Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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04-27-18 | Thunder +5.5 v. Jazz | Top | 91-96 | Win | 100 | 37 h 15 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the OKC Thunder (10:35 EST). I had a play on the Thunder in Game 5 and they’d storm from behind to score the 107-99 victory. With its back against the wall once again, I think that Oklahoma City will at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. OKC had to erased a 25 point deficit and I think it’ll carry that momentum over here. While the Thunder only shot 43 percent, they’d go on to hit a decent 9 of 21 from range. Russell Westbrook exploded for 45 points and 15 boards, while Paul George added 34 points and eight boards. The Thunder come in averaging 107.9 PPG and conceding 104.4. The Jazz average 104.1 PPG and they concede 99.8. Donovan Mitchell had 23 points in Game 5, going just 1 of 7 from range. Overall Mitchell is having a great series, but the Thunder played the rookie effectively in Game 5. I think the pressure is on Utah here. The Jazz absolutely collapsed in Game 5 and with that defeat still fresh on their minds, another outright upset is definitely not out of the question tonight either. That said, in a game which I foresee coming down to whichever one of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab as many points as I can. Play on the Thunder. Good luck…Larry |
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04-26-18 | Celtics v. Bucks -4.5 | Top | 86-97 | Win | 100 | 30 h 26 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:05 EST). Home court advantage. Home ice advantage. Home field advantage. Sometimes it means a lot and other times it’s an angle which can be completely blown out of proportion. Teams play all year long though to gain the upper hand in the Playoffs and so far in this series, the home floor advantage has meant everything. With their backs against the wall, I look for the Bucks to respond this evening and to push this Opening Round series to a decisive Game 7 on Saturday. Boston comes in averaging 103.8 PPG in the playoffs, while allowing 104. Jaylen Brown is averaging 21.8 points and 5.4 boards, while Al Horford is contributing 18.2 points and 8.6 boards. Note though that the Celtics have lost five straight on the road. Milwaukee is averaging 104 points and cone ding 103.8. Giannis Antetokounmpo is averaging 25.4 points and 8.8 rebounds while Khris Middleton is averaging 25 points and 3.6 assists. Note that the Bucks have won five of their last six in front of the home town crowd. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Bucks. Good luck…Larry |
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04-25-18 | Wizards v. Raptors -7 | Top | 98-108 | Win | 100 | 55 h 37 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST). So far home court advantage has played a big part in this series and suffice it to say, I’m fully expecting that trend to carry over here. So far the Wizards have shot 49.4 percent in this series, including 42.2 percent from range. Washington was down 11 at the half, but outscored Toronto 66-47 in the second of Game 4 for the victory. Bradley Beal had 31 points, while John Wall added 27 points, 14 assists and four steals. Toronto had its chances in Game 4, but it failed to deliver the goods. Toronto’s achilles heel over the last five years has been its play on the road in the postseason. So far the Raptors are hitting 48.3 percent in this series, including 43.2 percent from range. DeMar DeRozan was a bright spot in the latest setback with 35 points, while Kyle Lowry added 19. I’ll point out though that Washington is 0-4 ATS in its last four following a SU victory and 0-7 ATS in its last seven following an ATS win, while Toronto is 4-1 ATS in its last five after allowing 100 points or more in its previous game. Playing in Toronto is a difficult task for any team, but even more so in the Playoffs. After back-to-back lacklustre performance on the road, everything points to a bounce back blowout for the home side in Game 5. Lay the points, play on the Raptors. Good luck…Larry |
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04-23-18 | Thunder +5.5 v. Jazz | Top | 96-113 | Loss | -102 | 37 h 35 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (10:35 EST). Oklahoma City is on the ropes, as a loss tonight would make it 3-1 for Utah. The Thunder will be leaving everything they have on the floor though and while I obviously wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to be decided by whichever of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last. The Thunder had only 49 points in the second half of Game 3’s 115-102 setback. OKC shot 47.4 percent from the floor and it was 14 of 28 from range, but it still wasn’t enough. Paul George was a bright spot with 23 points. Star Russell Westbrook was a no-show for a second-straight game, so he’ll clearly be extra motivated this evening. OKC averages 107.9 PPG and it concedes 104.4. Utah averages 104.1 PPG and it concedes 99.8. The Jazz shot an unreal 52.5 percent in Game 3 and won the rebound battle 48-33. Ricky Rubio had a huge night with 26 points, 11 boards and ten assists. Rookie Donovan Mitchell continued his strong campaign with 22 points. The Thunder have struggled for bettors overall this year, but OKC has done decently as the underdog this season (10-7 ATS). The Jazz on the other hand are still just 12-19 ATS in their last 31 after scoring 115 points or more in their previous contest. I can’t see Westbrook laying an egg three games in a row. I also have a hard time seeing Rubio matching his epic Game 2 performance (think Dwayne Wade last week, laying a complete egg in Game 3 after his legendary Game 2 victory over the 76ers in Philadelphia.) OKC has had success from range and combined with the massive sense of desperation it’ll be playing with, everything does indeed point to the comfortable cover. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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04-21-18 | Rockets v. Wolves +5 | Top | 105-121 | Win | 100 | 26 h 17 m | Show |
My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (7:35 EST). It’s essentially do-or-die for the Wolves, who will be risking life and limb to try and avoid an 0-3 hole. Chris Paul exploded for 27 points in Game 2, after being held to just 11 in Game 1. James Harden though was just 2 of 18 from the floor and finished with 12 points. The Wolves were dead cold shooting over the first two games. Nemanja Bjelica would end up coming off the bench to lead all scorers in Game 2 with 16 points. But with the shift in venue, I’m expecting Karl-Anthony Towns and Jimmy Butler to have a much better effort this evening. The duo had a great overall campaign, but they combined for just 16 points in Game 2. I’ll point out as well that Houston has in fact struggled in this spot for bettors all year, going just 18-20 ATS after a win by ten points or more and just 5-9 ATS when playing with two days rest. Conversely this is a spot in which the Wolves have excelled in, going 4-1 ATS in their last five after scoring 85 points or less. With their season essentially on the line, I look for the hungry Wolves to at the very least take this one right down to the wire. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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04-20-18 | Celtics v. Bucks -6.5 | Top | 92-116 | Win | 100 | 36 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Milwaukee Bucks (9:35 EST). With their backs agains the Wall, I look for the desperate 0-2 Bucks to rally and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. And after taking a 2-0 lead at home and without star Kyrie Irving in the line-up, I believe the Celtics have a predictable letdown here. Boston took Game 1, 108-102, before than winning 106-102 in Game 2. The Celtics come into this one without the services of Irving. Also Gordon Hayward (after the first five minutes of the season) and Marcus Smart is also gone with surgery to his hand. Somehow though Boston continues to defy the odds and find ways to win. Jaylen Brown led the way last time out with 30 points. It’s now or never for Milwaukee though. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way last time out with 30 points nine boards and eight assists, while Khris Middleton added 25 points. I’ll point out that Boston is just 4-5 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU victories, while Milwaukee is 5-2 ATS this season after playing three or more consecutive road games and 10-5 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite. Desperation breeds motivation and winning leads to complacency. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Bucks. Good luck…Larry |
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04-19-18 | Warriors v. Spurs +3.5 | Top | 110-97 | Loss | -107 | 36 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:35 EST). I played on the Warriors over the first two games of this series, but I feel that the Spurs have more than just a “punchers chance” in Game 3. If you asked me if I thought the Spurs could win a game in this series without Kawhi Leonard and the Warriors having Stephen Curry in the line-up, I’d likely have said no. If you asked me before the series if I thought the Spurs could win a game without Kawhi Leonard in their line-up and with the Warriors without Curry, I’d likely have said yes. And that’s absolutely the way I feel right now as well. And if the Spurs were ever to get back into this series and steal the momentum, clearly Game 3 is the time to step up and do it. The Warriors were anything but perfect down the stretch of the regular season and they’re definitely not susceptible to a letdown. Leonard has been deemed out for the remainder of the playoffs and his status is uncertain moving forward, but the veteran core and remaining players, including LaMarcus Aldridge will be risking life and limb tonight to try and pull off the upset. And I think combined with Golden State’s complacency, that that home side does in fact have a very real shot at pulling off the outright upset. Note as well that Golden State is just 15-21 ATS this year after a win by ten points or more and only 17-20 ATS after scoring 115 points or more, while San Antonio is 26-14 ATS at home and 4-1 ATS this season after three or more consecutive SU losses. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Spurs. Good luck…Larry |
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04-18-18 | Wolves +10.5 v. Rockets | Top | 82-102 | Loss | -105 | 59 h 38 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:35 EST). I am making a play on three teams which lost their respective Game 1 Opening Round contests and the third is on the Minnesota Timberwolves. While I’m not calling for the outright upset, I absolutely believe that the hungry Wolves will at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Minnesota would fall 104-101 in Game 1 and I believe all signs once again point to a very competitive battle. This is also a big time “revenge” game for the Wolves, as the Rockets have taken six straight in the series. The Wolves shot 43.8 percent from the floor and went just eight of 23 from range. Andrew Wiggins was a bright spot in the losing cause with 18 points and six boards. Houston has been touted by many as the team to beat in these Playoffs, but Game 1 was far from a dominating performance. If it wasn’t for James Harden, the Rockets would have lost. Harden shouldered the load once again with 44 points and eight assists. Chris Paul was the only other player in double figures with 14. Note that the Wolves are 6-2 ATS in their last eight in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Houston is just 4-9 ATS when laying on two days rest. For all the reasons listed above, play on Minnesota. Good luck…Larry |
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04-17-18 | Pelicans +6.5 v. Blazers | Top | 111-102 | Win | 100 | 37 h 7 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the New Orleans Pelicans (10:35 EST). My Opening Night LEGEND play was the Pelicans and I’m “back on the horse” again in Game 2. While I wouldn’t be completely surprised by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because in my opinion this one has the feeling of whichever team has its hands on the ball last is likely going to come out on top. New Orleans shot 47.7 percent in Game 1, getting 35 points and 14 boards from Anthony Davis. I told you to keep your eyes on Rajon Rondo in Game 1 and the veteran guard would not disappoint, scoring six points, eight boards and 17 assists. Jrue Holiday and Nikola Mirotic also played a big role in the upset. New Orleans comes in averaging 111.7 PPG and conceding 110.4. Portland averages 105.6 points and it concedes 103. Damian Lillard had 18 points, going 6 of 23 from the floor. CJ McCollum also struggled, posting 19 points on 7 of 18 shooting. The Pelicans were able to slow down Lillard and McCollum and Game 1 and I anticipate another blanketing defensive performance this time around as well from the visitors. The Blazers though struggled in slowing down Davis, and his role players continue to get the job done as well. As mentioned off the top, while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end be grabbing the points in what I expect to be a much closer battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Play on New Orleans. Good luck…Larry |
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04-16-18 | Spurs v. Warriors -10 | Top | 101-116 | Win | 100 | 37 h 45 m | Show |
My 10* 34-CLUB PLAY is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST). I had a play on the Warriors in Game 1 and they’d roll to a 113-92 victory. The absolute best possible thing that the Warriors could do for themselves is to end this series as quick as possible. That way they’d hope their next opponent plays a few extra games in its opening series, so as to give more time for Stephen Curry to heal and prepare for the next round. With the news that star players Kawhi Leonard is out now for the remainder season and after San Antonio collapsed so badly in the second half of Game 1, I believe that the defending champs can smell the blood in the water. Rudy Gay was a bright spot off the bench in the loss for the Spurs with 15 points, while LaMarcus Aldridge looked pretty pedestrian, finishing with 14 points (the lone starter to finish in double digits.) The Spurs looked helpless without Leonard, as JaVale McGee did a great job in slowing down Aldridge. Note that Golden State won the rebound battle 51-30 as well. Golden State’s late season “swoon” had no effect on its play in Game 1 of the Playoffs. Klay Thompson had 27 points, while Kevin Durant added 24 points, eight boards and seven assists. McGee had 15 points and two blocks, while Draymond Green finished with 12 points, eight boards and 11 assists. Note that San Antonio is just 1-4 ATS in its last five when trailing in a playoff series, while Golden State is 8-2 ATS in its last ten in the first round of the playoffs. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Warriors. Good luck…Larry |
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04-15-18 | Jazz +3.5 v. Thunder | Top | 108-116 | Loss | -107 | 74 h 50 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Utah Jazz (6:30 EST). The Jazz and Thunder finished with identical 48-34 records. Utah comes in with plenty of momentum though and I like the team to carry it over in Game 1 of this Opening Round series. The Jazz have lost just six times since late January. Utah averages 104.1 PPG and it’s won 15 of its last 17 on the road. Rookie Donovan Mitchell is averaging 20.5 points and 3.7 assists per game, while Jae Crowder adds 11.8 points and 3.8 boards per night. The Thunder went 5-5 down the stretch. OKC enters average 107.9 PPG and conceding 104.4. Russell Westbrook leads the nightly charge with 25.4 points and 10.3 assists per game, while Paul George adds 21.9 points and 5.7 boards. (additional ATS supporting stats added shortly) Utah doesn’t have the overall talent that OKC possesses, but it functions better as a unit. The Jazz’s chemistry, combined with their superior defensive plays sees this one come down to the final moments. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Jazz. Good luck…Larry |
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04-14-18 | Pelicans +5.5 v. Blazers | Top | 97-95 | Win | 100 | 54 h 32 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the New Orleans Pelicans (10:30 EST). While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I believe that the hungry visiting side will at the very least take this one right down to the wire. The Pelicans closed the regular season with five straight victories and I’m fully expecting the team to carry that momentum over here. New Orleans averages 111.7 PPG, while Portland averages 105.5. Pelicans big man Anthony Davis finished the year with 28.1 points, 11.1 boards, 2.3 assists and 2.5 blocks per game, while Jrue Holiday averages 25.2 points and six assists. You’ll also want to keep your eyes on New Orleans’ point guard Rajon Rondo, who closed the regular season on a tear. The Blazers are of course led by star Damian Lillard, who put up 26.9 points, 4.5 boards and 6.6 assister per night, while CJ McCollum added 21.4 points, four boards and 3.4 assists per game. I’ll point out though that from a trend based stand point, this one favors the visitors, as note that the Pelicans are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 on the road, while the Trailblazers are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight at home in this series. These clubs split four meetings this year by an average of just 6.7 points. Everything points to another competitive battle in Game 1, so grab as many points as you can. Play on New Orleans. Good luck…Larry |
