The set-up: I had a play on the Heat in Game 5 and I think they'll cover here as well. At the very least. The outright win is possible to I believe, but in this case I think the safter route is to grab the points. LA is running low on energy and its role players have been struggling to keep up with Miami's bench production. The Heat have been playing great defensively as well. 

The pick: Miami has been an ATS covering machine in the playoffs, and LA is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight vs. the Eastern Conference. Anthony Davis is hampered by injuries and the Heat can smell the blood in the water. As stated above, I think the outright win is possible, but in the end let's grab the points!

This is a 10* SIDE BLOCKBUSTER on the Miami Heat.

The set-up: I think the Heat will take the Lakers down to the wire at the very least in Game 5. LA's bench players have to be feeling pretty nervous right now, as the hardest thing to do in the playoffs is to close out a team and win a championship. Miami clearly won't be rolling over here. LeBron James came back from a 3-1 deficit with the Cavaliers in the Finals to beat the Warriors. Eric Spolestra has been great at making game-to-game adjustments and he'll have something prepared tonight for his team as they try to avoid elimination. 

The pick: LA is still just 1-6 ATS in its last seven vs. the Eastern Conference, while the Heat are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after scoring 99 points or less in a loss in their previous outing. These teams are exhausted, both mentally and physically at this point, but all signs point to another battle until the end in Game 5. I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Miami Heat.

The set-up: If you want an ESPN summary of what each individual player did in Game 3, then go to ESPN. If you're wagering on this contest, cleary you're familar with the cast of characters and the overall storyline. I'm here to tell you why I think the Lakers are going to streamroll the Heat in Game 4. LeBron James looked like a moron leaving the court early and he knows that the one thing that cures everything is "winning." When the Lakers big men assert themselves, the Heat have no answers and that's exactly what I expect to see happen here. Jimmy Butler was amazing in Game 3, but there's on way he can duplicate that effort again here.

The pick: Note as well that the Lakers are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after a ten points or greater setback in their previous outing. No need to overanalyze in my opinion, as this one has "beatdown" written all over it. Lay the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the LA Lakers.

The set-up: If you're wagering on this game, then you don't need me to fill you in on these teams strengths and the weaknesses and the cast of characters involved. All of these things are already known even by the most casual NBA fan. Besides, you can go to any sports website to obtain that information. I'm here to tell you why the Heat are going to at the very least, cover with the decent spread they've been afforded here. 

The pick: The Heat have done well in the playoffs, especially defending the perimeter and in shooting percentage. With a couple of days off to prepare, I think that Eric Spolestra will have a game-plan in place to counter what the Lakers will have in store. Also note that the Heat are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 overall. Miami has been overlooked throughout these playoffs and I think that LA does as well here. That said, grab the points.

This is a 10* BLOCKBUSTER on the Miami Heat.

The set-up: If not for Anthony Davis's game winning three-point shot in Game 2, this series could be drastically different. Denver predictably came out flat in Game 1 after its second straight seven game series victory, but it's quickly made adjustments and now it's 1-2 after taking Game 3 convincingly. I had a play on LA in Game 1, but I think that Denver now has the "blue-print" to beat LA and while that may or may not in fact happen, in my opinion everything points to another "nail-biter!" 

The pick: I'll point out as well that LA is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after scoring 108 points or less in its previous outing, while Denver is 5-3 ATS in its last eight after scoring 114 points or more in a win in their last outing. 

This is a 10* GAME 4 BLOCKBUSTER on the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: The Nuggets have the Lakers right where they want them! That's the "joke" right now after Denver has come back from consecutive 3-1 deficits to win their last two series in seven games. The Lakers look like the better team to this point, but they got a huge shot from Anthony Davis to win Game 2. If he misses that one, who knows how Game 2 ends. Regardless, after getting blown out in Game 1 the Nuggets clearly made adjustments to counter LA and it almost worked. I think Denver's ability to adapt and make adjustments on the fly is its greatest strength and I believe it could in fact help it come out on top outright here. 

The pick: Note as well that the Nuggets are 7-1 in their last eight games when trailing in a playoff series, while the Lakers are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven in this series as the favorite. I'm not counting out the Nuggets quite yet. That said, I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: I had a play on the Lakers in Game 1 and I think they now have the blue-print to sweep this Denver team in four. The Nuggets come off back-to-back seven game series where they had to dig themselves out of a 3-1 hole. It's an emotional game and I think that Denver is out of gas and it's "magic" has run out. The Lakers started slowly in the first quarter in Game 1, but then a quick adjustment saw them dominate the rest of the way, especially defensively.

The pick: Nikola Jokic is going to have a heck of a time slowing down Anthony Davis, who I expect to once again have a big game here. The Lakers are too tough defensively for Jamal Murray to operate effectively either. I'm laying the points and expecting another blowout from start to finish. 

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the LA Lakers.

The set-up: Obviously you can't count out the Nuggets in any situation, however I'm definitely going to do just that in Game 1. Denver has a reputation now of being quite the survivor after back-to-back series of having to climb out of a 1-3 hole. The Lakers though are rested and they have the big men in their line-up to easily handle Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets. With Jokic neutralized, the savvy veteran guards of the Lakers are going to be able to operate and make it difficult for Jamal Murray to get any open looks. This is an extremely poor matchup for Denver, which has no answer for LeBron James. 

The pick: LA is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine after four or more days of rest. I think the back-to-back seven games series comes back to fatigue Denver and I love the Lakers to finally get out to a big start in a playoff series in the bubble with a commanding full four quarter effort. I'm laying the points.

This is a 10* BLOWOUT on the LA Lakers.

The set-up: With a spread like this, clearly the oddsmakers feel that these teams are very evenly matched. And these two teams are. Both have great coaches and each is filled with talent that can put the ball in the hoop. Each is also extremely committed to the defensive side of things. So why will Miami win/cover in Game 1? I believe for sure that the few extra days off after taking care of the Bucks in five games is HUGE right now. The Celtics on the other hand just went through an exhausting seven game series vs. Boston and after that emotional win, I think a letdown here is imminent. 

The pick: Note that Miami is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine after playing with four or more whole days off. As primarily a situational handicapper, this particular one sets up fantastically for the Heat in my opinion.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Miami Heat.

The set-up: I had a play on the "over" in Game 4 and while that came up short, so too did the Nuggets. Denver was down 3-1 to the Jazz in its opening round series, before then posting three straight victories. Anything is possible, but the likliehood of that happening again is very slim. I don't think it's going to happen and Denver may well even lose this game outright, but I absolutely expect the Nuggets to fight hard, risking life and limb today to try and stay alive. LA has gotten fantastic and new flawless play from everyone over the last two games and I think its poised for a bit of a mental "letdown" in Game 5.

The pick: Additionally note that the Nuggets are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after being held to 88 points or less in a loss in their previous outing. I expect Denver to push the pace and to at the very least, keep this one close until the final moments. Grab the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: Houston dominated in Game 1, but since then it's been all the Lakers. I think though that Houston is going to give its best shot here to try and get back into this series and while I obviously wouldn't be shocked by an outright upset, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. The Lakers have used their size well over the last two games, but Houston has done well in this spot for bettors over the year, as note that it's 8-4 ATS in its last 12 after a ten point or larger loss to an opponent in its last outing. 

The pick: Note as well that the Lakers are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight after a ten points or larger victory in their last outing. I think the desperation level in which the hungry Rockets play with tonight turns out to be the difference maker. Grab the points!

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Houston Rockets.

The set-up: This has been a back and forth series and with a spread like this, obviously the bookmakers think these teams are very evenly matched. And I agree. These teams are very similar, filled with talent and deep benches. The advantage that Toronto now has is two-fold though, as not only does it cleraly have the "momentum" back in this series (which I feel is crucial in the playoffs), but it also has the experience. And that's something you can't teach, only earn. 

The pick: Additionally note that the Raptors are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after a five points or higher SU/ATS victory in their last outing in the playoffs. Boston is now mentally on the ropes here and I think the defending champs can smell the blood in the water. I'm banking on the Raptors riding the wave of momentum they've created to another solid ATS/SU victory in Game 5.

The is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Raptors.

The set-up: I don't believe the Bucks are going to get swept. I thought Milwaukee would win this series, but now the odds are against it for that happening. All of that said though, I think the Bucks will finally put together a full four quarter effort here and find a way to avoid getting swept. The Heat have won seven straight, but I think a letdown is inevitable. Miami's defense has been spectacular, but it's shooting percentage seems unsustainable to me over the long-term. 

