This is a 4* play on Under.

The Finals are expected to come to a conclusion tonight, and if that's the case there is a trend of low scores in closeout games in the NBA Finals over the last 10 seasons. The under is 8-2 in the last 10 closeout games in the Finals, and the majority of those games went under 200 combined points. The Heat have failed to score 100 points in three of four games in this series, and they are averaging 99 points per game in their last eight in the playoffs. Seven of those games went under the total.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The total for Game 1 was sitting at 219, and it has been trending lower every game. Now in Game 4 the number sits at just 210.5, after Miami shot just 37 percent from the field in Game 3. We should expect some positive regression for Miami, and I think they score 100+ here tonight. It's tough to see anything different from Denver as the mismatch with Jokic is just something that isn't going to change. The over is 13-5 in Heat's last 18 games following a double-digit loss at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Denver.

Before this series started the Denver Nuggets were an overwhelming favorite to win the series. They won comfortably in Game 1, and it quickly became apparent that Miami had no answers for the Joker. The Nuggets were up by eight heading into the 4th quarter of Game 2, but the Heat went on a run and ended up winning 111-108. Miami shot out the lights, hitting 48.6 percent from beyond the arc. This is an outlier, well above their playoff average of 39 percent in the post-season. Miami certainly can't count on hitting half of their three-point attempts moving forward, and they still can't stop the Joker. Denver shot 52 percent from the field in Game 2, and Joker scored 41 points on 16-of-28 shooting. The Nuggets simply need to crank up their effort on defense, and I expect them to do just that in Game 3 in Miami.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

One of the stories in Game 1 was the Heat attempting an NBA Playoff record low two free throws. This is one of the factors that resulted in such a low score. Here is what I said prior to the game: "The Miami Heat lead the playoffs in three-point shooting, hitting 39 percent from beyond the arc. The Nuggets aren't far behind hitting 38.6 percent of their three-point attempts. The Heat come in averaging 112 points per game while Denver has averaged 116 points per game in the playoffs. The Joker has put up incredible numbers, averaging 29.9 points, 13.3 rebounds and 10.3 assists. He's put up those numbers against the best defenders in the NBA. The Heat rank near the bottom in the NBA in rebounds per game, and have one of the league's smallest starting lineups. I expect Joker to put up video game numbers in this series, and I like the total to go over in Game 1." The total for Game 2 is several points lower than it was in Game 1, and I expect the Heat to get to the free throw line more often, and hit more threes in Game 2. Whatever the Heat do, I can't see them stopping Joker. I''l take the over here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Miami Heat lead the playoffs in three-point shooting, hitting 39 percent from beyond the arc. The Nuggets aren't far behind hitting 38.6 percent of their three-point attempts. The Heat come in averaging 112 points per game while Denver has averaged 116 points per game in the playoffs. The Joker has put up incredible numbers, averaging 29.9 points, 13.3 rebounds and 10.3 assists. He's put up those numbers against the best defenders in the NBA. The Heat rank near the bottom in the NBA in rebounds per game, and have one of the league's smallest starting lineups. I expect Joker to put up video game numbers in this series, and I like the total to go over in Game 1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Here is what I said prior to Game 6: "We've seen some big money moving in on the under in Game 6. This might as well be an elimination game for both teams, but technically the Heat could try to win a Game 7 on the road as a likely double digit underdog. We saw this series go seven games last year, and Boston won 100-96 here in this building in Game 7. Boston has gone under in five of their last six at Miami. This might be the type of game where the winning team doesn't even score 100 points." We are calling for history to repeat itself in Game 7 of the ECF.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

We've seen some big money moving in on the under in Game 6. This might as well be elimination game for both teams, but technically the Heat could try to win a Game 7 on the road as a likely double digit underdog. We saw this series go seven games last year, and Boston won 100-96 here in this building in Game 7. Boston has gone under in five of their last six at Miami. This might be the type of game where the winning team doesn't even score 100 points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on MIA.

So the Celtics got a game, but they are still down 3-1 and they lost both home games in this series. A return to The Garden has the Celtics as a massive favorite in Game 5. You remember what Einstein said about insanity, doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. The Heat were a huge underdog in Game 5 in Milwaukee, and they won that game 128-126. Miami still has the better coach, a supporting cast that has played it's role perfectly a superstar that has delivered in the clutch more than anyone wearing green and white. I'll take the points, and I'll sprinkle on the moneyline.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIA.

So I said prior to both Game 3 of this series, and Game 4 of the WCF that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. It was no surprise to see Denver win Game 4, as NBA teams up 3-0 in a series win Game 4 roughly 68 percent of the time historically. The Nuggets did it on the road, and the Heat can do it here at home. It's so clear that Jimmy Butler is the best player in this series, and Erik Spoelstra is by far the superior coach. I been riding the Heat this entire post-season, and if it ain't broke don't fix it!

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Denver.

My comments about Game 3 in Miami are just as applicable here in Game 4 in LA. Here is what I said prior to last night's game: 

Albert Einstein said that "the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result". In my humble opinion betting Boston as a road favorite in this spot fits that description perfectly. The myth that Boston is the superior team has been exposed. Jimmy Butler is the best player in this series, and Erik Spoelstra is by far the better coach. Now the Heat have home court, and the Celtics are still reeling trying to figure out what went wrong. I'll take the points, even though I don't think I'll need them. 

IMO this is another example of the Wrong Team Favored! 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIA.

Albert Einstein said that "the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result". In my humble opinion betting Boston as a road favorite in this spot fits that description perfectly. The myth that Boston is the superior team has been exposed. Jimmy Butler is the best player in this series, and Erik Spoelstra is by far the better coach. Now the Heat have home court, and the Celtics are still reeling trying to figure out what went wrong. I'll take the points, even though I don't think I'll need them.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on LAL.

