10* CELTICS (GOW)

This has been an exciting, back and forth series. Game 5 though I'm expecting the tightest and most competitive game yet. Yes, Stephen Curry has been phenomenal, but the trio of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Al Horford has also been amazing. Boston has been great on the road as well, going 8-3 SU so far. The Celtics always respond well after a loss and they have the No. 1 defense, conceding just 104.5 PPG. The Warriors allow just 105.5. Golden State managed the win in Game 4 despite shooting 44%. Boston has already won on this floor and I expect another "nail biter" on Monday night as well; the official call will be to grab as many points as you can!

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10* CELTICS (BLOOD-BATH)

I had a play on Boston in Game 3 and I'm right back on them here in Game 4 as well. Golden State lacks size and strength to handle these defensive-minded Celtics. The combination of Al Horford, Jaylen Brown and Jason Tatum is difficult to slow down offensively as well, as each is able to create their own offense. Draymond Green played terribly for the Warriors and is more of a distraction now than anything else. Golden State's weakness this season has been its play on the road where it went just 22-19. Boston on the other hand went 28-13 at home. With a chance to put the Warriors on the brink of elimination, I look for this underrated Celtics team to lay the hammer down again in Game 4; the play is Boston!

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10* WARRIORS (ART OF WAR)

I had a play on the Warriors in Game 1, and while that didn't turn out the way I hoped, I'm expecting Golden State to make the necessary adjustments here in Game 2 to not only win this game, but to do so by a significant margin. The Celtics have been playing extremely well, but I expect fatigue to be a factor here. Boston has earned a split in Golden State and I think comes in tired and complacent. The Warriors looked great for 3 quarters in Game 1, but then fell apart uncharacteristically in the 4th quarter. Expect a big bounce-back from Curry and company and lay these points with confidence; the play is Golden State!

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10* CELTICS (ART OF WAR)

At the start of this series, home floor advantage meant a whole lot. But that trend has changed over the last two, and I'm expecting that trend to continue here. Boston won in Miami in Game 5, but it then fell in Game 6 at home. Look for the C's to dig deep here and to deliver again on the road. Note that Boston is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent in which it conceded 110 or more points in. We've broken this series down completely from start to finish, but the Celtics depth and their aggressive defensive play gets the job done in Game 7; the play is Boston!

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10* HEAT (ART OF WAR)

This has been a very back-and-forth series. As soon as we think we know what's going to happen, one or the other sides bounces back with a big performance. The Celtics have won two straight and can end this series with a victory today. Boston may well indeed go on to win this game outright, but I expect Miami to put up a bitter fight until the end. The Heat are well coached and I expect some major adjustments here. The Celtics have been unbelievable, but they're in unchartered territory here and I have my doubts that they have a killer closing instinct. In a game that I see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points; the play is Miami!

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10* MAVERICKS (RD)

The Mavericks finally broke through and won 119-109 in Game 4 to avoid the 4-0 sweep. They've given up some huge leads in two other games in this series, so the Mavericks have definitely been competitive so far. I think they keep the momentum rolling here as well. The Mavericks looked phenomenal in beating the Suns, and now they have a blue-print to do the exact same thing for the Warriors. Golden State won't be panicking, but it'll have its hands full here with this desperate visiting side. I'm not going to call for an outright victory or anything, but in a game that I see being decided late or even in extra time, I'm going to grab the points; the play is the Mavericks!

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10* CELTICS (RD)

So far this has been a very back and forth series, but I expect that trend to end today. Boston dominated Game 4 and I expect it to keep the momentum rolling tonight. Miami is a great 3-point shooting team, but this Boston defense is incredible. They limited the Heat to just 33% shooting from the floor. Overall the C's allow just 104.5 PPG. Expect Boston's incredible defensive play to be too much for the Heat to handle down the stretch; the play is the Celtics!

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10* CELTICS (RD)

This has been a back-and-forth series and I'm looking for Game 4 to follow suit. The Celtics will be risking life and limb today to try and even this series back up. Off the 109-103 Game 3 loss, note that Boston is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent in which it was held to 105 or less points in. Boston still ranks first across most defensive stats, including leading the league in scoring defense. The Celtics are also 5-0 ATS in their last five following a SU loss. Look for the home side to double down defensively and then to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable win and cover; the play is the Celtics!

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10* WARRIORS (U OF THE U)

Dallas is on the ropes. Luka Doncic is likely the best player on the floor in this series, but Golden State's offensive depth is just too much for the Mavericks to handle. Andrew Wiggins is out for the Warriors tonight, but it's just "next man up" mentality. Dallas threw its best possible punch at Golden State, and still came up short. I predict another tight battle here and I think it'll come down to the wire, literally the last team touching the ball is going to win type deal. And in a scenario like that, I'll gladly grab the points; the play is the Warriors!

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10* CELTICS (ASSASSIN)

The Celtics looked a lot better with Marcus Smart and Al Horford in the line-up in Game 2, and I believe that with the series shifting to Boston, that the home side will build on that performance with another big win and cover and in Game 3. The Heat finished as No. 1 in the East, but there's no question that they were better at home than on the road (24-17 away.) Boston's tough defensive play, combined with the strong play of Jayson Tatum will be just TOO much for this now struggling HEat team to handle on Saturday night; lay the points!

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10* MAVERICKS (BLOOD-BATH)

Game 1 was evenly matched at half time, but then Golden State pulled away in the second. I expect a full four-quarter effort from the Mavericks tonight though. Dallas had an uncharacteristically horrible shooting night from several players, and I don't expect that to happen twice. The Mavericks now have to make adjustments after the 112-87 Game 1 loss, but they've done well in this spot for bettors by going 7-2 ATS in their last 9 in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which it was held to 90 or less points in. Much like the Heat's victory in Game 1 of their series with Boston, I'm expecting a letdown here from Golden State as well in Game 2. I'm not predicting an outright upset, but this one comes down to the wire; grab the points!

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10* CELTICS (RED DRAGON)

I had a play on Boston in Game 1 and while that selection came up short, I believe that the visiting side will bounce back and, at the very least, take this contest right down to the wire. Boston lost 118-107 in Game 1, but it's done well in this spot for bettors, as it's 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. Marcus Smart and Al Horford both could play after missing Game 1, which would shift this line even further towards a "pick em." Miami started off the first half slow, then came out like gang-busters in the second half of Game 1. Look for Boston's defense to respond and answer the bell here in this important contest. And while I do absolutely feel an outright win is possible, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is Boston!

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10* CELTICS (GOW)

The Boston Celtics will be without the services of Marcus Smart for Game 1, but I still think they'll find a way to win this game. The quick turnaround is going to work in Boston's favor today after its Game 7 win over the Bucks. The Heat on the other hand come out flat here in my estimation after eliminating the 76ers in just six games. Boston went 2-1 in this matchup during the regular season. Jayson Tatum is a matchup issue. Kyle Lowry being out for Miami is big here at this point of the Playoffs. I expect Boston to draw first blood in the ECF!

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10* MAVERICKS (ASSASSIN)

This has been a back-and-forth series, and I'm expecting a very tight affair here in Game 7. Every game in this series has been won by the home team, while also going 6-0 ATS. I say this lop-sided trend ends this evening. The Mavericks role players are going to step up here. The Mavs relentless defensive attack will be in full effect from the opening tip, until the final horn. Phoenix lacks that killer instinct, and while the Suns may well indeed go on to win this contest, expect it to be a real "nail-biter!" The play is Dallas!

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10* CELTICS (GOM)

The NBA would love to see a Game 7 here. I believe it's going to happen. That said, my recommendation will be to grab as many points as you can. The Celtics lost 110-107 in Game 5, but I expect this series to move to a pivotal Game 7. Giannis Antetokounmpo was great with 40 points, while Jayson Tatum scored 34 in a losing cause for the C's. These teams have alternated wins/losses since the series started. Note though that the Bucks are a poor 1-6-1 ATS in their last eight games as a home favorite, while the Celtics are 6-0-1 ATS in their last seven as an underdog. Boston's superior defense in this critical game will prove to be the difference tonight; buckle up for a Game 7, the play is the Celtics!