The pick: Miami is also just 1-5 ATS in its last six after a five games or longer ATS/SU unbeaten streak. Also note that Milwaukee is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 after three or more SU/ATS losses. Milwaukee plays with pride and pushes this one to a Game 5.

The is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Milwaukee Bucks.

The set-up: Do I think that the Miami Heat are a better team than the Milwaukee Bucks?! Of course not. I'll admit that Miami has definitely played a lot better than the Bucks to this point, but I think that'll finally change in Game 3. Giannis Antetokounmpo fouled Jimmy Butler with no time left on the clock in Game 2 and that's how the Bucks would lose. Clearly Giannis is going to be feeling responsible and I like the back-to-back MVP to come out and dominate in this game.

The pick: And that's good news for the rest of the Bucks, who will finally have some room to operate. The Heat have been excellent, they could easily win this series, but I think they finally have a letdown here after playing at such a high-level for such an extended period of time. Milwaukee actually won the rebound battle in Game 2 (50-38). Look for the Bucks to finally hit their stride and lay the points with confidence.

The is a 10* BEST OF THE BEST on the Milwaukee Bucks.

The set-up: The Nuggets made adjustments against the Jazz and won three straight. Denver did it by domianting defensively and getting great play from star players Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic. I think the "momentum" that Denver has created is a real, tangible factor and I believe it'll ride that wave to another solid performance here against the Clippers. LA also got better in its series vs. the Mavericks, but it was far from perfect. I also don't think the exrta few days off will help in LA's chemistry, which it was definitely lacking at times vs. Dallas. Denver on the other hand is firing on all cylinders at the most opportune of times and I think that definitely matters here.

The pick: Note as well that Denver is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 after holding its previous opponent to 80 points or less, while LA is only 3-6 ATS in its last nine after a three-days or longer break between games. This spread is a little large in my opinion.

The is an 8* ROUT on the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: I think the Thunder will have trouble keeping up with James Harden and company. The Beard is about to take over this game in my opinion and I don't think that Chris Paul and his supporting cast will have what it takes to win a third straight in this series. 

The pick: This one sets up great from a trend based stand point as well, as note that Houston is still 15-7 ATS in its last 22 vs. teams with a win percentage above .600, while OKC is just 1-5 ATS in its last six after a SU/ATS victory. I'm laying the points and expecting a dominant victory from start to finish.

The is a 10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the Houston Rockets.

The set-up: The Nuggets have won the last two games of this series and I believe the "momentum" they've created is very real. Behind the spectacular play of Jamal Murray, the Nuggets now have a chance to move onto the next round. Utah is going to be so worried about Murray now, that finally center Nikola Jokic is going to have room to operate here. With no crowd, "momentum" is a very real, tangible factor in the bubble and the Nuggets have all of it right now. 

The pick: Note as well that Utah is a poor 3-12-1 ATS in its last 16 following a SU loss, while Denver is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after back-to-back SU/ATS victories. Bank on the Nuggets delivering in the clutch!

The is a an 8* ANNIHILATION on the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: The Thunder have looked great in this series at times and poor in others. The same can be said of the Rockets as well. Russell Westbrook only had 7 points for Houston last time out, but the Rockets still dominated from start to finish. Whether Westbrook has a better game or not, I still think that the Thunder will once again "dig deep" here (just like they did in Game's 1 and 2). Individual player matchups or coaching stratgies are meaningless at this point in my opinion, as the Thunder did in fact dominate this series during the regular season. These teams are evenly matched and I'm expecting a battle until the final horn. 

The pick: Note as well that that Thunder are 7-1 ATS in their last eight following a 30-points or greater loss in their previous outing. Expect OKC to dictate the tempo today and while I wouldn't be shocked by the outright upset, in the end I'm grabbing the points.

The is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Thunder.

The set-up: Whether Kristaps Porzingis plays or not, I like Dallas to at the very least, keep this one close enough to easily cover with the large spread that it's been afforded here. The extra time off because of the BLM movement will definitely help in healing up Mavericks' star Luca Doncic's knee as well. Each team has looked great in this series and pedestrian at other times. Bottom line is though is that I feel that they're very evenly matched.

The pick: Dallas is also 7-3 ATS in its last ten after allowing 150 points or more in a loss in its previous outing. Expect Doncic to put the Mavs on his back and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, all signs point to this one coming right down to the wire.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: Orlando is getting a lot of points here. The Magic won Game 1 outright, but since then it's gone 0-3 SU/ATS vs. the surging Bucks. Do I think that the Magic are going to win this contest outright? I do not. Note though that Orlando has been just a single 3-point shot away in each of the last three games to actually cover the spread. And now it's getting more points in Game 5 than in any other to this point. 

The pick: The strengths and weaknesses are well known for each side, but note that the Bucks are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven following an ATS win, while the Magic are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 following a double-digit loss. Orlando's players are playing for a position on the team next year and I don't expect it to go down without a fight tonight. Grab the points.

This is a 10* EXPRESS on the Orlando Magic.

The set-up: It's do or die for the Nuggets. The Jazz have looked great over their last two games, but I think Utah doesn't have that "killer instinct" in it and I look for it to struggle against this desperate Nuggets side. The Nuggets got 50 points from Jamal Murray in the 129-127 Game 4 setback. 

The pick: Utah shot almost 60% from the field in Game 4 and I simply don't see that happening again either. Additionally note that the Nuggets are 7-3 ATS in their last ten after allowing 125 points or more in a loss in their previous game, while the Jazz are just 4-16-2 ATS in their last 22 as a favorite. I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: Oklahoma City had won five straight ATS in this series before the two SU/ATS playoff losses to the Rockets. OKC is filled with talent and Houston has been dealing with injuries, so I'm a little surprised to this point. In fact in Game 2 the Thunder eneterd the fourth quarter with a 1 point lead, but they ended up losing by 13. 

The pick: Thunder guard Chris Paul was only 6 of 15 in Game 2 and I don't see that happening again. I'll still argue that the Thunder are the "deeper" team and I'll point out as well that they're 10-5 ATS in their last 15 following back-to-back losses, which includes a ten points or greater setback in their previous outing. I'm grabbing the points.

This is an 8* ULTIMATE BLOWOUT on the OKC Thunder.

The set-up: The Mavericks could easily be up 2-0 in this series if star center Kristaps Porzingis wasn't ejected in the second period of Game 1. Dallas was clearly the better team in Game 2 and with the Clippers dealing with injuries to important players still, I have a hard time seeing LA keeping pace with this well oiled Mavericks team which is playing with a chip on its shoulder right now.

The pick: LA is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight as well after a ten points or larger loss in its last game. Does Dallas have a legitimate shot at winning Game 3 outright? With a spread like this, clearly the oddsmakers believe it does. And so do I. Grab the points.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Dallas Mavericks. 

The set-up: Denver beat the Jazz in double OT in the regular seaosn and then it also managed to pull for an OT win in Game 1 of this series. The Jazz battled tough though and in Game 2 they laid down the 124-105 smack down and I think they can build off that victory with another one in Game 3. 

The pick: And guess what? Utah won Game 2 without the services of star guard Mike Conley, who now returns to the team after the birth of his son. Additionally note that the Jazz are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after a 10 points or larger victory. Grab the points.

This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: Not many would disagree that the teams that doe the best in the playoffs are the one's that are exhibiting the best "chemistry." You can have all the talent in the World on paper, but if you aren't working together as a team, that talent often gets wasted or exploited by units which are playing at an extremely high level together. LA has struggled to cover the spread since the re-start and despite being down 0-1, I don't expect Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum to go easy in Game 2. 

The pick: Additionally note that LA is now 0-5 ATS in its last five conference quarter-final contests, while Portland is 7-3-1 ATS in its last 11 overall. Grab the points.

This is an 8* SURE SHOT DESTRUCTION on the Blazers.

The set-up: Indiana was swept in four games by the Celtics in the first round last year. So far the Pacers are only 1-4 vs. the Heat this season, including falling both SU and ATS in Game 1 of this series. Indiana is led by TJ Warren and with revenge on their minds, I believe the more experienced and hungrier Pacers will bounce back and deliver the goods here.

The pick: Additionally I'll point out that Indiana has gone 10-4 ATS in its last 14 after losing by ten or more points in a playoff contest. Look for Indiana to at the very least, push Miami until the final moments. Grab the points.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Indiana Pacers.