Call me a conspiracy theorist if you want to, but the NBA Finals are about to be a ratings disaster with the Denver Nuggets versus Miami Heat matchup looking more and more likely. If the Lakers can't get back in this series, a lot of money goes up in smoke. I think you're going to see the refs calls fouls for even looking at AD and LeBron in tonight's game. LA won Game 3 against the Warriors 127-97, and they had an edge in free throws to the tune of 37-17. In Game 3 against the Grizzlies they won 111-101. It's not like the first two games in Denver weren't close, and the Nuggets are 1-5 ATS in the last six meetings in Los Angeles. The Lakers are 6-0 ATS in their last six home games, and 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games following a straight up loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BOS.

As much as I disagree with how big a favorite Boston was in Game 1, and here in Game 2, I just think this is a spot where they are gonna come out swinging and they will get all the calls. I have joked about a script in the league office that has the Celtics playing the Lakers in the Finals, but if you saw the referee in Game 1 react to Jimmy Butler scoring a key bucket, you would believe it. Check it out on Twitter it's going viral. The Celtics lost Game 1 at home versus Philly, and they came back and won 121-87 in Game 2. Don't be surprised if we see something similar here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals was a high scoring affair, and because of that the total for Game 2 is five points higher than it was in Game 1. The series opener saw Denver dominate the first half, but the Lakers made adjustments that allowed them to come storming back. When they stuck Rui Hachimura on the Joker, the REAL MVP was held to just 3 points on 0-of-2 shooting in the 4th quarter. Don't be surprised if things tighten up in Game 2, and keep in mind that both teams shot better than 54 percent from the field when both teams are averaging under 50 percent in these playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Miami Heat.

This is a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference Finals, and the Celtics won that series in a Game 7 that was decided on the final shot. Yet the bookmakers have installed Boston as a huge favorite here in Game 1 and for the series. Miami closed out the #1 seed Milwaukee Bucks in just five games in the first round. They needed six games to eliminate the New York Knicks. That has them playing two fewer games than Boston so far. The team that has played fewer games heading into the Conference Finals, has advanced to the Finals in 16 of the last 17 such occasions. Coming off a big Game 7 win over Philly, with Jason Tatum scoring 51 points, could set the Celtics up for a let down in Game 1. I'll take the points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

The Lakers could suffer a let down here off a big win over the Warriors in Game 6 in LA. This is Denver, probably the toughest place to play in the league. The home team won all four meetings in the regular season series. While the Lakers are coming off a high scoring series versus Golden State, and Denver is coming off a high scoring series versus Phoenix, this matchup features two teams that are ranked above average in defensive efficiency. The Nuggets ranked near the bottom of the league in pace of play. The under is 8-3 in the Nuggets last 11 home games, and they have failed to reach the total in six of their last seven off a double digit win.

GL,

Jesse Schule.

This is a 10* play on BOS.

The Celtics have all the momentum heading into Game 7 at the Garden. Boston is 26-9 all time in Game 7s, and the Sixers are 6-11 all time in Game 7s. Home teams have won 79 percent of Game 7s all time in the NBA Playoffs. The Celtics are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 home games, and they have covered in eight of their last 11 versus Philadelphia. The home team might get the calls here, and the Sixers could end up on the wrong side of a one-sided Game 7.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on GSW.

I said prior to Game 5 that the Lakers had enjoyed a disparity in free throw attempts to the tune of 103-51 in the first four games. I wasn't the only one talking about it, and I speculated that we'd see it even out. That's exactly what happened in Game 5, as both teams had 15 free throw attempts. I expect this trend to carry over into Game 6, and I really think the Lakers are in trouble here after AD and LeBron got banged up in Game 5. Buckle up, because I think this series is going to a Game 7!

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MIA.

The Knicks were able to extend the series and force a Game 6 in Miami. They won Game 5 at the free throw line, with 21 more attempts than Miami. It's unlikely that they will get those calls on the road here in Game 6. The Heat are 6-0 ATS in their last six home games, and Jimmy Buckets is averaging over 35 points per game at home in these playoffs. The Knicks are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Miami, and as much as many would like to see a Game 7, I just don't see it in the cards.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under. 

So I am going to focus on Devin Booker here. He shot 79 percent from the field in the two games in Phoenix, scoring over 80 points. Of course the total went over in both Games 3 & 4. Booker cooled off in Game 5 in Denver, shooting just 42 percent from the field. Asking him to make 4 out of every 5 shots here in Game 6 doesn't seem realistic to me. These teams went under in two of three regular season meetings, with the exception being a 128-125 overtime win for the Nuggets at Phoenix. This number appears to be inflated for an elimination game. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIA.

The Heat closed out the Bucks in Game 5 in Milwaukee, and they are an underdog here in a potential close out game in New York. I pity the fool who bets against Jimmy Butler in the playoffs! I said this before Game 4: "This isn't the same Heat team we saw during the regular season, and this isn't the regular season version of Jimmy Butler. Playoff Jimmy is a different beast all together. Butler scored 28 points, leading all scorers in Game 3. This is despite playing on a bad ankle. He's likely to be even better here in Game 4. The Heat are 5-0 ATS in their last five home games, and they have covered in six straight overall. Giannis and the Bucks couldn't win in Miami, and I think it's asking too much for the Knicks to win on the road here."

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DEN.

So the story in Phoenix was Devin Booker scoring 83 combined points on 79 percent shooting in Games 3 and 4. He's a career 46 percent shooter, and he shot 49 percent during the regular season. If the Suns need Booker to make every shot he takes to win close games in Phoenix, that's likely a recipe for disaster in Denver in Game 5. Kevin Durant scored 39 points in Game 3, and 36 points in Game 4. He got to the free throw line for 29 attempts in those games. He averaged just 26.5 points per game in the first two games in Denver, and only shot six free throws in those games. The last Game in Denver the Suns were held to just 87 points. The home team is 9-1 straight up and Denver is 6-1 ATS in their last seven home games. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIA.

