This is a 5* play on LAC.

At the age of 37, LeBron James played a career high 37 minutes in the NBA All Star game on a bad knee. He's listed as questionable for tonight's game against the Clippers. AD is out for sure, and so is Avery Bradley. The Clippers won three of four before the break, and they have managed to remain competitive without PG and Kawhi. The Clippers are 22-6-1 ATS in their last 29 games playing on 3 or more days rest, and they are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games as an underdog. History favors the Clippers who are 9-0 ATS in the last nine meetings in Los Angeles.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Detroit.

The Cavs are just 2.5 games out of first place in the East, but they lost back to back games heading into the All Star break. They have three starters sidelined by injury, and they still come into Detroit as a big favorite. The Pistons have won their last two home games against Cleveland, and two of their last three home losses against the Cavs came in games decided in overtime. Before the break the Pistons upset the Celtics in Boston, with Cunningham, Grant and Bey all scored 20+ points. The young guns are starting to come together, and a competitve game at home against a banged up opponent seems likely here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This line opened at 318.5 ... already pretty high. They scored 320 last year, and less than that in two of the previous three years. Nobody cares, everyone is betting the over and there is no end in sight. I can't help but get in at 325 an hr before game time. FADE THE MOVE!

This is an 8* play on Toronto.

The Raptors are coming off back to back losses, following an eight game winning streak. They will be on the road in Minnesota tonight, and the Wolves are coming off an overtime win over Charlotte. The Raptors are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games following a straight up loss, and they have won five of their last six on the road. The Timberwolves have failed to cover in four of their last five when playing on back to back nights, and coming off an overtime might be even more significant.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on HOU.

The Rockets will be an underdog in San Antonio Friday, and they catch the Spurs on the back end of a back to back. The Rockets are 5-1 ATS in their last six games as a road underdog, and the road team has won four of the last five meetings outright. The Spurs have failed to cover in five of their last six home games, and they have just three wins in their last 12 games overall. Three starters missed last night's game against Miami, and the Spurs are in rough shape considering Houston is as healthy as anyone right now. Christian Wood has scored 20+ points in three straight games, and alongside Kevin Porter Jr. and Jalen Green, the Rockets are not short on young talent.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on BKN.

Kyrie can only play in road games, and he's now played just five games this season. His most recent game was his best so far, scoring 30 points on 13-of-23 shooting in a 119-118 win at Washington. The Nets will be at San Antonio tonight, and the Spurs are just 9-13 at home. San Antonio is coming off a home win over Oklahoma City, but they have gone 3-10 in their last 13 overall. Former Spur Patty Mills has averaged over 17 points per game in his last four starts, and he could be primed for a strong performance against his former team. I like Brooklyn to get the win here even without KD.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on ATL.

The Timberwolves have won six of their last eight, and none of those wins were bigger than last night's thriller at MSG. Karl Anthony Towns (who grew up in New Jersey) had this to say after the game: "I told my dad everyone's going to get a chance to have their Madison Square Garden moment and I felt that was for me tonight. That was the biggest moment that I've had in MSG," Towns said. "Great crowd, great atmosphere, great energy and I got to silence everybody, so that makes it even better." Now they play on the back end of a back to back on the road at Atlanta, and this looks like a helluva let down spot for Minny. The Hawks are coming off a home win over Milwaukee, and they have covered in four straight versus Minnesota and they are 6-1 straight up in the last seven meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Minnesota.

The Warriors have struggled without Draymond Green, losing four of their last five road games. Minnesota is coming off a loss at Memphis, and the Timberwolves are 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up loss. Golden State is expected to be missing Steph Curry who is dealing with a sore hand, and fellow splash brother Klay Thomspon is still working his way into shape. The Warriors are 2-7 ATS in the last nine meetings in Minnesota. The Wolves are at full strength, and they have won four of their last five home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Denver.

With Damian Lillard looking to have surgery, the mission for the Blazers might be to secure a lottery pick. They come into Denver with a road record of 2-13. When you are struggling on the road, the last place you want to play is in mile high city. The Trail Blazers are 5-14 ATS in their last 19 games as an underdog, and they are 3-14 ATS in their last 17 road games. Denver has covered the spread in five of the last seven head to head meetings. The Blazers might as well throw in the towel, and they just might do exactly that.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a free play on Philly.

The Hornets are coming off back to back home wins over Milwaukee, and they could be due for a let down on the road at Philly. The Sixers have won seven straight, and Joel Embiid has scored 30+ points in all of those games. The 76ers are 5-0 ATS in their last five games following a straight up win, and they are 10-0 straight up in their last 10 versus the Hornets. Their last three home wins over Charlotte came by an average margin of 13 points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

While the Warriors defense has been stellar this season, they will be without their best defensive player (Draymond Green) when they play at Memphis tonight. This will be the second game back for Klay Thompson, and a showcase of Steph Curry versus Ja Morant. These teams have gone under the total in seven of the last nine head to head meetings, but tonight's total is significantly lower than it was in eight of the last nine meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is a 5* play on the Celtics.

The Celtics are coming off a 108-105 loss at MSG, blowing an 18 point lead in the second half. Evan Fornier went off for 41 points on 15-of-25 shooting, and this sets up a huge let down spot for Fornier and the Knicks. The Celtics look good here in a revenge spot with the majority of their squad intact. The Knicks are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games following an ATS win, and they have failed to cover in seven of their last eight as an underdog. The home team has won five straight meetings in this series.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Toronto.

