND!

New York at Boston 7:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics - New York who has had one of their best seasons in recent years has shown a huge flaw. The Knicks failed to defeat any of the NBA’s top three teams even once going 0-12 SU against Boston, Cleveland and Oklahoma City. Boston has been to the conference title game three straight times while New York has not been to the finals in 25 years. But, the post-season is a fresh start for the Knicks as they have not met in the post-season since 2013 and the Celtics have won four of the seven times that they have meet in the playoffs. This time the Knicks get off to a quick series start. Take NEW YORK!

Golden State at Houston 8:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Rockets- From the moment Golden State picked up Jimmy Butler they were transformed into a real threat in the West. When Curry is doing his thing and Green is playing his style Butler fits in perfectly and the Warriors will used their big game experience against a youthful but talented Houston squad. The Rockets came on strong in the second half of the season last year but failed to make the playoffs. They took a huge step this season and probably a bigger one next year but the season ends tonight. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Indiana at Cleveland 6:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers - What should be a great series has the No. 1 offense owned by Cleveland faces the Indiana Pacers who have managed to win five of the last eight meetings between the two including the last two this past April. The Cavaliers swept Miami in their opening round of playoff action and covered all but one game missing by a bucket but their final game of the regular season was a loss at home to these same Pacers who have now won 8-of-10. I expect more of the same. Take INDIANA!

LA Clippers at Denver 7:30 ET

Clippers (+) over Nuggets -The ‘sharps’ in Las Vegas were all over LA for the series and have pretty much had them every game. But, now facing a game seven in Denver the Clippers are now the underdog after being favored game four the last time in Mile High. Thus, all the series money which came heavily on the the Clippers will be balanced by ‘action’ on the Nuggets. LA has a history of playoff failures and the Nuggets know how to win around three-time MVP Jokic but the surprise here will be the pay of James Harden. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Houston at Golden State 9:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - I keep hearing that Houston is a year away from being capable of winning a playoff series while Golden State may be one year away from retirement. The Warriors took Game 5 off in the series as they were a no-show and sat their aging stars for more than half the game. This team of veterans has been in this position before after laying down and losing by 39-points in the 2022 playoffs the rebounded to eliminate Memphis when they returned home. But, this Rockets club has spring in their legs and will give the Warriors all that they can handle here. Take HOUSTON!

New York at Detroit 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Pistons - This has been the most exciting of the playoff series to date along with the West playoff series between the LA Clippers and Denver. From the start the Piston have been given a puncher's chance of winning this series and they are giving New York all that they can handle. The road team has won four of the five games in this series and the Pistons have lost nine straight playoff games at home and haven’t posted a home playoff victory since 2008. The best goes on…take NEW YORK!

Minnesota at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Lakers over Timberwolves - We keep hearing how impressive the LA Clippers’ have been the last month of the regular and post season winning 19 of their past 21. Minnesota has also been impressive of late and are 20-5 the past 60 days and have won five of seven meeting with the Lakers. Anthony Edwards has proven to be the equal of either of the Lakers superstars James and Doncic. LA need a three game win streak or be eliminated from the playoff. Lakers use their experience to survive tonight. Take LAKERS!

LA Clippers at Denver 10:00 ET

Clippers over Nuggets - Denver has tied the series at 2-2 and it was a surprise to see the Nuggets win the two games that they actually won. Los Angeles has been the betting public’s choice up to this point, but now they believe that Denver has the upper hand. Nikola Jokic has average a triple-double while the Nuggets have four players averaging double digits in scoring but go much deeper than Denver as Westbrook is listed as questionable. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Milwaukee at Indiana 6:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Pacers - Things can’t look any worse for Milwaukee as they trail the Pacers 3-1 in this best of seven series and will be without Damian Lillard not only for this game but most likely for next season as well. Indiana ran away from the Bucks in Game 4 shooting over 60% and having assists on 36 of 50 baskets made. Former MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo can be dominate and needs to be tonight. Take MILWAUKEE!

Houston at Golden State 10:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - Golden State was trailing the Rockets by 13-points and were without Jimmy Butler in Game 3 when Stephen Curry decided to take over and scored 21 second half points as the Warriors stormed back for the 104-93 victory. Houston has now dropped five of their past six games with only two wins since April 4th and both have come against the Warriors. The Rockets were 5-games better this season, remembering that Butler was a last edition after the All-star game. Take HOUSTON!