The set-up: The Mavericks had an eight point lead half way through the third quarter of Game 1, and then big man Kristaps Porzingis got ejected and the Mavs fell apart mentally and failed to cover the spread in the end. Porzingis is back though in Game 2 and I do legitimately believe that Dallas has a chance at taking Game 2 outright. LA is still dealing with several key players missing and I think that catches up to them here.

The pick: Additionally note that the Clippers are still a poor 2-6 ATS in their last eight playoff games as a favorite. In a contest which I see coming down to whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: I took this game early and have an unfavorable line, but I still love this play and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do think the deep and talented Magic will easily keep this one close enough to cover with the ample points they've been afforded. Both teams were 3-5 in the bubble. The Bucks swept all four regular season games, but the Magic were dealing with several injuries to key players back then. Orlando has Vucevic back which is signficant, but is dealing with an injury to Aaron Gordon, meaning that Terrence Ross and Evan Fournier will have to step up here. 

The pick: I think the Bucks classically get caught a bit complacent in this very first game. Milwaukee is also just 2-6 ATS in its last eight following a ten points or greater loss (fell 119-106 to the Grizz.) The odds are clearly against Orlando winning this series or this game, but if it has any shot, it will be in trying to pull off the upset in Game 1. As I stated off the top, I'm not calling for an outright upset, but I do expect this one to be competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

This is a 10* PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR on the Magic.

The set-up: Are the Clippers really deeper and more talented than the Mavericks? Both teams are dealing with injuries right now, but I'd argue that Montrezl Harell's absence for LA is the most significant. Also note that Patrick Beverley and Landry Shamet are both questionable for this one as well. The Mavs have a possible injury to Seth Curry, but guys like Tim Hardaway Jr and Trey Burke have been very steady for the Mavs. 

The pick: I'll point out as well that the Clippers are a devastatingly poor 8-22 ATS in their last 30 playoff games as a favorite. The Clippers supporting cast is banged up, while the Mavs have two stars in Luca Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis playing at their highest level of their careers. The outright win is possible, but in the end let's grab the points!

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Mavericks.

The set-up: Ja Morant hasn't played very well in the Bubble, but the dynamic guard has a chance to reverse his fortunes here in which he hopes will be a two-game play in series. If Portland wins, then this series is over and the Blazers will go on to face the Lakers. But if Memphis wins, these two teams will play a second game. Portland has played well behind Damian Lillard, but the Grizzlies matchup well with Portland in my opinion. 

The pick: Additionally note that Portland is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten as a favorite in the +6 to +12 range. In a game which comes down to the wire, I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* BEST OF THE BEST on the Memphis Grizzlies.

The set-up: The Suns are 5-0 in the Bubble, that's both SU and ATS, but I think Phoenix finally takes a step back here vs. surging OKC, who enters off a relatively simple 121-103 win over Washington on Sunday afternoon. Note that that Thunder are a super 7-2 ATS in their last nine when playing the second game of a back to back and off a 15 points or more victory. 

The pick: Additionally note that the Suns have a tough game tomorrow night vs. the 76ers, who are just as hungry for victories right now as well. Everything's been going right for the Suns, but now they face a red hot Thunder team with even greater depth and experience. So while clearly the outright win isn't out of the question, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. 

This is a 10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the OKC Thunder.

The set-up: With a win in their last game, the Bucks have now clinched the top spot in the East. Everything from here on out is to work on playoff strategy, so don't expect to see much of Giannis Antetokounmpo in this one if you're a Milwaukee fan. 

The pick: The Mavericks on the other hand have lost five of their last seven, most recently getting blown out by the Clippers. Dallas is still in a fight for positioning and it absolutely needs to start playing better if it has any shot at advancing in the postseason. So far it's been a letdown for Luca Doncic and company in the bubble, but a game vs. the Bucks' "B-Team" is just what the doctor ordered to get back on track. Outright victory?! Of course! That said, let's grab the points.

This is a 10* UNDERDOG ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: Both teams are in desperate need of a victory here. Dating back finds the Grizzlies entering on a four-game losing slide, while the Jazz are just 1-2 in the Bubble, including losing back-to-back games. The Grizz enter averaging 112.7 PPG and allowing 113.9, while the Jazz are averaging 110.7 and conceding 108. 

The pick: Utah though has performed incredibly well for bettors in this spot for bettors, going 7-2 ATS in its last nine after back-to-back SU/ATS losses. These teams are very familiar with each other, but the Jazz have the upper hand in a number of matchups (especially in the middle of the paint) and I expect them to pull away down the stretch for a comfortable cover by the end of the night.

This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: The Suns entered the Bubble healthier than they've been all season and that has translated into two straight victories, but I think that Phoenix will finally stumble here vs. this "step up" in competition. The Clippers lost to the Lakers in their first game, before recovering to hammer the Pelicans 126-103 in their second. Phoenix is still 2.5 games behind the Spurs for the eighth spot with six games remaining, but the Clippers are only two games up on third-place Denver. Unfortunately for the Suns, the Clippers can't afford to take the foot off the gas either. 

The pick: Note that the Clippers are now 8-1 ATS in their last nine vs. the Western Conference, while the Suns are a poor 2-9 ATS in their last 11 in this series. I believe the Suns lack of depth on the bench gets exposed here as the game comes down the stretch. Lay the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the LA Clippers.

The set-up: Utah looked out of sorts in its 110-94 setback to the Thunder. The Jazz managed a slim victory over the Pelicans in their opener and while they may not take this game outright, I do think the stage is set for a nail-biter. The Lakers of course looked good in their opener vs. the Clippers, but they seemed pretty disinterested in their second game, a blowout loss to the Raptors. 

The pick: The fact of the matter is, the Lakers only needed to go 1-7 over these final eight games to lock up the top spot in the West and they already did that in their first game. LA does not need to push the pace or risk injury at all over the next two weeks, instead it can already be planning for the playoffs and working on different things related to that. The Jazz though need to find consistency and tonight's game is ultra important in proving that. I'm grabbing the points.

This is an 8* play on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: The Spurs looked good in their Opening Day win, but they play against a hungry Memphis team on Sunday and I think they'll predictably stumble here vs. a 76ers side which will be out to prove that their blowout loss to the Pacers in their Opener was just an "outlier." 

The pick: As primarily a situational handicapper, these are the types of "spots" that I am always keeping my eyes open for. For all intents and purposes, this becomes a "must win" for Philly, who can't afford any more chemistry issues or execuses. I'm laying the points.

This is an 8* play on the Philadelphia 76ers.

The set-up: The Pacers laid the hammer down on Philly 127-121 in their opener and I expect them to keep the foot on the gas here as well in their second game vs. the undermanned and "gassed" Wizards. Washington has a game vs. the Nets on Sunday afternoon and I believe it's going to predictably come into this one with "heavy legs." 

The pick: Indiana took two of three in the regular season series and that was without the services of Victor Oladipo. I believe Indiana will push the pace/tempo from the opening tip until the final horn and that's why I have no issues at all in laying these points.

This is a 10* play on the Indiana Pacers.

The set-up: The Nuggets looked sluggish in their 125-105 setback to the Heat in their opener, but I think this incredibly deep team will make adjustments and come out much better in its second outing. The Thunder rolled over the Jazz, but Utah had a mental lapse there after its 106-104 Opening night win over the Pelicans. 

The pick: Denver took two of three in the regular season series, as its big men present significant matchup issues for OKC. I expect Denver to indeed make some adjustments and to continue its recent domination of this particular matchup. 

This is an 8* play on the Denver Nuggets. 

The set-up: Dallas lost 153-149 to the Rockets in OT in its opening game back, but I believe it'll get the job done tonight in its second outing vs. the Suns, who enter off a 125-112 win over the Wizards in their opener. 

The pick: Dallas took two of three in the season series, as this is a matchup which definitely favors it. Note as well that the Mavs are a sharp 8-4 ATS in their last 12 Western Conference contests after allowing 150 points or more in a loss in their prevoius outing. I'm banking on a bounce back blowout here.

10* play on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: The Spurs looked good in their 129-120 win over the Kings, but I think they'll struggle against the equally as "deep," but now even hungrier Grizzlies, who enter off the tough 140-135 OT setback to the Blazers. 

The pick: The Grizz won two of three in the regular season and I predict another ATS victory here. Note as well that Portland is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after at OT win in which it scored 140 points or more in. I'm banking on the "hungrier" team that lost on Opening night to dig deep and find a way to get the job done at the end of this one.

8* play on the Memphis Grizzlies. 