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10* GRIZZLIES (ASSASSIN)

No Ja? No problem! The Grizzlies have done exceptionally well without their superstar in the line-up and with their backs against the wall, I expect their best collective effort tonight. Many will be pulling the trigger on GS here, thinking that without Morant, Memphis will struggle. But I think it'll be GS that struggles to put away this desperate home side. Memphis held the lead in the last game until the fourth quarter. Don't expect that to happen again here. Also note that Memphis is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge 2 straight losses against an opponent. In a contest that I see being decided in the final moments, I'm grabbing the points; the play is Memphis!

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10* MAVERICKS (RED DRAGON)

The Mavericks were a Top 5 defense in the regular season, and they've been fantastic so far in this series against the favored Suns as they enter off B2B victories, including a 111-101 win in Game 4. So far home floor advantage has proved critical in this series, but I'll say it's more about Dallas making adjustments after going down 0-2. Those adjustments and success will continue here in Game 3, and I'll argue that it has nothing to do with the venue, but more about the overall approach Dallas is employing now. If you're wagering on this game, you know the cast of characters and the strengths and weaknesses. The momentum as turned and this Dallas team is going to, at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. While I do think an outright win is possible, let's grab the points!

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10* GRIZZLIES (ASSASSIN)

Why is this line so large suddenly? Because Grizzlies' star Ja Morant is injured. Memphis was going to get destroyed in Game 3 whether Morant went down or not though. It was a bad game overall for Memphis. The Grizzlies have always done really well without their star in the line-up though and I expect them to rally here and use the "next man up" mentality. The good news that's flying under the radar though for Memphis is that Dillon Brooks will be back after serving a 1-game suspension. The Warriors are in the drivers seat again in this series, but I expect a much more competitive affair in Game 4. Note that Memphis is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS loss of 20 or more points. I say Golden State wins, but the determined Grizzlies comfortably cover with the large spread they've been afforded; the play is Memphis!

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10* PHILADELPHIA (ASSASSIN)

The 76ers are clearly a "different" team with Joel Embiid in the line-up. With a chance to tie up this series, I look for Philadelphia's big man to help key his team to another win at home. Jimmy Butler had 33 points in Game 3 for the Heat, but this 76ers team does indeed look much better at home, especially on the defensive end. The rest of the Heat struggled to shoot, and I expect that to be the case again here. Miami took full advantage in Game's 1 and 2, but now the shoe is on the other foot. Embiid is once again listed as questionable, but with that first awkward game out of the way, we can expect the MVP candidate to be much stronger here in Game 4 all around. Look for the 76ers to dial up the pressure even more and lay these short points with confidence!

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10* CELTICS (RED DRAGON)

This series is all tied up. Milwaukee won Game 1 in a blowout, and Boston returned the favor in Game 2. With the shift in venue though, I'm expecting a much tighter battle tonight. Khris Middleton is out indefinitely for the Bucks, and that's going to have an effect over the long-term. The Celtics have the league's top defender and Jason Tatum is a handful. The C's defended Giannis well in Game 2 and I'm expecting a similar effort here as well. In a game that I see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points; the play is Boston!

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10* HEAT (ASSASSIN)

Philadelphia looked lost without Joel Embiid in its opener vs. Miami and I have a hard time seeing the 76ers doing much better in Game 2. In fact, it was the Heat that really started off slowly in Game 1, but then they found their footing and confidently closed out with the 106-92 victory. I'm expecting an even more loip-sided destruction in Game 2. There's zero chemistry between James Harden and the rest of his teammates, while Jimmy Butler and Miami are poised for a much bigger and more dominating effort in Game 2. Miami won't be taking it easy. It's going to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish as they try and break the 76ers' collective will. I just can't see the visitors doing anything on either end of the court without Embiid in the line-up; so lay the points!

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10* CELTICS (DESTRUCTION)

I had a play on Boston in Game 1 and while that play came up short, I expect the home side to risk life and limb here to try and even up this series. Clearly, the last thing that Boston wants to do is head to Milwaukee in an 0-2 hole. The Bucks have been playing really well without star Khris Middleton since he went down with injury vs. the Bulls in the first game, but at some point they're going to have a small mental letdown in these playoffs, and I expect that moment to be this evening. "Rest" did lead to "rust" for Jayson Tatum and company after their 4 game sweep of the Brooklyn Nets. Milwaukee needed an extra game to take care of Chicago, and the Bucks just shot much more efficiently overall. Look for Boston to bounce back here in this super important Game 2 though, and for Milwaukee to be happy with the split that it's already earned; lay the points, the play is the Celtics!

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10* GRIZZLIES (ASSASSIN)

Two teams which had more difficulty than they likely expected in the first round, have advanced to the second round. Each looked great at times, and showed vulnerability in others. The Grizzlies aren't getting enough respect on their own floor is the bottom line for me here though. Golden State has been off since Wednesday. The Warriors went just 1-3 against the Grizzlies in the regular season. The quick turnaround works in the Grizzlies favor in my opinion. Look for Ja Morant to strike first over Stephen Curry and company; that said, grab the points!

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10* WOLVES (ASSASSIN)

This has been a back-and-forth series. With their backs against the wall though, and especially because their playing at home, I look for the Wolves to dig deep here and to extend this series to a decisive Game 7. Clearly with a line like this, the oddsmakers feel these teams are pretty evenly matched. And they are. But Minnesota is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 home games as an underdog in the +0.5 to +3.5 points range. Both teams are healthy and their strengths and weaknesses are well known. I think the "home floor" advantage proves to be the difference-maker tonight, so buckle up and get ready for our first Game 7 of the Playoffs; that said, grab the points!

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8* PELCIANS (SPECIAL)

This has been a back and forth series. The Suns are still without Devin Booker and while the managed a victory in Game 5, I believe the Pelicans will answer here on their home floor. The stats back our hypothesis as well, as note that New Orleans is 8-2 ATS in its last ten in trying to avenge a loss against an opponent in which it was held to 99 or fewer points in. I say home floor DOES matter in Game 6; grab the points!

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10* 76ers (ASSASSIN)

I say Philadelphia and Doc Rivers finally get the "monkey" off their backs. Rivers has been involved with three different teams that have blown a 3-1 series lead. Philadelphia itself has just had issues with Toronto over the last five years and would love nothing more than to end this series here and now. I say that James Harden plays his best game of this series and I expect Philadelphia to run away with this one early, and never take the foot off the gas pedal. Toronto's never say die attitude runs out of gas tonight. Note as well that the 76ers are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to revenge B2B SU/ATS losses against an opponent. Lay the points, the play is Philly!

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10* WOLVES (ASSASSIN)

So far, this has been a competitive series. These have been fun and exciting and competitive games. I don't think anything will change for Game 5 either between these deadlocked clubs. Minnesota won the last game by a score of 119-118. Over the first three games, Wolves' big man Karl Anthony Towns had been shut down, but he finally exploded for 33 points and 14 boards in Game 4. I expect him to build off that performance. With even more attention being put onto the big man, the Wolves' depth comes into play here as a considerable strength. Minnesota could have won Game 3 as well, but had an epic collapse in the fourth-quarter. For all intents and purposes, the Wolves could have been up 3-1 at this point. In what I expect to be another back-and-forth affair, I'm grabbing the points!

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8* PLAY on the Jazz (SPECIAL)

Jordan Clarkson dropped in 25 points for the Jazz off the bench in Game 4 and he helped seal the deal for Utah in its 100-99 victory. In another contest that I see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to recommend to grab as many points as you can. Both teams have struggled at times in this series, but Utah's defense has held up. It ranked in the Top 10 in scoring defense during the regular season. Dallas only shot 43% in Game 4. On the season the Mavs only rank 24th in averaging 108 PPG. Luka Doncic has returned, but his health is still a bit of a question mark. As I stated earlier, this one is coming down to the wire; so grab the points!