Boston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Celtics - Last time out Boston was supposed to be without Jayson Tatum but he showed up and it was Jrue Holiday that took the day off. The Celtics held a 10-point half-time lead but scored just 11 points in the third quarter and Orlando caught them thinking of their next golf game. The Magic believe that they can play with this team as they have split their last 10 meetings. Take ORLANDO!

LA Lakers at Minnesota 3:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Lakers - I have seen this before and I don’t know if you realize that you have seen it before. Byt, instead of having one player (Lebron James) controlling the ball while four others standing around while the Lakers are on offense, they still have four people standing around but the have two players different players control the ball as Luka Doncic has got to get his share of the glory. Two great stars do not necessarily a winner make. Shooting wolves has the confidence to bust the Lakers again. Take MINNESOTA!

New York at Detroit 1:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Pistons - After getting beat at home in Game 2 most were saying that the Knicks needed to win at least one game in Detroit and they were expect them to be able to do it. Oh yes, the Knicks came through with a 118-116 win as a favorite of -1.5. The Pistons trailed most of that game and only a late push made it close. The ‘Motor City’ boys out-played NY the first seven quarters until the Knicks woke up and since it has been…take NEW YORK!

Houston at Golden State 8:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - Yesterday I felt that I had to wait for some vital and useful information could get to me and it paid off with the Megabucks winner with Orlando over Boston. Saturday, it’s all in already with our Megabucks release for Saturday. The Jimmy Butler scare just gives the Warriors the excuse they will need. Still. Jimmy Playoffs when he wants can be tough enough to gut it out and for short to the young springing legs of Rockets. Take HOUSTON!

LA Lakers at Minnesota 9:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Timberwolves - The Lakers used their experience in their huge recovery in Game 2 after getting dominated t the Timberwolves in Game 1 getting routed 117-95 and it wasn’t even that close. The Lakers play the kind of defense that can throw the Minnesota shooting of their timing and shot making and their slow deliberate style will frustrate the younger Wolves. Take LA LAKERS!

Boston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Celtics - I have been waiting a little longer before posting during this year’s NBA Playoffs as the vital information continues to come right up till game time. Tonight we are all aware that Jayson Tatum is out but Boston has so much depth it doesn’t affect the overall team play. The odds makers have made their adjustments and the ‘public’ isn’t distracted they still support the NBA Champs. The Magic have enough at home to take this one down the the final buzzer…take ORLANDO!

Denver at LA CLIPPERS 10:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers -  I understand that Los Angeles has out-played the Nuggets both game and return home 1-1 instead of 2-0. The public and even the ‘smarties who do this for a living have been all over the Clippers since they closed the season winning 13 of 14 with their lone loss by 2-points to Oklahoma City. Denver has had a bit of chaos of late with both the General Manager and head coach were shown the door three days before the season ended. The move does not seem to have hurt the Nuggets and we will know more later tonight. Take DENVER!

Oklahoma City at Memphis 9:30 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Thunder - As I stated before I don’t believe like so many others that the Oklahoma City is a year away from winning it all but I don’t thing so their time may be here now! They have won the first toe games by 51 and 19 points and have won the past 11 meetings between the two combatants. Memphis has been an impostor all season long, and even when they were seed No. 2 before their late season swoon. But, if the Grizzlies have any professionalism at all they will show up here and take this one down to the final buzzer. Take MEMPHIS!

New York at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Knicks - I have been hearing it from the moment this match-up as made that the Knicks would struggle against the Pistons. So, I am not so surprised that the Motor City Kids came up big but it was the non appearance of Karl-Anthony towns where posted just 10 points and six rebounds. The ‘sharps’ and wiseguys are waiting for the highest number possible and the ‘public’ is star New York struck! Take DETROIT!

Cincinnati at Miami 1:10 ET

Marlins over Reds - It’s been going on for awhile now with the Reds being in the spotlight because of the exciting players that they have in their line up. The trouble is it seems that when they do some of their amazing feats they spend a week replaying high-lights on MLB instead of making new high-lights. The Reds average 1.2 more runs per game than they allow and they are two games under .500. Miami surrenders 0.8 more runs then they score and they have as many wins as do the Reds. Cincy’s Brady Singer (3-0, 3.80 ERA) and he has been very fortunate and he will be up against the Marlins’ best who has struggled, Sandy Alcantara (2-1, 7.27) who is 2-3 with a 3.03 ERA in seven starts lifetime against Cincinnati.. The beat goes on…take MIAMI!