The set-up: Portland received a two point shot from Carmelo Anthony at the end of regulation to push its opening game vs. the Grizzlies to OT and then the Blazers pulled way for the 140-135 victory. The Celtics on the other hand had to play from behind the entire night vs. the Bucks in their opener and while they played tough, they'd ultimately lose 119-112. 

The pick: I think though that the Blazers come into this contest predictably "gassed," while I look for the much hungrier Celtics, who got much stronger in the second half of their loss to Milwaukee. Note that the C's almost won as well with star Jason Tatum having his worst game almost of his entire career as well. That's not going to happen twice though. Look for this deep Boston side to bounce back with a solid ATS victory on Sunday.

8* play on the Boston Celtics.

The set-up: One team which is certainly not a "fraud" is the Toronto Raptors. The long lay off definitely helps the defending champs, as they had several key players dealing with nagging injury issues. Those are now resolved and this under-rated team comes in looking for a back-to-back opportunity. 

The pick: I think the Lakers come in a step slow here after their opening night contest vs. division rival Clippers. I'm grabbing the points, but I wouldn't be shocked by a straight up situational victory here.

10* play on the Toronto Raptors.

The set-up: The 76ers are a fraud in my opinion until they can finally prove that they can win an important series. Philly was just 10-24 on the road this season as well.  

The pick: The Pacers played well without Victor Oladipo and whether he plays or not, I think Indiana has a real shot at taking this opening contest ouright. Note that Indiana was one of the most effective offensive teams in the NBA, hitting 47.7 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from range. Grab as many points as you can.

8* play on the Indiana Pacers.

The set-up: We're not dealing with your typical scenario obviously with this re-start. For me this particular selection comes down to the fact that the Jazz will be looking to take advantage of New Orleans on Opening Night and won't be prepared for the quick turnaround vs. the deep Thunder. 

The pick: OKC is loaded with talent and it's good on both ends of the floor. The Thunder can't sit back and hope things turn out well here, they have to hit the ground running. As far as "situational" plays go, I think this is as solid as it gets.

8* play on the OKC Thunder.

The set-up: Both teams sit first in their respective divisions. Both teams are going to want to hit the ground running as to build momentum, but I believe that Miami is better prepared on Opening night. Miami is a young team and I think the extra time off will help this group focus. 

The pick: Jamal Murray is questionable as well for Denver, which swings things in favor of Jimmy Butler and the Heat here in my opinion. Miami was poor on the road, but the proximity to home helps it in this situation as well. 

8* play on the Miami Heat.

The set-up: The Mavericks have a golden opportunity to catch up to the Rockets, who are first int he Southwest at 40-24. Dallas is 40-27. To say this is a "big" game right out of the gates would be an understatement. Note that Houston is 29-35-0 ATS this year, while Dallas is 35-29-3. 

The pick: Both teams are dealing with a few injury issues, but certainly Houston's Russell Westbrook having to deal with the coronavirus right now is the biggest blow. Westbrook is listed as questionable for this contest. That's a major issue in my opinion for Houston and I believe that Dallas will attack from the outset in this game. Houston opened as the fav, but now Dallas is. Regardless, I look for the Mavericks depth to prove to be too much for James Harden to overcome by himself on Opening Night.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: Toronto comes in off a hard-fought win in Sacramento just last night and I think it'll predictably stumble in this difficult road venue in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. The Jazz are rested and out to avenge a humbling 130-110 loss in Toronto back in December. This is also the final game of a five-game trip in which the Raptors have already posted three straight wins in. From a situational stand point, I definitely believe this one sets up fantastically for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well that Toronto is a poor 3-5 ATS this year as a road dog of six points or less and only 10-14 ATS vs. clubs with winning records, while Utah is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 in trying to revene a same season loss vs. an opponent. Lay the points, expect a rout.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: Portland comes in off another disappointing loss in Phoenix just last night and I think it'll predictably struggle here in the second game of the back-to-back. Neither team has thrown in the towel yet on the playoffs, but this is a spot that definitely benefits the Kings. Sacramento has a formidable backcourt in Buddy Hield and D'Aaron Fox, who counter Portland's Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. 

The pick: Note as well that Sacramento is 20-12 ATS on the road this year and 20-13 ATS this season in trying to revenge a loss where an opponent scored 100 points or more, while Portland is just 12-17 ATS at home this season and only 14-15 ATS as a favorite. I'm grabbing the points. 

10* ATS BLOOD-BATH on the Kings.

The set-up: I like the Thunder to finally get back on track here in this favorable situation. After losses to the Bucks and Clippers, OKC bounced back with a win over Detroit last time out. New York won two in a row, but then it returned to form with a listless loss to the Jazz at home last time out. OKC averages 110.6 PPG and New York allows 112.0, while the Knicks average just 105.4 PPG, while the Thunder allow 108.5. 

The pick: Note as well that OKC is 21-8 ATS on the road this year and 4-1 ATS this season after allowing 105 points or more in five straight games, while New York is just 8-14 ATS in its last 22 after playing three straight at home. I think the Knicks "go through the motions" here in this non-conference matchup, while I look for the visitors to take full advantage of another favorable matchup. Lay the points.

10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The set-up: The Pacers beat the Bucks in their final game before the All Star break. Giannis Antetokounmpo didn't play in that contest though and I think he's going to come out and play with a chip on his shoulder this evening. Both teams have won four of their last five, but the Bucks come in off a loss in Miami, one night after winning in Charlotte. Milwaukee averages 119.1 PPG and it allows 106.8, while Indiana averages 109.4 PPG and it allows 107.2. 

The pick: Milwaukee is almost always a big favorite, but I think it's going to easily cover this larger spread tonight, as note that it's 5-0 ATS in its last five at home and 9-2 ATS in its last 11 after a SU loss of ten or more points. The stage is set for a 20 point blowout victory here. I'm laying the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on the Milwaukee Bucks.

The set-up: Both teams are "hungry" for a win after three straight losses. But Phoenix is at home and it has the motivation of "revenge" as well after falling in Toronto earlier in the year. Toronto has been dealing with injuries to several key players all year and now guard Fred VanVleet is questionable tonight as well. Kelly Oubre has been lost for the season for Phoenix, but this one sets up perfectly for the Suns tonight in my opinion. 

The pick: Note as well that Toronto is just 2-4 ATS this year after allowing 120 points or more in its previous contest and interestingly a poor 21-23 ATS this year vs. teams which allow 106 points or more per game, while Phoenix is a solid 10-5 ATS in its last 15 in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent of ten points or more. I'm expecting an outright win here for the home side, but I'm going to grab the points in the end.

10* NON-CONF ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Phoenix Suns.

The set-up: I think the Jazz will lay the hammer down here in this favorable position. Utah just hammered the Wizards by double digits and I expect this deep visiting side to once again win by a sizeable margin. Cleveland for the most part has been a complete disaster and it enters with zero momentum after having lost two straight. 

The pick: The Jazz have been fantastic in this spot for bettors all year as well, going 5-1 ATS in their last six when playing with two days rest and interestinly 10-4 ATS this season after scoring 120 points or more in their previous contest, while Cleveland is just 9-12 ATS after a home loss this year and a poor 9-15 ATS vs. clubs with winning records. Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert are firing on all cylinders right now and I like them to combine and obliterate this home side. Lay the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: The Lakers likely got "caught looking ahead" to this game after they lost in Memphis just last night right? Not in my opinion. The Grizzlies had lost five straight going into that one and they also played with revenge after losing to the Lakers earlier in the year. The Pelicans are in the same boat as Memphis, playing with revenge and in need of victories. New Orleans is playing its best basketball of the season right now and I believe this young core of super stars is going to risk life and limb tonight to try and pull off this minor upset, while also avenging last week's loss in LA. The Lakers are great, but this is a difficult spot in the second game of the back to back. 

The pick: Note as well that LA is interestingly just 5-6 ATS this year on all games played on a "Sunday," while New Orleans is 6-2 ATS in its last eight following a SU home win. I'm grabbing the points, but I'm expecting the outright.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the New Orleans Pelicans.

The set-up: No need to overthink this one. The Sacramento Kings have been playing their best ball of the season over the last three weeks, but they're coming off a tight 112-108 loss in OKC just last night and I have a hard time seeing this team mustering much of an attack here from this desperate home side. The Grizzlies will be risking life and limb here to get back into the winners circle after going 0-4 on their most recent road trip. Note that the Kings are also 2-1 so far in this season series, meaning that the "revenge factor" also comes into play. 