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10* CELTICS (ASSASSIN)

I say the Nets are cooked. I say Kevin Durant won't answer here. I say Jason Tatum is underrated and overlooked. With a chance to put the final nail in the coffin of what will be considered one of the biggest busts of all time, I believe the Celtics go in for the "Death Blow" this evening. The Nets have been terrible in all facets, especially considering they turn the ball over 16 times per game. Brooklyn has also been allowing an average of 112.7 points per game to Boston. Boston has the defense to slow down Durant and I say Tatum has another huge outing as well. Clearly, the outright win is the prediction, but grab as many points as you can as well with Boston!

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10* WOLVES (FIRST RND. GOY)

This has been an interesting series. And what I personally find interesting about it is that Memphis has somehow figured out a way to slow down Wolves' big man Karl Anthony Towns. He's also struggled a bit at times. That said, I simply can't see this struggling trend of futility lasting much longer. Minnesota had a huge lead in Game 3 and then it inexplicably came up short. With a spread like this, clearly the oddsmakers think these teams are evenly matched, but as good as Memphis has looked over its last two games, it's still very inexperienced. This is uncharted territory, coming from behind in the playoffs on the road to take a series lead. I say that Towns and company bounce back here and take a page out of their "Game 1 playbook." Clearly the outright is possible, but let's grab the points; the play is Minnesota!

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10* BULLS (RED DRAGON)

What do you base your selections on? I have different ways of handicapping the regular season than I do in the Playoffs. Being successful in the playoffs is about making adjustments from game-to-game. That's true for handicappers as well. With Khris Middleton out, the Bucks are simply not the same team. Chicago has already gotten the home floor advantage after splitting out in Milwaukee and I expect the Bulls to push the pace here from start to finish. We could break down all the stats and look at every indidivual player matchup, but for me it's as simple as Middleton being out for the Bucks. And while I obviously think the outright win is a possibility, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is CHICAGO!

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10* NUGGETS (RED DRAGON)

With their backs against the wall, I like the Nuggets to bounce back here at home. Denver plays better at home and it's also 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge 2 straight SU/ATS losses against an opponent. Golden State is now favored to win the Championship over Phoenix, but we'll see how well the Warriors fare on the road in this difficult venue. During the regular season Denver was No. 8 in scoring with 113 PPG. It's been an ugly start for the Nuggets to this series, but we can expect their best effort and another huge game from Nikola Jokic in the process; while the outright is possible, let's grab the points!

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10* PELICANS (ASSASSIN)

While my play on the Pels came up short in Game 1, I absolutely expect them to bounce back here and to keep this one tight up until the final moments. New Orleans fell 110-99 in Game 1, but note that it's 7-3 ATS in its last 10 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent in which it was held to 99 or less points in. Clearly, Phoenix is the better team in every regard, but I don't think it deserves to be a double-digit favorite in Game 2. We'll look for the Pelicans to give their best shot and while that will almost assuredly not be good enough to pull off the outright upset, it'll be more than enough to pull off the comfortable cover; the play is New Orleans!

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10* NUGGETS (GOW)

The Warriors got the better of Denver by a score of 123-107 in Game 1, but I think that the Nuggets will, at the very least, keep Game 2 close enough to comfortably cover with the larger spread that they've been afforded tonight. Jordan Poole had 30 points for the Warriors in Game 1, going 5 of 7 from range. Suffice it to say, I don't expect lightning to "strike twice" for Poole and the Warriors this evening. Nikola Jokic was a force in Game 1 for Denver, finishing with 25 points and I expect him to have an even bigger impact this evening. Denver shot terrible from 3-point range as well in Game 1, finishing 31.5%, well below their nomral 35% clip. Again, we can expect things to "normalize" in that department for Denver this evening as well. I say the Nuggets throw their best shot they have; that said, grab the points!

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10* PELICANS (RED DRAGON)

Are the Suns the better team? Their record would sure indicate that. New Orleans advanced by winning its two Play-In games and I think it'll "sneak in under the radar" here in Game 1. Will the longer lay off help or hinder the Suns? Who knows is the answer. The Pelicans though are currently rolling and I say that momentum carries over in Game 1. New Orleans has been fantastic defensively of late, and it has the offensive punch to keep pace as well with Brandon Ingram back in the line-up. In every conceivable way the Suns are the better team, but not by double digits in this situation. No outright, but closer than expected; the play is New Orleans!

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10* WOLVES (ASSASSIN)

This will be an interesting series. These teams are similar in many regards. I think this one will be decided in the closing moments. To say this is a "revenge" game as well would be a bit of an understatement, as Memphis 8-2 the L10 in this series. Minnesota averages 115.9 PPG, while Memphis averages 115.6. The Grizz are a bit better defensively in allowing 109.9, while the Wolves have conceded 113.2. Very small differences here. Yes, the Grizz have done well all season, but now that the playoffs are here, adjustments will be key. I think Game 1 comes right down to the wire; grab the points, the play is Minnesota!

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10* PELICANS (BOB)

The Pels easily handled the Spurs to advance to play the Clippers, and just like they were then, I think they're also undervalued and underrated by the bookmakers in this matchup as well. The Clippers lost 109-104 to Minnesota, and I believe they'll have their hands full here against this highly skilled visiting side. New Orleans looked superb defensively in its win, holding the Spurs to just 103 points. The Clippers also struggled to put points on the board against a Wolves team that finished in the bottom third on the defensive end. That doesn't bode well facing New Orleans here. I think the outright is possible, but let's grab up all these points as the official call!

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10* HORNETS (GOW)

I think the Hornets have a legitimate shot at taking this game outright. In a contest that I see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points. The Hornets won their final 3 regular season games, including a 124-108 victory over Washington, while Atlanta won 7 of its last 9, including a 130-114 victory over Houston in its finale. Charlotte has the fourth highest-scoring offense in the league, and the Hawks just aren't known for their tough defensive play. Neither are the Hornets mind you, but that still works in the underdogs favor in my opinion. These teams are almost identical. I say it comes down to the wire; grab the points, the play is Charlotte!

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10* NUGGETS (RED DRAGON)

Denver comes in as the "hungier" and more focussed team today. The Nuggets are off a 116-97 loss to San Antonio. They play with revenge here though after a 122-118 loss to the Grizzlies in January, and that's important for us to note, as the Nugs have are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS loss to an opponent. Memphis just had its 7 game win streak snapped in a tight 121-115 OT loss at Utah and I say it just "goes through the motions" this evening. Home court advantage really does matter for this one, the play is DENVER.

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10* SUNS (ASSASSIN)

Off a 121-110 win over the Lakers last night at home, we're looking for the Suns to keep the foot on the gas here and deliver another "L" for the other team in LA. Despite last night's win, the Suns have still lost 4 straight ATS. Note though that that does in fact work in our favor here, as PHO is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 after 3 or more ATS losses in a row. The Clippers have been playing well of late, but with only two more games to go in the regular season, I don't see any drop off here from Phoenix as it looks to carry its momentum from a strong regular season, into a big playoff run. Lay the points, expect a blowout!

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8* BULLS (SPECIAL)

In a game that we believe will be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, we're going to grab the points. Milwaukee has lost two straight. It won't be rolling over here obviously, but I still think its vulnerable. Especially on the road. The Bulls play with revenge here as well after a listless 126-98 loss to Milwaukee as 6.5-point dogs in mid March. Chicago is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent in which it was held to 99 or less points in. Milwaukee returns home for a date vs. the red hot Celtics on Thursday and I say it gets caught looking ahead; grab the points, the play is Chicago!

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10* 76ERS (GOW)

I think this one sets up well for a complete ATS blowout for the road side. Philly is off a 112-108 win at the Cavaliers, but with a much tougher game at Toronto up next, the 76ers won't want to leave anything to chance. Then Philly closes out the year with two straight winnable games at home against the Pacers again, and then the Pistons to finish things off. Clearly Philadelphia doesn't want to "back in" to the playoffs. Chemistry is crucial at this point of the season. I say the 76ers put the foot on the gas and never let up. They also play with revenge after falling 118-113 to the Pacers as 4-point dogs at the start of the season. Indiana is off a 121-117 loss at home to Detroit. It can't even play spoiler here. I think the home side just "goes through the motions" tonight. Lay the points, expect a blowout; the play is Philadelphia!