Memphis at Oklahoma City 7:30 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Thunder - I have no doubts that Oklahoma City is not a year away as many say as I believe they are the best in the NBA right now. Now, even when you are the best you don’t win every game and after a 51-point blowout win over Memphis the Thunder are very confident. The Grizzlies starters shot just 25% for the game as they dropped their 10th straight to KC and are just 1-9 ATS. But, when a professional club ls loses the way the did in Game 1 they suck it up as professionals to avoid another embarrassing display. Take MEMPHIS!

LA Clippers at Denver 10:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers - This series without a doubt has created the most interest among the bettors and professionals in Las Vegas. The buzz had the ‘sharps’ taking Los Angeles for the series and the line flipped to the Clippers being favored. Game 1 saw Denver who opened a 4-or-5 point favorite were bet down to -2.5 and post a non-cover win. LA seemed a bit despondent after their defeat and well they should be after blowing a double-digit lead. The Clippers have dropped the last three meetings and are now 20-22 SU on the road and a mighty 30-11 when playing as hosts. Take DENVER!

Golden State at Houston 9:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - To start with people are way too enamoured by Golden State since they acquired Jimmy Butler, and we can all see that. Houston I keep hearing is one year away…away from what being good. They are good very good and only Oklahoma City in the West was better. Rebounding will be the key Sunday night and the Rockets hold a huge advantage ranking No. 2 on defense and No. 5 on the offensive end. Jimmy Butler can not kept up. Take HOUSTON!

Minnesota at LA Lakers 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Lakers - This seems like a cheap price to lay if you like the Lakers as up until now for the most part Minnesota has been under valued the entire season and managed to win 49 games. These two split the season series each holding serve on their respective home floors. This contest truly has Hall of Fame superstars with James, Doncic and Edwards and it should be a teat to watch and come down to the buzzer. Take MINNESOTA!

LA Clippers at Denver 3:30 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers - When I saw this match up I instantly like Los Angeles for a c variety of reasons and then I see an onslaught of opinions in Las Vegas among professional bettors and radio touts and not a word or opinion on Denver. I was beginning to have second thoughts but for the most part this is going to be a Joe’s versus Pro’s game where the betting public will have the Nuggets and ‘sharp’ (supposed) money will be on the Clippers. They have flipped the series series from Denver as the favorite to Los Angeles even and laying a price. It does scare me a bit but, Books will need Clippers and so will I. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Milwaukee at Indinna 1:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Bucks - This Game 1 of this series between No. 5 Milwaukee and No. 4 Indiana has the Pacers a strong favorite against a team that is playing their best basketball of the year to close the season. The Bucks closed the season with eight straight wins and were 7-1 ATS down the stretch, unfortunately for them Damian Lillard will remain sidelined. Antetokounmpo can not be stopped but there are nine others on the floor and they include the Pacers’ Tyrese Haliberton. Take INDIANA!

Dallas at Memphis 9:30 ET

Grizzlies (-) over Mavericks - I had trouble pulling the trigger on this one originally because of Ja Morant and his lack of maturity but there is no doubting his abilities. Dallas has had quite a year after making it to the NBA Finals last season the are a beat up No. 10 seed that pulled an upset over Sacramento who was in even worse shape than the Mavericks. But their time is up. Take MEMPHIS!

Miami at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Hawks over Heat - Orlando who finished first in the SE Division was seeded 7th and needed a over which got defeating Atlanta two days after losing to the Hawks. With that win the Magic advanced and the Hawks return to Georgia and host the winning Heat who scorched Chicago. These two met four times this season and the home team is 4-0 both SU and ATS. After what we all saw in Miami’s Megabucks win a blowout over the Bulls, while the Hawks were grounded by their own actions with Trae Young getting tossed. Home teams rule…take ATLANTA!

Miami at Chicago 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Bulls - It is kinda difficult to gauge what is going on the the Chicago Bulls as they got rid of their most productive players at the trade deadline and are actually playing better. The Bulls have now won three in a row and six of seven while Miami who also made some trades at the deadline are another story. The Heat come into this affair having   dropped four of their last six and were 0-3 SU and ATS in the three meetings this season. But, it is said that defense wins championships and not that either of these two will be playing the the ring but the South Beach crew is ranked No. 7 while the Bulls defense is ranked No. 28 allowing 119.4 PPG. Take MIAMI!