The pick: It's interesting to note as well that Sacramento is a poor 1-6 ATS in its last seven after having won six or seven of its last eight games, while Memphis is 4-1 ATS this year off a loss against a division rival. This one has blowout written all over it, lay the points.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the Memphis Grizzlies.

The set-up: This is the opener of a three-game road trip for the Western Conference leading Lakers. Clearly LA is the much better team here. That said, I do indeed believe that the Lake-Show will get caught "looking past" its lowly opponent tonight to much more difficult contests on the immediate horizon. Golden State comes in under-manned, but motivated here to break a seven-game slide. Situationally for sure I think this one sets up well for the underdog home side. 

The pick: Note as well that the Lakers are a poor 10-12 ATS this year as a road favorite, while Golden State is a perfect 2-0 ATS this year as a home dog of 12.5 points or more. With the visiting side likely sitting out some players tonight and considering all of the other above situational and trend based factors, I will in the end recommend to grab as many points as you can.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Golden State Warriors. 

The set-up: Detroit's patchwork line-up is coming off another disheartening loss on the road in Portland last time out and I think this team will now struggle in the thin air of this difficult road venue. Denver is staying focussed as well right now, as evidenced by its double digit win over the Wolves (another team that won't be in the playoffs) in its latest action. 

The pick: Denver is also 7-3 ATS in its last ten following an ATS loss, while Detroit is just 2-8 ATS in its last ten after scoring 100 points or more in its previous contest. The situation AND the numbers/trends all point to a home side blowout in this one. Lay the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK the Denver Nuggets.

The set-up: The Rockets are the better team. They have better players and their offense is better. Houston's defense isn't that much better than the Knicks on most nights though. Off three straight wins and with conference rival Memphis coming to town, followed by a tough game at Boston, this one definitely sets up as a bit of a "trap" for the Rockets as well. New York has had two nights off and I believe this young team takes advantage of his complacent home side.

The pick: Outright upset? I'm stopping short in call for a straight up win for the Knicks, but note that they're 11-5 ATS in their last 16 following a home loss. Also note that Houston is just 5-11 ATS already this season after scoring 110 points or more in four straight games. Grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New York Knicks.

The set-up: Indiana lost four straight before a win over the Bucks in their final outing before the All Star break. It then came out and posted a win and cover in New York to open the second half. The Pacers will have their work cut out for them here as well if they hope to win SU on the road and while they may not occur, I do think that the visitors will at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Toronto hasn't had many lapses this year, but with the Bucks coming to town on Tuesday night, the possibility of a "look ahead" is definitely in the cards for the home side as well. 

The pick: Indiana plays with revenge today and note that it's 6-2 ATS in its last eight when playing with double revenge after two straight losses vs. an opponent. Toronto on the other hand is already an extremely poor 3-8 ATS this season as a home favorite of six points or less. I'm banking on a battle until the final shot. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Indiana Pacers.

The set-up: I like the Clippers to cover the big number at home today. The Kings opened up the second half of the season with a big 129-125 home win over Memphis, but I think that an immediate return to mediocrity is in store here. The Clippers return home off a 141-133 road loss in Boston and I think a little "home cooking" is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked. I look for the veterans on the Clippers to go at the young Kings backcourt of Buddy Hield and D'Aron Fox. 

The pick: The Clippers recently added Macus Morris and Reggie Jackson to the line-up. LA has dominated this series at home as well, going 5-1 the last six at home vs. Sacarmento. The Kings on the other hand are a poor 7-8 ATS already this season after allowing 120 points or more in their previous outing. Look for Sac to take a step back and for the Clippers to put the foot on the gas from start to finish.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the LA Clippers.

The set-up: The Pacers fell victim to a red hot Knicks team a week before the All Star break. Indiana earned a victory in its final game of the first half over Milwaukee (sans Giannis) and I expect it to keep the foot on the gas here after a poor scuffling stretch leading up. The Knicks' run came to an end shortly after the Pacers victory with back-to-back losses going into the All Star game to the lowly Hawks and Wizards. 

The pick: Both teams have struggled with consistency this season, but Indiana clearly has much better depth. Also note that it's 7-2 ATS in its last nine on the road. New York on the other hand is just 5-15 in its last 20 at home. I look for Indiana's experienced backcourt of Brogdon and Oladipo to be the difference here. Lay the points.

10* REVENGE DESTRUCTION on the Indiana Pacers.

The set-up: For these types of events/wagers, I always try to "find an angle" to use. Team LeBron won this event last year, so Team Giannis already plays with the "revenge" factor. But overall I think Team Giannis holds a lot of value because of the way that Antetokounmpo's draft has widely been viewed. While on paper Team LeBron could look better, I believe the way that Team Giannis has been viewed by the media as being the "lesser" team will only add fuel to the fire to these All Stars.

The pick: And that's the case. This game is being played by the best of the best. And in these types of games, everyone is looking for some sort of motivation to use. And in this case, as mentioned above, Team Giannis has two big motivational factors working in its favor today. While I obviously would not be shocked by the outright upset, in the end I'm going to grab the points.

10* BLOWOUT SPECTACULAR on Team Giannis.

The set-up: The Thunder won nine of ten and got complacet and then lost two in a row at home to the Celtics and Thunder. OKC won't be taking the Pelicans for granted here and I believe its depth and experience will prove to be too much for the younger home side. The Pelicans do indeed look ripe for a letdown here in my estimation after three straight victories. OKC has won the first three of this four game season series and I expect them to find a way to get the job done here as well. The Thunder average 110.8 PPG, while the Pelicans allow 117.2. New Orleans averages 115.7 PPG, but OKC allows only 107.9. 

The pick: OKC has lost two in a row at home, but it's won seven straight on the road. I'm throwing the revenge factor out the window here, as I believe the Thunder are just as motivated to try and complete the season sweep, while also looking to get back on track after back-to-back losses. The Pelicans on the other look primed for a letdown, as I've mentioned above already. Grab the points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The set-up: I base my picks on many things. Primarily though I'm a "situational" handicapper and from a situational stand-point, I think this one works highly in favor of the visiting side. The Kings have won two straight, most recently a very satisfying victory over the Heat at home just last night. The Spurs come in as the "hungrier" team after three straight losses. The Kings are just 10-15 at home this season anyways. 

The pick: The Spurs are also 7-3 ATS in their last ten after two or more consecutive losses and 3-1 ATS in their last four as a road favorite, while Sacramento is just 5-9 ATS as a home dog this year and only 3-4 ATS this season vs. teams which average over 106 plus points per contest. Look for the Spurs to take advantage of this tired/content Kings side and lay the points.

10* NBA GAME OF THE MONTH on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: Denver destroyed Portland 127-99 last night, but I think it'll come out flat here vs. this desperate Jazz team. Utah has last four straight and I believe it's going to keep the foot on the gas from to finish here as it looks ot take advantage vs. the now weary Nuggets team. The Jazz are still 18-4 at the Vivint Smart Home Arena this year and I expect that record to improve resoundinly after this one. 

The pick: The Nuggets are also just 48-60 ATS in their last 108 on the raoad and only 2-4 ATS this season after covering in four or five of their last six vs. the spread, while Utah is a perfect 4-0 ATS already this year after failing to cover four of its last five vs. teh spread, 5-2 ATS in trying to revenge a same season loss vs. an opponent and 2-0 ATS off an upset loss to a division rival as a favorite of six points or more. All signs point to a lop-sided destruction for the home side. Lay the points. 

10* DESTRUCTION on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: Enough is enough. After 11 straight losses, I look for the Wolves to risk life and limb to pull out this victory today. The Kings come in off a double-digit loss to the Lakers. The Wolves still have one of the best players in the league in Karl Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins is putting up career best numbers. I look for these two to put their team on their backs tonight. The Kings have played only slightly better than the Wolves this year, but I think their young core struggles to keep up with this determined veteran Wolves team. 

The pick: Note as well that Minnesota is 12-10 ATS in its last 22 on the road, while the Kings are just 3-6 ATS as a home favorite this year and only 8-15 ATS at home overall. Grab the points.

10* play on the Wolves.

The set-up: The Knicks have won two of their last four, but I predict they'll have a predictable letdown here vs. this hungry Cavaliers team. Most recently New York beat the Pacers on the road. The Cavs have lost ten of their last 11, including three in a row. Kevin Love and company will be out for blood tonight. Also note that the Cavs play with revenge here, as NY is 2-1 in the season series thus far. 

The pick: Note as well the NY is just 11-13 ATS this year after covering in its prevoius game and only 11-14 ATS vs. clubs with losing records, while Cleveland is 7-3 ATS in its last ten in revenging a blowout loss of 20 points or more. Look for the "hungrier" team to risk life and limb to get untracked.