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04-11-18 | Pistons -1.5 v. Bulls | Top | 119-87 | Win | 100 | 25 h 57 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (8:00 EST). The 38-43 Detroit Pistons are in Chicago to take on the 27-53 Bulls in a meaningless contest and for a number of different reasons, I think this one faovrs the visitors. Chicago is 27-53 and it comes in off back-to-back losses. Detroit enters off consecutive setbacks as well, most recently falling to Toronto. Both teams will go through significant changes in the offseason, but for me this one boils down to some strong “against-the-spread” statistics. As note that Detroit is 5-1 ATS in its last six on the road, while Chicago is just 11-13 ATS this year after three or more consecutive losses. The Pistons are also 8-1 ATS in their last nine against losing opponents. I think Detroit’s current line-up has more than enough in it to take out the ravaged Bulls. Play on the Pistons. Good luck…Larry |
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04-10-18 | 76ers v. Hawks +9.5 | Top | 121-113 | Win | 100 | 24 h 50 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:30 EST). Philadelphia won its 14th in a row by besting Dallas 109-97 at home on Sunday, unable to cover the 13 point spread. With many of the starters sitting this one out for the visitors, I think the home side keeps this one competitive. And that’s exactly what Atlanta did most recently, beating Boston 112-106 on the road on Sunday. Note that this is an “in season double revenge scenario” as well, with Philadelphia having taken both prior match ups, including a 101-91 road win in the most recent on March 30th. The 76ers can’t afford to take the foot off the gas with the Cavaliers sitting just a game behind them in fourth spot. But with a game tomorrow night at home against the Bucks and with big man Joel Embiid sitting this one out, I think the stage is set for an upset. Perhaps not a straight up upset, but certainly I’m expecting a much tighter battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. The Hawks are arguably playing their best ball of the year right now, having gone 4-1 ATS in their last five. Everything points to a “nail biter” in my opinion, so grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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04-09-18 | Pelicans v. Clippers +6 | Top | 113-100 | Loss | -102 | 28 h 1 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the LA Clippers (10:30 EST). There’s no question that this game “means” a lot to the New Orleans Pelicans. The Pelicans are locked in a tie with three other teams with the identical record in the West with just two games to go. New Orleans is currently in the fifth spot, but San Antonio and OKC each also sit 18 games back of the Rockets. Minnesota sits 19 games back, as too does Denver. With two games remaining in the regular season, as I stated off the top, this does indeed “mean” a lot to the visiting side. The Clippers sit 22 games back and won’t be making a trip to the playoffs. LA though will look to try and play spoiler any way it can and to avenge a 121-116 setback in mid March. The Pelicans are surging, but after upsetting the Warriors on the road in their last matchup, I absolutely believe this sets up as a major letdown spot for the visitors. I’ll point out as well that New Orleans is just 15-18 ATS this year against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest, while LA is 11-6 ATS in its last 17 against poor defensive teams which concede 106-plus points per night. While I’m not calling for the outright upset, everything points to this one coming right down to the wire. Grab the points, play on the Clippers. Good luck…Larry |
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04-07-18 | Pelicans v. Warriors -6 | Top | 126-120 | Loss | -125 | 14 h 33 m | Show |
My 10* WEST-CONF GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Golden State Warriors (8:30 EST). New Orleans is in a dog fight in the Western Conference right now, tied for the fifth spot with three other teams. The Pelicans snapped a four-game slide with a 123-95 win at home over Memphis, but I think they’ll struggle here against a Warriors team that comes in with a chip on its shoulder. The Warriors’ three-game win streak was snapped in a 126-106 road loss at Indiana and the vultures are already circling with star Steph Curry out with injury until the postseason. If recent history is any precedence though, then the home side has to be liking its chances in this one, as it’s already taken three straight in the series this year, including a 125-11 road win in the most recent matchup all the way back on December 4th. The Pelicans average 111.3 PPG and they concede 110.7. Anthony Davis leads the nightly charge with 28.1 points, 11.1 boards and 2.49 blocks per game. The Warriors average 113.8 PPG and they concede 107.2. Kevin Durant averages 26.5 points, 6.9 boards and 5.4 assists per game. I’ll point out though that New Orleans is just 17-18 ATS this year as the underdog, while Golden State is 7-4 ATS this season following a loss by ten points or more. The Warriors are “injured,” but clearly they’re a very deep team. Head coach Steve Kerr challenged his players after the loss to the Pacers and with Curry sidelined until at least the first round, the rest of the team will be expected to pick up the slack. And here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against. I’m expecting a beatdown from start to finish, lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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04-06-18 | Pacers v. Raptors -7.5 | Top | 73-92 | Win | 100 | 27 h 8 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Toronto Raptors (7:30 EST). Indiana looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after thrashing the Pacers 126-106 last night, while I believe Toronto builds off its 96-78 win over the Celtics. If recent history is any precedence, then Toronto has to be loving its chances today, as it’s already taken two of three in the season series, including a 106-99 victory on the road in the latest matchup on March 15th. Indiana averages 105.7 PPG and it concedes 104. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 23.4 points, plus 5.3 boards and 2.33 steals per game, but it was Bojan Bogdanovic who led the Pacers with 28 points in the win over Golden State. Toronto averages 112 PPG and it concedes 104.2. DeMar DeRozan leads the way with 23.3 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.3 points, 5.6 boards and 6.8 assists per night. DeRozan led the way in the defensive victory over Boston with 16 points. I’ll point out that Indiana is still just 18-26 ATS the last two seasons in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Toronto is 17-12 ATS this year following a win by ten points or more Indiana hasn’t been the best road team this year and it comes in off an epic win at home over the defending champs just last night. Can anyone say letdown spot? The Raptors on the other hand are looking to make up some ground after recent shoddy play and they won’t be taking anything for granted here. Fatigue is a very real factor at this time of year and the second game of a back to back North of the border spells doom for the Pacers in my opinion. Lay the points, play on the Raptors. Good luck…Larry |
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04-03-18 | Warriors v. Thunder -2.5 | Top | 111-107 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 5 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:00 EST). The 56-21 Golden State Warriors are in Oklahoma City to take on the 45-33 Thunder on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. After losing three straight, the Warriors have bounced back to win two in a row. Over lowly Sacramento and Phoenix. Kevin Durant led the way for the Warriors in their most recent victory, posting 28 points, 10.5 boards and 6.5 assists. Golden State is pretty much healthy now, however star Stephen Curry remains sidelined likely until the playoffs start with a knee issue. OKC is just 2-4 in its last six but did bounce back to take out New Orleans most recently, pushing the Thunder to the cusp of clinching a playoff spot. A second win over the defending champs this season would go a long way to re-energize the team for the stretch run. The Thunder are still a half game behind the Spurs for fourth spot and home court advantage to open the playoffs. The victory over New Orleans was significant to Paul George: “This is a huge win,” George said afterwards. “This is a great win, playing against an opponent who is in the same position for us. A must win for both teams. It was a step in the right direction for us to pick up a game like this on an opponent’s floor.” Note that Golden State is just 4-10 ATS in its last 14 road games, while the Thunder are 4-1 ATS in their last five against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest. The Warriors have issues right now and confidence is one of them. OKC is the “hungrier” team tonight and I think that’ll prove to be the difference. Lay the points, play on the Thunder. Good luck…Larry |
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04-01-18 | Bucks v. Nuggets -3.5 | Top | 125-128 | Loss | -108 | 13 h 8 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Denver Nuggets (8:00 EST). Analysis posted at least six hours before game time. |
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03-31-18 | Nets +8 v. Heat | Top | 110-109 | Win | 100 | 28 h 38 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (8:00 EST). Miami comes in having won two straight, including a 103-92 victory over the lowly Bulls on Thursday. Brooklyn enters the final stages of the 2017/18 season in familiar territory, as it looks to prepare for the upcoming draft. However, for a number of different reasons I think the Nets are going to be able to keep this one competitive. Spencer Dinwiddie has been a bright spot for Brooklyn of late, averaging 12.7 points, 6.5 assists and 3.3 boards per game. The Nets have been fighting hard, winning four out of their last ten. The Heat beat Cleveland 98-79 and then carried that momentum over into the victory over Chicago, but I think they’re poised for a letdown here. And the numbers/trends support that, as note that Miami is a poor 16-18 ATS as the favorite this year and a horrible 2-10 ATS following a win by ten points or more. Brooklyn on the other hand has been money in the bank for bettors in this spot by going 24-12 ATS on the road this season and 26-16 ATS against teams with winning records. I like the visitors to battle though and to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with what I feel to be a very healthy spread that they’ve been afforded. Play on Brooklyn. Good luck…Larry |
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03-28-18 | Knicks +14 v. 76ers | Top | 101-118 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 15 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the New York Knicks (7:05 EST). I don’t normally play underdogs of this size, but for this one I’m going to bend my “rule.” And while I’m definitely not calling for the outright upset, for a number of different reasons I feel that this one will be a lot more competitive in the end than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. New York won’t be in the postseason, but it comes into this one playing competitively overall right now, most recently falling 137-128 in OT to Charlotte on the road on Monday. The 76ers come in complacent though in my opinion after seven straight victories, most recently a 123-104 home win over Denver on Monday. Note as well that this is an in-season triple-revenge scenario for the Knicks, as the 76ers have taken all three previous meetings this year, including a 118-110 road victory in the most recent on March 15th. New York averages 104.5 PPG and it concedes 107.9. Trey Burke had 42 points and 12 assists in the loss to Charlotte. Philadelphia averages 108.7 PPG and it concedes 105.5. The 76ers won the rebounding battle 54-37 in their win over the Nuggets, helping offset 17 turnovers. Big man Joel Embiid led the way with 20 points in the victory. I’ll point out though that Philadelphia is just 5-9 ATS against the division this year, while New York is 12-5 ATS in its last 17 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent. New York may be tired here, but Philadelphia becomes a victim of complacency in my opinion. Look for the Knicks to battle tough and to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the ample spread they’ve been afforded in this one. Good luck…Larry |
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03-26-18 | Nuggets +5 v. 76ers | Top | 104-123 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 22 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Denver Nuggets (7:00 EST). Denver comes to town having won two straight, most recently getting the better of Washington 108-100 on the road on Friday, while Philadelphia has won six straight, most recently a 120-108 home victory over the Wolves on Saturday. Note that this is a revenge game for the visitors, as Philadelphia snagged the 107-102 road win in the first matchup this year back on December 30th. Denver comes in averaging 109.8 PPG and it concedes 108.3. Paul Millsap puts up 13.8 points and 6.1 boards per game, while Gary Harris contributes a team high 17.7 points. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray each had 25 points in the most recent victory. Philadelphia averages 108.5 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Joel Embiid averages 23.3 points, 11 boards and 1.79 blocks per night, while Ben Simmons adds 16 points, 7.9 boards, eight assists and 1.75 steals per night. Embiid led the way in the most recent victory with 19 points. I’ll point out though that Denver’s done extremely well in this spot for bettors all year, going 7-3 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss. Conversely, this is a position in which Philadelphia has struggled in, going just 1-4 ATS in its last five after three or more consecutive SU victories. Philadelphia has hit a vanilla part of its schedule, with its non-conference opponent tonight, followed by the Knicks, Hawks, Hornets and Nets. While I do think the outright upset isn’t out of the question, I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end as I believe Philadelphia gets caught complacent and looking ahead and I expect the talented Nuggets to take advantage. Good luck…Larry |
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03-24-18 | Hornets v. Mavs +1.5 | Top | 102-98 | Loss | -115 | 28 h 4 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:30 EST). I base my picks on many different things. I think this one sets up nicely for the Mavericks for a number of different reasons. The Hornets come off back-to-back wins, including a 140-79 victory over the Grizzlies in their last outing. Not only do I believe that Charlotte will come in complacent here after their epic blowout win, but I also expect it to get caught “looking ahead” to upcoming home games against the Knicks and Cavs. The Mavericks won’t be playing in the postseason, but they’ll be eager to break a four-game slide. Dallas has for the most part been a complete disappointment this year, but note that is has in fact done decently in this spot for bettors by going 12-7 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses and 10-6 ATS in its last 16 against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest. Charlotte on the other hand is a poor 8-11 ATS this season after a win by ten points or more and only 13-20 ATS on the road. I’m banking on the home side doing just enough to secure the victory, play on the Mavericks. Good luck…Larry |