The NBA pushed the pause button shortly after Rudy Gobert tested positive for Covid back in 2020, and now two years later he's again tested positive. With the Jazz playing in Toronto Friday, they could be without their entire starting lineup. In fact it will be a miracle if this game is even played. Toronto on the other hand is playing it's best ball of the season, riding a four game win streak. The Jazz are 1-7 ATS in the last eight meetings in Toronto.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is a 5* play on Utah.

The Jazz are one of a few teams that have yet to be decimated by Covid and injuries, and that's likely part of the reason why they have won nine of their last 11 games. Minnesota comes limping into Salt Lake City without Anthony Edwards, Patrick Beverly and Jarred Vanderbilt and several others. The Jazz are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games playing on 2 days rest, and seven of their last nine wins have come by 10 or more points. The Jazz lead the NBA averaging 115.4 points per game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on PHI. 

The Nets will once again be shorthanded due to Covid protocols, but their B-team is coming off an overtime win over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday. Another win here at home versus Philly might be too much to ask. The Nets are 0-6 ATS in their last six home games, and 5-12 ATS in their last 17 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Milwaukee.

The Heat have lost four of their last five, and the average margin of defeat in those games was more than 10 points. The Bucks have won 10 of their last 11 overall. Miami has struggled with Jimmy Butler battling an injury, and he's out for Wednesday's game against the Bucks. The Bucks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games as a road favorite, and they have covered in four of their last five versus the Heat.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on Atlanta.

The Sixers have just three wins in their last 12 games overall, and they have been dealing with injuries. Joel Embiid missed time with Covid, and since his return he has complained about his lack of fitness. The Hawks are on a roll, coming into this home game as winners of eight of their last nine. The 76ers are 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 games overall, and they are 10-25-2 ATS in their last 37 games as a road underdog. The Hawks are 21-5 ATS in their last 26 games as a home favorite.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Indiana.

It's normal for teams to have a better record at home, but these two teams each have dramatic home away splits. The Pacers are 6-4 at home, and the Hawks are 3-8 on the road. The Hawks are 2-11 ATS in their last 13 road games, and they are 0-8 ATS in their last eight games as a road underdog. The Pacers are 5-1 ATS in their last six games as a home favorite. The Hawks are 0-4 straight up in their last four at Indiana.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is a 5* play on Under.

The Miami Heat rank 1st in the Eastern Conference in opponent's scoring average, and the Bulls aren't far behind. For that reason the total is pretty low here, but it is still higher than the number in three of the last four head to head meetings between these teams. The under is 6-1 in the Bulls last seven games as a home underdog, and they have failed to reach the total in 13 of their last 16 as a dog. The under is 20-6 in the Bulls last 26 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Hawks.

Atlanta didn't start the season off well after an inspired run in last year's playoffs, but they come into Saturday's home game against Charlotte as winners of three in a row. The Hornets are playing on the back end of a back to back, and they are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games. The Hawks are 24-4 ATS in their last 28 games as a home favorite, and they are 27-9 ATS in their last 36 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

I bet the under in the Clippers last game, a 106-92 win over the Spurs. Here is what I said prior to tip off: "The LA Clippers have quietly been one of the best defensive teams in the NBA this season. They come into tonight's home game against the Spurs ranked 5th in the NBA in opponent's scoring average allowing 103.3 points per game. That would be good enough to rank 1st in the NBA last season. The under is 6-1-1 in Spurs last eight road games, and they have gone under in five of their last six when coming off a loss. The Clippers scored just 90 points in a home loss to Chicago in their last game, and the under is 4-1 in their last five when coming off a loss." The Clippers have failed to reach the total in four of their last five versus Memphis.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

After losing 99-96 at home to Phoenix in their last game, it seems rather optimistic to have the total set over 220 for a home game against the Sacramento Kings. The under is 11-4-1 in Kings last 16 road games, and the Kings have failed to reach the total in 35 of their last 51 overall. The under is 7-1 in the Timberwolves last eight home games, and they have failed to reach the total in 13 of their last 18 overall. Minnesota is only averaging 103 points per game this season (23rd). 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The LA Clippers have quietly been one of the best defensive teams in the NBA this season. They come into tonight's home game against the Spurs ranked 5th in the NBA in opponent's scoring average allowing 103.3 points per game. That would be good enough to rank 1st in the NBA last season. The under is 6-1-1 in Spurs last eight road games, and they have gone under in five of their last six when coming off a loss. The Clippers scored just 90 points in a home loss to Chicago in their last game, and the under is 4-1 in their last five when coming off a loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on Over. 

The Charlotte Hornets have won back to back games, but they rank dead last in the NBA allowing 116 points per game this season. Golden State ranks first in the NBA in scoring, averaging over 116 points per game. The Warriors come in as winners of seven straight, with an overall record of 11-1. The over is 4-1 in Hornets last five home games, and the over is 3-1 in the Warriors last four overall. Don't be surprised to see a high score in a game between two of the highest scoring teams in the NBA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on LAC.

The Clippers bring a five game win streak into tonight's home game against the Heat. Miami is playing on the back end of a back to back after a tough game in LA against the Lakers. Jimmy Butler left that game early with an ankle injury, and his status at the moment remains in limbo. The Heat have failed to cover in five straight against the Clippers, and they are 4-9 ATS in the last 13 meetings in Los Angeles. A Morris brothers reunion seems unlikely, with both twins listed on the injury report for their respective teams. This is just a terrible spot for a banged up Miami team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over.

This game features the highest total on tonight's NBA card, but there is a good reason for that. Memphis and Charlotte rank 29th and 30th respectively in opponents scoring, and both these teams can score more than their share of points. In fact Charlotte ranks 2nd in the NBA averaging over 114  points per game. The Hornets have gone over in five of their last six overall, and the over is 4-0 in their last five games at Memphis.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over.