This isn't the same Heat team we saw during the regular season, and this isn't the regular season version of Jimmy Butler. Playoff Jimmy is a different beast all together. Butler scored 28 points, leading all scorers in Game 3. This is despite playing on a bad ankle. He's likely to be even better here in Game 4. The Heat are 5-0 ATS in their last five home games, and they have covered in six straight overall. Giannis and the Bucks couldn't win in Miami, and I think it's asking too much for the Knicks to win on the road here. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under. 

The Suns are back in this series after Devin Booker shot out the lights in Game 3. He scored 47 points on 20-of-25 shooting. I don't like his chances of hitting almost every shot he makes here in Game 4. After the total went over in the series opener, we saw Denver hold the Suns to just 87 points in Game 2. I think we see another low scoring defensive battle here in this pivotal Game 4. The under is 9-4-2 in the Nuggets last 15 Conference Semifinals games, and they should bring the defensive intensity here tonight. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on MIA ML. 

The Knicks won Game 2, but their performance was far from convincing. The expression on Jimmy Butler's face said it all, he knows he's going back to Miami and winning Game 3. Butler scored 56 in Game 4 at home, and then scored 42 in the series clinching win in Milwaukee in Game 5. Even without Jimmy Buckets, the Knicks just barely won Game 2 at the Garden. Miami has the most valuable player in this series, and they are well coached. I think the coaching matchup is a mismatch in favor of the Heat. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Sixers. 

The Sixers got their rear ends spanked in Game 2 despite the return of Joel Embiid, but that was really no surprise. The series heads back to Philly tied 1-1 and the Sixers are still in the driver's seat. They should come out strong in the first half here on their home court. Philly has a home record of 31-12 (regular season and playoffs combined). While these two teams split the season series and the home team went 2-2, the home team was 3-0-1 straight up in the first half. The Sixers were 3-1 ATS in the first half in the regular season series. I think the Celtics will be fortunate just to weather the storm here in the first half. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on GSW.

We saw the Lakers win Game 1 on the road in Memphis, and they came out and lost 103-93 in Game 2 to a Grizzlies team without Ja Morant. They were outscored 30-19 in the first quarter, and trailing by 15 at halftime. I expect to see a similar result here against a Warriors team that rarely loses at home. The Warriors are 40-19-1 ATS in their last 60 home games, and they have covered in five of their last six coming off a loss. Even in a loss in Game 2 of their series versus the Kings, they came out and outscored Sacramento 23-17 in the first quarter. Expect the Warriors to come out swinging here in Game 2 at home. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on GSW.

The Warriors are riding high after Steph scored 50 in Game 7 in Sacramento. They won two of three home games in the series, and they were 33-8 at home during the regular season. The Lakers lost two of three in Memphis, and the Grizzlies won Game 2 without Ja Morant. The crowd is going to be all fired up at the Chase Center, and the Lakers might struggle early in Game 1. The Lakers trailed at halftime in all three road games in the first round.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on NYK.

So the Knicks face a must win game at home in Game 2 at the Garden, and the status of Jimmy Butler is up in the air. The line would indicate that he's not expected to play, but even if he comes in and plays hurt, it's unlikely to benefit an already shorthanded Heat team. Butler has carried the Heat in the absence of Tyler Hero and Victor Oladipo. The Heat should probably wave the white flag here, let Butler rest up and make his return in Game 3 at home with the series tied 1-1. I'll take the Knickerbockers to win by double digits here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DEN.

I had the Nuggets in Game 1, and here is what I said prior to the game: "So the injury to Kawhi allowed the Suns to escape from the first round unscathed, but lets not forget that they got exposed in Game 1. This team has no depth, and Durant and Chris Paul are injury prone vets on the downside of their careers. Denver finished first in the West, with a 34-7 home record. These teams split the season series and the home team won all four games. The Suns were just 17-24 on the road, and I expect them to struggle in Denver in Game 1 at altitude." Game 1 wasn't close, and I don't think it gets any better for the Suns here in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under. 

So the first half total has gone under in five of six games, and now the bookmakers have made the adjustment. I don't think they have adjusted enough for a Game 7 though. There have been 15 Game 7s played in the NBA since 2018. The combined total fell short of 200 in 12 of those games. Only one of those 15 games went over the listed total for this game, when the Clippers beat the Mavericks 126-111 in 2021. We saw 109 points scored in the first half of Game 6, and I can't see them scoring more than that here in a Game 7. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DEN.

So the injury to Kawhi allowed the Suns to escape from the first round unscathed, but lets not forget that they got exposed in Game 1. This team has no depth, and Durant and Chris Paul are injury prone vets on the downside of their careers. Denver finished first in the West, with a 34-7 home record. These teams split the season series and the home team won all four games. The Suns were just 17-24 on the road, and I expect them to struggle in Denver in Game 1 at altitude.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on LAL.

I had the Lakers in Game 4, and here is what I said before tip off: "The Grizzlies were the best home team in the NBA during the regular season, with a record of 35-6. They struggled on the road, and that doesn't bode well for them in Game 3 in LA. There is the potential for Ja Morant to attempt to play through pain despite a hand injury, which might be counter-productive for the Grizz. He's not the only player nursing an injury for the Grizzlies, and the veteran Lakers appear to be the healthier of the two teams. The home team is 8-2 straight up in the last 10 head to head meetings, and Memphis has lost four of their last five at LA. The Grizzlies are 7-20 ATS in their last 27 road games versus a team with a winning home record." On top of everything else, expect the Lakers to get favorable treatment from the officials here. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on GSW.

So when it was announced that De'Aaron Fox was going to play despite a broken finger, the Warriors went from -4 in Game 5 to -1.5. I said that he could be a liability if he wasn't at 100 percent. He appeared to play pretty well, but his 24 points was a series low. He shot a series low 36 percent from the field and committed a series high six turnovers. I don't see it getting any better for the Kings here in Game 6. The Warriors won four series in last year's playoffs, and in their four series clinching wins the total went under in all four. The average combined total in those games was 207.5. I'll take the Dubs to win and the game to go under the total.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under.