Memphis at Golden State 10:00 ET

Grizzlies/Warriors (UNDER) - The past two months these two combatants have moved in different directions with Golden State getting the best of it, while Memphis was in a major slide. The Warriors have gone 23-7 since the Jimmy Butler trade but fell one game short of missing the NBA Play-in Tournament. (which to this date I don’t fully under tand). The Grizzlies dropped from the No. 2 seed down to to No. 7 but have won 4-of-6 after losing their first three games under a change in coaching. Defense will be the key the last time these two met Memphis made a record 27 3-pointers, not going to happen here. Play UNDER!

Dallas at Memphis 3:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Grizzlies - With their interim coach Memphis has fallen from trailing Oklahima City by 5-gams and now they are 15 game behind the Thunder and have fallen from the No. 2 seed to the Number 7. The Grizzlies were outscored in their past two defeats by a 14-1 run by the Nuggets and a 26-2 run by Minnesota. For some reason they virtually quit in the middle of game, and I wonder if Ja Morant clown like behavior has anything to do with it. Take DALLAS!

Denver at Houston 3:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Nuggets - The line of though here is that Houston is locked into the No. 2 seed behind Oklahoma City and Denver guarantees itself a home series with a win. But, the Nuggets are in a bit of turmoil when you consider that they fired their general manager and head coach four days ago…4 days. The Joker keeps posting these incredible numbers and he was actually accused of lifting more than three inches off the floor. Take HOUSTON!

Detroit at Milwaukee 1:00 ET

Pistons (-) over Bucks - He,y didn’t these two play a couple of days ago in Detroit with the Pistons favorites and they were soundly defeated by these same Bucks. So, now the Pistons are even bigger favorite in America’s brewery town and have lost 12 straight in the series and 24 of the past 25 meetings. (man, I know the Pistons have been down in recent years but…wow really). The Motor City boys have dropped 3-of-4 and will be all in to approach the playoff in a positive manor. But, for the veteran playoff team like the Bucks it is a different story as the ‘Greek Freak’ probably won’t ever show up at the arena much less dress up for the locked in Bucks. Take DETROIT! 

Houston at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Lakers (-) over Rockets - The Lakers are trying to secure the number 3 spot In the NBA west playoff seeding.while Houston is locked in the number 2 spot win or lose he rest of the way out. LA returns home after a three game trip and close the season The Rockets won the first  two meetings at home but the Lakers won and covered at home 2-weeks ago and will even the series here. The Rockets did not use their mainstay players last time out against New Orleans and I expect more of the same. Take LA LAKERS!

Cleveland at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Cavaliers - I am thinking that this line with New York favored is by double-digits is about the most outrageous misnomer that I have seen yet. Think of this Cleveland is not only 3-0 against New York this season but they covered all three up too  a minus 10.5-point favorites. The Cavaliers margin of victory in those three meeting was by 22 points but the ‘under’ is 1-9 in the last 10 battles. The Cavs have clinched the number one spot in the East and this is the second of back-to-back games I don’t expect much effort or evening playing time to those of importance. Take NEW YORK!

Milwaukee at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (-) over Bucks - How about this for a strange number posted on this game as Detroit has been installed as a strong favorite and yet they have lost 11 straight games to Milwaukee and 23 of the pat 24 meetings. The Pistons can finish with the fifth seed if they can defeat the Bucks in each of their final two games which are back-to-back on Friday and Saturday. If Milwaukee can manage to win one of these encounters they will maintain the fifth playoff seed. But, tonight it is the Pistons. Take DETROIT!

Minnesota at Memphis 9:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Grizzlies - Although both of these squads have winning records the past few weeks it looks as though they are willing to fall to the Play-in tournament.  It wasn’t long ago that Memphis was riding high and second to Oklahoma City in the West while Minnesota managed to blow a 24-point lead with 9:44 to play and lost by seven at Milwaukee. the Grizzlies hold a 1-game lead over the T’wolves and can finish as high as 5th if they win their remaining three games. Minny can finish 3rd if they win out and they had a 5-game win streak working when entered Milwaukee. Take MINNESOTA!

Cleveland at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Cavaliers - This is one of those season ending ‘give a-ways’ like we saw last night with the Magic and Clippers. Line that are so out of whack that you feel compelled to make the sucker bet. Indiana being this big a favorite tells me that Cleveland is locked into their playoff position and will be on cruise control. The Pacers have won their last four games and in the last meeting in Indiana the Cavaliers were 8-point favorites and won by 10 and now they are 9,5-point underdogs, a 17.5-point swing…it is not a mistake. Take INDIANA!