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03-23-18 | Heat +6 v. Thunder | Top | 99-105 | Push | 0 | 28 h 14 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Miami Heat (8:00 EST). OKC comes in off disheartening 100-99 loss to Boston and I think it’s going to get caught flat footed here as well against another tough Eastern Conference opponent. The Heat come in with momentum as well after smashing the Knicks 119-98 in their most recent outing (their third straight victory.) Kelly Olynyk led the way with 22 points and 10 assists, while Wayne Ellington added 16 points. After its six game win streak came to a halt in such dramatic fashion last time out (the Thunder would lose to the Celtics on a late three by Marcus Morris), all signs point to a classic letdown for OKC in this spot as well. Russell Westbrook led the way in the losing cause with 27 points, eight boards and seven assists. The Heat don’t have big man Hassan Whiteside in the line-up, but Miami is shooting the ball well right now and I think they’ll keep this one competitive. Also note that the Heat are 22-13 ATS on the road this year and 19-11 ATS against clubs with winning records. And as good as the Thunder have looked at times this year, this is in fact a position in which they’ve struggled in for bettors by going a horrible 8-16 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite and a brutal 15-20 ATS in front of the home town crowd. I’m not calling for the outright upset, but everything points to a “nail biter.” Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-22-18 | Pistons +12.5 v. Rockets | Top | 96-100 | Win | 100 | 10 h 57 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Detroit Pistons (8:05 EST). I don’t normally play underdogs of this size, but I think this is a great spot to pull the trigger on hungry Detroit. The Rockets are arguably the best team in the league this year. After a tough loss in Toronto Houston has reeled off six straight victories, including a tight 115-111 win at Portland last time out. This is the opener of an extended home stretch for the Rockets, with upcoming games against Detroit tonight, followed by lightweights New Orleans, Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. After three straight road wins, I do absolutely feel that this sets up as a letdown spot for the Rockets vs. their non-conference opponent this evening. The Pistons on the other hand are in a dog-fight right now for a playoff spot in the East, but they do come into this one with momentum after back-to-back road victories, most recently downing the Suns 115-88 on Tuesday. Note that Detroit is 5-2 ATS already this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Houston is just 10-15 ATS in non-conference contests this season. Sure the Pistons’ recent victories have been over the bottom feeders in the West, but I still think they’re going to keep this one competitive. The Rockets should still win this one straight up, but the conditions are definitely right for a much closer battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. I’m grabbing the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-21-18 | Wizards +5 v. Spurs | Top | 90-98 | Loss | -108 | 28 h 26 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Washington Wizards (9:30 EST). Washington comes to town with momentum after two straight wins. Bradley Beal had 19 points and big man Marcin Gortat added 18 in the Wizards most recent 109-102 victory at home over the Pacers. This game means a lot to the Wizards still, as they’re in a battle for home court advantage in the Eastern Conference at 40-30 and sitting just a half-game back of the Pacers for the No. 4 seed. San Antonio has been playing a lot better, winner of four straight and coming off an impressive 89-75 win at home over the Warriors. LaMarcus Aldridge led the way in that one with 33 points and 12 boards. The Spurs sit just one game back of OKC for home court advantage in the playoffs, but with a tough game at home against Utah on Friday, followed by an extended Eastern road swing, it’s definitely not too hard to imagine the home side finally having a letdown here against its non-conference opponent. And that’s exactly what I’m banking on happening. Note as well that Washington is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 when playing with three or more days rest, while San Antonio is just 14-19 ATS this season against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Wizards. Good luck…Larry |
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03-19-18 | Nuggets v. Heat -2 | Top | 141-149 | Win | 100 | 10 h 51 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Miami Heat (7:35 EST). Denver is stumbling down the stretch as it enters off a poor 101-94 road defeat at Memphis on Saturday to kick off its seven game road trip. Miami returns home off a 1-2 road trip, salvaging a victory in the final game 92-91 over the Lakers on Friday. Note that this is a double revenge game for the Heat, including losing the first matchup 95-94 this season in Denver back on November 3rd. The Nuggets average 109 PPG and they concede 107.9. Big man Nikola Jokic had 17 points and 12 boards in a losing cause last time out. Miami averages 102.5 PPG and it concedes 102.5 as well. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.3 points and 11.8 boards per night, while Goran Dragic adds 17.6 points and 4.8 boards a game. I’ll point out as well that Denver has struggled in this position for bettors of late, going just 1-4 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss and just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road, while Miami has done well in this position by going 4-0 ATS in its last four at home and 6-1-2 ATS in its last nine following an ATS victory. Denver is just 11-22 on the road and I think the Heat take advantage here and avenge the earlier setback. Lay the points, play on Miami. Good luck…Larry |
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03-17-18 | Pistons +9 v. Blazers | Top | 87-100 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 11 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (10:05 EST). Portland looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after 11 straight victories. Detroit sits 5.5 games back in the Eastern conference playoff race after losing six of its last seven. Most recently the Pistons fell 120-113 at Denver on Thursday. Detroit has games at Sacramento and Phoenix upcoming, but clearly the team can leave nothing to chance as it desperately tries to run down the final playoff spot. Blake Griffin was a bright spot in the most recent setback with 26 points. Portland comes in off a 113-105 win over Cleveland and it’s now scored 114.4 points over its last five games on average. CJ McCollum led the way offensively against the Cavs with 29 points. With a game tomorrow night at the Clippers, there’s no doubt though that this one sets up as not only a “letdown” spot for the over achieving home side, but also a “look ahead” position as well. Detroit is hungry and desperate and I look for it to at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-16-18 | Nets +9 v. 76ers | Top | 116-120 | Win | 100 | 23 h 12 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:05 EST). Brooklyn comes to town off two straight losses, most recently a 116-102 home loss to Toronto on Tuesday. The Nets won’t be playing in the postseason, but I think they’ll at the very least keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch against this highly contented 76ers side which comes in off a come-from behind 118-110 win in New York just last night. Brooklyn averages 105.8 PPG and it concedes 110.2. D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 16.1 points and 4.8 assists per night. Note that Russell had 32 points in a losing cause to Toronto last time out. Philadelphia averages 107.8 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Note that the 76ers are just 5-7 against the division though. Joel Embiid leads the nightly charge with 23.5 points, 11 boards and 1.76 blocks per night. I’ll point out as well that Brooklyn has in fact excelled in this spot for bettors by going 19-11 ATS this year against good offensive teams which score 106 plus points per contest, while Philadelphia has struggled in this position by going 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 115 points or more in its previous outing. This is the 76ers third game in four nights, while the Nets come to town having had two whole days of rest. While I’m not going to call for the outright upset, everything points to a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Grab the points, play on Brooklyn. Good luck…Larry |
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03-15-18 | Pistons +8 v. Nuggets | Top | 113-120 | Win | 100 | 30 h 40 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (9:00 EST). The desperate 30-37 Detroit Pistons are in Denver to take on the 37-31 Nuggets on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. Detroit won five straight when it brought over Blake Griffin from LA, but the team has since lost 11 of its last 14 to fall 5.5 games behind Miami for the final spot in the East. The Pistons started their road trip off with a terrible 110-79 loss at Utah, as Grffin had 13 points in the losing cause. Denver had its two game win streak snapped with a 112-103 setback to the Lakers on the road on Tuesday. Like Detroit, the Nuggets are fighting for a playoff spot. Wilson Chandler had 26 points and ten boards in the most recent setback to the Lakers. I’ll point out as well that Detroit has in fact bounced back well in this spot for bettors already this year, going 3-1 ATS after scoring 85 points or less in its previous contest and 4-2 ATS in its last six after a loss by ten points or more. Denver on the other hand has struggled in this position by going just 9-12 ATS in all non-conference games and just 15-18 ATS against teams with losing records. Desperation breeds motivation. I’m going to stop short in calling for the outright upset, but everything points to this one being more competitive than what the oddsmakers are trying to make us think. Grab the points, play on the Pistons. Good luck…Larry |
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03-14-18 | Heat -6.5 v. Kings | Top | 119-123 | Loss | -103 | 16 h 37 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Miami Heat (10:05 EST). Miami is fighting for a playoff spot, while Sacramento is fighting for ping pong balls in the upcoming offseason NBA draft. The Heat had won two in a row and four of five before falling 115-99 on the road to Portland on Monday, while the Kings come in off a second straight loss, dropping a 106-101 road decision to the Thunder on Monday. Note that this is also an “in season revenge game” for the visitors after the Kings scored the 89-88 road upset back on January 25th. Miami averages 102.4 PPG and it concedes 102.3. Goran Dragic averages 17.2 points, 4.1 boards and 4.9 assists per night and he had 23 in a losing cause to the Blazers. Sacramento averages 99.3 PPG and it concedes 107.2. De’Aaron Fox has been impressive in his rookie year with 11.4 points, 2.6 boards and 4.4 assists per night, while Buddy Hield averages 12.5 points. It was Bogdan Bogdanovic who led the way in a losing cause against OKC though with 19 points. I’ll point out that Miami has done very well in this spot for bettors of late by going 4-0 ATS in its last four following a SU loss of more than ten points and 6-1-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS loss. The Kings have been somewhat competitive of late and the Heat are dealing with injuries, but I still think the visitors have enough weaponry left on the bench to get the job done this evening. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-13-18 | Pistons +7.5 v. Jazz | Top | 79-110 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 27 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (9:05 EST). Detroit got off the schneid, breaking a four-game losing streak with a 99-83 win over the Bulls on Friday, led by 25 points from Blake Griffin and 21 from Reggie Bullock. The Pistons are still trying to adjust since making the Griffin trade, but the power forward comes in on fire this year, especially from range where he’s connecting on 33.5 percent of his shots. Also note that big man Andre Drummond is shooting a career-high 61.6 percent from the free throw line this season and he contributes 14.9 points and 15.8 boards per game. Detroit won’t be taking anything for granted here though after losing 13 of its last 20 and at the start of this tough Western swing. The Jazz have won eight of ten, including six straight, which leads me to believe they’re going to have a letdown here facing this non-conference opponent. And with upcoming games against lightweights Phoenix, Sacramento and Atlanta at home up next, Utah could easily be caught looking ahead here as well. Additionally I’ll point out that Detroit has done well in this spot for bettors all year by going 12-8 ATS in all non-conference contests, while Utah is a poor 5-6 ATS this season after playing three consecutive road games. Both teams are hungry for wins, but the conditions point to a much tighter affair than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Pistons. Good luck…Larry |
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03-12-18 | Heat +6 v. Blazers | Top | 99-115 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 19 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Miami Heat (10:35 EST). Miami comes in with momentum after smashing the Wizards 129-102 at home on Saturday. Portland has bee playing unbelievably of late, but I think this sets up as a classic letdown spot after nine straight victories, most recently getting the better of Golden State 125-108 on Friday night. To say this is a “revenge” game would be an understatement as well, as Portland has won four straight in the series, including a 102-95 road victory in the first meeting between the clubs this year in Miami back on December 13th. Miami averages 102.4 PPG and it concedes 102.1. James Johnson had 20 points and five assists to lead eight players in double figures in his team’s most recent victory. Portland averages 105.6 PPG and it concedes 103.2. CJ McCollum was a standout with 30 points in the victory over the defending champs. However, not only do I think this sets up as a “trap/letdown” spot for the Blazers, but I also think it’s a classic “look ahead” spot as well, with two nights off before facing the Cavaliers at home on Thursday. While I wouldn’t be shocked by the outright upset, all signs point to a “nail-biter.” Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-09-18 | Bulls v. Pistons -8.5 | Top | 83-99 | Win | 100 | 30 h 8 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Detroit Pistons (7:05 EST). Chicago looks poised for a predictable letdown here in my opinion after winning its second straight, most recently a 119-110 win over Memphis on Friday. It’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the Pistons though, who have lost four straight, most recently a tight 121-119 OT setback at home to the Raptors on Wednesday. Note that this also sets up as an “in season revenge game” for the home side after the Bulls took the first meeting 107-105 in Chicago back on January 13th. The Bulls enter averaging 103.4 PPG and conceding 109.4. Zach LaVine averages 17.1 points, while rookie Lauri Markkanen adds 14.9 points and 7.6 boards per night and he had 22 in his team’s most recent victory. Detroit needs to stop the bleeding now, as it sits five games back of the Bucks for the final playoff spot with 17 games remaining. The Pistons had a 14 point half time lead against Toronto, but couldn’t hold it together against the East leading Raptors down the stretch. The Pistons average 103.1 PPG and they concede 104.4. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 21.7 points, 7.5 boards and 5.5 assists per night and he had 31 in a losing cause against Toronto. I’ll point out though that Chicago is 0-4 ATS in its last four following an ATS victory, while Detroit is still a competitive 7-5 ATS against the division this season. The Bulls two recent victories came over Dallas and Memphis, but they now face a desperate and hungry team that’s going to be risking life and limb today in trying to secure a victory. This line could easily be a lot larger in my opinion. Lay the points, play on the Pistons. Good luck…Larry |
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03-07-18 | Raptors v. Pistons +5 | Top | 121-119 | Win | 100 | 31 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Detroit Pistons (8:05 EST). The Raptors are an awesome team, but I think they come in “gassed” here in the second game of the back to back. Toronto was in action just last night, pulling away for a relatively simple 106-90 win over Atlanta. Detroit plays with in-season double revenge, most recently falling to the Raptors 123-94 in late February. The Pistons also play with desperation after three straight losses, most recently a humbling 112-90 setback on the road in Cleveland on Monday. Toronto averages 111.9 PPG and it concedes 103.3. DeMar DeRozan averages 23.7 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.5 points, 5.8 boards and 6.5 assists per game. At this point clinching a playoff spot is not a a matter of if, but when for Toronto, as the Raptors sit 17 games ahead of the Pistons, who are hungry to snap their slide and get out of the ninth place spot in the East. Detroit averages 102.9 PPG and it concedes 104.1. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 21.5 points, 7.6 boards and 5.5 assists per night. Griffin had 25 points, eight boards and five assists in his team’s most recent setback to Cleveland. With a night off before welcoming the league-leading Rockets to town on Friday night, I also think this sets up as a potential “look ahead” spot for the visitors. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, everything points to this one coming right down to the wire. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-06-18 | Nuggets v. Mavs +4.5 | Top | 107-118 | Win | 100 | 28 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST). The 35-28 Denver Nuggets are in Dallas to take on the 19-45 Mavericks and while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Denver looks poised for a classic letdown here in my opinion after beating the Cavs 126-117 in Cleveland on Saturday night. In fact, it’s impossible not to think that the Nuggets won’t also be caught “looking ahead” here to their game at home against Cleveland in the re-match tomorrow night. Dallas on the other hand is looking to atone for a 126-109 setback to New Orleans on Sunday. Denver averages 108.7 PPG and it concedes 107.5. Dallas averages 102.2 PPG and it concedes 105.1. Note though that the Nuggets have had a hell of a time whenever they’ve played in Dallas of late, as evidenced by their 1-5-1 ATS record in their last seven played there. Dallas is a prime candidate for a top pick in the NBA draft in the offseason, but I think it puts up a fight tonight. I’ll also point out that the Mavs are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last four following a double-digit home loss. The Nuggets are quite possibly the biggest “Jekyll and Hyde” team in the league with a poor 11-19 road record and I expect the Mavericks to take advantage of that. Grab the points, play on Dallas. Good luck…Larry |