So when it was announced that De'Aaron Fox was going to play despite a broken finger, the Warriors went from -4 in Game 5 to -1.5. I said that he could be a liability if he wasn't at 100 percent. He appeared to play pretty well, but his 24 points was a series low. He shot a series low 36 percent from the field and committed a series high six turnovers. I don't see it getting any better for the Kings here in Game 6. The Warriors won four series in last year's playoffs, and in their four series clinching wins the total went under in all four. The average combined total in those games was 207.5. I'll take the Dubs to win and the game to go under the total.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on on MEM. 

The Grizzlies face elimination in Game 5 at home, and I expect them to respond after losing back to back games in LA. Memphis was an NBA best 35-6 at home during the regular season. The Lakers are in a good spot, and they will come into Game 5 knowing that even if they lose they go back home with a chance to to close out the series in Game 6. The Lakers are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Memphis. The Grizzlies had a 30-19 lead at the end of the first quarter in the last game in Memphis. Expect a fast start for the home team as they look to avoid elimination. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CLE.

The Cavs face elimination in Game 5, and we should expect them to out swinging early here on their home court. The Cavs were 32-11 at home during the regular season, and they were the best defensive team in the NBA, ranking #1 in opponent scoring average. Donovan Mitchell is coming off a terrible Game 4 in New York, but we expect him to bounce back here at home. He averaged 31.8 points per game in four regular season games against the Knicks, and he scored 38 points in Game 1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I bet the under in Game 1 of this series, and I said the following before the game: “Minnesota is coming off back to back unders in both of their play-in games, and they held the Thunder to just 95 points in their last game. The Nuggets own an elite defense, and they are particularly good at home. The under is 11-2 in the Nuggets last 13 overall, and they have failed to reach the total in five straight home games.” With Minnesota facing elimination once again, don't be surprised if Game 5 in Denver looks a lot like Game 4 in Minnesota.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on LAL.

Here is what I said before Game 3: "The Grizzlies were the best home team in the NBA during the regular season, with a record of 35-6. They struggled on the road, and that doesn't bode well for them in Game 3 in LA. There is the potential for Ja Morant to attempt to play through pain despite a hand injury, which might be counter-productive for the Grizz. He's not the only player nursing an injury for the Grizzlies, and the veteran Lakers appear to be the healthier of the two teams. The home team is 8-2 straight up in the last 10 head to head meetings, and Memphis has lost four of their last five at LA. The Grizzlies are 7-20 ATS in their last 27 road games versus a team with a winning home record." The Grizzlies simply have no answers for AD, and I expect them to go back to Memphis trailing 3-1 in the series.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

I bet the under in Game 1 of this series, and I said the following before the game: “Minnesota is coming off back to back unders in both of their play-in games, and they held the Thunder to just 95 points in their last game. The Nuggets own an elite defense, and they are particularly good at home. The under is 11-2 in the Nuggets last 13 overall, and they have failed to reach the total in five straight home games.” We have since seen Game 2 and Game 3 go over the total, but with the Wolves facing elimination in Game 4, I expect to see more of a defensive battle here. The under is 12-4 in Nuggets last 16 overall, and the Timberwolves have gone under in 12 of their last 17 home games. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on LAL.

The Grizzlies were the best home team in the NBA during the regular season, with a record of 35-6. They struggled on the road, and that doesn't bode well for them in Game 3 in LA. There is the potential for Ja Morant to attempt to play through pain despite a hand injury, which might be counter-productive for the Grizz. He's not the only player nursing an injury for the Grizzlies, and the veteran Lakers appear to be the healthier of the two teams. The home team is 8-2 straight up in the last 10 head to head meetings, and Memphis has lost four of their last five at LA. The Grizzlies are 7-20 ATS in their last 27 road games versus a team with a winning home record.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHI.

So Joel Embiid is sitting out Game 4 due to knee soreness, and the line has dropped to almost a pickem. Philly has won eight of their last 10 without Embiid in the lineup, and they should feel an increased sense of urgency to prevent the Nets from extending this series, which would put more mileage on a banged up Joel Embiid. The Nets might not have much fight in them, coming off consecutive heart breaking losses. Historically teams down 0-3 do not perform well when facing elimination. Teams with a 3-0 series lead are 53-22 straight up in Game 4 dating back to 2022. I think Philly puts the Nets out of their misery here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Knicks.

The series heads back to New York tied 1-1, and the home team looks like the play in Game 3. The Knicks won both home games during the regular season series, and they are 4-1 SU in the last five head to head meetings. They covered in all four wins during that span. The crowd is going to be mental at the Garden, and the Knicks should feed off that especially early in the game. If this game is close at the half the Cavs can consider themselves fortunate.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

I had the Clippers in Game 1, and I picked them to win the series. While the Suns won and covered in Game 2, I didn't find it very convincing. They still have a glaring lack of depth on the bench, and Cameron Payne remains questionable. Kawhi Leonard averaged 23 points per per game during the regular season, but he's totalled 69 in two playoff games so far. He's been the best player in this series so far, and another strong performance is expected in Game 3. The Clippers should get off to a strong start in LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on GSW.