Houston at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers over Rockets - Houston has defeated the LA Clippers the last four times they have met including three wins this season. The Rockets have covered the past six meetings and the Clippers have not covered a meeting in Los Angeles since January 2023. Both clubs are on the upswing with Houston having won their last three and six of seven while the Clippers have won their last five games and seven of the past eight. The Clippers are 29-11 at home and will cover this inflated number. Take LA CLIPPERS!

LA Lakers at Dallas 7:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Lakers - Los Angeles just split a pair of contests played in Oklahoma City with the Thunder gaining a measure of revenge by winning the second of the back-to-back games last night. At least the Lakers had a day off before the second match-up whereas tonight it is back-to-back games on consecutive nights. But, the real storyline here is the return for the first time of Luca Doncic returning the Dallas for the first time since being traded by the Mavericks to Los Angeles. Anthony Davis will also be playing for the first time against his former teammates as he sat out injured the last time these two clubs met back in February a 107-99 in LA. Davis has missed 23 games since being sent to Dallas but will be ready tonight. Take DALLAS!

Boston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (-) over Celtics - This is either the biggest ‘sucker’ play in the NBA this season or there is something ‘really, really out of order’ here. Boston who is 40 games over .500 (actually 39) are a large underdog at Orlando to a Magic team that is one-game under .500. Think of this Boston has won their last three and 9-of-10 and eight straight road games while Orlando is fighting for a true playoff berth and not play-in status. The Celtics road record is 33-7 and the Magic are just 21-19 at home and this is their final home game of the season. This ‘price’ is way out of line. This is BOGUS! Take ORLANDO!

Boston at New york 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics- New York has been on the cusp of what it take the past couple of seasons but have yet to show that the cam compete with the NBA’s elite. Boston has had their way against the Knicks winning all three meetings this season and seven of the past eight. New York has not defeated Boston at home in over two years going going 0-4 ATS in the encounters at MSG. The Celtics have clinch a top-two seed locked up while the Knicks need one more win to secure the No. 3 seed in the East…they get it here. Take NEW YORK!

Florida vs Houston 8:50 ET

Cougars (+) over Gators - These two No. 1 seeds and the No. 3 and 4 final seeds here with Florida getting the NCAA’s edge. Each of these clubs has won 35 of 39 games with the Gators going an amazing 28-11 ATS while playing through the tough SEC. Houston has dominated opponents by enacting their pressure defense that led the nation in allowing only  58.1 points per game. Florida has won 11 in-a-row while the Cougars have won 18 straight games and 31 of their last 32 games overall. Kelvin Sampson is going out a winner after 31 years. Take HOUSTON!

Central Florida vs Nebraska 5:30 ET

Cornhuskers (+) over Knights - Unlike the big boys and big girls tournament where only number 1 seeds are permitted to advance the College Basketball Crown has a three seed and a twelve seed (which we hear so much about in the 5-12 match up). Nebraska enters T-Mobile in Las Vegas favored about the same price over the Panthers as was Villanova Saturday who the Knights disposed of in OT 104-98. In Nebraska’s early win Saturday over Boise State they had a fantastic shooting afternoon hitting 63% of three-pointers (12-19) and making 83% from the free throw line. The Knights are led by guard Darius Johnson who put up 42 points making 17 Free Throws and he has eight 3-pointers the last two contests at T-Mobile. The Cornhuskers will regress as their shooting percentage wanes here and the Knights win the challenge.Take CENTRAL FLORIDA!

Toronto at Brooklyn 3:30 ET

Nets (+) over Raptors - If you ever need proof that the points are the equalizer just take a look at the straight up and ATS records of these two also-rans. Brooklyn is 25-52 straight up and yet are a winner against the number going 42-35 ATS. It is much of the same when looking at Toronto who is 28-50 SU but have a winning ATS record of 46-31 (15 games above .500). The Nets are in great position and do not to lay down to improve their draft position because they already have a 9% chance of winning the NBA lottery but they also have three other No. 1 daft picks from trades with Milwaukee, Phoenix and the NY Knicks. The Raptors rapped the Nets two weeks ago and lead the season series 2-1 but it will even it self today. Take BROOKLYN!