8* play on the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The set-up: I like Bradley Beal and the home side to throttle the Warriors here. Golden State broke a five-game losing streak with a rare road win in Cleveland, but I believe it'll struggle to keep pace with the high-tempo and hungry Wizards in the Nation's capital tonight. The Wiz have won four of seven and Beal is playing his best ball of the season and he's playing with a chip on his shoulder because of the All Star snub. Expect that trend to continue here vs. this hapless Warriors defense. 

The pick: Note as well that Golden State is still just 1-10 ATS in its last 11 on the raod, while Washington is 6-1 ATS in its last seven at home. Look for Washington to go up early and to keep the foot on the gas until the final horn. Lay the points.

8* play on the Washington Wizards.

The set-up: Detroit's slide has been brutal and while it's playing through injuries, I still believe it'll have more than enough in the tank here to push the visiting side to brink. Detroit comes in off another loss at home to Toronto as a 4.5 point underdog, while Denver knocked off the East leading Bucks in its last contest. And with a game at home on Tuesday vs. red hot Portland, who would fault the visitors for coming in complacent and looking past their lowly non-conference opponent today?! 

The pick: Additionally note that Denver is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten non-conference road games after scoring 125 points in a win in its last game, while Detroit is 7-2-1 ATS in its last ten after five or more ATS losses in a row. I wouldn't in fact be shocked by an outright upset, but in the end I'm grabbing the points.

10* BLOWOUT BEST OF THE BEST is on Detroit Pistons.

The set-up: The Wolves are out of playoff contention, but I think they'll put up a fight here after falling in OT at home to the Kings. Note that LA is also coming off a 20 points loss to the Kings. Karl Anthony Towns and Anthony Wiggins both continue to play hard for Minnesota and I believe they'll keep their team in this one late. Kawhi Leonard didn't play last time out and there's a chance he won't play here either. The Clippers are not at 100% health and I think they're going to struggle with consistency again here. 

The pick: Also note that the Wolves are 6-2 ATS in their last eight road games following an OT home loss, while the Clippers are just 3-6 ATS in their last nine home games following a 20 points or more SU loss. Grab the points, expecting a tight battle.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The set-up: I think Luka Doncic will single-handidly will his team to victory here as he tries to make some sense of Kobe Bryant's death. The entire NBA World is in shock still and Doncic had a special early and recent relationship with Black Mamba. The Mavs are coming off a loss in Utah as well. OKC has won five straight and I think it's poised for a letdown here finally though. Also note that the Mavs play with the revenge factor after falling 106-101 here earlier in the season. Overall Dallas averages 116.6 PPG and it allows 108.1. The Thunder though average 110.8 PPG and they allow 109.8. 

The pick: Additionally note that Dallas is still a sharp 7-3 ATS this year as a road underdog and 5-2 ATS in revenging a SU loss vs. an opponent as a favorite this season, while OKC is just 4-5 ATS in its last nine after scoring 110 points or more in three straight games. Everything points to a big bounce back for this potent Mavs' offense in my opinion. Lay the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: While I obviously wouldn't be shocked by an outright upset, in the end I'll recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Orlando has lost 12 straight in this series, so motivation to break that slide is definitely working in their favor as well. The Clippers come in content after winning five of their last six, while the Magic have lost four of their last five. Most recently LA beat the Heat 122-117. LA averages 112.7 PPG and it allows 106.7. The Magic though are desperate here after a listless 109-98 to the Celtics on Friday. The Magic are averaging 105.8 PPG and they're allowing 106.8. 

The pick: Orlando's early offensive numbers are skewed though because of early injusry issues, but there's no excuses today. Note as well that the Clippers are already a poor 7-10 ATS this season after scoring 120 points or more, while Orlando is a perfect 2-0 ATS off two or more consecutive upset losses as a home favorite. With a game "on the road" at the Lakers on Tuesday, I believe the visitors rest players and get caught looking ahead as well. Grab the points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Orlando Magic.

The set-up: BOston is 11-9 away from TD Garden and it enters on a two-game win streak. Orlando is 13-9 at home this year and it's looking to bounce back off a loss. Overall Boston averages 112.3 PPG and it allows 105.7. Orlando averages 104 PPG and it concedes a league best 104 as well. Orlando has gotten healthier over the last month and that's seen the team have a dramatic turnaround in play across the board. The Magic though allow only 100 PPG at home, while the Celtics' offensive average drops to 108 on the road. 

The pick: Additionally note that Boston is a poor 2-4 ATS this year already after two or more consecutive home victories, while Orlando is a sharp 3-1 ATS off an upset loss as a home favorite. Boston is dealing with injuries right now as well. I'm laying the points and expecting a decisive home victory.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Orlando Magic.

The set-up: Clearly the Nets have a lot of issues to resolve. They've been a much better home team than on the road though and they won't be lacking for motivation tonight facing the Lakers. LA comes to town off a come from behind win in New York just last night and it could very likely be sitting key pieces of its rotation in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. Situationally I believe this one sets up great for the hungrier home side. 

The pick: But note as well that the Lakers are still just 8-9 ATS in non-conference games this year and only 40-49 ATS in their last 89 vs. clubs with losing records, while Brooklyn is already 6-3 ATS this season as a home underdog. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a "nail biter." 

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Brooklyn Nets.

The set-up: On paper the Bucks are the much better team here. At 38-6 though, I think the home side comes out a bit complacent here vs. this 16-28 Bulls team. Chicago though does come in with some momentum after taking down the Cavaliers 118-116 last time out. The Bucks average 119.5 PPG and the Bulls average only 105.8. Chicago though had key players injured again to start the season, so this offense is only finally starting to come together. Both however sport similar defensive numbers, with the Bulls allowing only 107.8 PPG, while the Bucks concede 106.9. 

The pick: Chicago is also 7-3 ATS in its last ten as a road dog and 5-3 ATS in its last eight in trying to revenge a blowout loss vs. an opponent of 20 points or more, while Milwaukee is just 11-14 ATS already this season after three or more SU victories. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a competitive battle.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Chicago Bulls.

The set-up: Miami looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after its impressive road win over the Thunder, while I expect the Spurs to risk life and limb here for a victory after getting embarrassed at home by the Hawks in a close loss. Miami is at home tomorrow night as well to the Kings, so I believe this does in fact set up as a "look ahead" spot for the visitors as well. The Spurs are now below .500 and they can ill afford to look past anyone. San Antonio has a game tomorrow night in Phoenix vs. an equally as desperate Suns team, making tonight's contest that much more imporant for the home side here. 

The pick: Note that Miami is just 4-5 ATS this year as a road favorite and only 4-5 ATS this season off a road win, while San Antonio is a sharp 7-3 ATS this season in revenging a road loss vs. an opponent. Look for the home side to pull away down the stretch.

10* NON-CONFERENCE BEST OF THE BEST on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: Dallas plays with revenge here after falling 121-119 in Portland earlier in the season. The Blazers have been more "miss" than "hit" this season, but after two straight victories and playing against this revenge minded home side, I believe Portland reverts to its usual sub-par self. The Mavs have looked better now that Luka Doncic is fully recovered from his ankle injury, as the Mavs enter this one off three straight victories. Doncic had 25 points, 15 boards and 17 assists in the most recent 127-123 win over the Kings. 

The pick: Note as well that Dallas is 10-3-2 ATS in its last 15 road games vs. a team with a losing SU record, while Portland is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten on the road and only 2-8-1 ATS in its last 11 after scoring 100 points or more in a SU win in its previous outing. After a big win at Houston, I look for the Blazers to stumble in this difficult road venue. Lay the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Dallas Mavericks.

The set-up: The Pacers are the better team on paper. But this is the opener of a home and home set and I think the home side is going to risk life and limb here to try and pull off the minor upset. After two straight wins, complacency kicks in for Indiana and after two straight losses, a sence of urgency for the home side. The Pacers just managed a 101-95 win over the 76ers last time out, but it certainly wasn't pretty. In fact note that Indiana has lost six of its last 11 overall. Note as well that the home team won and covered in each game in this series last year. The Wolves are coming off a 117-104 loss at home to OKC. Both teams are playing without key players for this series (Victor Oladipo and Karl Anthony Townes), but I think this one sets up great for the Wolves situationally.

The pick: Note as well that the Pacers are already a poor 3-5 ATS this year after covering in three of their last four against the spread, while Minnesota is a sharp 8-4 ATS in non-conference games this season. I'm banking on the home court advantage being sigificant tonight. This one means more to Minnesota.