The Warriors are down 0-2 in the series, which might not be a huge surprise considering their road record during the regular season. They were 33-8 at home, and they are 4-0 straight up in their last four home games against the Kings. They are 39-16-1 ATS in their last 56 home games. It's do or die for the defending champs, and I expect them to jump out to an early lead here. They are 11-1 straight up in their last 12 home playoff games. Expect the champs to come up big in Game 3.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 1 and here is what I said prior to the game: "Minnesota is coming off back to back unders in both of their play-in games, and they held the Thunder to just 95 points in their last game. The Nuggets own an elite defense, and they are particularly good at home. The under is 11-2 in the Nuggets last 13 overall, and they have failed to reach the total in five straight home games." I expect more of the same here in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 1 and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Cleveland Cavs owned the #1 defense in the NBA during the regular season, and they host a New York Knickerbockers team that was also above average defensively. When these teams played in December, it was one of the lowest scoring games all year. The Knicks won 92-81 at The Garden, and I wouldn't be surprised if we see another defensive clinic here in Cleveland in Game 1. The under is 6-1 in the Knicks last seven Conference Quarterfinals games, and the Cavs have failed to reach the total in four of their last five home games. The under is 6-2 in the Cavaliers last eight Conference Quarterfinals games." I am expecting more of the same in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Game 1 went over the total, but with 5:48 remaining in the 4th quarter the score was tied at 105-105. At that point it could have gone either way, but an outburst of offense pushed the total over the number of 238.5. Now the total for Game 2 is even higher, despite an increase in desperation for the Warriors to tighten up their defense. Keep in mind that 20 of Golden State's last 23 Playoff games have seen fewer than 238 combined points, and three of the four regular season meetings fell short of that number.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Minnesota is coming off back to back unders in both of their play-in games, and they held the Thunder to just 95 points in their last game. The Nuggets own an elite defense, and they are particularly good at home. The under is 11-2 in the Nuggets last 13 overall, and they have failed to reach the total in five straight home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Miami Heat owned the #1 scoring defense in the NBA this season, and in their play-in game against the Knicks they allowed just 91 points in a home win over Chicago. The Bulls were held to a single point in the last 3:47 of the game. The Bucks have failed to reach the total in five straight first round playoff games, and we should expect points to be hard to come by in Game 1 in Milwaukee.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on MEM.

The Grizzlies were 35-6 on their home court, giving them the best home record in the NBA. The home team has won all three meetings between these teams this year, and Memphis won at home by a score of 121-109 in February. The Lakers looked good in the second half after trailing 60-49 at halftime. If they play like that here in Memphis, they will have a much tougher time coming back in the second half. Watching them blow a three point lead with just 1 second on the clock was a little alarming. This looks like a let down spot for the Lakers, and I like Memphis to win big.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Cleveland Cavs owned the #1 defense in the NBA during the regular season, and they host a New York Knickerbockers team that was also above average defensively. When these teams played in December, it was one of the lowest scoring games all year. The Knicks won 92-81 at The Garden, and I wouldn't be surprised if we see another defensive clinic here in Cleveland in Game 1. The under is 6-1 in the Knicks last seven Conference Quarterfinals games, and the Cavs have failed to reach the total in four of their last five home games. The under is 6-2 in the Cavaliers last eight Conference Quarterfinals games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under.

So this number opened at 227 and has since been bet up. I will fade the public here with a play on the under, and here is why: First off the Wolves have averaged well below 117 points per game in their last five overall. They only barely scored 100 in regulation and OT at LA in their last game. Minnesota won the last meeting at Oklahoma City in December by a score of 112-110. Four of the last five head to head meetings have gone under. The Thunder have failed to reach the total in four of their last five road games, and the under is 12-4 in the Wolves last 16 home games. I don't expect to see any easy buckets in an elimination game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under. 

The last time these teams played the total went over the number in a 130-128 Miami win. This game was the second of a two game series in Miami, which is somewhat of an anomaly. The under had cashed in eight of the previous nine head to head meetings. Miami owns the 2nd best scoring defense in the NBA, one of only two teams to allow less than 110 points per game. Last year only one of six Play-in games saw more than 225 combined points. The under is 36-16 in the last 52 meetings in Miami. I will bet on the defense to be the story here in Miami. The Hawks played in seven post-season games last year, and only one of those saw more than 225 combined points. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on BKN.

The Nets are sitting in sixth place in the East, just a game in front of the Miami Heat. With both teams playing tonight, there is little margin for error. The Magic are expected to roll out their backups, resting their starters in what is a meaningless game for them. The Nets are coming off a 15-point win at Detroit, and they figure to roll here at home in a game with massive playoff implications..

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHX.

Denver has already locked up the best record in the West, and home court advantage until the Finals. They have nothing to prove here in Phoenix, so we expect Jamal Murray and Joker to be rested. The Suns have won six straight, and they are still developing chemistry with KD. The Nuggets are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in this series. The Suns average margin of victory on their current win streak is greater than 13 points per game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on BKN.

So who won the Kyrie Irving trade?? I guess it's pretty clear that Brooklyn is on the better end of that deal. The Mavs have dropped out of the playoffs, while the Nets are not only in the playoffs, it looks like they can also avoid the play in. A home game against a Utah team that is without at least three starters should be a blowout. The Nets have covered in six straight, and they are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the PELICANS.

This is the second game of a back to back for the Clippers, and Kawhi Leonard played last night. We will see if any Clippers will be rested for load management tonight. The Pelicans have won six of their last seven overall, and they are 8-1 straight up in their last nine versus the Clippers. The Clippers are 6-22 ATS in the last 28 meetings in New Orleans.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

This is a big game in Minnesota tonight as the Lakers and the T-Wolves battle for a play-in spot. Just a half game separates these teams, and the winner will be closer to clinching home court in the play-in while the loser will be in danger of dropping out entirely. The total of 232.5 looks a little high, as eight of the last 10 meetings have fallen short of that number. They have gone under in each of the last five meetings in Minnesota, and the under is 6-0 in the last six meetings overall. The under is 9-3-1 in the Timberwolves last 13 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is 4* play on Memphis.

So the Grizzlies own the best home record in the NBA, and now Ja Morant is back and coming off a 27-point performance in a win over Atlanta. A home game against Orlando looks like a good spot to back one of the hottest teams in the NBA. This is a let down spot for the Magic, coming off three straight home wins. The Magic are 13-24 on the road, and they lost their last game in Memphis by 28 points last March.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on N.O.

The Pelicans are as healthy as they have been all season, and they come into Portland as winners of four straight. They beat the Clippers by 20 on Saturday, and now they catch the Blazers who are playing on back to back nights after losing at home to Oklahoma City Sunday. The Blazers are banged up, with the majority of their starting lineup sidelined by injury. Damian Lillard has already packed it in for the season, and the lineup is likely to consist of 2nd and 3rd stringers tonight. The Pelicans have won five of the last six meetings, and all five of those wins came by double digits.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Grizzlies.