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03-05-18 | Pistons +7 v. Cavs | Top | 90-112 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Detroit Pistons (7:00 EST). Detroit won’t be rolling over as it comes in having lost two straight, most recently a 105-96 road setback in Miami on Saturday. Cleveland can empathize, as it comes in having lost two straight as well, most recently a 126-117 home setback to Denver on Saturday. Note that so far the Cavs have taken two of three meetings between the clubs this season. Detroit averages 103.1 PPG and it concedes 104. Blake Griffin averages 21.5 points, 7.6 boards and 5.5 assists per night, while Andre Drummond adds 15.2 points, 15.8 boards and 1.64 steals per game. Griffin did everything he could in his team’s latest loss with 31 points and six assists. The Cavaliers average 110 PPG and they concede 110.1. LeBron James averages 26.7 points, 8.4 boards and 9.1 assists per game, while Kevin Love adds 17.9 points and 9.4 boards. The problem for Cleveland right now though is that Love remains injured. Cleveland’s new pieces have looked good at times and pretty pedestrian in others. It’s a night to night balancing act for James until Love returns. No excuses for the Pistons though, who have had well over a month to work Griffin into the fold. I’ll point out that Detroit is 7-4 ATS against the division this year, while Cleveland is just 5-7 ATS against divisional opponents. Both teams have more questions than answers right now, but the overall situation points to a very competitive affair in my opinion. As such, I’m grabbing the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-04-18 | Hornets +9 v. Raptors | Top | 98-103 | Win | 100 | 27 h 5 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Charlotte Hornets (6:05 EST). The Hornets will be hungry and focused here after dropping their second straight in a 110-99 setback at Philadelphia on Friday. Conversely, I think this sets up as a bit of a letdown spot for the Raptors after they won their third straight in a 102-95 road effort in Washington on Friday. And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as Toronto has so far won all three meetings this year, including a 123-103 road victory on February 11th in the most recent. The Hornets average 106.7 PPG and they concede 106.7 as well. Kemba Walker leads the nightly charge with 23.1 points and 5.8 assists per night, while Dwight Howard adds 15.9 points and 12.4 boards per game. The Raptors average 112.1 PPG and they concede 103.4. DeMar DeRozan leads the way with 23.7 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry chips in 16.5 points, 5.7 boards and 6.5 assists. With bottom feeder Atlanta up next, it’s not too hard to imagine the red hot Raptors finally having a bit of mental letdown here. Clearly the revenge-minded Hornets don’t have the same luxury as the team tries to desperately stay in the playoff picture. While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to a very competitive battle in my opinion. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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03-02-18 | Mavs v. Bulls +1.5 | Top | 100-108 | Win | 100 | 29 h 53 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Chicago Bulls (8:05 EST). Dallas beat Indiana 109-103 and then promptly fell 111-110 in OT to the Thunder in its next outing. Suffice it to say, I think the visitors have a predictable letdown here after that “close miss.” Chicago won’t be playing in the postseason, it’s just 20-41 overall. Injuries to its starting line-up is one of the main reasons for the overall poor record, but the team continues to get healthier as the season comes to a close. The Bulls will be hungry here as they’ve lost five straight. They knocked off Dallas 127-124 in early January and I believe they’re going to do it again here at home as well. Dallas averages 102.1 PPG and it concedes 104.7. Harrison Barnes was a bright spot in the losing cause to OKC with 26 points and he leads the nightly charge with 18.3 points, plus 6.4 boards per night. Chicago averages 103.3 PPG and it concedes 109.6. Zach LaVine has put up 17.7 points per night since returning to the line-up, while Lauri Markkanen adds 14.8 points, plus 7.6 boards per game. I’ll point out as well that Dallas is just 6-11 ATS as the favorite this year, while Chicago is 4-2 ATS after playing three consecutive road games. With a night off before an extended home stand, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors coming in complacent here against their lowly non-conference opponent. But the Bulls clearly don’t have the same luxury as they desperately try to break the skid. This one sets up beautifully for Chicago in my opinion. Good luck…Larry |
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03-01-18 | Nets v. Kings +1 | Top | 111-116 | Win | 100 | 28 h 21 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Sacramento Kings (10:05 EST). The Nets lost for the ninth time in their last ten games in a “close but not cigar” 129-123 setback at Cleveland on Tuesday, while the Kings enter having lost five in a row, most recently a 116-99 setback at Portland on Tuesday. Brooklyn averages 105.5 PPG and it concedes 109.6. D’Angelo Russell leads the way with 15.8 points and 4.8 assist per game, while DeMarre Carroll adds 13.3 points and 6.6 boards per night. Note that Russell led the way in the loss to the Cavs with 25 points and six assists. Sacramento averages 99 PPG and it concedes 107.2. De’Aaron Fox averages 11.4 points, 2.6 boards and 4.4 assists per night, while Buddy Hield averages 12.7. Veteran Zach Randolph had 20 points in a losing cause to the Blazers last time out. I’ll point out though that Brooklyn is interestingly just 3-7 ATS in its last ten against poor defensive clubs which allow 106 plus points per night, while Sacramento is 26-19 ATS the last two years after three or more consecutive SU losses. With upcoming games at the Clippers and Golden State to end their Western swing, I think the Nets come out complacent here against the lowly, albeit extremely “hungry” Kings. A great spot for Sacramento to get back into the winners circle. Play on the Kings. Good luck…Larry |
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02-27-18 | 76ers v. Heat +1 | Top | 101-102 | Win | 100 | 27 h 15 m | Show |
My 10* BLOWOUT is on the Miami Heat (7:30 EST). Philadelphia had its seven game win streak snapped in a 109-94 road loss to Washington on Sunday, while Miami broke a three-game slide with a convincing 115-89 home win over Memphis on Saturday. Note that this is an in-season double-revenge scenario for Miami, as Philadelphia has already taken both previous meetings, including a 104-102 victory at home in the most recent on February 14th. Philadelphia comes in averaging 107.6 PPG and it concedes 105.7. Big man Joel Embiid had 25 points and ten boards in the setback to the Wizards and he’s leading the team with 23.9 points, 11.2 boards and 1.83 blocks per night. Miami averages 101.1 PPG and it concedes 101.6. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.2 points and 11.9 boards per night, while guard Goran Dragic adds 17.4 points, 4.1 boards and 4.9 assists per game. I’ll point out as well that Philadelphia is just 13-16 ATS on the road this year and only 2-4 ATS in its last six following a loss by ten points or more, while Miami is 16-9 ATS in its last 25 against teams with winning records and 3-1 ATS after scoring 115 points or more. Miami is in a dog fight right now for the final playoff spot and after small stretch of poor play, the team looks to build off its latest victory. A date vs. the 76ers is just what the doctor ordered to keep the motivation levels high, because as mentioned above, this does indeed set up as a double revenge spot for the home side tonight. Philadelphia has been playing extremely well, but I think the loss to the Wizards gets carried over here. In my opinion, this one has blowout written all over it. Play on Miami. Good luck…Larry |
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02-26-18 | Rockets v. Jazz +2.5 | Top | 96-85 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 12 m | Show |
My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE REVENGE GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST). I think the Rockets finally stumble here after 12 straight victories, most recently beating the Nuggets last night. But not to be outdone, the Jazz have also been on top form of late. Utah lost to Portland on Friday, but that was its first setback since January 22nd. ’ll point out that the Rockets’ Eric Gordon, who missed last night’s very satisfying 119-114 win at Denver with an illness, is also questionable for this one. After 11 straight victories, the Jazz were outdone by a Damian Lillard buzzer beater in their latest setback. Donovan Mitchell has now posted 21 or more points in six straight games. Note that guard Ricky Rubio is back in the line-up for this one after sitting out the Portland setback. It’s interesting to note though that Houston is just 56-61 ATS in it last 117 against teams with winning records, while Utah is already 7-3 ATS this season after allowing 90 points or less in its previous contest and a near-perfect 5-1 ATS in its last six against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per night. The Jazz play with revenge and they catch a complacent and dog-tired Rockets team flat footed on Monday night. Grab the points, play on Utah. Good luck…Larry |
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02-25-18 | 76ers v. Wizards -1.5 | Top | 94-109 | Win | 100 | 25 h 5 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Wizards (8:05 EST). I had a play on the Orlando Magic yesterday and they fell 116-105 at Philadelphia, failing to cover the spread by a single bucket. Suffice it to say, I believe the 76ers have a letdown here in the second game of the back to back. Conversely it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the home side after falling 122-105 at home to Charlotte on Friday. Also note that this is a “revenge” game for the Wizards, as Philadelphia has taken two of the last three meetings this year, including a 115-112 victory at home in the most recent matchup on February 6th. The 76ers average 107.6 PPG and they concede 105.7 per night. Big man Joel Embiid leads the nightly charge with 23.8 points, 11.2 boards and 1.87 assists per night, while rookie Ben Simmons averages 16.7 points, 7.8 boards, 7.4 assists and 1.87 steals per night. The Wizards average 107.4 PPG and they concede 105.8. Bradley Beal currently leads the nightly charge with 23.7 points, while Otto Porter Jr. adds 14.5 points, 6.4 boards and 1.55 steals per night. Additionally I’ll point out that Philadelphia is 0-5 ATS in its last five on the road, while Washington is 6-1 ATS in its last seven when playing on one days rest. Philadelphia was fortunate to win in Chicago on Thursday and I believe its road issues continue here. The Wizards are a deep and dangerous team at home and I like them to take advantage here. Play on Washington. Good luck…Larry |
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02-24-18 | Magic +10 v. 76ers | Top | 105-116 | Loss | -105 | 24 h 9 m | Show |
My 10* BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Orlando Magic (5:05 EST). Orlando comes in desperate here after dropping four straight, most recently a 120-113 upset at home to the Knicks on Thursday. Conversely Philadelphia looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning six straight, most recently holding on for a 116-115 victory on the road in Chicago on Thursday. Note that this is an in-season revenge game for the Magic as well after they fell 130-111 at home to Philadelphia in late November. Orlando averages 105.7 PPG and it concedes 109.9. Nikola Vucevic returned from injury in the loss to the Knicks and he should be much more acclimated for this one. Vucevic leads the team with 17.4 points and 9.2 boards per game, while Evan Fournier adds 18. Aaron Gordon leads the scoring charge with 18.2 points and 8.3 boards per night. Philadelphia averages 107.6 PPG and it concedes 105.7. Ben Simmons led the way in the latest victory with 32 points, seven boards and 11 assists. I’ll point out though that Orlando is still 16-13 ATS on the road this year and 13-11 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest, while Philadelphia is just 4-6 ATS already this season after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 9-10 ATS against clubs with losing records. With a game tomorrow night in the nation’s capital, it’s definitely not too hard to imagine the home side also getting caught “looking ahead” here. While I’m not calling for the outright upset, everything points to a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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02-23-18 | Clippers v. Suns +4.5 | Top | 128-117 | Loss | -105 | 26 h 28 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Phoenix Suns (9:05 EST). LA won five of its final six before the All Star Break, but I think it comes out flat here after falling 134-127 at Golden State just last night. Avery Bradley sat out last night’s game with a groin injury Phoenix on the other hand will be risking life and limb in my opinion in trying to secure a victory today as it went into the break on a seven-game losing streak. The Suns lost 107-97 to the Jazz in their final game before the break. Devin Booker returned from a minor hip injury in that one to post 28 points. Booker would then of course go on to win the three-point competition over All Star weekend. The Clippers have defied the odds and looked pretty good despite trading All Star Blake Griffin to the Pistons, but after last night’s exhausting setback, I think the visitors come in “gassed” here. The Suns will look to take advantage (note that Phoenix is 4-2 ATS in its last six after three or more consecutive losses this year) and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Phoenix. Good luck…Larry |
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02-22-18 | Knicks +4 v. Magic | Top | 120-113 | Win | 100 | 22 h 54 m | Show |
This is a 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER on the New York Knicks (7:05 EST). The Knicks come out of the All Star break hungry as they’ve lost eight in a row, most recently a 118-113 home setback to Miami just before the All Star Game. But here’s the perfect opponent to get back on track against, as the lowly Magic come in having lost three straight, most recently a 104-102 setback to Charlotte at home last Wednesday. Note that this is an “in-season, double-revenge” scenario, as Orlando has already taken both earlier meetings between the clubs, including a 105-100 road victory on December 3rd in the most recent. The Knicks average 103.7 PPG and they concede 106.1. Enes Kanter averages 14.4 points and 10.7 boards per night, while Tim Hardaway Jr. adds 16.7. The Magic average 105.5 PPG and they concede 109.8. Evan Fournier averages 17.9 points, while Aaron Gordon adds 18.4 points and 8.3 boards a night. Orlando has a tough two-game road trip starting on Saturday night in Philadelphia and ending on Monday in Oklahoma City. Everything points to look-ahead for the home side and I fully expect the desperate visiting Knicks to take advantage. While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by the outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on New York. Good luck…Larry |
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02-15-18 | Lakers v. Wolves -9.5 | Top | 111-119 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 59 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:05 EST). The Lakers come in off a 139-117 setback in New Orleans just last night and suffice it to say, with the All Star break up next, all signs point to a classic letdown for LA this evening as well. Minnesota on the other hand will not be taking a night off because it comes in having lost three of its last four, most recently a 126-108 home defeat to Houston. If recent history is any precedence though, then the Wolves have to be loving their chances tonight as they’ve already taken both meetings between the clubs so far this year, including a convincing 114-96 victory on New Year’s Day. The Lakers come in averaging 107 PPG, while conceding 109.5. Brook Lopez averages 12 points and 13.9 boards per game, while the newly acquired Isaiah Thomas averages 15.2 points a night thus far. The Wolves average 109.6 PPG and they concede 106.7. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.4 pints and 12.1 boards per game, while Jimmy Butler adds 22.4 points and 5.5 boards per night. From a trend based stand point, there’s no question who this one favors, as note that the Lakers are a brutal 0-5 ATS in their last five in the second game of a back-to-back scenario, while the Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games against a team with a losing road record. LA is dealing with some new faces, injuries and a tired starting unit. Minnesota has had a night off and can’t be too happy with the way that it’s played of late. When you add it all up, a big time blowout is imminent. Lay the points, play on Minnesota. Good luck…Larry (MLB REMINDER: After more than 30 years as a professional handicapper, Larry has finished among the “World’s best” in every major North American sport several times. Major League Baseball has been no exception. In fact, over the last three years Ness is ranked as the No. 1 MLB handicapper in the entire World! Note that Larry has banked $35,083 in profits over the last three regular seasons combined (know anyone that’s done better?!) 2017 saw Larry post over +$10,000 units in the regular season and then he’d also go on to go a spectacular 18-8-1 +$8,530 in the playoffs, for a total of $18,538! And now 2018 has the potential to be the BIGGEST season of them all!) |