Houston vs Duke 8:45 ET

Cougars (+) over Blue Devils - Duke may not be the No. 1 seed but they are the odds makers and people’s choice as the -120 favorite to take it all. Houston who brings the No. 1 defense in the nation to San Antonio allowing just 58.3 PPG and they are ranked No. 2 in 3-point FG percentage at 39.7. The Cougars under coach Kelvin Sampson (who announced his retirement when the season ends) have won 17 games in-a-row while Duke has won 15 straight games and 31 of heir last 32 with only a loss at Clemson on February 8th, they have one loss since November 26, 2024. Wow! Some choice…Number are great but this will come down to a mano-a-mano battle on defense and they both play it well and while the Blue Devils are deep the Cougars have heart and incentive looking to send their coach out with his first NCAA championship. Hey if it’s a ‘show’ like they often say then that’s the upset of the tournament and a great story line. Take HOUSTON!

Memphis at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Grizzlies - The talk surrounding this battle is more about actions on he court other than the play. Ja Morant is at it again, his finger pointing gun actions have the league up in arms (not like the one Ja carries). Memphis is reeling having lost 7 of 9 and not only are they losing on the floor but they lost their coach as well as the Grizzlies slide from the No. 2 seed in the west behind Oklahoma City to their current seeding tied for the fifth spot with the Clippers and Minnesota. Detroit clinch a playoff berth last time out and they are not satisfied after setting franchise record for losses in 2023-24. Memphis has won the past eight meetings and are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 encounters. They have met once this season back in November but the teams have moved in different directions since. The Pistons have moved up to No. 3 in defense and are 29-16 since the New Year. Take DETROIT!

Florida vs Auburn 6:06 ET

Tigers (+) over Gators - The No. 1 overall seed for this NCAA tournament is Auburn and according to the Las Vegas odds makers they are the long shot at +850 to win in the Final Four. Florida who many believe to be the best of them all has had a couple of scares the last few time out and that can be looked at in two ways. You can be party to those who believe they were lucky and their luck will run out, or you believe that they gained from the experience and dodged a bullet twice. Well ,here’s more to ponder, the Gators as an 11-point underdog defeated Auburn 90-81 and have won 13 straight and 19 of 20. Right now aside from Johni Broome and Bruce Pearl the Tigers who closed the season losing 3-of-4 and have won four tourney games this far have not been impressive. Florida is too popular for this line to be as low as it is and it should rise,  but the Gators get bitten by the Tigers. Take AUBURN!

Central Florida vs Villanova 4:00 ET

Knights (+) over Wildcats - A pair of cats will be clawing each other in Las Vegas scratching into the finals of the first ever College Basketball Crown between Central Florida and Villanova. It should be obvious to all that have followed these squads this season who is  better team and who has faced stiffer competition during the year. the Big East sends its sixth seed to battle with the Big-12’s 14th seed Central Florida. The Wildcats won 11 of 20 conference games while the Knights won 7 of 20 Big-12 encounters. I expected the Big East rep considering who and where they come from that they would be at least what Cincinnati was against the Knights last time out about -6.5. The odds makers opened Villanova -2 and it will move higher from the -3.5 that I see now. THIS IS BOGUS!

Take CENTRAL FLORIDA!

Oklahoma City at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Thunder - I don’t know if you new this but, I just realized that Houston had not been to the playoffs in five seasons. Last year was sort of a coming out party for the Rockets but this season they broke through and are currently the No. 2 seed in the West. They have won 13 of the past 15 games but have dropped 3-of-4 to Oklahoma City. I love the Thunder and will have a heart in my throat watching this one as they have won 18 of 19 and I will not be surprised I they win it ALL (most experts believe they are too raw...yeah raw TALENT)! They ranked No. 3 on offense and No. 1 on defense, but you can’t win ‘em all. Take HOUSTON!

Detroit at Toronto 7:30 ET

Pistons (-) over Raptors - Believe it or not I think the Pistons are a threat in the NBA East in make it to the conference finals. Detroit who has dropped their last two games are in the Playoffs with a win tonight after having the worst season in franchise history. Toronto is having a horrible season straight up, but have been one of the most profitable clubs when playing with the points and are 46-30 ATS. The Raptors has lost the past five meetings including three wins this season and are 1-4 ATS in those five meetings. With incentive the Piston will run on all cylinders and rout the Raptors. Take DETROIT!