10* COACH'S CORNER on the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The set-up: No need to overthink this one. The Kings come in off a win over the Warriors at home just last night and I believe they'll struggle to keep up with this focus Suns team, which is desperate for a victory after falling to Memphis last time out. The Suns are in the middle of an important five-game home stretch and I expect them to risk life and limb to take advantage of this favorable situation. 

The pick: The Suns are still averaging 114.2 PPG this year, while the Kings are still averaging only 105.9. Phoenix has already taken two of three matchups between the clubs this year and I look for it to continue that trend of success tonight. Lay the points.

8* play on the Suns.

The set-up: The Thunder enter off a loss in Philadelphia. The Nets come in off a loss to Orlando just last night as well. In this contest where both team's played just last night, I believe that the home court advantage can not be overlooked as a very real deciding factor once it's all said and done. OKC's recent run came to a crashing halt last night, while Brooklyn has now lost six in a row. I believe that Spencer Dinwiddie and company lay everything on the line here to get off the schneid and to take advantage of this particular matchup. 

The pick: Note as well that the Thunder are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine Eastern road swings in the second game of the back to back and coming off a loss in the first, while the Nets are a perfect 5-0 ATS this season as a home underdog of six points or less. I'm grabbing the points, but expecting an outright.

10* play on the NETS.

The set-up: The Suns come in off a 120-112 win over New York. They play with revenge here after falling to Memphis earlier in the year. This is an important stretch for the Suns, as they play the Grizzlies today, followed by very winnable games vs. the Kings, Magic, Hornets, Hawks and Knicks. I think the Suns lay the hammer down here from start to finish as they push hard over this stretch vs. this "lesser" competition. And for the Grizzlies? They come in off a highly satisfying 140-114 blowout road victory over the Clippers just last night! 

The pick: Note as well that Memphis is just 36-45 ATS in its last 81 vs. teams with losing records, while Phoenix is already 17-5 ATS this year in revening a loss vs. an opponent. This one has home side blowout written all over it in my opinion. Lay the points.

10* REVENGE ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Phoenix Suns.

The set-up:

The pick:

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Portland Trail Blazers.

The set-up: The Raptors have played better than most thought they would this year without Kawhi Leonard in the lineup. Every night Toronto takes the court it has a target on its back as teams try to knock off the defending champs. Toronto is 3.5 games back of Miami and it comes to town without the services of key figures Pascal Siakam and Marc Gasol. Miami beat Toronto 121-110 in OT back on December 3rd in the lone matchup this year and I think an even bigger blowout is in the cards here at home. Toronto is off a 117-97 win over the Cavs, while Miami enters off a poor 123-105 loss to the lowly Wizards. 

The pick: Note that Toronto is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven in South Beach, while Miami is 9-1 ATS in its last ten after a SU loss. Look for the Heat to play with passion from start to finish after their latest embarrassing effort as they look to kick this injured Raptors team from start to finish.

10* play on the HEAT.

The set-up:

The pick:

8* play on the HORNETS.

The set-up: I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the Suns. Phoenix just broke its seven-game losing streak vs. the Kings and they now face a desperate Blazers team, which has lost three in a row and which will emabark on tough Western road swing after this contest. For all intents and purposes, this becomes a "must win" scenario for Phoenix. The Blazers defeated the Suns by only one point earlier in the year, so they definitely won't be looking past their opponent today either. 

The pick: Additionally note that Phoenix is a poor 3-9 ATS in its last 12 in trying to revenge a close loss vs. an opponent of three points or less, while Portland is 5-1 ATS in its last six after two or more consecutive losses. I'm laying the points and expecting the home side to risk life and limb from start to finish.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Portland Trail Blazers.

The set-up: The Warriors have won three straight games after upsetting the Rockets at home on X-Mas Day as double-digit underdogs, but I think they'll predictably return to mediocrity today vs. this hungry visiting side. Phoenix comes to town desperate to break a seven-game slide. 

The pick: Here is what Steve Kerr said after the X-Mas day win for the Warriors: "We're probably not going to play a bigger game than this all year," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "A national TV game against the Rockets. This game meant a lot to us." Can anyone say "letdown" spot? NOte as well that the Suns are already 4-1 ATS this year off a cover where it lost the game SU as a dog, while GS is only 2-3 ATS this season as a home dog of six points or less. I like the "hungry/desperate" team to find a way to get the job done tonight.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the Phoenix Suns.

The set-up: Houston comes into this game riding a four-game win streak and it's just a 1/2 game behind the Nuggets for the division lead. This latest win streak includes a come from behind victory over the Spurs, followed by victories over the Clippers, Suns and Kings. Golden State has inexplicably won two in a row itself, but I believe the injury depleted home side has a hard time keeping pace with Houston's scoring depth of James Harden and Russell Westbrook on the national stage (note that Harden is 5-2 on X-Mas Day games as well.) 

The pick: Additionally note that Houston is 4-0 ATS in its last four on the road and 9-3 ATS in its last 12 vs. clubs with losing records, while GS is only 11-29-1 ATS in its last 41 following a SU victory. D'Angelo Russell has been decent for GS this season, but I think his lack of scoring help dooms the home side tonight. Lay the points, expect a blowout.

10* BEATDOWN on the Houston Rockets.

The set-up: With a big X-Mas day game on the horizon, I think the visitors get caught "looking ahead." Of course, the 11-19 Pistons can't afford to look past anyone at this point. The 76ers avoided a fourth straight defeat with a win over the Wizards at home last time out, but the Pistons suffered their fourth loss in a row in a disappointing performance vs. the Bulls. Additionally note that the Pistons play with revenge here after falling 117-111 in Philadelphia earlier in the year. On paper the 76ers are the better team, but I believe the situation sets up great for the desperate/hungry home side. 

The pick: The numbers/trends support as well, as note that the visitors are only 4-7 ATS this year vs. teams with losing records, while Detroit is already a perfect 3-0 ATS off a loss by ten points or more to a division rival. This one has "upset" written all over it, but I'll gladly grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Detroit Pistons.

The set-up: The Hawks come in off another loss, but were competitive by covering the spread at home vs. Utah last time out. The Nets return home off a loss to the Spurs, a game in which they led for most of until the final moments when they stumbled and blew it. Atlanta's weakness is on the defensive end, but it looked a lot better vs. Utah most recently and I think it carries that momentum over here. 

The pick: Spencer Dinwiddie is doing everything he can for the Nets this year with Kyrie Irving still sidelined with injury, but note that the Nets have been disastrous in this spot for bettors, going 4-7 ATS in their last 11 as a home favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range, including 0-2 ATS this year. The Hawks conversely have gone a strong 9-4 ATS already this season after three or more consecutive SU losses. In a game which I see coming down to the final moments, I'm grabbin the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Atlanta Hawks.

The set-up: I think the Kings come in under the radar here and keep this one competitive until the final moments. Sacramento is just 12-15 on the year, but it's looked a lot better despite a loss to Charlotte last time out. Overall the Kings average 104.7 PPG and concede 107. The Pacers are 19-9 on the year and 12-3 at home. Overall the Pacers average 109.2 PPG and concede 104.2. 

The pick: The Kings can't afford to look past anyone, but would anyone fault Indiana "looking past" their lowly non-conference opponent todayw tih a game at Milwaukee on Sunday, followed by a game at home vs. Toronto on the 23rd (in fact, key players could be rested for the home side here.) This one has "upset" written all over it in my opinion, but I'm grabbing the points in the end.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Sacramento Kings.

The set-up: The Lakers come in off a big 113-110 road win over Miami, handing the Heat their first loss of the year. The Lakers have the best record in the NBA, but with a game at Indiana, followed by a tilt at Milwaukee, then at home to Denver before their X-Mas Day matchup at home vs. the Clippers, would anyone fault the visitors in some small way "looking past" their lowly opponent today? Note that this is a "revenge" game as well for ATL after it fell 122-101 in LA on November 19th as a 15 point underdog. 

The pick: The Hawks can't look ahead or look past anyone on any given night with their 6-20 record. ATL has lost three straight, but note that it's 8-2 ATS in its last ten after three straight losses by ten points or more (and that includes going 2-0 ATS this year.) LA on the other hand is a poor 2-6 ATS in its last eight as a road favorite in the 6.5 to 12 points range (including only 1-3 ATS this season.) Grab the points, expect a comfortable cover.

10* PLAY-BOOK on the Atlanta Hawks.