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8* CAVALIERS (SPECIAL)

Both teams are fighting for a playoff spot. I feel that this one will be decided in the closing moments. The 76ers are off a much-needed 144-114 win at home over Charlotte, snapping a 3-game slide. With a much more "winnable" game at the Pacers up next, I say the 76ers get caught "flat footed" here in this difficult road venue and off their big win. The Cavs though play with revenge after a 118-114 loss to the 76ers on March 16th. Note that Cleveland is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. The Cavs hit the road for 2 straight after this and hav to face the Nets and Bucks before the end of their season as well, so I say they take this revenge-spot VERY seriously; grab the points!

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10* CELTICS (ASSASSIN)

Boston has been on quite the roll over the last month and it'll now look to close out the final week strong. It's off a 128-123 home win over Indiana. It's dropped 2 straight ATS, but I think it recovers here and lays the hammer down on the Wizards. Washington has nothing to play for. The C's dismantled Washington by a score of 116-87 in Janaury and I expect a similar outcome here as well. Note, this game takes on added importance for Boston as well with three straight tough road games to end the season after this, including at Chicago, Milwaukee and Memphis respectively. In their final regular season home game, I expect the Celtics to push the pace from start to finish; lay the points, the play is BOSTON.

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8* WARRIORS (DESTRUCTION)

We're coming down the home stretch of the regular season with just over a week left to play. Both of these teams will be in the playoffs, but I simply feel that this one means a lot more to the home side. The Warriors are still without Steph Curry, but I expect the home side to step up here after 4 straight losses. The Warriors are deep and well coached. The Jazz are off a satisfying 122-109 win over the Lakers and I think they come in a bit complacent here. The Warriors play with revenge after a 111-85 slapping on Feb. 9, and note that GS is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS loss against an opponent in which it was held to 90 or less points in. This one MEANS MORE to Golden State!

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10* NETS (ASSASSIN)

Brooklyn is just 1-2 in its last 3. It's off a 120-119 OT loss at home to the Bucks. The easily handled the Hawks though back in December by a score of 113-105 and I expect a similar outcome here as well. Atlanta comes in off 4 straight wins, including a 131-107 victory over Cleveland in its last outing. I simply feel this is a really bad matchup for the Hawks. Atlanta is also still just 3-7 ATS in its last 10 after 3 or more SU/ATS victories in a row. Look for the hungrier Nets to pull away down the stretch; lay the points!

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10* HEAT (GAME OF WEEK)

I base my picks on many different things. Sometimes I believe it's necessary to completely dissect a pick, looking at every stat possible, breaking down individual player matchups, looking at trends and scheduling, line movement and many other factors. Other times I believe that a more common sense approach is the best way to handicap a contest, and that's the case for this particular selection for sure. Miami is desperate to break out of its funk, as it comes in having lost 4 in a row SU and 7 in a row ATS. It also plays with revenge here after falling 115-113 at Sacramento as a 3.5-point fav on January 2nd. This is a big and important game for the Heat, even more so when considering their upcoming 3-game road trip after this vs. Boston, Chicago and Toronto. Sacramento is off B2B victories. It's won 3 straight ATS. Can anyone say predictable letdown spot here?! Especially with 2 straight games at lowly Houston up next?! Lay the points, expect a blowout of epic proportions!

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8* MAGIC (SPECIAL)

I am travelling this weekend, so my writeups today will be more "succinct" than they normally are. The Kings are off a rare road win, coming from behind to knock off Indianapolis by a score of 110-109. Now they face a revenge-minded Magic team that fell 142-130 at the Kings on December 8th. Note that Orlando is 7-3 ATS in its last ten in trying to revenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent. The Magic posted two straight home wins before a 118-102 loss at Oklahoma City. Expect a return to form here in this revenge scenairo. Lay the points, the plays ORLANDO.

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10* HAWKS (ASSASSIN)

The Hawks have gone just 1-2 in their last 3. Off a 122-101 loss at Detroit as 5-point favs, I say that ATL bounces back here at home in this revenge scenario. ATL lost 127-113 at Golden State at the start of the yar, but note that the Hawks are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent. The Warriors snapped a 3-game slide with a 118-104 road win at Miami in their last game as 9.5-point underdogs, but with a much more "winnable" game in the Nation's capital on Sunday, this sets up as a classic "trap" for the visitors. A great overall situational play in my opinion; lay the points!

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10* RAPTORS (ASSASSIN)

There's zero reason to overthink this one, as Toronto is 0-3 SU/ATS so far in this season series. The triple-revenge factor is the main reason behind this play. Cleveland hasn't played since it's 131-120 home loss to the Lakers and with a home game against Chicago next, this also sets up as a bit of a look-ahead spot for the visiting side. The Raptors are off a 113-99 loss at Chicago, but note that they're 7-2 ATS in their last 9 after a SU/ATS road loss in which they were held to 99 or fewer points in. I expect the home side to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish; lay the points, the play is Toronto!

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10* PISTONS (ASSASSIN)

I base my picks on many different things. Scheduling at this time of the year is a big factor I always look at, as team's playing the 2nd game of a B2B are definitely fatigued. Let's not overthink this one, as after its 117-111 win as a 3.5-point fav just last night, I believe New York suffers a predictable letdown here. Detroit is coming off a 119-115 loss at home to Portland, but previous to that had covered in 8 of its last 9. The Pistons got the better of Atlanta by a score of 113-110 in OT as 8-point dogs 2 weeks ago, and I say another outright victory is a possibility here as well; grab the points, the play is Detroit!

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10* MAGIC (ASSASSIN)

Golden State comes into this game fatigued. It's off B2B home losses, falling 110-88 to to Boston, before then dropping a 110-108 loss at home to the Spurs. With a game at Miami tomorrow, followed by contests at Washington and Memphis, can anyone say "letdown/look-ahead" spot here?! Not suprisingly, the Magic play with revenge after a 126-95 loss at Golden State as 15.5-point underdogs in early December. Off a 90-85 home win over OKC, I say the Magic "catch" the Warriors at a great time here. Orlando is a rebuild season, but it's healthier now than it's been at any other point and I believe it will take this game seriously. Outright win?! Anything is possible, but my official call will be to grab as many points as you can with the Magic!

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10* BULLS (ASSASSIN)

Chicago has lost 3 straight, both SU and ATS (that does in fact work in our favor here though, as the Bulls are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 after 3 or more straight losess in a row.) Chicago also plays with revenge after a 127-120 OT setback to Toronto at the start of February. Finally though, note that Toronto played and won 93-88 at Philadelphia as 7.5-point underdogs just last night! It's a perfect spot for a hungry and revenge-minded team; lay the points, the play is Chicago!

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10* BUCKS (ASSASSIN)

The Bucks are the defending champs and the Wolves are the hottest team in the league right now. Minnesota is actually the No. 1 offense in the entire NBA. The Bucks are No. 3. Each is playing extremely well on both ends of the floor and honestly, it wouldn't be difficult at all to write a convincing argument for either of these league-leading squads to come out on top in this one. So why do I like the Bucks here? Simple. Revenge factor. The Wolves are poised for a letdown here vs. a the revenge-minded Bucks who fell 113-108 at home to Minnesota at the start of the season (as note, Milwaukee is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS home loss against an opponent.) To be the champ, you gotta beat the champ, and that's not happening twice; the play is Milwaukee!

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10* MAGIC (ASSASSIN)

The Nets routinely "play down" to the level of their competition and I expect that detrimental trend to continue here on the road against the lowly Magic. Brooklyn has Kevin Durant back in the line-up, and wouldn't you know it, the Nets are winning games again, entering on a 3-game skein. Most recently it was a 110-107 home victory over the Knicks. But with a much more difficult (and more "high profile") game at home against the Mavericks the following night, Durant could be rested here, with Kyrie Irving carrying the load. Either way, this one definitely sets up as a letdown/look-ahead spot for the visitors. The Magic have been playing better of late, going 4-1 ATS in their last five. Their off a 116-114 OT home loss to the 76ers, and I say they carry that confidence and momentum over here; grab the points!