Golden State at L.A. Lakers 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Lakers - These two California rivals have played three times this season with Los Angeles winning all three match ups covering all three meetings. Golden State had previously won the prior three meetings and covered the number in all of those. Both Golden State and the Lakers made moves at the trade deadline that improved their odds on winning it all. Jimmy Butler was added to the Warriors lineup and Luca Doncic to the Lakers and both trades have proven to upgrade both clubs to championship level. Right now both of these clubs would meet in the NBA playoffs in the first round and the Warriors especially want to enter that series off of a positive win. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Central Florida and Cincinnati 7:00 ET

Knights (+) over Bearcats - These two unlikely conference foes (somehow they are both in the Big-12) meet in Las Vegas and I am looking forward going down to the MGM Grand and watch the Bearcats do their think. Cincinnati you see for ages has let their backers down when in big game situations. The Bearcats already own a victory over the Knights going into Orlando on Feb. 5 and coming away on the right side 93-83 as an underdog of 3.5-points. This sets up perfect as the Queen City boys have won and covered the last five meetings and are in a perfect spot to let everybody down…everybody but ‘us’. (I hope) Take a CENTRAL FLORIDA!

Atlanta at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (-) over Hawks - Dallas has won the last three meetings between these two combatants including a 129-119 win Thanksgiving weekend in Atlanta. Currently, the Hawks are two games ahead of Miami for a play-in spot and 2.5 games over Chicago. The Mavericks who started March 1-9 but have now won four of their last six and have Anthony Davis in uniform for the sixth time since being traded from the Lakers for Luca Doncic. The Mavs have not quit on the season despite being hit with a rash of injuries his year. The Hawks have dropped 3-of-4 and fall short once again tonight. Take DALLAS!

Tulane vs USC 11:00 ET

Trojans (-) over Green Wave - If the line on this game and a number of other games which to me seem out of whack we can always blame it on the transfer portal which has impacted every team bu some more than others. There is no way USC should be favored like this over Tulane, the Green Wave have won 19 games and 8 of their last 10 while Southern Cal who is under .500 is an 8.5-point favorite. The Trojans have dropped nne of the last 12…so, one team has won eight of 12 and the other the heavy favorite has lost nine of their last 12. This one smells real bad. Take SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!

Minnesota at Denver 10:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets - Upon review of the series between these two it was surprising to see that Minnesota has won the past five meetings outright and went 4-1 ATS in the process. Denver will be playing their fourth straight game at home having won the last two but are just 3-11 ATS in their past 14 games overall. The T’wolves are a half-game behind Golden State for the sixth seed looking to avoid the NBA play-in. Minny took out the Nuggets in last years playoffs and seem to have Denver’s number. Take MINNESOTA!

Colorado vs Villanova 8:30 ET

Buffaloes (+3) Wildcats - This is one of those ‘don’t make sense games!’ Villanova of Big East fame missed the NCAA’s and end up in Las Vegas in the semi-final of the newly created College basketball Crown. The Wildcats were 19-14 which out of the Big East this season isn’t all that bad but Colorado was and is a 20-game loser. How, can this line be where it is only a long shot favorite and that’s what Colorado is a long shot. But, the Buffaloes had won three straight before losing and covering the fifth straight to end the season.and are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 overall. Take COLORADO!

North Texas State vs Cal-Irvine 7:00 ET

Anteaters (+) over Mean Green - North Texas State is everything you hate if you are the opposition. They bring the game down to a crawl and are pesky on defense playing pressure ball and cut of passing lanes and force their foes to adapt to the Mean Green style and they usually will wear you down (as they did in the NIT Championship games in Las Vegas in 2023 beating UAB. Cal-Irvine can go both ways moving the ball quickly up-court or a more disciplined style. Mean Green has been more of an underdog in these type of match ups but not here and they are usually better in the underdog role. Oh hey, still yet their coach has left for greener pastures as he signed three days ago to coach West Virginia. Take CAL-IRVINE!

LA Clippers at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Clippers - Orlando who holds the eighth spot in the NBA playoff hunt after winning their fourth game in their last five tries after romping over Sacramento 121-91 on Saturday. The Clippers dropped their contest against Cleveland Sunday and are now in the eighth playoff spot in the Western Conference. LA despite that loss are 8-1 ATS in their last nine games overall. Both are in need and LA posted a win over the Magic back in November and Orlando will even the series here. Take ORLANDO!