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02-14-18 | Pacers v. Nets +4 | Top | 108-103 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 26 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST). I think the Pacers have a bit of a letdown here in their final game before the break. Indiana has won two straight, most recently a 121-113 victory at home over the Knicks on Sunday. Conversely, it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the Nets, who enter having lost six straight, most recently a 114-101 setback to the Clippers on Monday. And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as the Pacers have taken six straight in the series, including a 123-119 OT victory in the most recent back on December 23rd. Indiana averages 106.8 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 24.4 points, 5.4 boards and 2.08 steals per game, while Myles Turner adds 13.6 points and 6.5 boards per night. Brooklyn averages 105.4 PPG and it concedes 109.7. D’Angelo Russell averages 15.6 points and 4.4 assists per night. Russell had 16 points in a losing cause to the Clippers. I’ll point out though that Indiana is just 6-8 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Brooklyn is 8-5 ATS this season after three or more consecutive SU losses and 21-16 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. I look for Indiana to get caught “looking ahead” to its time off after its extended stretch of excellence and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the hungry Nets to step up and take advantage of this favorable situation. Good luck…Larry |
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02-13-18 | Cavs +2 v. Thunder | Top | 120-112 | Win | 100 | 10 h 44 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:05 EST). Cleveland comes in having won three straight, most recently a 121-99 destruction of Boston on the road on Sunday. OKC on the other hand is stumbling towards the half-way mark, coming in having won for just the second time in seven games after smashing the Grizzlies 110-92 on Sunday. Note that this is a “revenge” game for James and company, as OKC has taken two straight in the series, including a 148-124 victory in the first matchup in Cleveland back on January 20th this year. The Cavaliers come into this one averaging 110 PPG and they concede 109.9. LeBron James averages 26.3 points, 8.1 boards and 8.9 assists per game. James’ team looks a lot better after dumping a lot of the older players, as Rodney Hood, George Hill and Jordan Clarkson look poised to help the Cavs make another serious push for a spot in the Finals. OKC averages 106.2 PPG and it concedes 102.7. Russell Westbrook averages 25.5 points, 9.3 boards, 10.3 assists and 1.96 steals per game, while Paul George contributes 22.4 points, 5.4 boards and 2.24 steals per night. Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and I believe James and his “new” team find a way to avenge the earlier and humbling beatdown that they endured at the hands of the Thunder earlier in the season. It’s a perfect storm of situational factors working in favor of the visitors. Play on Cleveland. Good luck…Larry |
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02-11-18 | Cavs +4.5 v. Celtics | Top | 121-99 | Win | 100 | 21 h 17 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (3:35 EST). Cleveland comes to town off its second straight win, beating Atlanta 123-107 on Friday. Boston enters off a 97-81 loss at home to Indiana in the second game of a back-to-back on Friday. So far these teams have split a pair of meetings this season. The Cavaliers average 109.8 PPG and they concede 110.1. LeBron James averages 26.4 points, 8.1 boards and 8.9 assists per night and he had 22 points, 12 boards and 19 assists in the win over the Hawks. Note that the Cavs were led by Kyle Korver, who exploded for 30 points off the bench against his former team. The Celtics average 102.9 PPG and they concede 98.7. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 24.7 points and five assists per night, while Al Horford adds 13.2 points, 7.8 boards and 5.2 assists per game. I’ll point out as well that the Cavs are 7-3 ATS in their last ten when playing the role of underdog, while Boston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest. Cleveland looked good in its last game and I think its new pieces will be able to work themselves into the mix seamlessly alongside the normal rotation. Boston comes in tired and I think it struggles against this re-focused Cavaliers side. And while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, all signs do indeed point to this one being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. Grab the points, play on Cleveland. Good luck…Larry |
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02-10-18 | Nuggets v. Suns +7 | Top | 123-113 | Loss | -105 | 28 h 15 m | Show |
This is a 10* Situational Stunner on the Phoenix Suns (9:05 EST). The 29-25 Denver Nuggets are in Phoenix to take on the 19-38 Suns and for a number of different reasons, I think this favors the home side. If recent history is any precedence, then Phoenix has to be liking its chances today, because when these teams met earlier this year, it was the Suns that scored the 108-100 victory. Devin Booker had 30 points, five boards and five assists in that one for Phoenix, while Jamal Murray had 30 points and five boards to lead the Nuggets in the losing cause. Denver looks poised for a letdown here after three straight wins. The Nuggets average 107 PPG and they concede 105.9. Phoenix averages 104.2 PPG and it concedes 112.4. The Suns will be especially motivated here to return to the winners circle after their most recent pathetic effort, falling 129-81 at home to the Spurs. Big man Alex Len had 14 points and five boards. I’ll point out though that Denver has consistently “played down” to the level of its competition, going just 12-15 ATS this year against clubs with losing records. Phoenix though has excelled in this spot for bettors this season, going 8-3 ATS when playing with two days rest, 13-9 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 8-5 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses. While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything in my opinion definitely points to a much closer than expected battle. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Suns. Good luck…Larry |
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02-09-18 | Wolves v. Bulls +6 | Top | 113-114 | Win | 100 | 32 h 5 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Chicago Bulls (8:05 EST). The 34-23 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Chicago to take on the 18-35 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Minnesota comes in off an exhausting 140-138 OT loss in Cleveland on Wednesday, while the Bulls have had three nights off after a 104-98 loss to Sacramento. Note that this is a double revenge game for Chicago aver the Wolves took both meetings last year. Minnesota averages 109.5 PPG and it concedes 106.3. Jimmy Butler had 35 points in the loss to Cleveland, while Karl Anthony Towns contributed 30 points and ten boards. Chicago averages 103.5 PPG and it concedes 109.2. Zach LaVine was a bright spot in his team’s latest loss, posting 27 points, while Justin Holiday was also decent with 20 points of his own. I think it’s important to note that Minnesota has struggled in this spot for bettors all year though, going just 13-14 ATS on the road and only 5-6 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite. Chicago has for the most part been a train wreck this season, but it comes in rested and very determined. Also note that it’s a solid 13-10 ATS at home already this year and 7-2 ATS in its last nine when playing with three or more days of rest. With a night off before a home game against bottom feeder Sacramento, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors in some small way “looking past” their lowly non-conference opponent tonight. Off seven straight losses, clearly the Bulls don’t have the same luxury. While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitely believe that the stage is set for a “nail-biter” this evening. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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02-07-18 | Rockets v. Heat +4.5 | Top | 109-101 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 49 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Miami Heat (7:35 EST). The Rockets come in off a very satisfying 123-113 win at Brooklyn just last night and I think they’ll be “gassed” here. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for Miami as it comes into this one having lost four straight, most recently a 111-109 home loss to Orlando on Monday. Note that this is a revenge game for the Heat as well after they fell 99-90 in Houston back on January 22nd. This the final game of a four-game trip for the Rockets, who come in averaging 114 PPG and conceding 105.7. James Harden leads the nightly charge with 31.2 points, five boards and 9.1 assists per night. Miami comes in averaging 100.4 PPG and conceding 101.3. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.2 points and 11.8 boards per game, while Goran Dragic contributes 17.1 points, 4.1 boards and 4.6 assists per night. I’ll point out though that Houston is just 11-14 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Miami is 6-1 ATS this season off an upset loss as a favorite (also 12-10 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.) I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night and while I clearly wouldn’t be shocked by the straight up outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can, as I believe this one will be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. Play on the Heat. Good luck…Larry |
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02-06-18 | Celtics v. Raptors -5 | Top | 91-111 | Win | 100 | 10 h 54 m | Show |
My 10* REVENGE GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Toronto Raptors (7:35 EST). Boston comes in a tiny bit complacent here in my opinion after winning four in a row, most recently a narrow 97-96 win at home over Portland on Sunday. Toronto comes in having won two straight and four of its last five after smashing Memphis 101-86 on Sunday. Note that this is indeed a “revenge” game for the Raptors after they fell 95-94 in the first meeting in Boston back on November 12th. Boston comes in averaging 103.2 PPG and it concedes 98.4. The Celtics needed to overcome a 16 point halftime deficit to beat the Blazers, led by Al Horford with 22 points, ten boards and five assists. Toronto averages 111.4 PPG and it concedes 103.8. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.4 points and 5.1 assists per game. The Raptors held the Grizzlies to just 35.8 percent shooting and forced 19 turnovers in their latest victory. Deion Wright led the way off the bench with 15 points (six players scored in double figures for TO in that one.) I’ll point out that this is one area in which the Celtics have consistently struggled in for bettors for quite some time though, going just 9-15 ATS in their last 24 after playing three consecutive home games (including only 3-4 ATS this season), while Toronto has excelled in this spot by going 28-13 ATS in its last 41 against the division. Boston is dealing with some injury issues, which is the main reason why there was a delay in the sports books posting this line. Regardless though, I think there are enough situational factors working in favor of Toronto tonight to pull the trigger on the home side. In my opinion, everything points to a lop-sided blowout. Play on the Raptors. Good luck…Larry |
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02-05-18 | Wizards v. Pacers -2 | Top | 111-102 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 1 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Indiana Pacers (7:05 EST). I think the Wizards four-game win streak comes to an end here against this determined home side. Indiana is going to be the “hungrier” team in my opinion, sitting just one game behind Washington for fifth place in the Eastern Conference. The Wizards average 107.4 PPG and they concede 105.5. Thomas Satoransky had 19 points and six assists in his teams 115-98 win over the Magic on Saturday. Washington is finding ways to win without star guard John Wall in the line-up, but I have a hard time seeing the team continuing to carry that momentum. Indiana comes in off a 100-92 win over the 76ers on Saturday, as Victor Oladipo poured in 19 points. The Pacers looked particularly sharp on the defensive end of the floor, holding Philadelphia to just 37.9 percent shooting. I’ll point out as well that Washington has done poorly in this spot of late for bettors, going just 5-11 ATS in its last 16 following a straight-up victory, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per night. After their extended stretch of excellent play, all signs do indeed finally point to the Wizards having a letdown here. This is the first time these teams have played this season, but last year Washington took two of three. It’s payback time. Play on the Pacers. Good luck…Larry |
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02-03-18 | Jazz v. Spurs -6 | Top | 120-111 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 26 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:00 EST). I don’t think there’s any need to overanalyze this one. Utah comes in off a very satisfying 129-97 win at Phoenix just last night and suffice it to say, I think the visitors come in “gassed” here. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Spurs as they come in off a 102-91 loss at home to the Rockets. Also note that this is a “double revenge” scenario for San Antonio, as Utah has taken the last two in the series, including the first meeting this year 100-89 back on December 21st in front of the home town crowd. Utah averages 102 PPG and it concedes 102.1. Ricky Rubio averages 11.4 points, five assists and 1.57 steals per game, while Rodney Hood adds 16.7 points. San Antonio averages 100.7 PPG and it concedes 97.6. LaMarcus Aldridge averages 22.3 points and 8.5 boards per game, while Pau Gasol contributes 10.8 points and 8.3 boards per night. I think it’s worth noting though that the Jazz are still only 11-15 ATS on the road this season, while San Antonio is 17-9 ATS at home. The Spurs are also 7-3 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more. Utah is playing the second game of a back to back and like the Spurs, it is also dealing with injuries. In my opinion, this number could easily be a lot larger. Lay the points, play on San Antonio. Good luck…Larry |
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02-02-18 | Warriors -12.5 v. Kings | Top | 119-104 | Win | 100 | 34 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST). Golden State looks to get back on track after getting crushed 129-99 in Utah on Tuesday. Klay Thompson was a bright spot with 27 points, while KD had an “off” night with 17. So while the Warriors will be eager to atone for their latest listless effort, Sacramento looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after closing its six game road trip with a 114-103 win over New Orleans on Tuesday, led by 26 points and 12 boards from Zach Rudolph. I’ll point out though that the Kings are just 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 following a SU win of more than ten points. The Warriors on the other hand have excelled in this position by already going 4-1 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more. Golden State is also 5-3 ATS this season in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, and it does indeed play with revenge after falling 110-106 to Sacramento on December 27th. The Warriors have a “tougher” game in Denver tomorrow night and won’t want to leave anything to chance this evening. The Kings on the other hand find themselves in a classic “letdown/look-ahead” spot, having gone 3-1 in their last four on a road trip, only to now return home for their first game in two weeks in Sacramento, followed by a much more “winnable” contest against the visiting Mavericks tomorrow night. When you add it all up, it makes this larger spread completely manageable for the rested, determined and revenge-minded defending champs to cover. Lay the points, play on Golden State. Good luck…Larry |
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02-01-18 | Thunder v. Nuggets +1 | Top | 124-127 | Win | 100 | 12 h 24 m | Show |
My 10* WEST-CONF GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Denver Nuggets (10:35 EST). The Thunder come in off a 102-96 road loss at Washington on Tuesday, snapping an eight-game win streak. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here as well. Conversely, it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the home side after it dropped its second straight, most recently a hard-fought 106-104 road setback at San Antonio on Tuesday. Note that these teams have already split a pair of games this year, with each side winning on its home floor. OKC averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 102. Russell Westbrook averages 25.5 points, 9.4 boards and 10.1 assists per game, while Paul George adds 21.3 points, 5.5 boards and 2.17 steals per night. In the loss to the Wizards the Thunder averaged just 37.5 percent from the floor and went just 9 of 32 from range. George was a bright spot with 28 points in the losing cause. Denver averages 106.2 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Nikola Jokic averages 16.2 points, 10.4 boards and 5.3 assist per game. In the setback to the Spurs the Nuggets would shoot 46.5 percent from the floor and go 10 of 23 from 3-point land. I’ll point out as well that the Thunder have struggled mightily in this spot for bettors all year, going just 2-10 ATS against the division and only 6-13 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite, while the Nuggets have done decently in this position by going 6-4 ATS against the division and 4-1 ATS in their last five against clubs with winning records. OKC is dealing with injuries and fatigue right now, which doesn’t bode well in Denver’s thin air. I’m banking on the home side defending its court. Play on the Nuggets. Good luck…Larry |