The Hawks play the second game of a back to back after rallying to beat Indiana on Saturday. Trey Young was tossed for throwing a ball at an official, and will likely be serving a suspension here in today's game. The Grizzlies are coming in as winners of eight of their last nine overall, and Ja Morant will be playing his third game back for Memphis. This looks like a let down spot for the Hawks, and the Grizz could lay the smack down here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Indiana.

The Hawks host the Pacers and both Tre Young and DeAndre Hunter are questionable to play on Saturday. The line indicates they will both be in the lineup, but regardless it seems like 10.5 points is a bit much. The Pacers have covered in three of their last four versus Atlanta, and they lost 131-128 in their last game at Atlanta. The Pacers are 7-2 ATS in their last nine games overall, while the Hawks have failed to cover in seven of their last eight after a two day layoff. I'll take the points here with a Pacers team that is technically still alive in the playoff hunt.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The Clippers just lost 101-100 to Oklahoma City on Monday, and this is a spot where I usually look to take the team with revenge in the second game of a two game series. In this spot though I am focused on the total. LA didn't just lose the game, they lost Paul George to a knee injury that will keep him out for several weeks. Despite the 201 total points scored in the first game, and the fact that these teams haven't combined to score 230 points in any of the last 10 meetings, we see the total listed over 230. The under is 30-10 in the Clippers last 40 home games, and they have gone under in seven of their last nine home games versus the Thunder.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Memphis.

The Grizzlies will miss Ja Morant, but here in this game against the Mavs it might be no Ja, no problem. It looks like Luka is still out, and Kyrie is doubtful to play. The Mavericks are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games overall, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five when coming off a win. The Mavs are just 14-21 SU on the road, while the Grizzlies are 29-5 at home. The Grizzlies are 42-18-1 ATS in their last 61 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on NO.

So the Pelicans are coming off a 114-112 loss at Houston, and they play the second of a two game series at the Toyota Center. Even after winning three straight home games, the Rockets still have twice as many home losses as they have wins. The Pelicans had won seven of eight straight up versus Houston prior to Friday's game. The Pelicans are 5-1 ATS in their last six versus the Rockets, and they are 5-2 ATS in their last seven at Houston. I like the visitors in this revenge spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Grizzlies come into San Antonio as a road favorite, but the Spurs have been pretty competitive of late. They are 4-4 straight up in their last eight overall, and they have scored 120+ points in three of their last four overall. The Grizzlies are coming off a 138-119 loss at Miami, and they have gone over in three straight versus the Spurs. The total in this game is lower than it was in each of the last five meetings between these teams.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on IND.

Normally in the second game of a two game series, I would look to back the team playing with revenge in Game 2. That's not going to happen here in Detroit tonight, as this team has a lot more going on. They have four key players out of the lineup, and they are just a half game behind Houston for the race to finish with the worst record in the NBA. The Pistons are tanking, and the Pacers seem to be less concerned about the draft lottery. The Pacers are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games overall, and they have covered in four of their last five on the road.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHX.

No KD, the Suns are still the better team here. After his injury they went on to win by 30+ in a home game against the scrappy OKC Thunder. They got Chris Paul and Devin Booker back, and Booker scored 44 against the Thunder. The Suns are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games overall, and they are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 home games. The Suns have won four of five straight up in the last five meetings versus the Kings, and four of those games were in Sacramento.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TOR.

The Lakers and the Raptors each have 32 wins, but Toronto comes in as the better team in recent weeks. The Raptors had won eight of 10 before this current road trip. They have dropped three of four games, losing some close contests that ended in controversy. Fred Van Fleet let his emotions get the best of him in a post game press conference, and he was fined $30,000 for remarks about the officials. This Raptors team comes into LA looking to lay the smack down, the Lakers are still banged up. To say that history favors Toronto would be an understatement. The Raptors are 20-6 ATS in the last 26 meetings, and they are 13-3 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Los Angeles.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

So the Raptors come in as winners of six of their last eight overall, and they have been getting it done with their defense. Toronto has held their last five opponents well below the NBA average in points per game (110) giving up just 107 ppg during that span. They haven't been scoring though, averaging just over 103 points per game on offense. Denver can play defense as well, and I expect these teams to play hard here tonight. The total of 227.5 is far higher than it has been in any of the last 10 head to head meetings. The last time Toronto played at Denver (March last year) the total was just 221.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

I gotta fade the Grizzlies in this spot, as this team is in complete shambles. Ja Morant is suspended for not just playing with a gun in a nightclub, but posting it on Intagram like an ever bigger fool. Dillon Brooks and Brandon Clarke are out with injuries, so there goes three of their top five scorers. Additionally leading rebounder Steven Adams hasn't played since January. The Clippers are healthy, but they've lost five straight since bringing in Russ Westbrick. I didn't like the move, and I still don't like it. That said a motivated team at full strength at home looking to break out of a slump should get it done against a shorthanded Memphis team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on SAC.

Both these teams are playing the second game of a back to back, but the Kings won at home 128-127 versus the Clippers last night, and they don't have to travel. Minnesota played in LA, and will be playing a fourth straight game on the road tonight. The Kings are a young team that might not mind playing on back to back nights, as evidenced by the fact that they are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games playing the second of a back to back. Minnesota has failed to cover in five of their last six coming off a win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on DEN.