Utah vs Butler 6:00 ET

Utes (+) over Bulldogs - Utah has gone through huge changes the later oar of the season including hiring a new coach and have had seven players leave in the transfer portal. Butler enters Las Vegas MGM Grand having lost five of their last six games but have had only one player in the transfer portal and have a 3-1 series edge that should not matter as they last time they played each other was in 1964. The Utes are familiar with playing in Las Vegas and should have plenty of fan support. Take UTAH!

Houston at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Suns (+) over Rockets - Phoenix has dropped their last two games and sit in 11th in the NBA playoff hunt that takes the top 10 to qualify. Houston has been hot and have won 11 of their past 12 and are 2nd in the Western Conference and trail OKC by double-digits but are a game and a half ahead of Denver. The pressure is on the Suns and they should shine bright tonight. Take PHOENIX!

Portland at New York 6:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Knicks - The Knicks continue to play winning basketball despite losing their leading scorer and assists man Jalen Brunson to a sprained ankle and has not played in over three weeks. Portland has dropped three straight but have been off since Thursday at Sacramento where they got wasted. The Trailblazers are 4-games behind Dallas for the 10th spot but losses to Cleveland and Boston have dimmed their chances. The loss to the Kings was one of most lopsided losses of the season for the Blazers and they look to rebound like true professionals would. Take PORTLAND!

Michigan State vs Auburn 5:05 ET

Spartans (+) over Tigers - This is the way it is supposed to be with a pair of veteran teams with big time coaches meet for a berth to the Final-4. Michigan State is never supposed to be here in any year it seems but Tom Izzo’s teams always get better as the season moves on and that a part of life for the Spartans as he has lead them eight Final-4’s. Auburn has been at the top of the polls all year and are coach by another legend in Bruce Pearl who is the only coach to take Tennessee to the Elite Eight and has take Auburn to their only Final-4 appearance. In a really tough call because of the way Michigan State has preformed as an underdog in the tourney and the Tigers are power based with Johni Broome leading the way.

Take MICHIGAN STATE!

Tennessee vs Houston 2:29 ET

Volunteers (+) over Cougars - Usually when I see a price this small my first thoughts are ‘isn’t an inviting line laying 3 or less looks like a steal’ and I would then think that it is too easy. Now, that is the first impression I had when I saw this price at -2.5. So my idea is to fade Houston…not so fast my friend (he still cracks me up Lee Corso). Tennessee is just a hair behind the Cougars keeping opponents shooting at a 38.5% and Houston the nation’s best at preventing shots and is just I/10th of a point better at 38.4%. The Cougars are No. 1 in fewest points allowed per game with 58.5 while the Volunteers are ranked 6th allowing 62.9.PPG. Cats too much for Vols…take HOUSTON!

Alabama vs Duke 8:50 ET

Blue Devils (-) over Crimson Tide - Say what? Alabama took 51 3-point shots on Thursday making 25 setting an NCAA record as three different player made five long distance shots. The Crimson Tide lead the nation in scoring averaging over 91 points a game and have won 5of 7 with both losses to Florida. Duke has keep opponents at 31% shooting from long range and they hold their foes to 62.5 points per game ranking 7th in the nation. The Tide will ebb up against the Blue Devil defense and find it difficult to catch a shooting rhythm. Take DUKE!

Dallas at Chicago 8:00 ET

Mavericks (+) over Bulls - Chicago is off of an improbably win on Thursday defeating the Lakers with half court buzzer beater after trailing by five points  with :12 second left in the game. The Bulls who have won nine of their last 11. Dallas is currently two games below .500 which is really not all that bad when considering the injuries that have plagued them. But, the Mavericks have not quit and are still in a battle with Phoenix and Sacramento. Anthony Davis has been a great addition (lost luca Doncic) and they are totally different when he plays. He is suppose to play tonight. Take DALLAS!

Texas Tech vs Florida 6:05 ET

Red Raiders (+) over Gators - Florida the No. 1 seed has won nine straight and are the ATS leader in the tourney with a 27-10 ATS record on the season. This shows not only were they great this year but the Gators have been under-rated by the book makers as well. Texas Tech received plenty of accolades during the season and have risen to this opportunity to get to the Final Four. The Red Raiders were 18-18 ATS and have covered only once in their last four outings. Tech feels that they are on borrowed time and have nothing to lose after trailing by 16 to Arkansas with 10 minutes remaining before winning in overtime. Raiders believe they have been blessed and believe it is their time. Take TEXAS TECH!