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01-31-18 | Bulls +7.5 v. Blazers | Top | 108-124 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 22 m | Show |
My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is in the Chicago Bulls (10:05 EST). The 18-32 Chicago Bulls are in Portland to take on the 27-22 Blazers on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. Portland comes in off a highly satisfying 104-96 win at the Clippers just last night, while we won’t have to question the overall intensity levels of the Bulls this evening as they enter off four straight losses, most recently to the Bucks. Lauri Markkanen, the Bulls leading scorer, won’t be in the line-up tonight. Note that the Bulls are 3-0 without Markkanen in the lineup though this season. Damian Lillard and the Blazers have looked a lot better of late, but with one night off before a three-game Eastern swing, I do indeed believe this one sets up not only as a “letdown” spot (after last night’s victory), but that it’s also a “look ahead” position. Additionally I’ll point out that Chicago is 15-9 ATS on the road this year, while Portland is just 9-12 ATS at home. The Bulls are dealing with some injury issues, but the situation and the numbers both support the visitors tonight. While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything does point to a very tight battle. Grab the points, play on Chicago. Good luck…Larry |
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01-29-18 | Celtics v. Nuggets -1.5 | Top | 111-110 | Loss | -115 | 29 h 32 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Denver Nuggets (9:00 EST). Boston came up just short in a 109-105 setback at Golden State on Saturday, while Denver comes in on top form having won three straight, most recently a 91-89 victory at home over Dallas. Note that this is a revenge game for the Nuggets after they fell 124-118 in Boston back on December 13th. Boston averages 102.9 PPG and it concedes 98.5. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 24.8 points and five assists per game, while Al Horford averages 13.4 points, 7.9 boards and 5.2 assists per outing. Denver averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Nikola Jokic averages 16.1points, 10.5 boards and 5.3 assists per game, while Garry Harris leads the nightly charge with 17.3 points. Harris had 24 points, while Jokic had a triple-double with 11 points, 16 boards and 11 assists in the teams most recent win over the Mavs. I think the Celtics come in flat here on the tail end of their five game Western swing and I look for the surging Nuggets to take full advantage and to put the foot on the gas from start to finish. A great situational play on Denver. Good luck…Larry |
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01-28-18 | Lakers v. Raptors -9.5 | Top | 111-123 | Win | 100 | 26 h 59 m | Show |
My 10* BLOWOUT GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Toronto Raptors (6:05 EST). LA comes in complacent here in my opinion after winning its fourth straight with a 108-103 road victory over the Bulls on Friday. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Raptors, who have lost four of seven, including a listless 97-93 setback to Utah at home on Friday. The revenge factor does come into play for the Lakers after they fell to Toronto 101-92 at home back on October 27th, but because of the Raptors’ overall current form, it’s one of those instances in which it’s negated. LA averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 109.7. Brandon Ingram averages 15.7 points, while Jordan Clarkson added 14.5 points. Ingram had 25 points, nine boards and five assists in the win over Chicago. Toronto averages 110.9 PPG and it concedes 103.7. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.6 points and 6.1 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.5 points, 5.9 boards and 6.7 assists per game. I’ll point out as well that the Lakers are just 2-4 ATS in their last six trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Toronto is 13-9 ATS against losing clubs this year and 13-9 ATS as well against poor defensive teams which allow 106-plus points per contest. As mentioned off the top, I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for the Lakers, while I expect the Raptors to risk life and limb as they try and secure a convincing victory after their sub-par play of late. Lay the points, play on Toronto. Good luck…Larry |
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01-27-18 | Wizards -4.5 v. Hawks | Top | 129-104 | Win | 100 | 28 h 44 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Wizards (7:30 EST). Washington is just 1-3 on its current road trip, most recently falling 121-112 at OKC on Thursday. The Hawks come in off a hard-fought battle in Charlotte just last night and suffice it to say, I expect a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. So far these teams have split a pair of games. Washington averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 105.6. John Wall leads the nightly charge with 19.4 points and 9.3 assists per game, while Bradley Beal averages 24 points. Beal was a standout in the latest loss to the Thunder with 41 points, 12 boards and seven assists. Atlanta averages 103.3 PPG and it concedes 107.5. Dennis Schroeder leads with 20 points and 6.5 assists per game. I’ll point out though that Washington is already 6-4 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Atlanta is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the second game of a back-to-back. I think the “hungrier” and fresher team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on the Wizards. Good luck…Larry |
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01-26-18 | 76ers v. Spurs -5 | Top | 97-78 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 42 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Antonio Spurs (8:30 EST). The 23-21 Philadelphia 76ers are in San Antonio to take on the 32-18 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Both teams come in on top form, with the Spurs off wins over the Cavs and Grizzlies, while the 76ers have won four of their last five, most recently a victory over the Bulls on Wednesday. This is a revenge game for the Spurs though, who fell in Philadelphia 112-106 on January 3rd. 76ers big man Joel Embiid and rookie Ben Simmons combined for 47 points, 16 boards and eight assists in that victory. Pau Gasol had 14 points, 15 board and nine assists in his team’s 108-85 destruction of Memphis on Wednesday. In all, eight players would score in double figures against the Grizzlies, including 15 by Patty Mills off the bench. I’ll point out that Philadelphia is just 12-15 ATS in its last 27 against good defensive teams which allow 98 points or less per contest, while San Antonio is 3-1 ATS in its last four against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest. The revenge factor can’t be overlooked here. I think Philadelphia stumbles to open its Western swing and San Antonio takes advantage. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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01-25-18 | Knicks v. Nuggets -5 | Top | 118-130 | Win | 100 | 11 h 44 m | Show |
My 10* Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Denver Nuggets. New York comes in off a 123-112 loss on the road in Golden State on Tuesday, while Denver had dropped six of eight before edging Portland 104-101 at home on Monday. Note that this is a revenge game for the Nuggets after they fell 116-110 in The Big Apple back on October 30th The Knicks average 104.7 PPG and concede 106.1. Kristaps Porzingis averages 23.3 points, 6.7 boards and 2.34 blocks per game, while Enes Kanter contributes 13.6 points and ten boards per night. Denver averages 106 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Big man Nikola Jokic averages 16.2 points, 10.4 boards and five assists per game, while Garry Harris leads the way with 17 points per night. Jamal Murray exploded for a career-high 38 points in the win over the Blazers. I’ll point out that New York is just 10-14 ATS on the road this year and only 1-3 ATS after playing three consecutive road games, while Denver is 5-3 ATS in its last eight when playing with two days rest and 12-10 ATS in front of the home town crowd thus far. Porzingis could be sidelined for this one and if he does play, he’s likely not going to be at 100% capacity. Denver is 17-6 at the Pepsi Center and in my opinion, all the pieces are in place for a blowout. Play on the Nuggets. Good luck…Larry |
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01-24-18 | Pelicans +1.5 v. Hornets | Top | 101-96 | Win | 100 | 27 h 34 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the New Orleans Pelicans (7:05 EST). New Orleans comes to Charlotte off a 132-128 double OT win over Chicago, while the Hornets enter off a 112-107 victory at home over Sacramento on Monday. The Pelicans average 111.2 PPG and they concede 110.9. Anthony Davis leads the team with 26.7 points, 10.5 boards and 2.05 blocks per game, while fellow big DeMarcus Cousins averages 25.6 points, 12.9 boards and 5.2 assists per game. The Hornets average 105.8 PPG and concede 105.8 as well. Kemba Walker leads the team with 21.8 points and 5.9 assists per game, while Dwight Howard adds 15.5 points and 12.6 boards per outing. I’ll point out though that New Orleans has done extremely well in this spot for bettors, going 14-10 ATS already on the road this year, 11-8 ATS in non-conference games and interestingly 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 130 points or more in its previous outing, while Charlotte has struggled in this position by going just 11-14 ATS at home this season and only 9-11 ATS in non-conference contests. The Hornets are sitting in 11th in the East, so despite playing better of late, I still think New Orleans has the advantage here. The Pelicans have won five of seven and are two games ahead of the Clippers in the West standings. The added off-court drama of Walker likely being moved before the trade dead line won’t help the home side tonight either. Play on New Orleans. Good luck…Larry |
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01-23-18 | Celtics -4 v. Lakers | Top | 107-108 | Loss | -109 | 30 h 18 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Boston Celtics (10:35 EST). Boston comes in off a third straight loss, falling 103-95 at home to Orlando on Sunday. Clearly the C’s are going to be looking to start their Western road swing off on the “right foot.” And with a game at Golden State on the weekend, the visitors can’t take anything for granted tonight either or risk enduring their worst slide of the season. But if recent history is any precedence, then Boston has to be liking its chances today, because when these teams met back on November 8th, it was the Celtics which pulled away for the comfortable 107-96 victory. Boston comes in averaging 102.6 PPG and it concedes 98. Kyrie Irving leads the nightly charge with 24.5 points, five assists and 1.18 steals per game. The Lakers average 106.6 PPG and concede 109.9. Lonzo Ball averages 10.2 points, 7.1 boards and 7.1 assists per game, while Brandon Ingram adds 15.7 points. I’ll point out though that Boston is already 6-3 ATS this year off an upset loss as a favorite and 14-6 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per game, while LA is just 21-23 ATS in its last 44 off an upset win as an underdog. Boston can’t be happy and it’s looking for a breakout performance. The Lakers have been playing better lately, but definitely look poised for a letdown here. Everything points to a rout, lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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01-21-18 | Knicks v. Lakers +1.5 | Top | 107-127 | Win | 100 | 7 h 32 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the LA Lakers (3:35 EST). New York looks primed for a letdown here in my opinion after its big 117-115 road win over Utah on Friday. Conversely, I expect the hungry Lakers to build off their recent 99-86 home win over Indiana, a victory which snapped a two-game slide. To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as well, as New York has taken six of the last seven in the series, including a 113-109 OT effort at home back on December 12th. The Knicks come into this one averaging 104.5 PPG and conceding 105.3. Kristaps Porzingis leads the nightly charge with 23.5 points, 6.8 boards and 2.38 blocks per night, while Enes Kanter adds 13.5 points and 9.9 boards per outing. LA averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 110. Brook Lopez averages 11.6 points and 3.9 boards per game. Lonzo Ball adds 10.2 points, 7.1 boards and 7.1 assists per game. I’ll point out though that New York is just 5-7 ATS already this year off an upset win as an underdog and 0-2 ATS after playing three consecutive road games, while LA is 6-1 ATS this season after a win by ten points or more and 2-0 ATS after allowing 90 points or less. I like this hungry home side to avenge the OT setback in The Big Apple and I expect New York to once again return to mediocrity after its latest road victory. Play on the Lakers. Good luck…Larry |
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01-20-18 | Thunder v. Cavs -3.5 | Top | 148-124 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 48 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (3:35 EST). The Thunder look poised for a letdown in my opinion after winning three straight, most recently a 114-90 victory over the Lakers at home on Wednesday. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck still for the Cavs who finally broke a four-game slide with a tight 104–103 win over Orlando at home on Thursday. These teams split a pair of games last year, with each winning on its own floor. OKC averages 104.3 PPG and it concedes 100.8. Russell Westbrook averages 24.8 points 9.7 boards, 9.9 assists and 2.02 steals per game, while Paul George averages 20.4 points, 5.5 boards and 2.21 steals per game. The Cavs average 109.4 points and concede 108.6 per outing. LeBron James leads the nightly charge with 27 points, eight boards and 8.7 assists, while Kevin Love adds 19 points and 9.6 boards per game. Cleveland is loaded with talent that’s still trying to find a way to work together. LeBron is going to be especially motivated here facing off against George and Carmelo Anthony though. And with two nights off before a home game against the lowly Nets, it’s also not too hard to imagine the visitors in some small way also getting caught looking ahead to that much more “winnable” contest. I’m banking on a Cleveland coming out and playing a full four quarters tonight. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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01-19-18 | Wizards -1 v. Pistons | Top | 122-112 | Win | 100 | 28 h 46 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Wizards (8:05 EST). The 25-20 Washington Wizards are in Detroit to take on the 22-21 Pistons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. Washington most recently fell 133-109 at Charlotte on Wednesday, while Detroit enters having lost three of its last four, most recently a 96-91 setback at Toronto on Wednesday. But if recent history is any precedence, then the Wizards have to be liking their chances for a bounce back performance tonight, because they’ve already dominated this series so far this season, winning 115-111 on October 20th and 109-91 on December 1st. Wizards’ starters Brad Beal and John Wall played limited minutes in the blowout loss to the Hornets. Washington has been struggling defensively of late, but overall it’s been adequate in that department, allowing 105.3 PPG, which ranks 13th. The Pistons opened the 2017/18 campaign by going 14-6, but since then they’ve gone just 8-15. Reggie Jackson has missed the last ten games and Detroit has gone just 3-7 in that stretch. Backup Ish Smith was 1 of 12 from the field and had 3 points in the loss to the Raptors. Detroit averages 102.1 PPG and it concedes 101.7. Andre Drummond was a standout in the loss to Toronto, finishing with 25 points and 17 boards. I’ll point out though that the Wizards are 4-0 ATS in their last four following a straight-up loss of more than ten points, while Detroit is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 92 points or less in its previous outing. The Pistons have talent, but they’re banged up right now. Washington’s consistency levels have been all over the map of late, but this is a series that it’s dominated in and I expect that trend to continue here. Play on the Wizards. Good luck….Larry |