The one take away from the early season NBA games is that scoring in general is down as the officials have been calling a lot fewer fouls, giving defenders a significant advantage in comparison to the way the game has been called in recent seasons. The Spurs and the Magic are doing their part to keep scoring up, by refusing to play defense. They are both allowing roughly 110 points per game, well above the league average. These two teams have gone over in six of the last seven meetings, and the over is 15-7 in the last 22 meetings in Orlando. The over is 9-2 in the Magic last 11 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over.

The one take away from the early games is that scoring in general is down as the officials have been calling a lot fewer fouls, giving defenders a significant advantage in comparison to the way the game has been called in recent seasons. Two teams that haven't had any problems scoring are Miami (2nd in the NBA averaging 115.6 points per game) and Boston (4th in the NBA averaging 113.9 points per game). These teams have gone over in six of the last seven head to head meetings, and the over is 12-5 in Miami's last 17 games as a home favorite.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The one take away from the early games is that scoring in general is down as the officials have been calling a lot fewer fouls, giving defenders a significant advantage in comparison to the way the game has been called in recent seasons. Nobody has been hit harder by the rule changes than James Harden, who is only averaging 18.6 points per game so far this season. The Hawks are 0-6 ATS in their last six road games, and the under is 10-4 in the Hawks last 14 road games. The under is 8-2 in the Hawks last 10 games as an underdog. Brooklyn has failed to reach the total in five straight at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The one take away from the early games is that scoring in general is down as the officials have been calling a lot fewer fouls, giving defenders a significant advantage in comparison to the way the game has been called in recent seasons. The Jazz are one of five teams allowing less than 100 points per game, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last six overall. The under is 19-6-1 in the Kings last 26 road games, and the under is 9-1 in the Kings last 10 games as a road underdog.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Blazers.

The Blazers are an underdog on the road at Philly, and they have dominated the Sixers in recent seasons. Portland is 6-1 straight up in the last seven head to head meetings, and the one loss came in a game decided by one point. Joel Embiid will sit out this game, making it a tough ask for the Sixers to snap this trend. Philly is 1-4 ATS in their last five when coming off a win, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

I had the under in last night's game when the Jazz lost to Chicago. Here is what I said prior to the game: "The one take away from the early games is that scoring in general is down as the officials have been calling a lot fewer fouls, giving defenders a significant advantage in comparison to the way the game has been called in recent seasons. Both the Utah Jazz and the Chicago Bulls rank near the top of the NBA in points allowed so far. History suggests that these teams trend toward low scoring games, and the under is 20-7-1 in the last 28 meetings. The under is 8-1 in the last nine meetings in Chicago." With another big total in tonight's game in Milwaukee, I'll take the under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is a 5* play on Under.

The Heat are off to a great start, winning three of their first four games. They host Charlotte tonight, and the Hornets are also playing well. Miami is getting it done on defense, ranking 1st in the NBA in opponent's scoring allowing just 95 points per game. Charlotte is on the opposite end ranking 1st in the NBA in scoring. Scoring in general is down as the officials have been calling a lot fewer fouls, giving defenders a significant advantage in comparison to the way the game has been called in recent seasons. The under is 10-3 in the Hornets last 13 games as a road underdog. The total in the last seven head to head meetings has never been higher than 216.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on GSW.

The Warriors are off to a helluva start to the season, undefeated with a 4-0 record (9-0 if you include the pre-season). They host the Grizzlies who are coming off a 20 point loss at Portland last night. The Grizz are in a tough spot with another road game in the second game of a back to back. The Grizzlies are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following an ATS loss, and they have failed to cover in four straight versus a team with a winning record. They are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings in Golden State. The Warriors are 6-1 ATS in their last seven home games, and they have covered in eight of their last 10 overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under.

The New York Knicks finished #1 overall in scoring defense last season, and Philly wasn't far behind. Both these teams appear to have picked up right where they left off, and if history is any indication then we could be in for another low scoring game. Three of four meetings last season went under the total, and the total for tonight's game is higher than it was in three of the four meetings last season. The under is 17-8 in the 76ers last 25 road games, and the under is 7-3 in the Knicks last 10 games as a home favorite. The Knicks have failed to reach the total in four straight home games versus Philly.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Miami.

The Orlando Magic are not going to win many games this year, and it's not a surprise to see them as a double digit underdog in Miami tonight. Both of their losses so far have come by 20+ points. The Heat are coming off a loss at Indiana, but they beat defending champions Milwaukee by 40+ in their home opener. The Magic are 1-7 ATS in their last eight games following a win, and the Heat are 7-1-1 ATS in their last nine games as a favorite. The Heat will win this game by as many points as they "feel like".

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Miami.

The Heat crushed Milwaukee in their season opener, and they catch the Indiana Pacers on the back end of a back to back tonight. The Pacers lost in overtime in the nation's capital last night. The Heat are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings in Indiana, and they are 7-0-1 ATS in their last eight games as a favorite. The Heat are 6-2 ATS in their last eight road games, and they are 5-1 ATS in their last six games following a straight up win. This is a tough spot for the Pacers.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on GSW.

The Warriors are coming off an undefeated pre-season, and they beat the Lakers in LA in their season opener. They host the LA Clippers in their home opener, and I see no reason why we shouldn't continue to ride the hot hand. The Warriors are 6-0 ATS in their last six games following an ATS win, and they are  6-0 ATS in their last six home games. Steph Curry had a triple-double in the win over the Lakers, and he scored a total of 71 points in his final two games of the pre-season. It's fair to say that he's already in mid-season form.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Toronto.