The set-up: I had a play on the Pacers in their home win over the Celtics two nights ago. I then played against the Celtics last night in their second straight contest, this time at home to the 76ers. Philly won that game and now I think the Pacers will stumble here in similar fashion vs. this desperate Hawks side. Outright upset? Possible, but in a game which I do definitely envision coming down to whichever of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to grab up what I feel to be a generous amount of points. 

The pick: The Hawks give up a whopping 118.8 PPG, but the Pacers aren't blowing anyone away with their offense (Oladipo still sidelined with injury and while Malcolm Brogdon has been decent, offense is still Indiana's weakness.) Where the Pacers excel is on the defensive side, but Trae Young and company's strength is clearly on the offensive side (27.9 PPG average.) Finally note that Indiana is already a terrible 1-5 ATS this year as a road favorite of six points or less, while ATL is already a solid 3-1 ATS this season off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more (Hawks were just humbled in Chicago.) A three game home stretch follows this game for the Pacers, including a high-profile contest vs. the Lakers. I think the visitors get caught looking ahead and I look for the desperate/hungry home side to take advantage. Grab the points.

10* UNDERDOG ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Atlanta Hawks.

The set-up: I had a big play on the Pacers last night and after a back and forth battle with Boston, the home side eventually pulled away and held on for the victory in the final moments. Some could argue that Boston got caught "looking ahead" to this game at home vs. the now division leading 76ers, but I'll argue against that. Just look at the performance of Kemba Walker, who poured in 44 points, with three rebounds and seven assists.

The pick: Philadelphia has been poor on the road and the C's have been fantastic at home this season. But all good and bad things come to an end, and I think the highly motivated 76ers come in and take advantage of this tired Boston team that laid everything on the line last night in Indiana. Note that Philly is 7-3 ATS in its last ten vs. teams with winning records, while Boston is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine in the second game of a back to back following a loss in which it allowed 100 or more points in. The situation highly favors the 76ers here.

10* BEST OF THE BEST on the Philadelphia 76ers.

The set-up: The Celtics have a game tomorrow night at home vs. the 76ers, who took a .5 game lead with last night's win at home over the Nuggets. Indiana though will be the more motivated side in my opinion after losing two of three. Previous to that though the Pacers had won eight of 11. Indiana also lost three of four to Boston in the regular season last year, while also getting swept by the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. Revenge is certainly a motivating factor working in favor of the home side as well. Boston averages 110.6 PPG and it allows 104.7, while Indiana averages 108.8 and it concedes 102.8. 

The pick: Note that Boston is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten off three or more straigth home wins, while Indiana is a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four off an upset loss by ten points or more as a home favorite. I think the C's do get caught looking ahead to their game tomorrow night and I like the motivated and revenge minded home side to take advantage. Lay the point/s.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Indiana Pacers. 

The set-up: The 9-14 Detroit Pistons are in the Big Easy to take on the 6-17 Pelicans. Detroit's won three in a row, including a victory over the Pacers last time out. New Orleans on the other hand is struggling with consistency, but it clearly won't be lacking for motivation here after eight straight losses. After narrowly getting by the Pacers, I think this does indeed finally set up as a letdown spot for Detroit. Last night I had a play on the Kings and they wound up winning outright on the road vs. the Mavericks. I think this is a similar type situation here, as the Mavericks entered last night's contest as one of the hottest teams in the league and the Kings were desperate for a victory. 

The pick: Additionally note that Detroit is 0-4 ATS in its last four whne playing on two days rest and a poor 1-6-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS victory, while New Orleans is 9-1 ATS in its last ten at home in this series. I think the Pelicans finally get over the hump here vs. a complacent Pistons team that struggles on the road anyways. Lay the point/s.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on New Orleans Pelicans.

The set-up: Dallas is looking fantastic behind the play of 20 year old phenom Luca Doncic. Doncic has plenty of talent around him as well, but after yesterday's big win over the Pelicans, I think the home side finally gets caught complacent here. The Kings on the other hand are 8-13 and they're hungry for a victory here after three straight losses. The Kings came close though in their last one, falling 105-104 in OT to the Spurs. 

The pick: Clearly in every respect, the Mavericks are better on than the Kings on paper. But Sacramento remains competitive and it's playing its best ball of the young season right now. Additionally note that the Kings are already 8-4 ATS on the road this year and 6-2 ATS off a road loss. The Mavs on the other hand are just 5-6 ATS at home this season. This one comes down to the wire, so grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the Sacramento Kings.

The set-up: The Lakers come in off a hard-fought 105-96 win at Denver last night and I believe they'll be hard pressed to keep pace with the hungry and revenge minded Jazz, who return home off a poor road trip which saw them get humbled in LA vs. the Lakers. Utah's always been much better at home and with a night off to prepare for this one, I do indeed believe that from a situational stand point, this one absolutely sets up fantastically for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well though that despite last night's win, the Lakers are still only 4-5 ATS on the road this year. Utah is 0-2 ATS to open December, but note that it's 11-3 ATS in its last 14 after two more straight road losses. The numbers/trends and the overall situation points to a home side blowout here in my opinion.

10* REVENGE ELITE OF ELITE on the Utah Jazz.

The set-up: I think the division leading Mavs get caught looking past their lowly opponent today. This is a revenge game for the home side after the Mavs took the first meeting of the year by a score of 123-116. But after ending the Lakers ten game win streak in LA with a 114-100 road win last time out, I do indeed feel this sets up as a "trap" for Dallas. 

The pick: The Pelicans have been dealing with injury issues since Day 1 this year, which has resulted in the sub-par record. But after five-straight losses, I think their "hunger" is the difference here. Keep your eyes on New Orleans' Brandon Ingram, who leads the team with 25.5 PPG. Additionally note that Dallas is a poor 3-9 ATS in its last 12 off a win by ten points or more as an underdog, while New Orleans is 17-10 ATS in its last 27 in revenging a SU loss vs. an opponent as a favorite. While I wouldn't be shocked by the outright, in the end I'm grabbing the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New Orleans Pelicans.

The set-up: The Wizards are 1-2 on their current four game trip and they come in off a loss to the defensive minded Lakers. The Wizards do allow 121 PPG, but the Clippers more methodical offensive pace works in our favor here considering the large spread the visitors have been afforded in this situation. Despite the defensive ineptitude, Washington remains the highest scoring team in the league as well.  

The pick: LA has plenty of talent and it will be contending for the Western Conference title at the end of the year, but the Clippers return home off a 107-97 loss to the Spurs and I think they'll come out flat here vs. their lowly non-conference opponent. Note as well that Washington is 7-3 ATS as a road dog already this year, while LA is just 7-8 ATS as a favorite. Grab the points.

10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Washington Wizards.

The set-up: Clearly "on paper" the Clippers are the better team. LA has won seven straight, most recently holding on for a 121-119 victory at Memphis. Winning as a favorite on the road is never easy though and I think the now complacent Clippers finally have a letdown here. The Spurs lost eight in a row before a victory, but they've since dropped two more straight on the bounce. 

The pick: I think LA is as good as it appears to be at the moment, but I definitely do not believe that the Spurs are as horrible as their recent losing streak would indicate. As a situational handicapper (primarily), these are the types of games which I'm constantly on the look out for. San Antonio has a very real shot at winning this one outright in my opinion (note tht LA is a poor 2-5 ATS on the road this season and 0-2 ATS off a road victory, while San Antonio is still 12-6 ATS in its last 18 as a home dog,) but in the end I'm going to grab all the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the San Antonio Spurs.

The set-up: The Raptors are dominating with Paskall Siakim and Fred VanFleet running the show. Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry are still sidelined with minor injuries, but Toronto just keeps on finding ways to win. Most recently the Raptors dominated their second half game at home vs. the 76ers and pulled away for the 101-96 victory. The Knicks won't be going down with a fight here though as they suffered another slim loss to the Nets last time out, falling 103-101. New York has lost three in a row and four of five. With upcoming games vs. Philly, Boston, Milwaukee and Denver, the Knicks' road ahead isn't getting any easier. 

The pick: Toronto has a game in Orlando on Friday, followed by home contests vs. Utah, Miami and Houston. After its emotional victory over Philly, would anyone fault the home side for looking past their lowly opponent in some small way today? The trends support our theory as well, as note that the Knicks are a sharp 5-1 ATS in their last six as a road dog, while Toronto is a poor 7-11 ATS in its last 18 off a home win vs. a division rival. No outright upset, but decided in the final moments. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on the New York Knicks.