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01-17-18 | Warriors v. Bulls +9.5 | Top | 119-112 | Win | 100 | 10 h 39 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Chicago Bulls (8:05 EST). Golden State looks poised for a bit of a mental letdown here in my opinion after winning three straight, including at Boston and most recently a 118-108 victory at Cleveland on Monday. The Bulls will look to take advantage as they come in “flying under the radar,” having won three straight, most recently an impressive 119-111 victory over Miami on Monday. Not surprisingly, this is a “revenge” game for Chicago after it was trounced 143-94 in Golden State in late November. Golden State averages 115.9 PPG and it concedes 106.8. Stephen Curry leads the team with 27.6 points, plus 5.6 assists per game, while Kevin Durant adds 26.4 points, 6.9 boards and 5.3 assists per night. Justin Holiday had 25 points in Chicago’s latest victory. The Bulls average 102.8 PPG and concede 108.3. Lauri Markkanen leads the nightly charge with 15.5 points and 7.6 boards per game. I’ll point out as well that Golden State is just 8-9 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU wins and only 9-11 ATS against clubs with losing records, while Chicago is a perfect 6-0 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU victories and 14-7 ATS against teams with winning records. With a game at Houston on Friday night, it’s not too hard to imagine the Warriors also in some small way getting caught looking past their lowly non-conference opponent this evening. While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, the conditions are definitely right for a competitive battle. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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01-14-18 | Blazers +5.5 v. Wolves | Top | 103-120 | Loss | -110 | 32 h 42 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Portland Trailblazers (9:05 EST). Portland will be hungry here as it enters off its second straight loss, a 119-113 setback at suddenly surging New Orleans on Friday. Conversely, this sets up as a letdown spot in my opinion for the Wolves, who come in contented after four straight victories, most recently a 118-108 win over the Knicks on Friday. Note that this is a revenge game for the Blazers as well after they fell 108-107 in the first meeting in mid December. Portland averages 103.7 PPG and it concedes 102.8. Damian Lillard leads the nightly charge with 24.9 points and 6.4 assists per game, while CJ McCollum adds 21.6 points. Minnesota averages 108.5 PPG and it concedes 104.7. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.2 points and 12 boards per game, while Andrew Wiggins adds 17.7 points and 4.1 boards per contest. I’ll point out though that Portland is 4-2 ATS against the division already this season, also 13-8 ATS on the road and 7-6 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while Minnesota is just 5-6 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest. For all the reasons listed above, grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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01-13-18 | Warriors v. Raptors +3.5 | Top | 127-125 | Win | 100 | 9 h 29 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Toronto Raptors (7:35 EST). Golden State and Cleveland have both looked susceptible of late. The Warriors enter off a tough game in Milwaukee just last night, so clearly fatigue is going to be a factor for the defending champs. But this play is based primarily on the surging Toronto Raptors, who play with revenge today after falling 117-112 in Golden State in late October. Toronto also played with revenge most recently when it annihilated the Cavaliers 133-99 at home on Thursday. The Warriors average 115.7 PPG and concede 106.6. Kevin Durant averages 26.3 points, seven boards and 5.3 assists per game. The Raptors average 112.1 PPG and concede 103.7. DeMar DeRozan has been unstoppable of late, he comes in averaging 25 points and 5.1 assist per game. Fred VanVleet came off the bench to lead Toronto with 22 points in the victory over Cleveland. Golden State is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the second game of a back-to-back, while Toronto is an awesome 7-0 ATS in its last seven when playing on one days rest. Toronto is playing with a chip on its shoulder and its depth and confidence will simply be too much for the undermanned and exhausted Warriors to handle down the stretch. Play on the Raptors. Good luck…Larry |
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01-12-18 | Knicks +9 v. Wolves | Top | 108-118 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 52 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the New York Knicks (8:00 EST). The Knicks are fighting right now, most recently falling 122-119 in doubly OT to the Bulls on Wednesday. It was their fourth loss in a row and clearly they’ll be eager to stop the slide. Conversely, this sets up as a classic letdown spot for the home side in my opinion after winning three straight, most recently a very satisfying 104-88 victory at home over OKC. New York averages 103.6 PPG and it concedes 104.3. Big man Kristaps Porzingis averages 23.7 points, 6.7 boards and 2.26 blocks per game, while Enes Kanter adds 13.4 points and 10.2 boards per contest. Minnesota averages 108.3 PPG and it concedes 104.7. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.2 points and 11.9 boards per game, while Andrew Wiggins chips in 17.8 points plus 4.1 boards per contest. I’ll point out though that New York has excelled in this spot for bettors all year, going 5-1 ATS in its last six after allowing 115 points or more in its previous contest (it’s also 12-8 ATS in its last 20 off an upset loss as a favorite), while Minnesota has struggled in this position by going just 3-11 ATS in non-conference contests this season and only 9-12 ATS in front of the home town crowd. I’m not predicting an outright upset, but the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Grab the points, play on New York. Good luck…Larry |
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01-11-18 | Cavs v. Raptors +1 | Top | 99-133 | Win | 100 | 10 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Toronto Raptors (8:05 EST). Cleveland has lost five of its last seven, most recently a 127-99 setback on the road in Minnesota on Monday. The Raptors come in off only their second home loss of the season in a 90-89 setback to Miami on Tuesday, as they got caught “looking ahead” to this one against the Cavs. To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement, as the Cavs have knocked out the Raptors from the playoffs the last two years straight and took three of four regular season meetings last year. Cleveland averages 110.5 PPG and it concedes 107.7. LeBron James averages 27.6 points, 8.2 boards and 9.2 assists per game, while Kevin Love adds 19.8 points and 9.8 boards per contest. Toronto averages 111.5 PPG and it concedes just 103.8. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 25.3 points and five assists per game. I’ll point out though that the Cavs are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games against a team with a winning home record, while Toronto is amazingly 6-0 ATS in its last six when playing on one or less day rest. As much as the Cavs would like to “get up” for this one, the situation just does not favor them at all here. Toronto has been the cream of the crop in the Eastern Conference over the last month (minus its last game against a red hot Miami team) and I believe it finds a way to get the job done in front of the home town crowd. Play on the Raptors. Good luck…Larry |
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01-10-18 | Pistons -2 v. Nets | Top | 114-80 | Win | 100 | 27 h 27 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Detroit Pistons (7:30 EST). The Pistons will be hungry here as they lost for the third time in their last four tries in a tight 112-109 setback at New Orleans on Monday. The Nets enter off back-to-back losses, falling 114-113 in OT to Toronto on Monday. Detroit averages 101.9 PPG and it concedes 101.9 as well. Tobias Harris leads the nightly charge with 18.4 points plus 5.3 boards per game, while Avery Bradley adds 15.4 points. Brooklyn averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 108.8. The Nets are led by Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who averages 14.6 PPG. I’ll point out though that Detroit has performed extremely well in this spot for bettors, going 4-1 ATS in its last five after allowing 100 points or more in its previous outing, while New Jersey has struggled in this position by going just 1-4 ATS in its last five home games against a team with a losing road record. Detroit remains in the playoff hunt and to remain in the thick of it, it needs to win the games that it’s “supposed” too. Detroit is deeper and I think it’s superior defensive play proves to be too much for the Nets to handle down the stretch. Lay the points, play on the Pistons. Good luck…Larry |
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01-09-18 | Kings v. Lakers -6.5 | Top | 86-99 | Win | 100 | 30 h 4 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the LA Lakers (10:35 EST). LA snapped a nine-game slide with a resounding 132-113 victory over Atlanta (Lonzo Ball’s second game back from injury, the dynamic point guard narrowly missing out on a triple-double) and suffice it to say, I expect the team to carry that momentum over here. Note as well that this is a revenge game for the Lakers after they fell 113-102 to the Kings in mid November. The Kings come in off a 107-100 loss in San Antonio just last night and all signs do indeed point to a predictable letdown here. So far Sacramento averages just 97.6 PPG, while conceding 106.2. De’Aaron Fox averages 9.9 points, 2.8 boards and 3.8 assists per game. LA averages 107 PPG and concedes 111.8. Brook Lopez leads the nightly charge with 12.5 points, plus 4.2 boards per game. Ball averages 10.2 points, 6.9 boards and seven assists per game. I’ll point out as well that Sacramento is 0-4 ATS in its last four against teams with a losing straight up record and just 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Western Conference, while LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 130 points or more in its previous contest. Sacramento is dealing with injury issues and is playing the second game of a back to back. After an extended stretch of futility, the last thing the Lakers can do is to “look past” this golden opportunity. Expect a similar game-plan for LA as what it featured in its win over the Hawks as its gets out and pushes the pace with its trademark run and gun style. Lay the points, play on the Lakers. Good luck…Larry |
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01-07-18 | Thunder v. Suns +8.5 | Top | 100-114 | Win | 100 | 10 h 7 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Phoenix Suns (8:05 EST). The Thunder won their second straight with a 127-117 victory over the Clippers on Thursday. The Suns enter having lost two straight, most recently a 103-89 setback in San Antonio on Friday. Note that these teams have yet to play this year, but they’d split four match ups last season with the home side winning each time. The Thunder average 104.9 PPG and concede 100.8. Russell Westbrook leads the nightly charge with 24.8 points, 9.6 boards, ten assists and 2.03 steals per game, while Paul George adds 20.6 points, 5.5 boards and 2.44 steals per game. The Suns average 105.5 PPG and concede 112.4. Devin Booker leads the way with 24.8 points, plus 4.3 assists per game. I’ll point out though that OKC is just 1-2 ATS this year off an upset win as an underdog and only 6-9 ATS against teams with losing records, while Phoenix is already 8-6 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more. With a home game against Portland on Tuesday, it’s not too hard to imagine the surging visitors in some small way looking past their lowly opponent tonight. Play on the Suns. Good luck…Larry |
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01-06-18 | Nuggets v. Kings +4 | Top | 98-106 | Win | 100 | 31 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* PEFECT STORM is on the Sacramento Kings (10:05 EST). The 20-17 Denver Nuggets are in Sacramento to take on the 12-25 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. No need to overthink this one in my opinion. Denver comes to town off a very satisfying 99-91 win at home over Utah just last night and faces a now desperate Sacramento side which comes in having lost three straight and which also plays with revenge after falling to Denver 114-98 in late November. The Kings have had three whole nights off to rest and prepare for this one as well. Additionally I’ll point out that Sacramento is 8-2 ATS in its last ten when playing with three or more days rest and already 8-7 ATS this season against good offensive teams which score 106 plus points per contest, while Denver is only 8-10 ATS this year against teams with losing records and just 1-2 ATS against good offensive teams which score 98 plus points per contest. It’s a perfect storm of situational factors working in favor of the lowly home side today and while I obviously wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Kings. Good luck…Larry |
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01-05-18 | Wolves +5.5 v. Celtics | Top | 84-91 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 8 m | Show |
My 10* NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (7:05 EST). Minnesota comes into this one focused after its 98-97 road loss in Brooklyn on Wednesday, while Boston looks primed for a letdown here against this non-conference opponent and after winning four straight, including a decisive 102-88 victory at home over Cleveland in its most recent action. The Wolves enter averaging 108.4 PPG, while conceding 105.7. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.1 points, plus 11.5 boards per game, while Andrew Wiggins adds 17.7 points, plus four boards per contest. The Celtics average 103.4 PPG and concede just 98.2. Kyrie Irving leads the team with 24.4 points, 4.9 assists and 1.23 steals per game. Note though that Minnesota is 2-1 ATS in its last three off an upset loss as a favorite, while Boston is just 8-13 ATS in its last 21 after playing three consecutive home games. With a “winnable” game at Brooklyn tomorrow night, this also sets up as a bit of a “look ahead” spot for the home side as well. While I obviously wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to grab the points as I envision this one coming right down to the wire. Play on Minnesota. Good luck…Larry |
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01-02-18 | Spurs v. Knicks +4 | Top | 100-91 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 6 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the New York Knicks (7:35 EST). The Spurs’ three-game win streak was snapped in a listless 93-79 setback in Detroit on Saturday night and suffice it to say, I believe this one sets up as a letdown spot as well. The Knicks will look to take advantage and build off a solid 105-103 road win over New Orleans, a victory which broke a four-game slide. Note that this is a revenge game for New York as well after it fell 119-107 in the first matchup this year back on December 28th. San Antonio averages 101.2 PPG and concedes just 98.1 (ranked first.) Kawhi Leonard returned in December, but he’s so far struggled, averaging 13.5 points and 3.5 boards per game. LaMarcus Aldridge has carried the Spurs on his back for the most part this year with 22 points per night average. New York averages 103.6 PPG and concedes 103.7. Kristaps Porzingis averages 24.5 points, 6.7 boards and 2.23 blocks a night, while Enes Kanter chips in 13.5 points, plus 10.3 boards per game. I’ll point out that San Antonio is just 3-5 ATS this year though when playing with two days rest and only 2-3 ATS this season off an upset loss as a favorite, while New York is 4-3 ATS when playing on two days rest and 5-4 ATS off an upset win as an underdog. Outright, straight-up upset? Obviously with a spread like this, that’s not out of the question. However, in a contest which I envision being decided late, I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end. Good luck…Larry |
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01-01-18 | Magic +4 v. Nets | Top | 95-98 | Win | 100 | 31 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the Orlando Magic (7:30 EST). The Magic will be hungry here, they come in off a 117-111 loss at home to the Heat on Saturday, their tenth loss in their last 11 games. But here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against as the Nets come in off a deflating 108-105 loss in Boston just last night. Orlando averages 104.8 PPG and concedes 110.2. Nikola Vucevic leads the team with 17.4 points, plus 9.3 boards per game. Vucevic though is out with inury. Brooklyn averages 107.5 PPG and concedes 110 per contest. D’Angelo Russell leads the team with 20.9 points and 5.7 assists per game. But Russell remains out with injury as well. Yesterday was the finale of a five-game trip for the Nets and there’s no question that this now sets up as a classic “letdown/trap” for the home side. Additionally note that Orlando is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Brooklyn just 6-8 ATS this season against clubs with losing records. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Magic. Good luck…Larry |