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8* KINGS (DESTRUCTION)

The Bulls are off a 101-91 win at home over Cleveland, but I think they'll have their hands full here vs. this hungry home side. The Bulls have much bigger fish to fry as well, with games at Utah and Phoenix upcoming. I say Chicago gets caught looking ahead here. The Kings play with revenge after a 125-118 loss at Chicago in mid February and they're 7-2 ATS in their last 9 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS road loss against an opponent. The Kings are off a 134-125 loss to Utah, but note that they're 8-3 ATS in their last 11 off a SU/ATS road loss in which they conceded 130 or more points in. While I do feel that an outright upset is possible, let's grab the points!

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10* WIZARDS (ASSASSIN)

I'm not calling for an outright win or anything, but I do think that Washington will keep this one competitive until the final moments, and I do expect Golden State to take the foot off the gas in the second half as it prepares for a red hot Celtics team coming to town on Wednesday. The Warriors are off 3 straight wins/covers, but after their big 122-109 upset home win over the defending champs, we can expect a predictable mental letdown here. Washington fell 127-118 at Portland in its last matchup, but everything points to this one coming down to the wire. As I stated off the top, I'm not calling for the outright victory, but this spread is way too large considering these other factors; grab the points, the play is WASHINGTON.

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10* SUNS (ASSASSIN)

I like the Suns to try and make an example of LeBron James and the Lakers today. It's impossible to know what kind of effort you're going to get out of James and the Lakers from game-to-game. After his 50 point performance in a win over the Wizards in his last outing, I say "The King" has a predictable letdown here against this "step up" in competition. The Suns will be plenty motivated here as well after falling 117-112 at home to the Raptors as 4.5-point underdogs. And with a game at home tomorrow night against Toronto, the Lakers are also going to get caught "looking ahead" tonight; lay the points, the play is Phoenix!

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10* HAWKS (ASSASSIN)

There's no question that Detroit has been playing better of late, but I expect the proverbial wheels to fall off the bus today. Detroit has won 5 of its last 7 and covered in 7 straight. Note though that it's still just 2-13 ATS in its last 15 after 5 or more straight covers in a row. Atlanta has been playing a lot better in the second half as well and has a legitimate shot at the playoffs again. It's off B2B wins, including a 117-114 road win at Washington. With a tough game at Milwaukee on deck next, I expect the visiting side to take this road contest very seriously. Lay the points, the play is Atlanta!

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10* CAVALIERS (EXPRESS)

The Cavaliers have struggled since the All Star break, while the 76ers now look unbeatable with James Harden in the line-up. However, that's only helped in driving this home line a couple points higher than it really should be in my estimation. The Cavs are 36-26 overall, including 17-15 on the road. They're off a 119-98 loss at home to Charlotte, which is important to note here as they're 12-6 ATS in their last 18 off a SU/ATS home loss in which they were held to 99 or less points in. The Cavs also play with revenge here after a 103-93 home loss to Philly in the middle of February. The 76ers have won 4 straight, but with a much more "high-profile" contest at Miami tomorrow night, the possibility of getting caught "looking ahead" is something that we have to take into consideration here as well. I think this one will be decided in the closing moments, so I'm grabbing the points with the Cavaliers!

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10* ROCKETS (ASSASSIN)

The Clippers are 31-31 and somehow managing to stay afloat despite not having Kawhi Leonard or Paul George in the line-up. The Rockets sneak in under the radar here though at 15-44. Houston is off a 119-111 loss to Orlando. The Clippers are off a 105-102 win over the Lakers and I believe will suffer a predictable letdown here. This is the opener of a two-game set between the teams here, with the second coming on March 1st. Expect the home side, which plays with revenge after falling 142-111 to LA in mid February, to keep this one tight down the stretch; grab the points!

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10* KINGS (ASSASSIN)

After beating the Kings by a score of 128-110 in Sacramento two nights ago, I think the Nuggets will get caught complacent here. They're in Portland tomorrow night, so the temptation to take the foot off the proverbial gas pedal will definitely be there for the home side. Sacramento has now lost 3 straight, both SU and ATS, which is significant to note here as it's 7-2 ATS in its last 9 after 3 or more SU/ATS losses in a row. It's also 8-4 ATS in its last 12 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS home loss against an opponent. No outright here, but closer than expected; grab the points!

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9* WOLVES (DESTRUCTION)

I think this is a great spot to pull the trigger on the hungry home side today. Karl Anthony Towns is an underrated player. He's one of only two players in history to win both the three-point contest and the skills contest. The Wolves play with revenge here after a 116-108 loss to the Grizz in mid January. Memphis won 6 straight before the All Star break, but it lost its final game in a 123-119 home setback to the lowly Blazers. With a much more high-profile game at Chicago on Saturday, will the visiting side get caught "looking ahead" here?! It very well could. Look for the well-rested and revenge-mided Wolves to find a way to deliver on Thursday night!

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10* PELICANS (EXPRESS)

I think this is a great spot for the Pels. They're coming off a 121-109 loss here at home to the Grizz, but they managed a 107-91 victory over the Mavericks on December 3rd. Dallas is off an upset 107-99 victory at Miami as a 5.5-point underdog, but with the All Star break starting tomorrow, I believe the visitors are going to go through the motions today as Luca Doncic gets ready for the upcoming All Star game. These teams average almost the identical amount of points, with New Orleans averaging 106.1 and Dallas averaging 106.3. The difference comes on the defensive end, but the overall situation working in favor of the Pels here supercedes that factor. Clearly, the outright win is in the cards here, but the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is New Orleans!

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10* LAKERS (ASSASSIN)

Are the Lakers a good team that's been the victim of unfortunate circumstances this year? I think the answer is both yes and no. Certainly LA's record would indicate that it's a bad team (26-31.) The good news? There's still time to correct things and to earn a spot in the playoffs. The Lakers are also 17-13 at home this season. The Jazz have had to overcome a few injury issues, and covid problems, but the enter the all star break with a great 36-21 record. They haven't been at their best on the road though, where they are 15-11 this season. The Lakers are off a tight 117-115 loss at Golden State, easily covering with the 6-point spread. The Lakers can't afford to take tonight off though, and I expect anotherfull four-quarter effort tonight. The Jazz are off a 135-101 win over Houston, which is noteworthy here as they're just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 after a SU/ATS win of 30 or more points. I say this one means A LOT more to the desperate Lakers!

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8* ROCKETS (DESTRUCTION)

Clearly, the Rockets are terrible. They're just 15-41 overall. They've been better for bettors though, going 22-33-1 ATS. They're coming off 5 straight SU/ATS losses in a row (and note that they're 7-3 ATS in their last 10 after 5 or more consecutive ATS/SU setbacks.) Not suprisingly, they play with revenge here after a listless 115-89 loss to the Suns as 8.5-point dogs on November 14th. Clearly, the Suns are a great team. They're 47-10 SU, and 32-25 ATS. They've won 6 straight, but they lost ATS last time out against the Clippers, winning 103-96, and not coming close to covering the large 12-point spread. I expect a similar final score here as well, as Phoenix prepares for the All Star break. No outright win for Houston, but much closer than expected; the official call will be to grab the points!

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8* WOLVES (DESTRUCTION)

I think this is a great spot to continue to ride the red hot Wolves. Minnesota has won 6 of its last 8. That includes a 129-120 victory over the Pacers in Indiana. The Wolves play with revenge here after falling 133-115 at Charlotte back on November 26th. Minnesota has a tough Toronto team coming to town tomorrow night before the All Star break, so expect the home side to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Charlotte has NOT been playing well at all of late. It's still scoring lots, but it's also one of the worst defensive clubs in the league, as it enters having lost 7 of its last 8. That includes a 125-118 loss at home to Memphis in its most recent. With a home game against Miami to close out the first half, I say the visitors get caught looking ahead as well. The conditions are certainly correct for a home side rout; the official call will be to lay the points!