It's tough to bet against a Denver team that is 28-4 at home, and in a series that has seen the home team win seven of the last eight meetings. The Nuggets are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 home games, while Memphis has failed to cover in four of their last five on the road. This is a big game between two of the top teams in the West, so both teams should get up for the game. That doesn't bode well for the Grizzlies.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The Celtics have allowed a whopping 118.8 points per game over their last five overall. That is out of character for this team though, and they still rank among the top teams in the NBA in opponents scoring average. They host the Cavs, who currently rank #1 in the NBA in points allowed (106.5PPG). These teams went over in each of the last two meetings, but both those games went to overtime. The listed total hasn't been higher than 220 in any of the previous five meetings. I expect both teams to bring it on defense here in a battle between two of the top teams in the East.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

The Clippers have gone over the total in four straight games, but that is out of character for this team. For the first half of the season they ranked near the bottom of the league in scoring, and one of the top team in opponent scoring. We have a high total in tonight's home game against the Timberwolves, and I expect to see some regression to the mean. The under is 22-7 in the Clippers last 29 home games, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven home games against Minnesota. The number in tonight's game is almost 10 points higher than it was in the last meeting back in January. Neither of these teams scored 100 in the last meeting in LA back in December.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on N.O.

The Pelicans are currently flirting with a play-in spot in the Western Conference, despite battling injuries all season. They are finally getting healthy (with the exception of Zion) and it looks like time for this team to go on a run. The Magic have been covering more games than they have been winning, going 8-3 ATS in their last 11 road games. They are still just 10-20 SU on the road, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five overall. This looks like a good spot to back the Pelicans at home, as they should be the more motivated side here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Hawks.

So after firing their coach, the Hawks came out of the All Star break and crushed a very good Cleveland team winning 136-119 at home. The Nets on the other hand lost by 40+ at Chicago. Often when a team gets blown out like that, you want to come back with them in their next game. Perhaps not a team with a completely new starting five that hasn't had time to gel. Not a team that is in the middle of a chaotic rebuild after trading away Kyrie and KD. The Hawks are 4-1 ATS in their last five home games versus Brooklyn, and they have covered in seven of the last nine overall meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on ORL.

The Magic are just .500 at home, but I gotta love them here against a Pacers team that is 8-20 SU on the road. The home team is 4-1 SU in the last five meetings between these teams, and the Magic won two of three home games during that span. The one loss came in overtime. The Pacers are 1-8 ATS in their last nine road games, and they are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games playing on 1 days rest. The Magic are 18-5 ATS in their last 23 games playing on 1 days rest, and they have covered in eight of their last nine off a loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Six of nine games went under the total in the first day back from the All Star break. One of those was the Thunder losing 120-119 at Utah in overtime. Both teams scored just 106 points in regulation. The Thunder play the second game of a back to back in Phoenix, and the Suns have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven overall. The total of 232.5 is far higher than it has been in any of the previous 10 head to head meetings. None of those games saw a number as high as 225. These two teams haven't scored a combined 230 points in any of the previous four head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI.

The Sixers are 23-8 at home, and the home team has won nine of the last 10 meetings between these teams. The Grizzlies have a losing record on the road, and they have failed to cover in six of their last seven road games. The 76ers are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 home games, and they are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games versus Memphis. The Grizzlies are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall, and they are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on OKC.

The Pelicans got some bad news on Zion Williamson recently, and now CJ McCollum is listed as questionable for Monday's game at OKC. The Thunder have been ultra competitive lately, winning three of their last four. They are 12-4-1 ATS in their last 17 games overall. They have covered in six of their last eight home games, and they are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games versus a team with a losing road record. The Pelicans have failed to cover in five of their last six road games, and they are 8-20 ATS in their last 28 road games against a team with a winning home record. I'll take the home team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on WASH.

The Wizards have won seven of their last 10 overall, and they host an Indiana team that has lost seven of their last eight overall. This will be the second game of a back to back for the Pacers, who are coming off a home loss to Phoenix. The Pacers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall, and they have failed to cover in seven of their last eight road games. Washington has covered in four of their last five home games against the Pacers.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on N.O.

The Pelicans are 20-9 at home, and they are coming off three straight home wins over LA, Atlanta and Sacramento. Sure Zion is on the shelf with an injury, but you would think they would be used to that by now. The good news is that Brandon Ingram is back, and he's averaged over 30 points in his last three starts. He struggled in his first three games back from injury, but he appears to be firing on all cylinders now. The Cavs are mediocre on the road (12-16) and they are 0-4 SU in their last four at New Orleans. The Cavs are coming off a home win over Detroit, and they are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 games following a ATS win. This looks like the wrong team is favored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ATL. 

The Suns dealt Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and Mikal Bridges to Brooklyn for KD, but Durant won't be available for this game at Atlanta. That leaves Phoenix with a thin lineup after two of their top roll players were sent to the Nets. The Hawks on the other hand are at full strength, and they have historically owned the Suns in Atlanta. The Hawks have won and covered in four straight home games in this series. I'll fade the shorthanded Suns in this spot. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the Clippers.

So no Luka for the Mavs, maybe Kyrie makes his debut. Don't expect Kyrie to come out and lead a shorthanded Mavs team to an upset of the Clippers in LA. Since Kawhi and Paul George have returned to full strength, LA has looked like one of the top teams in the NBA. This should be a double digit win for the Clippers.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

The Clippers are rolling, coming into Brooklyn as winners of seven of their last nine. When both Kawhi and Paul George are healthy, this is still one of the most formidable teams in the NBA. The Nets are moving on from Kyrie Irving, and that will shake up the lineup here tonight. While we aren't sure if Spencer Dinwiddie or Dorian Finley Smith will play, we are sure that Durant, Curry and Simmons will not. The Nets are 17-40-2 ATS in their last 59 home games, and they are likely to struggle to keep up to the Clippers with a bunch of backups.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on TOR.

The Grizzlies are struggling, and they come into tonight's home game versus the Raptors with two starters out, and two more questionable. Toronto has been horrible this season, dealing with their own injuries. The Raptors are 3-3 SU on their current road trip, and one of those losses was a game decided by three points in Utah. History favors the Raptors here in Memphis, where they have covered in five straight. They are 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings overall. A shorthanded Grizzlies team has no business being asked to cover a number like this here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on DEN.