The Wizards open the season north of the border in Toronto, and this looks like a tough matchup for the visitors. The Raptors are a much younger team, with veterans Kyle Lowry, Serge Ibaka, Marc Gasol, and Norm Powell all moved on. Fred Van Fleet, Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby sre still in the starting lineup, along with veteran Goran Drajic who came over from Miami. The Wizards were winless in the pre-season, including a loss to Toronto. The interesting thing about the Raptors win over Washington was that the Raptors starters did not play against Bradley Beal, KCP, Kyle Kuzma and Spencer Dinwiddie. Toronto is 9-1 straight up in their last 10 versus the Wizards, and this is a big game in a home opener after they played last season's home games in Tampa.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Bucks are defending champions, and they host the Brooklyn Nets in their season opener. These teams last played in double overtime in Game 7 od the Eastern Conference Semi Final. The Nets have failed to cover in four of their last five at Milwaukee, and they are 15-32-1 ATS in the last 48 head to head meetings. The Bucks are 5-0 ATS in their last five home games. Milwaukee was 26-10 straight up at home last year and they were 30-5 straight up at home in 2019.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

It's fair to say that Game 5 was an outlier. It was the first time in this series that the road team won, and it was also the first time in this series that the total went over in the first half. The Phoenix Suns scored 119 points, shot better than 55 percent from the field and hit over 68 percent of thier three-point attempts. Those numbers are good enough to win 99 percent of the time, but in Game 5 the Bucks somehow shot 57.5 percent from the field and hung on for a stunning victory. So what happens in Game 6? I am going to go out on a limb and say Milwaukee won't be able to pull that off again. Looking back at Game 4 in Milwaukee, Phoenix dominated that game for the first three quarters, and fell apart in the final three minutes. With no margin for error, I expect the Suns to be at their best here in this elimination game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on PHX.

It's fair to say that Game 5 was an outlier. It was the first time in this series that the road team won, and it was also the first time in this series that the total went over in the first half. The Phoenix Suns scored 119 points, shot better than 55 percent from the field and hit over 68 percent of thier three-point attempts. Those numbers are good enough to win 99 percent of the time, but in Game 5 the Bucks somehow shot 57.5 percent from the field and hung on for a stunning victory. So what happens in Game 6? I am going to go out on a limb and say Milwaukee won't be able to pull that off again. Looking back at Game 4 in Milwaukee, Phoenix dominated that game for the first three quarters, and fell apart in the final three minutes. With no margin for error, I expect the Suns to be at their best here in this elimination game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is a 5* play on Under.

I bet the under for the first half of Game 2, and here is what I said before tipoff: “The Bucks scored just 49 points in the first half of Game 1, and Giannis once again struggled at the free throw line. The total for Game 2 is a little higher than it was in the previous game, and I expect both the team to turn up the heat on defense. The Suns should continue to send Giannis to the line every chance they get, and the Bucks may have to make a few adjustments to slow down Chris Paul. The under is 8-1 in the Bucks last nine games following a straight up loss, and the under is 9-4 in the Bucks last 13 games as an underdog.” Despite going under in the first half in each of the first four games, the total for Game 5 is still quite high.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is an 8* play on Milwaukee.

The Bucks are facing a must win situation in Game 3, as no team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in the NBA Finals. They came on strong in the first quarter of Game 2, leading 29-26 heading into the 2nd quarter. The Suns had no answer for Giannis, who scored 42 points and pulled in a dozen rebounds. The Bucks are 4-1 ATS in their last five games following a ATS loss, and they are 7-1 straight up at home in these playoffs. The Suns might just get caught flat footed here as the series heads back to Milwaukee.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Bucks.

I bet Phoenix in Game 1, and I have Phoenix winning the series and Chris Paul to win MVP. That being said, Game 1 wasn't as one-sided as the final score would indicate, and I expect Milwaukee to be better in Game 2. Devin Booker was just 8-of-21 from the field, scoring the majority of his points at the free throw line. A lot has been made about the disparity in free throw opportunities, and the Bucks have been lobbying for more calls in Game 2. The Bucks are 4-0 ATS when coming off a loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under 1H. 

The Bucks scored just 49 points in the first half of Game 1, and Giannis once again struggled at the free throw line. The total for Game 2 is a little higher than it was in the previous game, and I expect both the team to turn up the heat on defense. The Suns should continue to send Giannis to the line every chance they get, and the Bucks may have to make a few adjustments to slow down Chris Paul. The under is 8-1 in the Bucks last nine games following a straight up loss, and the under is 9-4 in the Bucks last 13 games as an underdog.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Phoenix to win the Finals.

The Milwaukee Bucks finished with the best record in the Eastern Conference in both 2019 & 2020, but each of those seasons ended with post-season disappointment. Are they really any better this year than they were the last two years... or have they just been fortunate that James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Tre Young all got hit by injuries? Their luck may have run out here in the Finals, facing a healthy Phoenix team that finished with the second best record in the NBA this season. Giannis might play, but it's highly unlikely that he will be anywhere near 100 percent. Even when healthy, he's had plenty of struggles, especially at the free throw line. The Suns have won five of their last six versus Milwaukee, and they have covered in six of their last seven versus the Bucks.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Atlanta.

This series has been all over the map, with injuries playing such a key role. The Bucks proved that they can win without Giannis in Game 5 at home, but they sure didn't rise to the challenge back in Game 4 in Milwaukee. The Bucks are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 playoff games as an underdog, and the Hawks are 21-7 ATS in their last 28 home games. I expect Atlanta to make the necessary adjustments, and Game 6 should look a lot like Game 4.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

This series has been all over the map, with injuries playing such a key role. The Bucks proved that they can win without Giannis in Game 5 at home, but they sure didn't rise to the challenge back in Game 4 in Atlanta. Both games in Atlanta were low scoring, and the under is 5-0 in the Bucks last five at Atlanta. The under is 8-3-1 in Bucks last 12 overall, and they have gone under in nine of their last 12 as an underdog. I expect points to be hard to come by in this elimination game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Milwaukee.

The Bucks are reeling after losing Giannis to a knee injury in Game 4, but after seeing the Hawks dominate from start to finish with Trae Young on the bench, it's up to the Bucks to respond in similar fashion. Mike Budenholzer didn't have the troops prepared for Game 4, but I expect him to get his house in order for a must win game at home. Remember the last game in Milwaukee was a blowout, with the Bucks winning by 34 points. Jrue Holiday scored 22 points on 9-of-14 shooting, and the Bucks shot over 52 percent from the field. They will miss Giannis, but if everyone else does their job... they can do this.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHX.

The Clippers caught a break in Game 5, in fact they caught quite a few breaks. Paul George scored 41 points on 15-of-20 shooting, Reggie Jackson and Markus Morris also scored 20+, both shooting for an extremely high percentage. The Suns came out flat, with low energy and Chris Paul was 0-of-6 from beyond the arc. So can LA count on all those things going right in Game 6? I seriously doubt it ... The Suns should come out with a killer instinct here, and prove they are still the better team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Suns.

The Clippers have had an impressive run since Kawhi Leonard went down, but it could all be over in Phoenix tonight. Chris Paul told reporters after Game 4 that he isn't taking anything for granted with a 3-1 series lead. He's seen how quickly a series can turn around, and he's focused on punching his ticket to the finals right here and now. The Suns are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games overall, and they are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games as a favorite. They opened up a nine point lead in the first quarter of Game 4, and extended the lead to 14 by halftime. We should expect another fast start for the home team in Game 5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Atlanta.

The Hawks were downright awful in Game 2 in Milwaukee, but I expect to see a different team at home in Atlanta tonight. The Bucks might be liking their own smell after they blew the doors off in Game 2, and they could get caught flat footed early on the road here. The Bucks are 2-5 ATS in their last seven games as a road favorite, and they are 1-5 ATS in their last six Conference Finals games. The Hawks are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 home games, and they have covered in four of their last five coming off an ATS loss. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Phoenix.

The Suns came into Game 3, flying high with a 2-0 series lead. Chris Paul was back, and they were selling "Suns in Four" T-shirts in Phoenix. Well after shooting just 38.8 percent from the field, and 10-of-32 from three-point range, they are in danger of heading home with the series tied at 2-2. Paul George put up big numbers in Game 3, and he even made a half-court shot. He didn't shoot that well though, hitting just 3-of-11 from three-point range. In fact if he didn't miss a pair of free throws in the dying seconds of Game 2, the Clippers might be leading this series. Chances are that we will see a better performance from Chris Paul and Devin Booker in Game 4, but it's tough to ask for more from Paul George. The Suns are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 games following a straight up loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Milwaukee.

Here is what I said before Game 1: “The Bucks host the Hawks in the East Finals, and I expect this to be a short series. Atlanta found a way to get past a banged up Sixers team that had it's fair share of problems. The Bucks are whole different animal. This is a team that has been favorites to come out of the East for a few years now, and it looks like they may have exercised their demons in Game 7 versus Brooklyn. The Hawks have lost four straight at Milwaukee, and they were a double digit underdog in all four of those games.” While I did win my bet on the Bucks for the first quarter, once again the Hawks mounted another comeback. I expect the Bucks to come out like gangbusters in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Clippers.

So the Clippers are down 0-2 heading in to Game 3 in LA, exactly the same situation they faced against Utah and Dallas. They actually looked better in the first two games in Phoenix than they did in the first two game of their previous series. Paul George scored 34 points on 10-of-26 shooting and was 7-of-15 from beyond the arc in Game 1. History favors the home team as the Suns are 1-9 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Los Angeles, and they are 6-15 ATS in the last 21 meetings. I like LA to come out like gangbusters in Game 3.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Milwaukee.

The Bucks host the Hawks in the East Finals, and I expect this to be a short series. Atlanta found a way to get past a banged up Sixers team that had it's fair share of problems. The Bucks are whole different animal. This is a team that has been favorites to come out of the East for a few years now, and it looks like they may have exercised their demons in Game 7 versus Brooklyn. The Hawks have lost four straight at Milwaukee, and they were a double digit underdog in all four of those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on PHX.

The Clippers pushed Phoenix to the brink in Game 1, and Paul George played out of his mind. Playoff P scored 34 points on 10-of-26 shooting, and he was 7-of-15 from beyond the arc. So does that mean they are in good shape moving forward? I don't think so! They had a chance to take advantage of a team coming off a long layoff, and they couldn't get it done. They can't count on Paul George to deliver night in, night out. I expect Game 2 to be a blowout.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Atlanta.

I had Atlanta in the last game, and they came up short. Here is what I said prior to the game: "The Sixers are the better team, there's no doubt about that. They just can't seem to finish a game though, and after blowing a big lead in each of the last two games in this series, it could be all over here in Atlanta. The 76ers are 1-7 ATS in the last eight meetings in Atlanta." Philly hasn't played well enough to justify a big point spread here in an elimination game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Brooklyn.

It was almost a month ago now that I published an article titled: "Why The Nets Won't Win The Title in 2021". Here is an excerpt: "Having the best players is only an advantage if they can stay healthy, and that’s asking a lot for a group that has only managed to play eight games together this season. KD is returning from an Achilles injury, Kyrie has been injury prone the majority of his career, and Harden is dealing with a lingering hamstring issue. All three players have a reputation for creating drama in a locker room. KD had his issues with Draymond, Harden burned all his bridges in Houston on his way out the door, and there was no love lost between LeBron and Kyrie in the final days in Cleveland. The folks in Boston don’t speak highly of Kyrie either." I still don't think Brooklyn is in great shape as far as winning the championship, but KD is still the best player in this series, and James Harden has improved with each game back. Home court, and a healthier Harden might be too much for the Bucks in Game 7.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on LA.

I had Utah in Game 5, and here is what I said before tipoff:"This series has been dominated by the home team, and there's no reason to expect that to change here in Game 5. The Clippers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 Conference Semifinals games, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five as a road underdog. The Jazz had the best record in the NBA during the regular season, and they were 31-5 in Utah. The Jazz are 6-0 ATS in their last six playoff games as a favorite. The Clippers are 8-22-1 ATS in the last 31 meetings in Utah." After coming up short in a must win game, I have no faith in Utah, and I'll go with the Clippers in LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Atlanta.

The Sixers are the better team, there's no doubt about that. They just can't seem to finish a game though, and after blowing a big lead in each of the last two games in this series, it could be all over here in Atlanta. The 76ers are 1-7 ATS in the last eight meetings in Atlanta.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Jazz.

This series has been dominated by the home team, and there's no reason to expect that to change here in Game 5. The Clippers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 Conference Semifinals games, and they have failed to cover in four of their last five as a road underdog. The Jazz had the best record in the NBA during the regular season, and they were 31-5 in Utah. The azz are 6-0 ATS in their last six playoff games as a favorite. The Clippers are 8-22-1 ATS in the last 31 meetings in Utah.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Bucks.

It was almost a month ago now that I published an article titled: "Why The Nets Won't Win The Title in 2021". Here is an excerpt: "Having the best players is only an advantage if they can stay healthy, and that’s asking a lot for a group that has only managed to play eight games together this season. KD is returning from an Achilles injury, Kyrie has been injury prone the majority of his career, and Harden is dealing with a lingering hamstring issue. All three players have a reputation for creating drama in a locker room. KD had his issues with Draymond, Harden burned all his bridges in Houston on his way out the door, and there was no love lost between LeBron and Kyrie in the final days in Cleveland. The folks in Boston don’t speak highly of Kyrie either."  There is still no guarantee that Brooklyn won't pull off a miracle, but at this point that's what it's going to take. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Clippers.

I had LA in Game 3, and here is what I said prior to the game: “This isn't the first time the Clippers have been down 2-0 in a series in these playoffs, and I think they still believe they can beat Utah. With the series shifting to LA for Game 3, we should see a better performance from the favorites. The Jazz are 2-10 ATS in their last 12 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Clippers are 4-1 ATS in their last five playoff games as a favorite.” I expect to be going back to Utah with the series tied at 2-2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Bucks.

Prior to this series I had said that the Nets seemed to have no interest in playing defense. They proved me wrong by holding the NBA's highest scoring team to fewer than 100 points per game in the first two games of this series. I wouldn't be surprised to see them look a little complacent here in Game 3 in Milwaukee. The Bucks are likely to come out firing on all cylinders, and I expect them to shoot the ball a lot better at home. The Nets are 2-7 ATS in their last nine playoff games as an underdog, and the over is 4-1 in the Nets last five Conference Semifinals games. The Bucks won both home games versus Brooklyn during the regular season, and both of those games went over 240 combined points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Clippers.

This isn't the first time the Clippers have been down 2-0 in a series in these playoffs, and I think they still believe they can beat Utah. With the series shifting to LA for Game 3, we should see a better performance from the favorites. The Jazz are 2-10 ATS in their last 12 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Clippers are 4-1 ATS in their last five playoff games as a favorite.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Denver.

The Nuggets are coming off a brutal loss in Game 2 in Phoenix, losing by 25 points. Denver's head coach Mike Malone told the media that his team quit, and that's not going to sit well in the locker room. The Nuggets are desperate to get back into this series, and I expect them to get off to a much better start in Game 3 as the series shifts to Denver. The Suns are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Denver, and the Nuggets are 4-1 ATS in their last five games as a home favorite. Denver appears to be undervalued in this revenge spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Atlanta.

The Hawks jumped all over the Sixers in Game 1 in Philly, and I expect them to get off to a good start in Game 3 as the series shifts to Atlanta. The 76ers are 2-5 ATS in their last seven games following an ATS win, and they are 0-6 ATS in the last six meetings in Atlanta. The Hawks are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 home games, and they are 15-7 ATS in their last 22 meetings versus Philly. The 76ers are 6-18-2 ATS in their last 26 road games versus a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

Prior to this series I had said that the Nets seemed to have no interest in playing defense. They proved me wrong by holding the NBA's highest scoring team to fewer than 100 points per game in the first two games of this series. I wouldn't be surprised to see them look a little complacent here in Game 3 in Milwaukee. The Bucks are likely to come out firing on all cylinders, and I expect them to shoot the ball a lot better at home. The Nets are 2-7 ATS in their last nine playoff games as an underdog, and the over is 4-1 in the Nets last five Conference Semifinals games. The Bucks won both home games versus Brooklyn during the regular season, and both of those games went over 240 combined points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Philly.