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10* MAVERICKS (REVENGE GOM)

Dallas had won four straight before a 99-97 loss at home to the Clippers. The game previous to that they beat LA 112-105. The Mavericks have looked a lot better of late despite trading Kristaps Porzingis and they do indeed play with revenge here after a 125-110 loss at home to the Heat in early November. Miami has sure been playing well, as it's won 5 in a row, but note that it's just 3-7 ATS in its last 10 after five or more SU victories in a row. And with a game at Charlotte, followed by a trip to the Big Apple after the All Star Break, I think the Heat get classically caught "looking past" their non-conference opponent today. In a game that I see being decided in the final moments, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can!

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10* ROCKETS (ASSASSIN)

Are the Rockets a good team that's just been an unfortunate victime to crazy circumstances? Are the Jazz over-rated and not as good as their record would indicate? No, on both counts. The Rockets have struggled for varying reasons, but they're not a great team this year. Utah has had to struggle through some covid issues as well this season, but the Jazz are now primed for a deep playoff run. I simply feel that this is a few too many points to be giving up here, as I expect Utah to take the foot off the gas in the second half. Houston comes in off four straight SU/ATS losses in a row. Most recently a 139-120 loss at home to the Raptors (they're 7-3 ATS in their last 10 though after a SU/ATS home loss in which they allowed 135 or more points in.) Utah comes in off 5 straight wins and covers (and it's just 3-6 ATS in its last 9 after 5 or more SU/ATS victories in a row.) With a much "bigger" game at the Lakers on Wednesday, the Jazz are in danger of looking ahead here as well. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points!

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10* LAKERS (ASSASSIN)

Are LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook really as bad as their win/loss record would indicate? I'd say no. Clearly, chemistry is an issue. Both Davis and James have missed significant time this year. All three will be playing today though and I believe the Lakers have a legitimate shot at winning this one outright. The Warriors are off a 116-114 home loss to the Knicks as 9-point favorites. The Lakers are off an embarrassing 107-105 loss to the Blazers, and I expect them to risk life and limb today to try and get back into the winners circle. This one is coming down to the wire, so grab as many points as you can!

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10* PISTONS (ASSASSIN)

Outright victory? I'm not calling for that. But I do think that the visiting side will get caught looking past its lowly non-conference opponent today to its much more high-profile contest at LaMelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday. The Grizz are off a relatively simple 135-109 win at home over the Clippers, which is significant to note as they're just 2-7 ATS in their last 9 off a SU/ATS home win of 20 or more points. Memphis may very well elect to rest some of its starters here. Detroit is just 12-42. It's off a poor 116-86 road loss at Dallas, but note that it's 7-1 ATS in its last 8 after a SU/ATS road loss in which it was held to 89 or less points in. Clearly the Grizz have the uppherhand in every category, but I expect them to take the foot off the gas down the stretch. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points!

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10* KNICKS (GOW)

Outright victory? Anything is possible. But I do expect the Knicks to play with some heart here today and to keep it competitive throughout. The Knicks are off a disappointing 122-115 OT road loss at the Lakers. With a tough game at Denver tomorrow night, followed by a contest at Golden State, tonight's outing takes on added importance for the visiting side. Utah has broken its 5 game slide with B2B victories. Donovan Mitchell is back in the line-up, but with Golden State coming to town on Wednesday, starters could be rested here. It's a perfect situational set of circumstances that are working in favor of this hungry Knicks side today; grab the points!

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10* LAKERS (ASSASSIN)

Yes, both teams are struggling big time this year. For different reasons though. The Knicks are a mess, but the Lakers are getting healthier (despite LBJ still sidelined a couple mre games.) LA is off a tight 111-110 loss at home to the Clippers, but Anthony Davis has been superb since his return from injury. The Knicks are off a 120-108 home loss to the Grizzlies and they have a tough road game here, with upcoming contests at Utah, Denver, Golden State and Portland. Look for the hungrier home side to comfortably pull away for the win and cover; lay the poitns!

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10* KNICKS (ASSASSIN)

The Knicks are struggling for varying reasons, but I think they can fly under the radar here and at the very least, make this one interesting for the home town crowd until the final moments. New York has lost 5 of its last 6 and it's now just 23-26 this year. The Knicks are dealing with many injuries and COVID problems (as are most teams.) On the other end of the court, the Bucks had their 3-game win streak snapped in a 115-99 defeat to Cleveland: “They played lights out tonight,” Milwaukee coach Mike Budenholzer assessed after. "I don’t know what the right analogy is, but they played really well. They beat us pretty good. Live ball turnovers is when transition defense is the toughest, and we made a lot of them.” The Bucks have a tougher game against Denver on Sunday, and they get caught looking ahead to that one; no outright, but closer than expected!

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10* WOLVES (ASSASSIN)

Outright win? That would be sweet if you're a Wolves fan. I mean, it's a very real possibility, as this spread isn't too large or anything. However, I think the safest call is to grab as many points as you can here for a couple different reasons. Both teams come in off wins. The Wolves pulled away for a 109-107 road win over Portland last time out, while Golden State handled the Mavericks 130-92 on Tuesday. Note though that GS is just 2-7 ATS in its last 9 after a SU/ATS home win in which it held its opponent to 95 points or less in. They're also just 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven vs. the West, while the Wolves are 6-2 ATS in the same position. With a much more high-profile game against Brooklyn at home here on Saturday night, I say the home side gets caught looking past its lowly opponent. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points!

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10* ROCKETS (ASSASSIN)

The lowly Rockets have been playing better of late. The mighty Warriors have been struggling somewhat. Houston plays with revenge here after a 12 point loss earlier in the season, and it comes in off a momentum-building 116-111 win at Utah. The Rockets have in fact now won 3 of their last 4. Golden State on the other hand has lost 3 of its last 5. That includes a 121-117 OT home loss here just last night to the lowly Pacers. And with Utah, Dallas, Minnesota and Brooklyn all coming to town next, can anyone say "look-ahead spot?!" Finally, note that the Rockets are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 in trying to revenge a SU/ATS home loss to an opponent. No outright, but the stage is set for a tight battle; grab the points!

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10* PELICANS (ASSASSIN)

I like the Pels here to sneak in under the radar. They're coming off a 104-92 loss to Boston. New York is off a 112-110 home loss to the Timberwolves. New Orleans had an 18 point halftime lead in its last game, but it stumbled down the stretch. The Knicks are just unable to close out anyone though, as evidenced by the last-second loss to Minnesota last time out. This New York offense has been consistently inconsistent all season and I think it'll have difficulties containing this hungry visiting side. This one comes down to the wire; so grab the points!

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8* RAPTORS (ASSASSIN)

I think this is a great spot bet on the hungry and undervalued Raptors here. Two nights after beating the Bucks by a score of 103-96, the Raptors fell 104-99 at Miami as 4-point dogs on Sunday. Dallas has turned things around after a shaky start to the season, but it needed to come from behind in its last game here to beat OKC by a score of 104-102 as 11.5-point favs. And with rival Phoenix coming to town tomorrow, starters could see more rest time than normal this evening against their feisty non-conference opponent. Dallas is playing in the shadow of Phoenix these days, so that's a game that it's had circled on the calendar. Toronto is 7-2 ATS in its last nine off a SU/ATS road loss in which it was held to 99 or less points in. Expect that trend to continue here; grab the points!

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10* KNICKS (NON-CONF GOM).

The 21-22 Minnesota Timberwolves are off a huge 119-99 win over league-leading Golden State. Can anyone say "letdown" spot here?!  The Knicks have won six of their last ten games, but their three-game win streak was snapped in last night's 97-87 loss to a red-hot Chalotte team. With a game at Atlanta tomorrow night, the visitors are gonig to get classically caught "looking ahead" here. The 22-22 Knicks can't afford that same luxury though after last night's loss. Minnesota is still just 9-12 on the road, while New York is still 11-10 at home. Look for the hungry home side to deliver in friendly confines!

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Spurs (10* GAME OF WEEK).

The Suns are 33-9 overall. They've won 3 straight. THey're off a 138-108 road win at Detroit. I think Phoenix gets caught looking past the Spurs though. San Antonio is without question the hungrier of these two teams. It's coming off a momentum-building 101-94 win over the Clippers. This is a double-revenge game as well already for the Spurs after dropping both earlier contests to Phoenix this season. With 2 nights off before a big game at Dallas to end this trip, the Suns also get caught looking-ahead in this one. Outright victory? I think entirely possible (so sprinkle a little on the ML as well!) That said, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can with San Antonio!

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10* PACERS (A$$A$$IN)

Clearly, the Suns are the much better team in this matchup. However, I think that the situation and this spread favor the home side. The Suns are off a 99-95 road win at Toronto on Tuesday, but they're just 2-7 ATS in their last nine off a SU road victory in which they held their opponent to 95 points or less in. Indiana had its three game ATS win streak snapped last time out in a 119-100 home loss, but note that it's 7-3 ATS in its last ten off a SU/ATS home loss in which it was held to 100 or less points in. With a "cream puff" at Detroit up next, the Suns are vulnerable here to a bit of a mental letdown as well. I say the Suns play down to the level of their competition here. Outright win? Probably not. But this one will definitely be decided in the final moments, so the official call will be to grab the points!

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10* Wolves (A$$A$$IN)

I like the Wolves to sneak in under the proverbial radar here and to, at the very least, give the red hot Grizz a run for their money today! Minnesota comes in off a 128-125 road loss at New Orleans on Tuesday. The Grizz are on a ten-game win streak and just knocked off league-leading Golden State by a score of 116-108 on Tuesday. Can anyone say classic "letdown" spot?! Both teams almost concede the identical number of points (Wolves allow 109.2, Grizzlies allow 107.9). Ja Morant and company are in unchartered territory right now and regression is imminent in my opinion. With Dallas coming to town tomorrow night, I also forsee the home side getting caught "looking past" its opponent. Outright win?! Maybe (consider sprinkling a little on the ML!) In the end though, my official call is to grab as many points as you can!

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10* SUNS (ASSASSIN)

The Suns are 30-9 and the Raptors are 20-17. Phoenix probably got caught looking ahead to its Eastern road swing in its 123-100 loss at home to Miami on Saturday. Toronto looks poised for a letdown here though in my opinion after its slim 105-101 home win over the lowly Pelicans. Deandre Ayton, Jae Crowder and JaVale McGee are all back for the Suns now though after a stint on the COVID list. Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet have been fantastic for Toronto, but the home side does lack depth compared to Phoenix. Toronto has won six straight, and that fact has actually driven down this line in favor of Toronto. I say the Suns come prepared to play in the first game of their road trip. So lay the points!

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10* PACERS (ASSASSIN)

This play is contrarian. The Pacers are 15-25, including only 3-15 on the road. The C's are 19-21, including 12-8 at home. Boston has been trading wins/losses over its last four games. Two nights after collapsing and losing 108-105 in New York, the C's won 99-75 at home over the Knicks. This is the opener of a home and home set and I expect Indiana to take it very seriously. Note that Boston is also just 2-7 ATS in its last nine off a SU/ATS home win in which it held its opponent to 80 or fewer points in. Expect Indiana to build off its impressive 125-113 home win over Utah and to take this one right down to the wire!

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10* BULLS.

The 19-19 Washington Wizards are off a terrible 114-111 home loss to Houston and I believe that they're ripe for the picking in this one. Chicago has won eight in a row, but it's failed to cover in three straight. That includes a much tighter than expected 102-98 win here over Olrando. But that three nights ago. With so much time off to rest and prepare for this one, we can absolutely expect the home side to push the pace of this one from start to finish. The Wizards have struggled offensively this year, but they've also struggled defensively. This isn't a good combination to win games most nights. When these teams played in Washington on January 1st, Chicago scored the 120-119 victory and it was unable to cover the 2-point spread. I say the Bulls come in focused and run up the score from start to finish this time around though!

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10* Hornets (BLOOD-BATH)

Off B2B victories, I believe that Detroit will stumble here. Most recently it was a monumental 115-106 win over the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks. The Hornets on the other hand will be anxious to return to the winners circle after a listless 124-121 loss in the nation's capital in their last outing. The problem for the Pistons here is that they average only 101.1 PPG, while allowing 110.1. Saddiq Bey was huge for Detroit in its last win with 34 points and eight boards, but I just don't see lightning striking twice here. Charlotte has in fact lost two in a row, so it'll be hungry here. The Hornets average 114.9 PPG, while allowing 116.7. But they catch a break here facing this "on again, off again" Detroit offense. I expect a blowout of epic proportions, so lay those points with confidence!

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10* Spurs (PLATINUM CLUB)

I think the Spurs catch the Raptors at a good time here. San Antonio is off a 117-116 loss at Detroit. The Spurs though remain one of the league's highest scoring teams, averaging 111.5 PPG. With a tough upcoming schedule, including a game at Boston tomorrow night, I believe Greg Popovich has his troops prepared to play today. The Raptors are off a relatively simple 120-105 home win over New York and they've won two in a row, but Nick Nurse will likely rest many throughout this game with a contest at Milwaukee tomorrow night. The Raptors only average 106.9 PPG as well. Outright?! Anything is possible, but I do definitely expect this to be very competitive and that's the reason why I'm grabbing the points!

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10* NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF MONTH on Nets.

The bottom line here gentlemen is that these are two very good teams. Memphis has been playing well of late, but I think it's overmatched here facing this Nets team that's coming off a poor loss to the Clippers in their last outing, allowing a whopping 40 points in the fourth quarter, an effort which promted Steve Nash to asses: "We deserved to lose that game." Both James Harden and Kevin Durant had huge nights, but Brooklyn stumbled down the stretch. Memphis is off B2B home wins, but it's still just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after a SU/ATS home victory in which it held its opponent to 105 or less points in. I think Harden and Durant lay the hammer down here after that pathetic effort last time out. Lay the points, this one gets UGLY!

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This is a 10* play on the Jazz.

The Warriors are 27-7, but they're off a listless 89-86 defeat to Denver. With a night off before a home game againt the Heat, Golden State will have to very careful to not get caught looking ahead today. This is the first matchup of the year between the clubs, but the Jazz enter having won six in a row. Utah is the highest scoring team in the league, averaging 116 PPG, and its guard rotation matches up well against Stephen Curry and company. The Warriors are ranked seventh in scoring, but note that they're just 2-7 ATS in their last nine off a SU/ATS loss in which it was held to 90 points or less in. Look for Utah to come out and push the pace from start to finish. The play is the JAZZ.

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This is an 8* on PHX

Even at full strength, Oklahoma City would stand little chance of winning this game. But the Thunder aren’t even close to being full strength entering Wednesday. Six players were in protocol for last night’s 117-111 loss in Sacramento. That includes star rookie Josh Giddey, the team leader in both rebounds and assists. Coach Mark Daigneault was also absent last night. All these absences, coupled with the fact they played last night, means OKC is very likely to be blown out tonight in Phoenix. The Suns are hoping to avert what would be their first three-game losing streak of the season. After losing Christmas Day to Golden State, they fell at the buzzer to Memphis on Monday. The Suns’ last win came against the Thunder, 113-101, back on 12/23. We think the final margin will be a lot larger tonight as the favorite is hungry and more motivated this time. They’d just beaten the Lakers the previous time they faced the Thunder. Phoenix is pretty clearly one of the three best teams in the NBA this season. We’d consider Oklahoma City among the three worst. This promises to get ugly in a hurry. Play on PHOENIX

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This is a 10* on SACRAMENTO

Laying points with Sacramento might sound a bit dicey, but we are expecting an inspired effort tonight from the Kings after interim head coach Alvin Gentry called Sunday “the most disappointed I’ve been in 34 years in the NBA.” The Kings were outscored 78-52 in the second half by Memphis as they lost a third straight game by 15 or more points. But tonight they are welcoming in Oklahoma City. Despite four wins in its last five games and being 6-0 ATS in their last six, the Thunder remain one of the worst teams in the NBA. They are last in the NBA in scoring and get outscored by 11.8 points/game on the road. So expect the rare, comfortable win for Sacramento on Tuesday. The Kings are also looking to avenge a two-point road loss from last month. That game in OKC saw them blow a 14-point halftime lead. Play on SACRAMENTO