The Hawks are on a roll, coming off back to back wins over the Suns and the Jazz. They take on the Denver Nuggets tonight, and playing the second game of a back to back at altitude is a tough spot. Denver is 10-3 ATS in their last 13 home games, 24-4 overall at home, and 14-6 ATS in their last 20 overall. Nikola Jokic will likely not play both games in an upcoming back to back, but it makes more sense to rest him on the back end in Minnesota on Sunday. The Hawks might want to rest some of their starters here in Denver.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DET.

The Pistons aren't favored to win many games, but catching the Hornets on the second game of a back to back is as good a spot as you can get. Detroit has been quite competitive lately, losing by six at Dallas, losing by three versus Houston and winning outright at Brooklyn. The Pistons won at Charlotte in OT earlier this season, and Kelly Oubre Jr. was the Hornets leading scorer in that game. Oubre Jr. is out with a torn ligament in his hand, and Charlotte might be resting or limiting the minutes of some starters for tonight's game. LaMelo Ball was ejected in the 4th quarter last night in Chicago, and he's battled injuries all season long. It might be a good idea to rest him here in Detroit, or at least limit his minutes.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on PHX.

Despite all the injuries and a poor start to the season, the Suns have won six of their last seven, and they are 19-8 at home this season. Both DeAndre Ayton and Chris Paul are back in the lineup, and Ayton is coming off a double-double with 22 points and 13 boards in a win over the Raptors. They host the Atlanta Hawks, and the home team has won nine of the last 10 meetings in this series. The Hawks are 1-5-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in Phoenix. Tre Young is expected to return after missing the last game with sore ankle, but it might not be enough to get a win over a team that has won 51 of it's last 69 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAC.

The Clippers come into Chicago as short favorites, and they lost their last game 122-99 at Cleveland. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard were out due to load management, but we are expecting both stars to return tonight in Chicago. The Clippers have won five straight when both their stars play, and they were 32-11 when both played during the 2020-2021 season. The Clippers are 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Chicago. The Bulls have a rather pedestrian home record, and I don't think they are good enough to beat a team with two Top 10 players going at full speed.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on WAS.

The Wizards have won five straight, and they are 11-5 in their last 16 overall. They are in San Antonio tonight, and the Spurs have lost five straight and 10 of their last 11. Their last game was a 128-118 OT loss at home versus Phoenix. The Spurs have failed to cover in four straight, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five when coming off a loss. The Wizards have covered in four straight road games, and they are 6-1 ATS in their last seven road games versus a team with a losing record. The conclusion is that these two teams are trending in opposite directions, giving us value backing the road favorite.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Mavs won in Phoenix without Luka, by a score of 98-85, and we might expect another low score without their leading scorer here in Utah. The Mavericks are 2-7 ATS in their last nine road games. They are 6-21-1 ATS in their last 28 games following a straight up win. The under is 14-6 in the Jazz last 20 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game. These teams have failed to reach the total in each of the last four head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on the PELICANS.

A few weeks back the Pelicans were the best team in the Western Conference, but injuries have taken their toll. They come into this game looking to snap a six game losing streak, and Brandon Ingram is back. He played 26 minutes in a loss to Minnesota, and we should expect him to be more effective here tonight. The Wizards are 0-4 ATS in the last four meetings in New Orleans, and they have struggled on the road this year.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the SUNS.

I had Phoenix in their last game, and it was a disappointing loss to the Mavs. Here is what I said prior to that game: "The Suns have been decimated by injuries, but that hasn't prevented them from winning 18 of 25 home games. They host the Dallas Mavericks tonight, and Dallas has lost 15 of 23 road games. The home team is 8-1 SU in the last nine head to head meetings. Chris Paul is back, and he had 11 assists in a blowout win over Charlotte on Tuesday. The Mavs will not have 2nd leading scorer and 2nd leading rebounder Christian Wood. The Suns are expecting their big man back on Thursday. DeAndre Ayton leads the Suns in scoring and rebounding." The Suns are 5-1-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in San Antonio.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Phoenix.

The Suns have been decimated by injuries, but that hasn't prevented them from winning 18 of 25 home games. They host the Dallas Mavericks tonight, and Dallas has lost 15 of 23 road games. The home team is 8-1 SU in the last nine head to head meetings. Chris Paul is back, and he had 11 assists in a blowout win over Charlotte on Tuesday. The Mavs will not have 2nd leading scorer and 2nd leading rebounder Christian Wood. The Suns are expecting their big man back on Thursday. DeAndre Ayton leads the Suns in scoring and rebounding. The Mavericks are 8-22 ATS in their last 30 road games, and they are 17-35-2 ATS in their last 54 games overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ORL.

The Magic are coming off a blowout win over the Celtics, and they are .500 at home. They host a Pacers team playing the second game of a back to back without their leading scorer. Indiana is 8-16 SU on the road this season, and they are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games. They Pacers haven't covered any of their games since losing Tyrese Haliburton to a knee injury. The Magic are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 home games, and they have won three of their last four home games by more than four points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHX.

The Suns are still dealing with more than their share of injuries, but CP3 returned and scored 22 points in a home win over Memphis over the weekend. The Suns are still 17-7 at home, and they have won their last two games versus Charlotte by a combined 65 points. The Hornets are coming off an 18 point loss at Utah, and they are 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight games following an ATS loss. The Hornets are just 8-19 SU on the road, and they should be looking at another double digit loss here in Arizona.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIA.

So I bet against the Pelicans in their last game, and here is what I said before their loss at Orlando: "The Pelicans are coming off back to back losses, and they have lost five of their last seven overall. They have three starters out of the lineup, including two of their top three scorers. Their last game was a 26 point home loss to the Miami Heat." Now they are on the road in Miami just a few days later, and two of their three top scorers remain sidelined. The Heat are at full strength, despite dealing with a ton of injuries all year. The Heat are 8-1 straight up in their last nine versus New Orleans. The Pelicans have failed to cover in four straight at Miami and they are 5-18 ATS in the last 23 meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule