10* 76ers (SHOCKER)

The 76ers continue to try and adjust to life without star center Joel Embiid, but this particular matchup now definitely favors Philly in our opinion. The Hawks are just 10-15 on the road, while the 76ers are 17-9 at home. Atlatna is off two straight losses and with a home game vs. lowly Houston tomorrow, we believe the visitors get caught "looking ahead." Philly plays with revenge after a 139-132 OT loss as a favorite on the road back in January to the Hawks, and note that the 76ers are in fact a wallet-expanding 7-3 ATS in their last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss as a favorite vs. an opponent. While we think the outright victory is possible, in the end we'll recommend to grab as many points as you can with Philadelphia!

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10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

With nearly 75% of the early public money on the visitors, we'll go full on contrarian here and go the other way with the hungry home side. Denver is 35-16, but a much more pedestrian 14-12 on the road. The Lakers are 28-25 overall, but 18-8 at home. LA returns home from a 4-2 road trip, including winning three straight to close out. With two days rest and playing with revenge after a 119-107 road loss in Denver at the start of the year, we love the way this one sets up for the revenge-minded home side. Denver is off two straight home wins over lowly Portland, but its last road excursion resulted in a 105-100 loss at OKC. In a contest that we see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, we're grabbing the points; the play is indeed on LA!

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10* Wizards (REVENGE TOP)

Outright win?! We're not calling for that, but all signs do indeed point to contest being much more competitive than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe in our opinion. The Cavaliers are 32-16, including 14-8 on the road, while Washington is 9-40, including just 3-21 at home. the Cavaliers have won six straight, but with a game at Brooklyn tomorrow night, we expect the visitors to take the foot off the gas in the second half. And the revenge-minded Wiz, who fell 114-90 at Cleveland in January, will look to take advantage. Note that Washington is 7-3 (70%) ATS in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent in which it was held to 95 or fewer points in. A great situational play here on Washington!

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10* Heat (ASSASSIN)

The Clippers are a lot better this year than we thought they'd be at this point of the season. They're 32-15 overall, but just 13-11 on the road. They're 4-1 SU/ATS on their current road trip, but with a final road contest tomorrow in Atlanta, we're expecting the visitors to finally get caught "looking ahead." Miami comes in with momentum, off back-to-back wins and it plays with revenge as well after a 121-104 loss at LA on New Years day, and note that the Heat are 4-1 ATS in their last five in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss vs. an opponent; grab the points, the play is indeed on Miami!

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10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

While we do feel an outright win is possible, in the end we'll recommend to grab as many points as you can with the visiting side. LA is 26-25 now after its upset 114-105 road win as a 15-point dog last time out. LBJ and AD both sat that one out, but are expected to play here. LA plays with revenge as well after a 114-105 home loss to the Knicks back in December, and note that the Lakers are 3-1 ATS in their last four in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss vs. an opponent. After nine straight SU wins, the Knicks now have a big target on their backs. While we do feel an outright upset is a possibility, in the end we'll recommend to grab the points here with LA!

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10* Pacers (EAST-CONF GOM)

Here's a great situational play on Indiana. The Pacers are 27-22 overall. They're off a 129-124 road loss at Boston, covering with the eight-point spread. We're expecting another spirited effort on the road here as well in the Big Apple. Indiana beat New York 140-126 at home back on December 30th. But it's the Knicks that come in overvalued here by the oddsmakers in our estimation after eight straight SU wins and six straight ATS victories. With the Lakers coming to town next, we believe the home side also gets caught "looking ahead." Grab the points, the play is indeed on Indiana!

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10* Bucks (ASSASSIN)

The Bucks are 30-13 overall and have a 19-4 record at home, but they still decided to make a coaching change. Look for this to have an immediate effect on the players here on Wednesday night as they keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Cleveland is 26-15, including 11-7 on the road, but after eight straight SU/ATS victories in a row, everything points to a letdown here finally in our opinion, which is the opener of two straight here between the clubs. Milwaukee plays with revenge after a humbling 135-95 loss at Cleveland on January 17th, and note that the Bucks are in fact 7-3 ATS in their last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS loss in which they were held to 95 or fewer points in vs. an opponent. Lay the points with confidence, the play is Milwaukee!

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10* Dallas (NON-CONF GOM)

Here's a great situational play. After suffering their first home defeat to the Nuggets, Boston bounced back with a seven point win in Houston just last night, unable to cover the 11-point spread. Now they're being asked to cover another tough spread and we believe that fatigue will definitely be an issue here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. The Mavericks look to regroup after a 127-110 loss to the Lakers on Wednesday. In a contest that we see Dallas having a legitimate shot at winning outright, our official call will be to grab as many points as you can with the home side!

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10* Wizards (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

Outright win? We're not calling for that. However, as primarily "situational" cappers, this one falls right into our "wheelhouse," as we think this is a "trap" game for Denver. The Nuggets just beat the Celtics 102-100 in Boston, snapping their 20-game home win streak. With upcoming road games at Indiana and New York, the visitors get caught "looking ahead" here. Washington has suffered three straight SU losses after last night's 131-127 setback to the Spurs, but note that the Wizards have in fact responded well in this spot for bettors by going 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more SU losses in a row; grab the points, the play is indeed on Washington!

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10* Bucks (ASSASSIN)

We expect Milwaukee to not only win this game, but to do so in blowout fashion. The Bucks are 28-13, but just 9-9 on the road. Detroit is 4-37, including only 2-18 at home. Milwaukee had its three-game win streak come to an end last time out in a 135-95 loss at Cleveland, but note that the Bucks are 7-3 ATS in their last ten off a SU/ATS road loss in which they were held to 95 or fewer points in. They're also 3-1 ATS in their last four after three or more straight ATS losses in a row. This is in fact the opener of two straight here between the clubs. Look for Milwaukee to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish and lay the points with confidence!

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10* Nuggets (ASSASSIN)

The defending champs would love nothing more than to give the Celtics, who are 20-0 at home this year, their first loss of the season in this building. Is that possible?! With Nikola Jokic on the court, of course anything is possible. That said, in a contest that we see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, we're definitely advising everyone to grab as many points as you can in this one. The Nuggets are off a loss to Philly, but we expect their defense to be "on point" tonight and to keep them in this one late. And with nearly 65% of the early public money on the home side, the clincher for us is going the other way and being contrarian with this release; grab the points, the play is indeed on Denver!

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10* Thunder (ASSASSIN)

OKC is 27-13 overall, including 11-8 on the road, while Utah is 22-20 overall, and 15-5 at home. Utah is 9-1 SU and 8-2 ATS in its last ten, but after three straight upsets at home, we're expecting Utah to finally come out a bit flat here. After this they hit the road for six straight, so it's a look-ahead spot as well. The Thunder though are off back-to-back SU/ATS losses and won't be taking anything for granted here. This is a great 'situational' play on Oklahoma City!

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10* Kings (ASSASSIN)

While we do feel the outright in is a very real possibility, in the end we'll recommend to grab as many points as you can in what we expect to be a very competitive affair. Milwaukee is 18-4 at home, but after B2B high-profile home victories over Boston and Golden State, and with a few days off after this before an extended road trip, everything points to this being a classic "trap" for the home side as it gets caught "looking ahead." This is a great situational play. Sacramento started off its road trip with two wins, but stumbled 112-93 last time out at Philadelphia a 1-point favorite. Note though that the Kings are 7-3 ATS in their last ten off a SU/ATS road loss in which they were held to 95 or fewer points in. Everything points to this one "coming down to wire," so let's grab the points with Sacramento!

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10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

Both teams are 20-20, but we love the way this one sets up for the visitors. LA's two-game win streak came to an end last time out in a 127-109 loss at home to Phoenix. Utah has won four straight, but after last night's big 145-113 home win over Toronto, we're expecting fatigue to be a major factor here. That's four straight upset wins for the Jazz, and alls signs point to a predictable letdown. Lay the short points, the play is the LA!

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10* 76ers (ASSASSIN)

As primarily "situational" handicappers, this one falls right  into our "wheelhouse." Sacramento is 10-7 on the road, while Philly is 13-6 at home. The Kings are off B2B road victories over Detroit and Charlotte, but note they face a determined 76ers side that's dropped three in a row SU/ATS. Note though that the 76ers are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after three or more SU/ATS losses in a row. It's an important three game stretch now for the 76ers, with Houston and Denver coming to town next. But with a game at Milwaukee upcoming, we also believe the visitors get caught "looking ahead." Lay the short points, the play is indeed on Philadelphia!

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10* Wizards (ASSASSIN)

While we're stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to a much tighter battle than what this spread is suggesting in our opinion. Indiana is 12-8 at home and it's won seven of its last eight. That includes an upset 133-131 win here at home over Boston last time out. With an upcoming six-game road trip after this starting at ATL, everything points to the home side getting caught "looking ahead" here as well. Letdown + lookahead = "trap game!" This is a trap for the Pacers. No such luxury for the Wizards though who have lost five straight (but that's signficicant for us as bettors to take note of, as Washington has in fact gone 7-3 ATS in its last ten after five or more straight SU losses in a row.) No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points, the play is indeed on Washington!

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10* Wizards (ASSASSIN)

While we're not calling for the outright victory, all signs point to a much tighter battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe in our opinion. New York is 3-0 SU/ATS in its last three after last night's 128-92 road win at Philadelphia as a 5.5-point dog, but note that the Knicks are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten off an upset road win as an underdog in which they held their opponent to 95 or fewer points in. They're also just 1-4 ATS in their last five after three or more SU/ATS victories in a row. We think a small mental letdown is inevitable here in the second game of the back-to-back and off the big upset victory; grab the points, the play is Washington!

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10* Warriors (ASSASSIN)

Denver has won four of its last five. It beat Golden State 120-114 at home on X-Mas Day, unable to cover the 7.5-point spread. The Warriors are 3-1 ATS in their last four in trying to avenge a SU road loss vs. an opponent. We think the Nuggets will get caught "looking ahead" here to their home game vs. the Magic tomorrow. Golden State snapped a three-game slide with a quality 121-115 victory over Orlando and with a winnable game at home vs. Detroit tomorrow, we're expecting Golden State to step up here and take advantage of the scheduling; grab the points, the play is indeed on Golden State!

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10* Hawks (UNDERDOG OF MONTH)

This one sets up unbelievably well for Atlanta. OKC is 23-9 and 9-4 on the road, but after five straight SU/ATS wins in a row, including an upset 127-123 home win over Boston just last night, can anyone say "letdown spot?!" Also note that the Thunder are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten after five or more straight SU/ATS victories in a row. Atlanta just snapped a four-game slide with a 130-126 win over Washington to move to 13-19. That was three nights ago though. The Hawks are well rested and the play with revenge after falling 126-117 as one-point favorites in OKC back on November 6th, and note that ATL is 7-3 ATS in its last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss as a favorite vs. an opponent. A great situational play on Atlanta!

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10* Charlotte (NON-CONF GOW)

Of course we're not calling for the outright victory or anything, but all signs point to a much tighter affair than what this spread is suggesting in our opinion. The Hornets have won three of their last five, but they're off a 111-93 loss at Denver. But we say they fly in "under the radar" here vs. the Kings, who will get caught "looking ahead" to their much more high-profile game the following night here vs. the Magic. After back-to-back SU road wins, all signs point to the Kings having a small mental letdown here at home tonight; no outright, but closer than expected, so grab the points!

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10* Pelicans (ASSASSIN)

We base our picks on many different things. This particular one is based on the "revenge" factor, which we'll admit, is completely overhyped at times. But not at all times, and definitely not in this case in our opinion. Utah is just 5-13 on the road, but after three straight SU/ATS victories in a row, we're expecting a predictable letdown here, as note that the Jazz are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after three or more SU/ATS losses in a row. They beat the Pels 114-112 at home as a 6.5-point dog on November 27th, but note that New Orleans is 7-3 ATS in its last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss as a favorite vs. an opponent. After back-to-back SU/ATS losses in a row, we're expecting the home side to come out fired up and completely focussed on the task at hand; lay the points with confidence, the play is New Orleans!

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10* Portland (ASSASSIN)

Outright win?! We're not calling for that, but we defintely expect this to be competitive until the final moments. The Kings are 17-11, but they're just 6-6 on the road. Off a 110-98 home loss to the Wolves, note that the Kings are in fact just 1-3 ATS in their last four off a SU/ATS home loss as a favorite in which they were held to 99 or fewer points in. Portland comes in under the radar here. It's off B2B losses, falling 126-106 at Golden State, but with a few days off to prepare, we're expecting the Blazers to be competitive here, just as they were in a 121-118 OT loss at Sacramento in early November; grab the points, the play is indeed on the Blazers!

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10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

The Celtics opened up their West-coast swing with a 132-126 OT loss at Golden State, but they've since won B2B away games, handling Sacramento 144-119 and the Clippers here two nights ago 145-108. But with three nights off after this, we feel that the temptation to get caught "looking ahead" will be there for the visiting side now. No such luxury for LA though, which just snapped a four-game slide with a convincing 129-120 win at OKC. Look for the Lakers to carry that momentum over here and while the outright is obviously very possible, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can with LA!

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10* Hornets (ASSASSIN)

We base our picks on many different things, this particular one sets up fantastically from a "situational" stand point. We say that Denver FOR SURE gets caught "looking ahead" to its X-Mas home game vs. Golden State. Charlotte has lost six straight SU and three straight ATS, but that's important for us to take note of us as the Hornets are 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more ATS losses in a row. We're just expecting Denver to take the foot off the gas in the second half, as it prepares for its Nationally televised affair; grab the points, the play is Charlotte!

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10* Raptors (ASSASSIN)

We like Toronto to comfortably cover and sneak in through the backdoor down the stretch. Toronto plays with revenge after falling 114-109 here back on November 2nd, and note that the Raptors are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS divisional loss vs. an opponent. Philly's been playing great, but off a big win over the red hot Wolves, and with their X-Mas Day game at Miami up next, all signs point to this being a classic "trap game" for the home side. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points, the play is indeed on Toronto!

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10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

I lost with the Lakers last night in Chicago, but I think LA will risk life and limb here to try and snap out of its recent cold spell which has seen it lost three in a row. LA has now also lost five straight ATS, which is important here for this pick for us, as the Lakers have responded well in this position for bettors by going 7-3 ATS in their last ten after five or more straight ATS losses in a row. Minnesota's three-game win streak came to an end last night in Philly and we believe the Wolves will come out flat here now returning home (especially with two road games sandwiched around X-Mas right after this!) Both teams will have to deal with fatigue, but the overall situation and the above listed trends do indeed make LA the correc call in this contest!

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10* Lakers (NON-CONF GOY)

Here's a great spot for the 16-12 Lakers to bounce back in for bettors. LA has lost three of its last four. It's also now lost four straight ATS after a 114-109 home loss to New York (note though that the Lakers are still 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more straight ATS losses in a row.) And with a game at Minnesota tomorrow, the Lakers won't want to leave anything to chance here. Chicago has been trading wins/losses over its last ofur games and off a 108-104 upset win at Philadelphia as a 10.5-point dog last time out, we're expecting this pattern to continue; lay the points, the play is LA!

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10* Pistons (ASSASSIN)

This is a great "situational" play in our opinion. Clearly, we're not calling for the outright upset or anything crazy like that, but we do think the hungry Pistons will be able to keep it close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Detroit is just 2-23 and 1-11 on the road after last night's 124-92 loss at Philadelphia. That's now five straight ATS losses in a row for Detroit, which is in fact important for us to take note of here, as the Pistons are in fact 7-3 ATS in their last ten after five or more ATS losses in a row. Not surprisingly, the Pistons play with revenge after a competitive 120-118 loss here at the start of the year. Milwaukee just posted the 140-126 win here over the Pacers, but with high-flying Houston coming to town tomorrow, we expect the home side to get caught "looking ahead;" grab the points, the play is Detroit!

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10* Suns (PACIFIC DIVISION GOY)

After going just 1-4 SU and 0-5 ATS in their last five, we like the Suns to dig deep here and not only win this game, but also to do it in blowout fashion. They beat Golden State here 123-115 back in November and we're predicting a similar final outcome here as well. Both teams have had a few days off, but the Suns have hit a favorable part of their schedule, with three more very winnable home games after this. We're expecting Phoenix to shake off its recent slump. The Warriors were last in action four days ago as well, but they fell 138-136 in OT to the Thunder. KD is supposed to play here, but whether he does or not, this one sets up great situationally for Phoenix in our opinion; lay the short points, the play is indeed on the Suns!

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10* Blazers (ASSASSIN)

We love the way this one sets up for the Blazers from a situational stand-point. Portland is 6-15 overall, including only 4-9 on the road, but they're 8-5 ATS away from friendly confines. The Clippers are 11-10 overall, including 7-3 SU at home, but they're just 5-5 ATS in LA. Portland is coming off three straight SU losses, but that's significant to note as the Blazers are 8-4 ATS in their last 12 after three or more straight losses in a row. They play with revenge after a 123-111 loss as a 9.5 point dog here back in October as well, and note that Portland is in fact 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss vs. an opponent. The Clippers have won three in a row, but with the Kings coming to town tomorrow night, this one sets up as a potential "trap" game with the "letdown/look-ahead" factors both in full effect; grab the points, the play is Portland!

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10* Hawks (EAST-CONF GOM)

Atlanta is 9-11, including 6-5 on the road, while Philadelphia is 13-7 overall, including 7-3 at home. ATL has lost two straight, and five straight ATS, but that's significant to note as the Hawks are 7-3 ATS in their last ten after five or more straight ATS losses in a row. The Hawks play with revenge here as well after a 126-116 loss at home back in mid-November, and that's also important to note here as Atlanta is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss vs. an opponent. Hard to say anything negative about Philly, but this is just a bad spot for the home side; grab the points the play is Atlanta!

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10* Dallas (WEST-CONF NON-DIV GOM)

Dallas is 11-8, including 5-4 at home, while Utah is 7-13, including 1-9 on the road. Dallas has lost three of its last four, so it won't be taking anything for granted here. It hits the road for two straight after this as well, putting added importance onto this contest for Luka and company to get things turned around here at home tonight. Utah broke a two-game slide with a 118-113 OT win over Portland, but everything points to another letdown here in our opinion vs. this well-rested and focused home side; lay the points, the play is on the Mavericks!

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10* Knicks (ATLANTIC DIVISION GOM)

This is the first game of the season between these Atlantic Division foes, and we think the hungry visiting side is the correct call in this matchup tonight. New York is 11-7, including 5-4 on the road, while Toronto is 9-10, including 6-4 at home. The Raptors just snapped a three-game slide with a win over Phoenix and after this game it has five nights off before a home game vs. the Heat. New York is off back-to-back wins, including a 118-112 victory at home over Detroit last night. The Knicks have a few days off after this before a home game vs. the Bucks. New York is a bad matchup for the Raptors and we expect it to draw "first blood" in the season series; grab the points, the play is New York!

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10* BULLS (CENTRAL DIV GOW)

Clearly, the Bulls have issues this year. They're just 5-14. The Bucks haven't been perfect either, but they've looked great overall at 13-5. Chicago is clearly the more desperate team in this fight, as they've lost five straight SU/ATS. Chicago though is 7-3 ATS in its last ten after five or more SU/ATS losses in a row. The Bulls catch Milwaukee off three straight victories, and all signs finally point to a bit of a letdown here on the road in our estimation. Situationally this one definitely sets up well for the home side and that's primarily what we're basing this pick off. No outright, but much closer than expected; grab the points, the play is Chicago!

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10* WEST-CONF NON-DIV GOY on New Orleans.

Here's a great "spot" wager, one so strong that it's qualified as our No. 1 WESTERN-CONFERENCE NON-DIVISIONAL GAME OF THE YEAR. New Orleans is 9-8 after a 105-100 loss here two nights ago. Note though that the Pels have responded well in this spot for bettors by going 4-1 ATS in their last five in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss as a favorite vs. an opponent. Utah is just 5-11. That victory snapped a four-game slide. But with an upcoming road trip starting at Memphis, not only is this a letdown spot for the home side, but also a look-ahead. And when you add up those two factors together, you get TRAP GAME. This is now a trap for the contented home side, well all signs point to New Orleans keeping the foot on the gas from start to finish in this revenge-scenario; lay the points, the play is indeed on New Orleans!

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10* Wolves (NON-CONF GOW)

New York is 8-5, including 5-3 on the road. But after three straight SU/ATS road victories, and with four days off after this before game vs. rival Miami, we say this absolutely sets up as a "trap" for the visitors. Minnesota has won eight in a row, but it's lost three straight ATS. Note that the Wolves are 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more straight ATS losses in a row. We expect the visitors to "go through the motions" here; the play is Minnesota!

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10* Blazers (NORTHWEST DIV. GOM)

Here's a great situational wager on Portland. OKC is 9-4 and it's won four in a row, including two straight at Golden State, including last night's 130-123 OT victory. Can anyone say "letdown" spot?! Portland has lost six straight. It's lost three straight ATS, but note that the Blazers are 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more straight ATS setbacks in a row. With a couple days off after this, followed by a home game vs. the Bulls, this one has "trap" written all over it for the visitors; grab the points, the play is the Blazers!

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10* Bulls (UNDERDOG OF MONTH)

Despite having just played and lost 103-97 to Orlando last night, we like the Bulls to bounce back and take the first game of this two-game series here vs. the Heat. Chicago lost both games to orlando and it's now lost three in a row. Note though that the Bulls are 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more SU losses in a row. Miami has won seven straight, but we expect it to have its hands full here today vs. this underachieving home side. And while the outright win is obviously poossible, the official call is to grab as many points as you can with Chicago!

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10* Pelicans (ASSASSIN)

The Pelicans come in desperate to snap a five-game slide, both SU and ATS. Note that New Orleans is 7-3 ATS in its last ten though after five or more SU losses in a row. The Pels also play with the immediate "revenge" factor after falling 136-124 to Dallas here two nights agao, and note that New Orleans is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss as an underdog vs. an opponent. Dallas is firing on all cylinders right now, but with a game in the Nation's capital tomorrow night, followed by a contest in Milwaukee, not only is this a "letdown" spot for the Mavs, but also a "look-ahead." And when you add those two factors together you get TRAP GAME. While the outright is possible, the official call is to grab as many points as you can; the play is New Orleans!

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10* Bucks (CENTRAL DIV. GOW)

After B2B SU road losses, and six straight ATS setbacks, we're liking the Bucks to not only win this game here on Monday night vs. their division rival, but to do so in blowout fashion. Chicago has been trading wins and losses over its last four games, and off a 119-108 home win and cover over the Pistons just last night, we're expecting the Bulls to predictably suffer here in the second game ofthe B2B scenario. Overall this play is a super solid "situational" selection; lay the points, the play is Milwaukee!

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10* Pelicans (SOUTHWEST GOY)

We love the way this one sets up for New Orleans. We really respect the Mavericks and think they are a very dangerous team. This is just a great spot for the hungry home side. The Mavs are 7-2, while the Pels are 4-5. This is the opener of two straight here between the teams. If the Pels lose this one, we'll almost assuredly be on them in the next game, but we just don't see that happening. Dallas is off the big 144-126 home win over the Clippers, but two days previous it fell 127-116 at home to the Raptors. New Orleans and Toronto have similar line-ups that can keep Luka Doncic busy. The Pels won't be messing around here after four straight losses. This is a great situational play and while clearly we believe the outright upset is a very real possibility, in the end we'll recommend to grab as many points as you can; the play is New Orleans!

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10* Spurs (ASSASSIN)

The Wolves are 5-2 and the Spurs are 3-5. Minnesota though is 0-2 on the road. It's won four straight SU/ATS, but note that it's still just 3-7 ATS in its last ten after three or more SU/ATS victories in a row. With B2B games at Golden State up next, will Minnesota get caught "looking ahead?!" The possibility is there for sure obviously. The Spurs enter off three straight SU/ATS losses in a row, but note that they're 3-1 ATS in their last four after three straight SU/ATS setbacks in a row. The Wolves have looked solid overall in the early going. The Spurs have shown flashes of brilliance. We think this is a great spot for San Antonio to finally bounce back in though. This is a few too many points; we're stopping short in calling for the outright upset, so the official call is to grab as many points as you can with San Antonio!

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10* Bucks (CENTRAL DIVISION GOY)

We think this is a great situational spot for Milwaukee. Both teams come in off games just last night. Milwaukee is now 5-2 after a 120-118 win over Detroit, while Indiana is 5-3 after a 134-118 win here last night over Utah. Look for Milwaukee's experience to play a roll here. If this were the end of the season, we'd probably even lean towards Indiana here, but this is an important early season divisional matchup which we absolutely expect Milwaukee to take very seriously; lay the points, the play is indeed on the Bucks!

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10* Mavericks (NON-CONF GOW)

Both teams are playing great, but we feel this is a great spot for the Mavericks. Dallas is 5-1, including 2-1 on the road, while Orlando is 4-2, including 2-0 at home. After losing at Denver, the Mavericks bounced back with a 124-118 home win over Charlotte. Orlando has won two straight, most recently pulling away for a 120-101 victory over the Lakers here at home. But with a neutral court game vs. red hot Atlanta up next, followed by Milwaukee, we say the overachieving home side finally gets caught "looking past" its opponent here; grab the points, the play is the Mavericks!

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10* Grizzlies (ASSASSIN)

The Grizz had a ten-point lead in the fourth quarter here two night ago, but they still lost 115-113 in OT. Memphis is now 0-6, its worst start since losing 13 straight in 2002. The Grizz are without several key players right now, but the Blazers are also injured and after three straight victories, all signs finally point to a letdown here (note that Portland is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight after three or more SU victories in a row.) Look for the more "hungry" team here to dig deep and finally deliver on the road, while at the same time all signs do definitely finally point to major letdown for the overachieving home side; lay the points, the play is Memphis!

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10* Heat (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

Neither team has gotten out to a very good start this year. Brooklyn is 1-2, while the Heat are 1-3. We think that basing your picks on "situations" early on in the season is a great approach, and it's one that we're using here. The Heat are also just 1-3 ATS, while the Nets are 3-0 ATS. Now we're xpecting a bit of a letdown here from Brooklyn after its big 133-121 road win at Charlotte last time out. The Heat are also 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more SU losses in a row. This is the start of three straight winnable home games for Miami, and we believe it'll be out to "set the tone" for the rest of the home stand with a monster beatdown effort here for the home town crowd; lay the points, the play is Miami!

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10* Bulls (EAST-CONF GOW)

While we feel the outright win is possible, the official call is to grab as many points as you can. The Bulls are 1-2 SU and 0-3 ATS. Note though that Chicago is 7-2 ATS in it last nine after three or more ATS losses in a row. Indiana is 2-0, but is now overvalued here. And with a game at Boston up next, not only does this set up as letdown spot, but also a look-ahead. As mentioned off the top, we feel the outright is a possibility, but in the end we'll recommend to grab as many points as you can; the play is Chicago!

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10* Lakers (SIDE ROUT)

Both teams are 1-1. LA stumbled in Denver on Opening Night, but no team would have stood in the way of Jokic and company getting that victory on the ring ceremony. LA looked a lot better in its 100-95 victory at home over the Suns two nights later though (granted it was without D-Book, but it was still a good bounce back victory.) Sacramento opened with a big 130-114 road win at Utah, but then it stumbled at home two nights later in a 122-114 setback to the Warriors, failing to get revenge for the playoff exit last year. Now with a game at Golden State up after this, we believe that the home side gets caught "looking ahead." The outright is possible, but grab the points; the play is LA!

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10* Knicks (ULTIMATE CONTRARIAN)

While most everyone goes one way, we're going to go the "other" on this one! The Knicks are now 1-1 SU/ATS after last night's 126-120 win at Atlanta as 1-point favs. If this were the end of the season, or even in the middle of the season, then obviously the second game of the "back-to-back" scenario would play a big factor in this contest, but because it's at the start of the season, it's absolutely not. New Orleans beat Memphis 111-104 on the road as a 1-point dog, but with Golden State coming to town next, this sets up as a "look-ahead" spot for the home side as well; a great early season situational contrarian play on New York!

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10* Suns (ROUT)

Neither team was "itself" last year. Each has some new faces this season. Kevin Durant has had a full off-season now to acclimate himself in Phoenix and we don't foresee any chemistry issues for the visiting side out of the gates. The Warriors had a ton of chemistry issues last year, and that could again be the case this season, with the likes of veteran Chris Paul now in the mix. The Suns added Bradley Beal and we believe they have a legitimate shot at winning this one outright. Note as well that Draymond Green is listed as questionable for the home side, and without him playing at 100% capacity, the Warriors usually have a hard time beating the better teams in the league; grab the points, the play is Phoenix!

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10* Heat (BLOCKBUSTER)

After back-to-back losses, we like Miami to, at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Note that the Heat are 7-3 ATS in their last ten in trying to avenge two or more straight SU/ATS home losses vs. an opponent. Miami won't go down without a savage fight here. The Heat were undervalued and overlooked throughout the Playoffs, and we think that's the case here as well. This is just too many points for a Denver to cover. The Nuggets are likely going to be Champions after this, but good teams win and GREAT teams cover; grab the points, the play is Miami!

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10* Heat (GOW)

If you want a complete review of how each of thee team's got here, then there are plenty of "preview" articles out there. Literally millions. If you're wagering on this game then you know the cast of characters and the strengths and weaknesses of each side. You also know that Denver is up 2-1 in this series, and because of that, we're expecting Miami to risk life and limb getting into shooting and passing lanes to secure another slight upset. Note that Miami has done well in this spot for bettors as well, going 7-2 ATS in its last nine off a home loss as an underdog. In a contest that we see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, we're grabbing the points; the play is Miami!

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10* HEAT FIRST HALF (ASSASSIN)

NOTE: If you don't have access to FIRST HALF lines, then we also like Miami for the ENTIRE GAME as well.

Miami only took two free throws in Game 1 and was still only a three-pointer away from covering. Miami got better as the game went on after getting steamrolled at the start. We can expect another strong performance from the visting side, but we're anticipating this time for Miami to jump out to a lead in the first half. The Heat are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS loss vs. an opponent; look for Miami to pay immediate dividends in the first half!

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10* Heat (BLOCKBUSTER)

We've played on the Celtics over the last two games, but now we're jumping on the Heat. Note that Miami is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge two or more SU/ATS losses in a row to an opponent. The Celtics are a great team, and it was almost inconceivable that they'd be swept in this series. But, after two titanic efforts to get to this point, we're finally expecting a letdown here on the road. Miami has been the surprise team out of the East this season and in a contest that we see being decided late, or by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, we're grabbing the points; the play is Miami!

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10* Celtics (ASSASSIN)

Boston survived this series with a clutch 116-99 victory in Game 4, and we like the Celtics to rally again here at home with another win and cover. We're contrarian at heart here, and with most of the bets and early money on the Heat, we naturally LOVE the Celtics even more. We think that Boston has finally "figured" out this Miami defense and that all signs here point to another blowout. NBA fans, get ready for a big Game 6 in Miami in a couple days, because everything we see points to a BIG win and COVER by Boston in Game 5; so lay the points with confidence!

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10* Celtics (BOB)

Both Miami and Denver have played at elite levels and are on course for a date in the Finals. Before that happens though, we expect the Celtics to dig deep here and to at least win one game in this series. Note that Boston is still 7-3 ATS in its last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent; grab the points, the play is BOSTON!

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10* Lakers (BEST OF BEST)

We've played on the Lakers several times in the Playoffs, but we haven't had any success so far in this series. But with the threat of elimination, we like the Lakers to dig deep here in Game 4 and to deliver a solid win and cover. There's no way LBJ is getting swept. LA isn't going to go on to win this series, but note that the Lakers are 7-3 ATS in their last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss vs. an opponent; lay the points, the play is LA!

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10* Celtics (BLOCKBUSTER)

Boston is 7-3 ATS in its last ten in trying to avenge two or more straight ATS/SU losses in a row. Clearly, the Heat have been a very surprising team in the Playoffs. They're duplicating their success from the "Bubble" run. A letdown does finally seem imminent here though against a Boston team that is essentially playing its biggest game of the entire year. This one is all about which is the "hungrier" and more "desperate" team in this fight for us; lay the short points, the play is Boston!

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10* Lakers (BLOCKBUSTER)

The Lakers were competitive in Game's 1 and 2. With their backs against the wall, we think that LeBron James and company will dig deep here and not only deliver a victory, but do so in blowout fashion. If the Nuggets have had one clear weak point this season, it's been their play on the road where they're just 21-25 SU and ATS. The Lakers are 30-18 SU and 27-19-1 ATS at home. They're also 7-3 ATS in their last ten in trying to avenge two or more straight losses against an opponent. With essentially their season on the line, we like LA in this one! 

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10* Celtics (EAST-CONF FINALS GOY)

We had a play on the "over" in Game 1, and that easily cashed in the Heat's blowout victory. We target the Celtics here though in Game 2, as this is a spot they've done well in for bettors, going 8-2 (80%) ATS in their last ten in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss against an opponent. An 0-2 hole would be unbelievably difficult for the C's to climb out of with the series shifting to Miami after this. This is Boston's biggest game of the entire year, for all intents and purposes, it's "do or die." The Heat have already accomplished what they set out to do, and that's to earn a "split" over these first two games, as to steal away the  home floor advantage. Expect Miami to take a step back here all around, and for the now desperate Celtics to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish; lay the points, the play is Boston!

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10* Lakers (WEST-CONF FINALS GOY)

The NBA will have some "new" faces in the Finals this year after the Lakers got rid of the defending champs in six games. The Nuggets needed six games as well to get past the Suns. The Lakers are a lot deeper than Phoenix, and Athony Davis is playing almost on par with Nikola Jokic right now. The bottom line here is, if Jokic doesn't ball out every single game, then Denver will struggle. Now, Jokic has the ability to dominate in every game, but it's easier said than done. The Lakers looked great defending the Warriors, and we think they have a legitimate shot at winning Game 1 outright. While that my in fact happen, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is LA!

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10* 76ers (WINNER)

This has been a back-and-forth series, and while we're stopping short in calling for an outright upset here in Game 7, we do expect the hungry visiting side to, at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Note that Philly has responded well in this spot for bettors by going 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss vs. an opponent. There's no clear-cut favorite to win the title anymore. Anyone that can put together some sort of run based around chemistry and health will have a big opportunity to take it all. In this pressure-packed situation, we feel it's a lot more evenly matched than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe; grab the points, the play is Philadelphia!

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10* Knicks (BLOCKBUSTER)

We had a play on New York in Game 5, and we like the Knicks to, at the very least, take Game 6 right down to the wire as well. Momentum swings back-and-forth in the playoffs. The Heat looked unbeatable up until Game 5, and now that they've had a letdown, New York is the one that comes in confident here. With the majority of the public money on Miami, we're going to "go the other way" and make a big time contrarian wager here on the Knicks in Game 6!

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10* Nuggets (BLOWOUT)

Success in the Playoffs is about many different factors all coming together to work out for the lucky team that prevails in the end. That includes timing, chemistry, injuries, and even "momentum." Denver now firmly has the "momentum" back in this series, and while it wasn't able to get the job done here in Phoenix in Game's 3 and 4, we're expecting a bounce-back on the road here finally. The Suns' starters are exhausted at this point as well. The outright win is obviously possible, but the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is Denver!

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10* Knicks (EAST-CONF GOW)

This has been a back-and-forth series and we're expecting that pattern to continue here. New York bounced back after the Game 1 loss with a win and while the outright is possible again here in our opinion in Game 4, our official call will be to grab as many points as you can. The Knicks have responded well in this spot for bettors, going 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a loss vs. an opponent in which they were held to 90 or fewer points in. Grab as many points as you can, the play is the Knicks!

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10* 76ers (BLOCKBUSTER)

Philadelphia managed a win in Game 1 without big man Joel Embiid in the line-up, but the Celtics have bounced back to take Game's 2 and 3, both SU an ATS. But now we feel that the value has swung to the desperate home side, which will be risking life and limb today to avoid going down 3-1 and heading back to Boston. Note as well that Philly is 7-3 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge two or more straight losses against an opponent. Clearly the outright win is a possibility, but our official call will be to grab as many points as you can with the 76ers!

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10* Knicks (BLOWOUT)

New York took advantage in Game 2 without Jimmy Butler in the line-up, and we expect the Knicks to take the overachieving Heat off-guard here as well. Despite the loss, Miami has now covered the spread in five straight games, but note that the Heat are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after five or more ATS victories in a row. Grab the points, the play is NEW YORK!

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10* Suns (2ND RND WEST-CONF GOY)

This is it, it's do or die for the Suns. Can KD and Devin Booker win a single game in this series? We say they can, and this is the game they do it! Dating back to Game 5 vs. the Clippers, the Suns have now lost three straight ATS, and that's definitely significant to note here, as Phoenix is a near-perfect 7-1 ATS in its last eight after three or more ATS losses in a row. The Suns are also 6-3 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent in which they were held to 90 or fewer points in. Denver's weakness this year? It's just 20-23 SU/ATS on the road. Look for Booker and KD to push hard and find a way to deliver here in Game 3; lay the points, the play is Phoenix!

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10* Lakers (BLOCKBUSTER)

Can you imagine a World where the Lakers are up 2-0 over the Warriors in the second round of the NBA Playoffs? Because we can! LA looked like the better overall team despite some big performances from Stephen Curry and other key players being super efficient from the outside. The Warriors struggled to put away the Kings in seven games and that fatigue was evident down the stretch in Game 1. We don't see it getting any better for the defending champs here in Game 2. The Lakers have just as much talent and experience and we just feel that this game will very likely be decided by whichever club has its hands on the ball last; grab the points, the play is LA!

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10* Celtics (BLOCKBUSTER)

We had a play on Boston in Game 1, and while that pick came up short, we're now very confident that the Celtics will respond with a resounding victory here in Game 2. James Harden had a huge game with Joel Embiid injured, but we can expect the home side to be keyed in on the Philly star moving forward. Whether Embiid plays or not, we like the Celtics to bounce back here in fine fashion, as note that Boston is 7-1 ATS in its last eight in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss against an opponent. Having accomplished what it set out to do (earn a "split" in Boston over the first two games), look for Philadelphia to take a step back here in Game 2; lay the points, the play is Boston!

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10* Knicks (2ND RND GOY)

We had a play on New York in Game 1, and while that pick came up short, we're expecting a big bounce-back for the Knicks here in Game 2, and a predictable letdown from the Heat here in Game 2. Miami did the exact same thing in its series vs. the Bucks, winning outright in Game 1, and then both losing SU and ATS in Game 2, satisfied with knowing that it had already "earned the split." Jimmy Butler has been balling out, but we think that the Knicks will make adjustments as well here. The Knicks were in control of Game 1 up until half-time, and then they uncharacteristically fell apart. Note though that NY is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss vs. an opponent. Everthing points to a bounce-back blowout here in Game 2 for the home side; lay the points, the play is NEW YORK!

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10* Celtics (GOW)

During the regular season, the Celtics enjoyed beating up on the 76ers regularly, posting a 3-1 record. We're expecting a similar sort of outcome in this series as well. And we're definitely expecting the Celtics to set the early tone with a blowout victory. Philly star Joel Embiid is also dealing with a nagging knee injury. Look for that to have a big effect in this series as well. Either way, all signs point to a home side blowout in Game 1; lay the points, the play is Boston!

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10* Warriors MONEYLINE (WINNER)

This has been a back-and-forth series. Golden State was terrible on the road this year, but the NBA would love nothing more than to have Stephen Curry going up against LeBron James in the Playoffs. For us, this one comes down to experience in this position. The Kings are in unchartered territory, where these are the moments that Stephen Curry lives for. Sacramento had a great season, but we expect it to finally come to and end here on Sunday night; forget the spread option, instead this play is on Golden State on the moneyline!

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10* Knicks (BLOCKBUSTER)

Both of these teams were underdogs in their opening round series. The Heat got a huge series from Jimmy Butler, but we feel an imminent letdown is, well, imminent now for Butler and the Heat! The Knicks dominated their series over the Cavs from the get-go. We feel New York is better equiped to deal with Miami's outside shooting as well. Miami is thin after its starters, and the Knicks take advantage of that in Game 1; the play is New York!

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10* Grizzlies (BLOCKBUSTER)

With their backs against the wall, the Grizzlies got the job done in Game 5. Now Memphis will have to do what it hasn't been able to do so far in this series, and that's win on the road. Or else it's going Golfing tomorrow. The Lakers looked fatigued, and there are now some injury concerns. All of a sudden, the pressure is on LA to close out this series, but it feels as if the momentum has now swung the other way again. In a contest that we see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, we're grabbing the points; the play is MEMPHIS.

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10* Warriors (BLOCKBUSTER)

Momentum is a very real, almost tangible factor in sports. And to be the Champ, you gotta beat the Champ. The Warriors have now won three straight and with a chance to close out this series here and now in front of the home town crowd, we're fully expecting Stephen Curry and the now confident Warriors to do just that. The Kings are now banged up as well. For us, we're giving this one the good ole "eye test," as we love the defending Champs in this elimination possibility spot here at home; lay the points, the play is Golden State!

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10* Warriors (BLOCKBUSTER)

We stated when this series started that "home floor" advantage would be crucial, and that's been the case so far. The injury to De'Aaron Fox though throws a monkey-wrench into that angle though. Whether Fox plays or not in this one, we look for Steph Curry and the defending champs to now take advantage, and take control of this series with a big road win. That's not something that the Warriors have done well this year, but now that the Playoffs are here, we're expecting a different result this time around. The stage is now set for Curry take over; lay the points, the play is Golden State!

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10* Lakers (BLOCKBUSTER)

We're giving Game 5 the good old "eye test." LA is the better team here in every metric since the Playoffs started. Momentum is a very real, even tangible factor in sports, especially in the Playoffs. And LA just has the Grizzlies number right now. Ja Morant was unreal in Game 4, but his supporting cast has fallen away. The reverse is true for the Lakers, who appear to be gaining stronger chemistry with each game so far. While the outright win is cleary possible, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is LA!

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10* Suns (WEST-CONF GOW)

With a chance to end this series here and now at home, we're expecting KD and the Suns to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. The Suns dropped the first game of this series, but their chemistry has improved each night. The Clippers are dealing with several serious injuries to key players. We're expecting Phoenix to not only win this game, but to do so in blowout fashion; lay the points, the play is Phoenix!

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10* Hawks (EAST-CONF GOW)

We had a play on the Hawks in Game 4 and that play came up a bucket short. With their backs against the wall and facing elimination, we expect ATL to keep this contest a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. The Hawks won't go down without a fight, and note that ATL is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss against an opponent. No outright as stated above, but grab the points; the play is Atlanta!

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10* Wolves (BLOCKBUSTER)

Minnesota is 0-3 SU/ATS in this series. Note though that the Wolves are a near-perfect 5-1 ATS in their last six after three or more SU/ATS losses in a row. The Wolves are in "do or die" mode. We didn't expect Minnesota to get swept in this series, and we think a Wolf backed into a corner is a dangerous one. The Nuggets have played near perfect so far over the first three games, and we're finally expecting a small mental letdown here. Denver will then return home to wrap it up. The outright is possible, but grab the points; the pla is Minnesota!

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10* Hawks (BLOCKBUSTER)

We had a play on the "over" in Game 3. ATL jumped out to an early lead and never looked back. The Celtics looked flat, and we now think the Hawks can duplicate the performance. The majority of the early action has Boston bouncing back, but while the majority goes one way, we're going to go the other way on this one. The Hawks shot poorly in Boston, but finally their shooting percentage went up in Game 3 and we say the maintain it again here in this crucial contest. While the outright win is a possibility, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can with Atlanta!

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10* Lakers (BLOCKBUSTER)

We had a play on LA in Game 1, and a play on the Grizzlies in Game 2. We think this back and forth series continues in this pattern, as we look for the Lakers to bounce back in Game 3 and revenge the Game 2 setback. LA is 24-18 at home this year, while Memphis is a poor 16-25 on the road. Having achieved the split in Memphis, we now look for the Lakers to take advantage here at home; lay the points, the play is LA.

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10* Heat (ROUT)

We had the Heat in Game 1 and the Bucks in Game 2. Now back at home, we like Miami to, at the very least, keep this one tight enough to comfortably cover once the final horn sounds. While 26-15 SU on the road, the Bucks were just 21-18-2 ATS. The Heat were 28-15 SU at home. They're also 4-1 ATS in their last five in trying to avenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent. Look for Miami to ride the wave of emotion at home and grab a solid cover; the pla is Miami!

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10* Wolves (BLOOD-BATH)

Denver has a choke-hold on this series after a 2-0 start right? Well, not so quick in our opinions. The Nuggets' cryptonite this year was their play on the road, where they are just 19-22 SU/ATS. Minnesota is 23-19 SU at home. The Wolves are also 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge two or more straight SU/ATS losses in a row vs. an opponent; while the outright win is possible, the official call is to grab as many points as you can with the Wolves!

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10* Warriors (BLOCKBUSTER)

I successfully played on the Kings in both Games 1 and 2, but I like the defending champs to bounce back here at home in this essentially "must win" scenario. Golden State was 33-18 at home this year, and the Warriors are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge two or more SU/ATS losses against an opponent. Look for "home cooking" to be the difference-maker for Stephen Curry and company; lay the points, the play is Golden State!

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10* Nets (BLOCKBUSTER)

With their backs against the wall, we're expecting the Nets to, at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably cover with the points. The Nets are a lot better at home, 23-18 SU. Note as well that Brooklyn is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge two or more straight SU losses against an opponent. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points, the play is Brooklyn!

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10* Bucks.

Miami earned the split already here in Milwaukee by taking Game 1 by a score of 130-117. The Heat though perhaps had a bit of an advantage coming into that one, as they were much more prepared and "game ready" so to speak after two "Play In Tournament" games, losing 116-105 to Atlanta as a 5.5-point favorite, before pulling away for the 102-91 win over the Bulls. Milwaukee was hands down the best team in the East during the regular season, but clearly the extra rest did in fact lead to some RUST for the Bucks in Game 1. But now Giannis and company are going to be fighting tooth and nail here to avoid the 0-2 hole. Miami was just terrible on the road this year, going 18-24 straight up and just 16-24-2 against the spread. The Bucks were 32-10 straight up at home and a more modest 23-19 against the spread, but Milwaukee is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 in trying to avenge a straight up and against the spread home loss as a favorite vs. an opponent. After the emotional victory in the Play In Tournament, followed by the upset victory in Game 1, I think the overachieving Heat have a predictable letdown here. While at the same time, look for the Bucks to bounce back big and keep the pedal to the metal until the final horn; lay the points, the play is the Milwaukee!

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10* Suns (BLOCKBUSTER)

We had a play on Phoenix in Game 1, and while that pick lost, we're absolutely expecting KD, Chris Paul and Devin Booker to bounce back here in Game 2. Despite KD being a veteran, the Suns are still trying to get a "feel" for each other. Phoenix had its opportunity right at the end of the game and came up short. The Suns played from behind the entire night. LA is loaded with experienced talent, but is thin beyond it's star players. Having achieved the split already, we're expecting LA to take a step back here. Conversely, it was a great learning experience for KD and company, who now have something to build off. I expect that progression to be quick; lay the points, the play is Phoenix!

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10* Cavaliers (EAST-CONF GOW)

We had a big play on the Cavaliers in Game 1, and while that play did come up short, we're expecting a complete bounce back here for Cleveland in Game 2 as the home side pushes the pace to avoid the dreaded 0-2 hole (note that the Cavs are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS home loss as a favorite to an opponent.) Having achieved the "split," look for New York to contentedly head home as it prepares for Game 3; lay the points, the play is the Cavs!

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10* Hawks (BLOCKBUSTER)

I had the Celtics in their Game 1 blowout win and cover, but I think the Hawks will, at the very least, comfortably sneak in through the back door down the cover with the ample spread that they've been afforded here in the second game. The Celtics got their big Game 1 victory, but now that advantage of being well-rested is negated. I say the Hawks get a lot more room to operate here in Game 2, especially from range. I'm not calling for an outright upset or anything, but all signs point to this Game 2 being a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe; grab the points, the play is Atlanta!

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10* Suns (BLOCKBUSTER)

We're expecting the "home floor advantage" to be a very real factor in this series. The Clippers were 21-20 on the road, while the Suns were 28-13 at home. Funny enough, that wasn't the case for these teams during the regular season, going 2-2 against each other and each winning on the others floor. But with that said, LA hasn't faced Phoenix with Kevin Durant in the line-up. Phoenix is 8-0 in games that Durant has played in and we're expecting that streak to continue here with a convincing win for the home side in Game 1; lay the points, the play is Phoenix!

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10* Heat (BLOCKBUSTER)

The Bucks have been sitting idle for a few days, but we believe that "rest" is going to lead to "rust" here in Game 1 of this series. We're not predicting an outright upset or anything, but everything points to this game coming "right down to the wire" in our opinions. These teams went 2-2 against each other in the regular season, as Miami does in fact match up well in this series. These teams are experienced and loaded with similar talent. We feel that this is a great situational play, and as stated, no outright, but much closer than expected; grab the points, the play is Miami!

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10* Lakers (WEST-CONF RND 1 GOY)

The Grizzlies have Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., while the Lakers have Anthony Davis and LeBron James. It comes down to the supporting cast, and this is arguably the best supporting cast that AD and The King have had. Ever. Both are also healthy for the first time in a long time. LA has gotten better defensively since the trade deadline, and we feel that Morant will have a difficult time finding a lot of room to operate vs. this improved LA defense. While the outright win is possible, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the pla is LA!

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10* Cavaliers (EAST-CONF RND. 1 GOY)

The Knicks went 3-1 in the season series, but I can't understate how important I believe that the "home floor advantage" will be in this series. For both teams. New York was 24-17 on the road, while Cleveland was 31-10 at home. Bad news for Knicks backers here today as star Julius Randle is listed as questionable, and if he does play, he'll be far from 100% health. Emotions will be running high for the Cavs as they make the Playoffs for the first time since 2018. Cleveland has the most efficient offense in the league and everything points to a comfortable win and cover as this one comes down the stretch; lay the points, the play is the Cavs!

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10* Celtics (BLOCKBUSTER)

Atlanta upset the Heat in the Play-In tournament on the road, but I expect an immediate return to mediocrity here. ATL is still just 18-24 away from friendly confines, while Boston is 32-9 at home. Boston won all four regular season games, and all signs point to a blowout here in Game 1 as the C's will look to send n early message. ATL was unable to contain Boston's 3-point shooting in the regular season, and nothing will be different here; lay the points with confidence, the play is Boston!

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10* Nets (BLOCKBUSTER)

Brooklyn went 0-4 SU and 1-3 ATS vs. the 76ers during the regular season, but I think the scrappy nets comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch of this one. Philadelphia has consistently done poor in the playoffs over the last few years, and I think the 76ers are getting too much respect here against the Nets, who are 15-9 ATS as a road dog and 12-3 ATS when getting +5 or more points this year. Outright victory is possible, but let's grab the points; the play is Brooklyn!

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10* Wolves (TOP SIDE)

The bottom line here is that beyond Josh Giddey and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, OKC just is not very deep. At this point, I believe that becomes a major factor finally for the Thunder. Also note that Rudy Gobert will be back in the line-up tonight after serving a one-game suspension for an altercation he had with a teammate in the final regular season game. Minnesota went 3-1 SU in the regular season in this series and I expect it to make the most of this matchup once again; lay the points, the play is Minnesota!

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10* MIAMI FIRST HALF (ASSASSIN)

(NOTE: I also like the Heat for the entire game if you do not have access to FIRST HALF lines.) For the first time in play-in tournament history, the two lower seeds won in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls upset the Raptors 109-105, but I believe they'll have a much harder time of it here in South Beach. Miami comes in off a 116-105 upset loss to Atlanta. Chicago swept the season series 3-0, meaning that the "revenge" factor definitely comes to play here. The Heat are one of the worst teams in the league ATS, but that fact has only helped in driving today's spread a few points lower than it normally would/should be. Miami is as healthy as its been all year and with most of the early money on Chicago, I feel we're getting tremendous value on the undervalued home side. As stated off the top, I like the Heat for the entire game as well, but I look for them to take the early lead into th half; the play is Miami in the first half!

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10* Lakers (PLAY IN GOY)

For a number of different reasons, I like the way this one sets up for the Lakers. The majority of the early money is on Minnesota, so as a contrarian at heart, that auto makes me like LA here. But the Wolves will be without Jaden McDaniels, who broke his hand foolishly punching a wall. Big man Rudy Gobert punched Kyle Anderson in a heated moment in the huddle. Minnesota is a mess coming into this game, while LA is at full strength. I look for the Lakers to keep the foot on the gas until the final horn; lay the points with confidence, the play is indeed on the Lakers!

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