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This is a 10* on PORTLAND

Portland has just three wins in its last 14 games. But at least they’re at home where they started the year out on a 10-1 tear. With Thursday’s game vs. Brooklyn postponed, the Blazers have had five days off to prepare for Dallas tonight. The Mavericks turned in a game effort Christmas night vs. Utah, only losing by four as 13.5 point underdogs. But they continue to be very undermanned with Luka Doncic, Tim Hardaway Jr and three others in protocol. Portland is also without five players, but at least they’ve got Damian Lillard, who has averaged 38 points on 54.8% shooting (48.4% on threes) over his past three games. Like Portland, Dallas has been slipping of late, dropping four of its last five games. So we’ve got two struggling teams that will be short-handed Monday night. We side with the home team due to Lillard and the fact they are better rested. The Mavs’ only road win in the last 17 days came at Oklahoma City. Play on PORTLAND

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This is a 10* on DENVER

Add Paul George’s name to the list of Clippers who won’t be in action Sunday. Los Angeles was already without Marcus Morris Sr, Reggie Jackson, Isaiah Hartenstein, Luke Kennard and Jason Preston and of course Kawhi Leonard, who hasn’t played at all this season. Looking at that list of players, only Kennard has a shot to play tonight. The Clippers did somehow pick up a win on Wednesday, but tonight’s effort should more closely resemble the team that had lost three in a row before that. Meanwhile, Denver should be really motivated after losing to Charlotte on Thursday, a game in which it had a 17-point lead going into the fourth quarter. That was the Nuggets second straight loss and third in the last four games. Nikola Jokic is still playing well though, averaging 26.2 points and 13.1 rebounds his L10 games. He went for 29-21 on Thursday. The Nuggets are a lot closer to “full strength” than the Clippers are right now and that makes them very attractive here in a game they’ll desperately want to win. Play on DENVER

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This is a 10* on GOLDEN STATE

This is our best matchup on Christmas Day. The two best teams in the West face off as the 26-5 Suns host the 26-6 Warriors. The last time they met, we took the Warriors laying 6.5 at home. They covered for us in a 118-96 win and in the process ended Phoenix’s 18-game win streak. That is one of only two losses the Suns have suffered in the last 27 games. Despite them potentially not being at full strength for Saturday, we again will side with Golden State, this time as our 10* Game of the Month. As long as Steph Curry and Draymond Green are both healthy, and they are, the Warriors should not be getting this many points from anybody. They have a better statistical profile than the Suns and the players that are potentially going to be absent (Poole, Lee, Wiggins) collectively aren’t worth more than 1-2 points to the spread.  Grab the points. Play on GOLDEN STATE

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This is an 8* on PHOENIX

Oklahoma City has won three in a row. That’s not a sentence we anticipated writing. The Thunder defeated the Nuggets on Wednesday night, 108-94, a game where we were on the wrong side. We’ll again be on the opposite side of the Thunder here tonight, only this time, look for us to be right. Phoenix is clearly the “real deal” having won 24 of its last 26 games including a four-game win streak heading into tonight. The Suns have covered the spread in all four wins as well, winning by an average of more than 18 points per game. Each of the last three wins have been by 18 or more. The Thunder are still one of the league’s bottom teams and have been outscored by more than 20 points/game when playing with zero rest. Play on PHOENIX

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This is a 10* on DENVER

Oklahoma City just picked up a win, which is not something that happens all that often. We had them plus the points on Monday as they beat Memphis 102-99 in a huge revenge spot. Remember that the Grizzlies had previously handed OKC the largest loss in NBA history (73 points) back on December 2nd. Even more rare is the fact the Thunder have now won two straight games. They also beat the Clippers 104-103 on Saturday. Since winning four in a row in early November, the Thunder have not strung together more than two straight wins at any point. So tonight is a good time to fade them. Denver, who is also coming off an upset win, has had the last four days off. The Nuggets were supposed to play in Brooklyn Sunday, but the Nets’ COVID outbreak had other ideas. In their last game, Denver put up 133 points against Atlanta. Over their last six contests, the Nuggets are scoring almost 120 points/game. If they can maintain that average, then it’s “smooth sailing” tonight. Oklahoma City can’t score even close to 120. They are last in the league at 99.2 points/game. Honestly, the Nuggets won’t even need 120 to cover here. They swept the season series last year and OKC never scored more than 101 in any of those three games. Play on DENVER

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This is a 10* on OKC

Memphis has gone a very impressive 10-2 so far without Ja Morant. But one of those two losses was last night, 105-100 to Portland as 4.5 point home favorites). Now the Grizzlies are set to play again, without rest, Monday vs. Oklahoma City. Since the Morant injury, there’s been just one time the Grizzlies were asked to play back to back nights. On that occasion, they lost the first game but came back to win the second, 108-95 over the Lakers. But when analyzing this win streak, one can see the oddsmakers haven’t really taken the Grizzlies all that seriously. Now they (the oddsmakers) have them laying a big number tonight vs. Oklahoma City. Of course, everyone remembers the last time these teams played. Memphis won in record-setting fashion, 152-79. It was the largest single game margin of victory in NBA history. Tonight is the Thunder’s shot at revenge. OKC just beat the Clippers on Saturday. They are 3-3 straight up since that humiliating defeat earlier this month. We won’t say they’ll win tonight, but take the points as Memphis is in a bad spot and unlikely to continue playing as well as they have without Morant. Play on OKLAHOMA CITY

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This is a 10* on MIAMI

Playing shorthanded, the Heat were still able to go to Philadelphia and win the other night. So winning at Orlando here doesn’t seem like a big ask. The Magic are quite bad this year, which was to be expected. But perhaps things have gone even more poorly than anticipated? The team’s record is 5-24 and they have the worst point differential in the league right now. Since Nov 17, the Magic have won just one game. They’ve lost six in a row, which is one shy of the losing streak they were on at the end of November. So it’s 13 losses in the last 14 games. The Heat have taken it to the Magic recently by winning each of the last three matchups, including a 17-point victory back in October. Orlando’s rotation is depleted now, just like Miami’s, the key is we believe the Heat are more apt to deal with the absences. Miami has won three of its last four games, beating Milwaukee, Chicago and Philly, all top tier Eastern Conference teams. Surely they can beat the lowly Magic by more than the oddsmakers are asking for here. Play on MIAMI

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This is a 10* on DENVER

Denver has a 12-game win streak over Minnesota that dates back to the 2018-19 season. They swept the last three season series and won 93-91 (as a 1.5-point dog) in the Twin Cities back in October. Now the Nuggets are dealing with a lot of illness and injuries at the moment. But that didn’t prevent them from building a 33-point lead over Washington in the last game. Before that, they went to San Antonio and won by 15. Be aware that the game vs. the Wizards only got close after Nikola Jokic got ejected. Denver has been outstanding at the defensive end in home games this season, giving up only 99.4 points/game. The Timberwolves come in shooting just 40.4 percent their last five games and 42.4% for the year. Prior to a 116-111 win in Portland the other night, the T’wolves had dropped five in a row, three by double digits. Their recent defensive efforts have been terrible with eight of the last nine games seeing them give up 110 or more points. Lay the points in this one. Play on DENVER

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This is a 10* on GSW

Steph Curry will look to become the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made when his Warriors visit New York on Tuesday. Curry is only two threes shy of Ray Allen’s record entering this game. Considering he made five last night, it would seem like a lock that history will be made tonight in Madison Square Garden. You have to figure Curry’s teammates will want to make the record-setting day a victorious one as well. Laying only a few points here to the struggling Knicks seems to be a “no-brainer.” This line is relatively short because Golden State was in action Monday. They beat Indiana 102-100, but it was the third game in a row where they did not cover the spread. Seeing as the Warriors lead the league in point differential, a win by more than what the oddsmakers are calling for tonight doesn’t sound so far-fetched. The Knicks aren’t as good as the Pacers. NY has dropped three straight games and six of its last seven. At home, they lost by 15 to the Bucks on Sunday. It was their third double digit loss in the past five games. Don’t overthink this one. Play on GOLDEN STATE

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