The Hawks opened up a 20+ point lead early in Game 1, but the Sixers were able to fight their way back into the game and nearly came all the way back. They face a must win situation in Game 2, but they have to be happy that Joel Embiid was able to not only play, but scored 39 points. The Hawks are 2-6 ATS in their last eight road games, and they are  6-17-1 ATS in their last 24 Conference Semifinals games. The 76ers are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games. This team finished first in the East for a reason, and don't think they are going down 0-2 to the Hawks.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Atlanta.

The Sixers managed to get past Washington in five games, even as Joel Embiid sat on the bench in Game 5. Embiid is officially listed as day to day, but a torn meniscus is expected to keep him out of Game 1. Philly won 77 percent of their games with Joel Embiid in the lineup this season, but had a losing record (10-11) in games that he missed. The Hawks won their first rounds series versus New York in five games, winning twice on the road. They closed out the series with a 103-89 win at The Garden in Game 5. The Hawks are 14-6 ATS in the last 20 meetings, and they are 6-1 ATS in their last seven overall. Without Embiid there is no doubt that Tre Young is going to be the best player on the floor in Game 1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is an 8* play on Denver.

The Nuggets were brutal in Game 4, losing 115-95 despite Damian Lillard only shooting 1-of-10 from the field. Norm Powell picked up the slack, scoring a game high 29 points. Depending on Powell to do that again in Game 5 might not be a winning formula for the Blazers. I expect Denver to be much better at home here than they were in Portland in Game 4. The Nuggets are 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight Conference Quarterfinals games. The Trail Blazers are 16-34-2 ATS in their last 52 Conference Quarterfinals games. The Joker is the MVP, and I expect him to play like it tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Clippers.

I bet on the Clippers to win the West, so needless to say I didn't expect them to be down 0-2 in this series versus Dallas. So now I have to figure out where I went wrong? Well there are two things that stand out, one that I should have considered, and another woud have been impossible to predict. I noted that Paul George really looked like he was on top of his game heading into the playoffs, but the fact is that this isn't the first time we've seen him struggle in the post-season. He's forcing up some pretty questionable shots for a guy that currently can't hit the broadside of a barn. The Mavs three-point shooting (roughly 50 percent in the series so far) isn't something that anyone could have predicted. They can't maintain that percentage forever, and eventually those shots will stat rimming out and falling short. Paul George simply needs to be realistic about who he is, and try to be more like Ben Simmons and less like Michael Jordan. At the end of the day, I still think Kawhi is the best player in this series, and I expect LA to run the table now that they have seized the momentum.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Denver.

I had Denver in Game 2, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Blazers won big in Game 1 of this series, and we have to decide if that's a preview of what to expect moving forward in this series, or if it was an outlier. I am inclined to say it's likely the later. Portland made 19-of-40 three-point shots in Game 1, and they made 18-of-19 at the free throw line. Denver only made eight free thrown attempts in Game 1, and we should not expect such a disparity here moving forward. The Joker scored a solid 34 points on 14-of-27 shooting in Game 1, and he is likely to have an even better performance in Game 2." The Nuggets come rolling into Portland as an underdog, but they have all the momentum. I'll take the points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Clippers.

I bet on the Clippers to win the West, so needless to say I didn't expect them to be down 0-2 in this series versus Dallas. So now I have to figure out where I went wrong? Well there are two things that stand out, one that I should have considered, and another woud have been impossible to predict. I noted that Paul George really looked like he was on top of his game heading into the playoffs, but the fact is that this isn't the first time we've seen him struggle in the post-season. He's forcing up some pretty questionable shots for a guy that currently can't hit the broadside of a barn. The Mavs three-point shooting (roughly 50 percent in the series so far) isn't something that anyone could have predicted. They can't maintain that percentage forever, and eventually those shots will stat rimming out and falling short. Paul George simply needs to be realistic about who he is, and try to be more like Ben Simmons and less like Michael Jordan. At the end of the day, I still think Kawhi is the best player in this series, and I expect him to prove that in Game 3.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Denver.

I had Denver in Game 2, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Blazers won big in Game 1 of this series, and we have to decide if that's a preview of what to expect moving forward in this series, or if it was an outlier. I am inclined to say it's likely the later. Portland made 19-of-40 three-point shots in Game 1, and they made 18-of-19 at the free throw line. Denver only made eight free thrown attempts in Game 1, and we should not expect such a disparity here moving forward. The Joker scored a solid 34 points on 14-of-27 shooting in Game 1, and he is likely to have an even better performance in Game 2." The Nuggets come rolling into Portland as an underdog, but they have all the momentum. I'll take the points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over.

The Washington Wizards went on a tear in the second half of the season to sneak into the playoffs, but strong and responsible play on defense didn't have much to do with their success. They finished the regular season ranking dead last in scoring defense, allowing over 120 points per game. They didn't look great defensively in Game 1, and they were actually quite fortunate that Philly didn't have a particularly good game shooting the ball. The Sixers made 10 three-pointers in Game 1, and I expect them to improve on that number in Game 2. The over is 6-1 in the Wizards last seven road games, and they have gone over in seven of their last 10 overall. The over is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings in Philadelphia.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on Denver.

The Blazers won big in Game 1 of this series, and we have to decide if that's a preview of what to expect moving forward in this series, or if it was an outlier. I am inclined to say it's likely the later. Portland made 19-of-40 three-point shots in Game 1, and they made 18-of-19 at the free throw line. Denver only made eight free thrown attempts in Game 1, and we should not expect such a disparity here moving forward. The Joker scored a solid 34 points on 14-of-27 shooting in Game 1, and he is likely to have an even better performance in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Sixers.

Despite finishing first in the East during the regular season, the Sixers aren't getting a lot of respect from bookmakers. They will play the Wizards in the first round, and this should be a fairly easy series for them. Washington played incredible down the stretch, but Russell Westbrook gave us a preview of what to expect in the playoffs when he laid an egg in the first play-in game. The Wizards are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 Conference Quarterfinals games, and they are 1-8 ATS in their last nine playoff games as an underdog.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Clippers.

The Western Conference is wide open heading into the playoffs. The defending champion LA Lakers are still the favorite, despite facing a play-in situation versus the red hot Golden State Warriors. Steph Curry has played at an MVP caliber all season long, while LeBron has been in and out of the lineup, and doesn't appear to be 100 percent healthy.

The Utah Jazz finished first in the standings, and the Phoenix Suns were only one game back. Neither of those teams is getting much respect from bookmakers, who give them the third and fourth best chance to win the West.

The media was buzzing when LeBron James was quoted a few weeks ago as saying: "I don't think i'll ever get back to 100% in my career." While I believe that was mostly clickbait, I do think he's already looking for an excuse if he fails to get out of the first round, or gets bounced by the Warriors in the play-in.

The Clippers are guilty of tanking in their final few games, a strategic move to avoid facing the Lakers until the Western Conference Final. Kawhi Leonard has had a pretty quiet season, but he has a history of elevating his game in the playoffs. He's also been perhaps the only player in the league to get the better of LeBron James.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on GSW.

The Warriors host the Grizzlies in a winner takes all elimination game, and it's hard to imagine Golden State coming up short at home here. They looked great against the Lakers, especially in the first half. Steph Curry scored 37 points, and shot 6-of-9 from beyond the arc. The Grizzlies played well down the stretch, putting themselves in position to get to a play-in. The did lose 113-101 at Golden State in their final game of the regular season. They had no answer for Curry, who scored 46 points and hit nine three-pointers in the win. The Warriors are 6-0 ATS in their last six games overall, and they have covered in six straight at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on GSW.

The Western Conference is wide open heading into the playoffs. The defending champion LA Lakers are still the favorite, despite facing a play-in situation versus the red hot Golden State Warriors. Steph Curry has played at an MVP caliber all season long, while LeBron has been in and out of the lineup, and doesn't appear to be 100 percent healthy.

The Utah Jazz finished first in the standings, and the Phoenix Suns were only one game back. Neither of those teams is getting much respect from bookmakers, who give them the third and fourth best chance to win the West.

The media was buzzing when LeBron James was quoted a few weeks ago as saying: "I don't think i'll ever get back to 100% in my career." While I believe that was mostly clickbait, I do think he's already looking for an excuse if he fails to get out of the first round, or gets bounced by the Warriors in the play-in.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on LA Lakers.

The Lakers were the best team in the NBA, and defending world champions before LeBron and AD suffered nagging injuries. While they have slipped all the way to seventh in the Western Conference, it would be naive to think that they are anything but the favorite to repeat. The Knicks are one of the hottest teams in the league, but I think they are biting off more than they can chew here on the road at LA with LeBron and AD both expected to play. Davis is coming off a 42 point performance in a win over Phoenix on Sunday. The Knicks won by a score of 111-96 at home against LA last month, but neither AD or LeBron played in that game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Wizards.

Washington might be the hottest team in the league, and Russ Westbrook could be the hottest player in the NBA at the moment. The Wizards catch the Bucks coming off back to back wins over Brooklyn, in the second game of a back to back. This is a situational spot that can not be ignored, and I like the underdog to win outright.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Under.

The Nets have lost back to back games, giving up 128 points versus Portland, and surrendering 117 points in a loss to Milwaukee. Neither of those games went over 240 combined points, and it seems reasonable to expect a better effort on defense here as they look to get off the schneid. The under is 8-3 in the Nets last 11 games as an underdog, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last seven overall. The under is 7-3 in the Bucks last 10 games playing on 1 days rest, and they have failed to reach the total in five of their last six overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Toronto.

The Nets are coming off an impressive win at New Orleans, with both James Harden and Kevin Durant sidelined by injuries. That sets them up for a let down here on the road versus the Raptors in the second game of a back to back. Kyrie Irving played 38 minutes last night, scoring 32 points. It might be irresponsible for him to play heavy minutes here in tonight's game. The Raptors are as healthy as they have been all season, and they are coming off three straight home wins. The Raptors have covered in four of their last five versus the Nets.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Raptors.

Two last place teams face off when the Raptors host the Magic tonight. Neither of these teams have much left to play for, but both teams are coming off a win. The Magic won on the road in Chicago, and Toronto won at home versus the Spurs. Toronto will have leading scorer Fred VanVleet back in the lineup tonight. The Raptors have owned Orlando, covering the spread in eight straight head to head meetings. Toronto is 5-0 ATS in their last five home games against the Magic.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Cleveland.

The Raptors are in Cleveland tonight, and they will rest their starters in the first game of a back to back. This has been a theme for Toronto this year, letting the young players get some experience. The results have been as expected, as they sit dead last in the Atlantic Division. They have lost nine straight on the road, and they have failed to cover in seven straight away from home (not really home). Cleveland is coming off back to back wins, and their young stars have been playing well. The Cavaliers are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Grizzlies.

Memphis is on a roll, coming into New York as winners of three straight on this road trip. Wins came at Philly, Miami and Atlanta. They are now just two games out of first place in the Southwest Division. The Knicks have lost five of their last six overall, and they have slid all the way to fourth in the Atlantic Division. The Grizzlies are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games as a favorite, and they are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 meetings versus the Knicks.

GL,

Jesse Schule