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12-31-17 | Lakers +14.5 v. Rockets | Top | 142-148 | Win | 100 | 28 h 39 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the LA Lakers (7:00 EST). LA won’t be lacking for motivation tonight as it’s lost five straight, including getting thrashed in the last three. Here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against, as Houston comes in floundering, having lost five straight. The Lakers have lost eight of their last nine, but their one victory was a 122-116 win over Houston on the road. LA most recently dropped a 121-106 decision to the Clippers. One bright spot was the fact that the Lakers posted 70 points in the paint. Will the Rockets get caught “looking past” the lowly Lakers tonight? I think it’s very possible, with a couple days off before another road game, this time in Orlando. Houston most recently comes in off a 121-103 loss to Washington, shooting just 42.7 percent, including only 14 of 48 from range. James Harden was a bright spot in that one with 20 points, but no rebounds to go along with four assists and five turnovers. Note that big man Clint Cappella has missed the last two games and he’s questionable for this one as well. Additionally I’ll point out that the Lakers are 10-5 ATS this year against teams with winning records and 7-5 ATS after allowing 115 points or more, while Houston is 1-2 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more and 0-4 ATS as a home fav in the 12.5 to 18 points range. Clearly Houston is the better team. But the desperate Lakers are in a good position to keep this one competitive and that’s exactly what I expect to see happen. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-30-17 | 76ers +7.5 v. Nuggets | Top | 107-102 | Win | 100 | 28 h 51 m | Show |
My 10* UNDERDOG SUPER-SHOCKER is on the Philadelphia 76ers (9:05 EST). Philadelphia will be desperate here as it comes in having lost six of its last seven. Here’s a great opponent to get untracked against, as I believe Denver has another letdown after its three game win streak was snapped in a tough OT loss to Minnesota in its latest action. Joel Embiid had 29 points in his team’s 114-110 loss at Portland. The 76ers had an 18 point lead mid-way through the third quarter, but they then completely fell apart in the fourth. Embiid won’t be playing in tonight, but I still believe this one favors the hungry visiting side. The Nuggets looked decent during their three-game win streak, but they came unravelled in their latest action. Denver has four different players that score in double digits, but I’ll point out that the Nuggets are just 3-5 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more and only 5-8 ATS in non-conference games. The 76ers on the other hand are 10-8 ATS in non-conference contests this season and 3-1 ATS after playing three consecutive road games. With a four day layoff after tonight’s game, I think the home side gets caught “looking ahead.” Philadelphia though can take nothing for granted, with another game in Phoenix tomorrow night. In a contest which I envision being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-29-17 | Clippers v. Lakers +3.5 | Top | 121-106 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 17 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the LA Lakers (10:35 EST). The 14-19 Clippers get ready to battle the 11-22 Lakers on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Lakers. The Clippers enter off a satisfying 122-95 win over the Kings on Friday, while the Lakers come in off a 109-99 setback at hime to Memphis. Note that this is a double revenge scenario for the Lakers as well, with the Clippers taking both earlier meetings, 108-92 and 115-112. The Clippers have been playing better, learning how to win without Blake Griffin in the line-up, but he could very well return tonight. I think that’s going to throw a monkey-wrench into the overall timing/chemistry that the Clippers have found of late without Griffin in the line-up. DeAndre Jordan has picked up the slack in Griffin’s absence, so far leading the NBA with an average of 15.2 RPG. So far the Clippers average 105 PPG and concede 106. The Lakers average 106.3 PPG and concede 109.8. Brandon Ingram led the way in the team’s latest setback with 23 points. I’ll point out though that the Clippers are just 1-3 ATS already this year after scoring 115 points or more in their previous contest, while the Lakers are 12-9 ATS this season trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. I think the Lakers are the much “hungrier” overall team here and I look for them to at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points, play on the Lakers. Good luck…Larry |
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12-28-17 | Wolves +2.5 v. Bucks | Top | 96-102 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 37 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (8:00 EST). The Wolves took care of business in a tight 128-125 win at home over the Nuggets last night and I look for the team to carry that momentum over here. The Bucks have lost two straight, most recently a 115-106 setback at home to the surging Chicago Bulls. Now that Minnesota sits in first in the Northwest, the Wolves will be looking to protect their lead. So far Minnesota averages 108.4 PPG and concedes 106.3. Big man Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.5 points and 11.6 boards per game, while Andrew Wiggins adds 17.5 points, plus four boards per contest. Milwaukee averages 105.2 PPG and concedes 105.8. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 29.5 points, 10.4 boards, 4.6 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.8 steals per game. Malcolm Bledsoe has chipped in 13.1 points per contest. I’ll point out though that Minnesota is 10-6 ATS on the road this year, while Milwaukee is just 6-8 ATS at home (also only 7-9 ATS as a favorite, while the Wolves are 5-3 ATS this season as the underdog.) The Wolves have been playing/travelling a lot, but I think this young core comes in focused on the task at hand and finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Minnesota. Good luck…Larry |
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12-27-17 | Wizards v. Hawks +5.5 | Top | 99-113 | Win | 100 | 27 h 14 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:35 EST). Washington looks primed for a letdown here in my opinion after winning its second straight, a 111-103 road win in Boston on Christmas Day. Atlanta on the other hand snapped a two game losing streak with a 112-107 win at home over the Mavericks. To say this is a “revenge” game for the Hawks would be an understatement, as Washington has won four straight in the series, including a 113-94 victory in the first meeting this year back in mid November. Washington averages 105.8 PPG and concedes 103.6. Guard John Wall averages 18.6 points and 8.8 assists per game. The Hawks average 103.8 PPG and concede 108.7. Dennis Schroder leads the nightly charge with 19.8 points, plus 6.7 assists per game. I’ll point out though that Washington has really struggled in this spot for bettors, going just 2-5 ATS off an upset win as an underdog and only 7-11 ATS against teams with losing records, while Atlanta is already 2-0 ATS this year after playing with three or more days rest and 6-4 ATS following a non-conference game. I think the Wiz leave the back door open just enough for the hungry Hawks to sneak in through down the stretch. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-26-17 | Raptors v. Mavs +5.5 | Top | 93-98 | Win | 100 | 27 h 46 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Dallas Mavericks (7:05 EST). The Raptors look primed for a letdown here in my opinion after winning six straight, most recently sweeping a home and home set against the 76ers. The Mavs enter having lost two straight, most recently a 112-107 setback on the road in Atlanta on Saturday. To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as well, as Toronto has won four straight and seven of nine, including both match ups last year. Toronto averages 111.3 PPG and concedes just 102.4. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.9 points and 4.9 assists per game, while big man Jonas Valanciunas averages 10.6 points and 7.7 boards per outing. Dallas averages 100 PPG and concedes 103.2. Harrison Barnes leads the team with 18.7 points and 6.8 boards per game, while Dennis Smith Jr. adds 13.8 points and 4.2 assists per game. I’ll point out though that Toronto is still just 20-21 ATS in its last 41 after allowing 90 points of less in its previous outing, while Dallas is 12-8 ATS this year against teams with winning records. With a game tomorrow night in OKC, I think the visitors get caught looking ahead and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Mavericks. Good luck…Larry |
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12-25-17 | Wolves -3.5 v. Lakers | Top | 121-104 | Win | 100 | 52 h 50 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (10:35 EST). The Wolves come in with considerable momentum, having won three straight, most recently a 115-106 road victory over Phoenix on Saturday. The Lakers enter off back-to-back losses, most recently a listless 95-92 setback at home to Portland on Saturday. Minnesota averages 108 PPG and concedes 106.3. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.5 points, plus 11.7 boards per game. Jimmy Butler had 32 points in the Wolves most recent victory. LA averages 106.6 PPG and concedes 109.4. Big man Brook Lopez averages 12.8 points plus 4.3 boards per game. I’ll point out though that Minnesota is 5-1 ATS in its last six on the road, while LA is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 95 points or less in its previous contest. These two teams are moving in opposite directions right now. The Wolves have won their first two games of this three game trip and now have a two game lead in the Northwest. I like Minnesota to finish up its road trip strong and to take advantage of the scuffling Lakers. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-23-17 | 76ers +10.5 v. Raptors | Top | 86-102 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 58 m | Show |
My 10* EAST-CONF GAME OF MONTH is on the Philadelphia 76ers (5:05 EST). Toronto is a pretty good team. But I don’t think it’s a “great team.” It’s hard to beat a team three times in the same season. The 76ers play with double revenge here, having dropped both earlier meetings against the Raptors this year, including a 114-109 setback in Philadelphia on Thursday. In that game the 76ers had a 20 points lead early in the third quarter. DeMar DeRozan though had different ideas for the visiting Raptors, as he helped his team claw back for the victory with a career high 45 points. Philadelphia averages 108.6 PPG and concedes 109.4. Rookie phenom Ben Simmons averages 17.3 points, nine boards, 7.8 assists and two steals per game. Toronto averages 111.6 PPG and concedes 103. DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.7 points, plus 5.7 assists per game. As mentioned off the top though, it’s very difficult even for great teams to beat a poor team three times in one season. Clearly the 76ers can’t “look past” Toronto to their Christmas Day matchup with the Knicks as they come in having lost four straight and eight of their last ten. Could the Raptors get caught looking ahead to their Christmas break? Very possible of course. Toronto has won nine of ten, including five straight and two straight on the road. With a game in Dallas on Boxing Day, I do believe that the Raptors will finally have a letdown here against this extremely desperate 76ers side. Whether big man Joel Embiid plays or not for Philadelphia, I like the visitors to keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Good luck…Larry |
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12-21-17 | Celtics v. Knicks +4 | Top | 93-102 | Win | 100 | 10 h 11 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the New York Knicks (8:05 EST). Boston comes in off a loss at home just last night to the Heat. The Celtics have been decent in the second game of back-to-back scenarios this year, but I think they’ll stumble again tonight against this revenge-minded Knicks side. New York will be eager to get untracked after its four game win streak was snapped in a 109-91 road loss to Charlotte on Monday. And as mentioned off the top, the Knicks do indeed play with “the revenge factor” tonight after falling 110-89 in the first matchup this season in late October. And with a much more “winnable” game at home against the Bulls on Saturday, before their Christmas Day matchup at home against the Wizards, it’s definitely not too hard to picture the visitors also getting caught “looking ahead.” New York on the other hand has a tough game at Detroit tomorrow night, before its Christmas Day game at home against Philadelphia. There’s no question that tonight’s contest takes on added importance. I base my picks on many things, but this one sets up great from situational and scheduling stand points. New York is better at home (14-5 SU/ATS) than on the road and star Kristaps Porzingis is back in the line-up. Celtics coach Brad Stevens could very well give starters extra rest in the tail end of the back-to-back as well. When you add it all up, all signs point to a comfortable ATS cover for the home side. Play on New York. Good luck…Larry |
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12-20-17 | Wolves +2.5 v. Nuggets | Top | 112-104 | Win | 100 | 29 h 25 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:05 EST). The 18-13 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Denver to take on the 16-14 Nuggets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. Minnesota enters off a momentum building 108-107 win over the Blazers on Monday, while the Nuggets come in off a deflating 95-94 loss to OKC in their latest action. The Wolves are 6-4 in their last ten. Minnesota averages 107.6 PPG and concedes 106.4. Jimmy Butler exploded for 37 points and six boards in his teams latest victory. The Nuggets average 107.4 PPG and concede 107.1. Garry Harris had 17 points in the road loss to the Thunder. I’ll point out that Minnesota is 4-1 ATS vs. division opponents already this year and 6-2 ATS when playing the role of underdog, while Denver is interestingly just 6-8 ATS this year against poor defensive teams which allow 106-plus points per contest and just 2-3 ATS against division opponents. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Wolves. Good luck…Larry |
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12-18-17 | Jazz +12 v. Rockets | Top | 99-120 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 19 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Utah Jazz (8:05 EST). Houston has won 13 straight and has lost only four times this year. However, the Rockets are just 15-12-1 ATS. Utah has struggled overall this season, due mostly from injuries to key players, but I think it’ll keep this one competitive enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door. The Jazz are injured, but they won’t be lacking for motivation tonight after dropping five of their last six, most recently a spirited 109-100 setback in Cleveland. Donovan Mitchell was a standout in that one with 26 points. Houston has been impressive, but I think it comes out flat-footed here finally as it hits a “vanilla” part of its schedule, with light weights Lakers and Clippers at home up next. I’ll point out as well that Utah is still 4-1 ATS in its last five against the West, while perhaps surprisingly, the Rockets are only 1-3-1 ATS in their last five overall. The Jazz have been playing without big man Rudy Gobert for a while now, but now the Rockets must also make an adjustment with center Clint Cappela out with injury. For all the reason listed above, play on the Jazz. Good luck…Larry |
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12-17-17 | Cavs v. Wizards +1.5 | Top | 106-99 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 25 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Washington Wizards (6:05 EST). No need to overthink this one in my opinion. After a shaky start to the 2017/18 campaign, Cleveland comes in having won 17 of its last 18 after last night’s 109-100 victory over Utah. After Washington the Cavs have a tough one at Milwaukee on Tuesday, followed by a cream puff at home against the Bulls, which precedes their big Christmas Day matchup at Golden State. Off last night’s satisfying victory, I think Cleveland comes out flat-footed here. Washington has won two straight and it’s going to be looking to keep the momentum rolling tonight. Note that the Wizards also play with revenge in this matchup after falling 130-122 to the Cavs back on November 3rd. The Wizards look a lot better with star point guard John Wall back in the line-up and I believe his presence continues to pay dividends for Washington this evening. Play on the Wizards. Good luck…Larry |
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12-14-17 | Kings v. Wolves -10.5 | Top | 96-119 | Win | 100 | 29 h 24 m | Show |
This is 10* Las Vegas Insider on the Minnesota Timberwolves (8:05 EST). I base my selections on many different things. For this particular pick I’m basing it on common sense. Minnesota had won two in a row before an OT loss to Philadelphia. But with three straight home games against suspect competition (with the Suns and Blazers up next), there’s no question that this sets up as an important early game for the playoff hopeful Wolves, who will look to take advantage of this favorable matchup. Sacramento comes in off a highly satisfying 99-92 win over Phoenix and I think it gets caught “looking ahead” to the remainder of its incredibly tough road trip, with upcoming stops at Toronto, Philadelphia and Brooklyn, before a game at home against the Spurs. I’ll point out as well that the Kings are interestingly just 1-5 ATS in their last six after a victory in which they’ve scored 100 points or less, while Minnesota is 3-1 ATS in its last four after two or more consecutive SU losses. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Wolves. Good luck…Larry |
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12-12-17 | 76ers +5.5 v. Wolves | Top | 118-112 | Win | 100 | 11 h 53 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Philadelphia 76ers (8:05 EST). Philadelphia could be without big man Joel Embiid in this one, but whether he plays or not, I think the desperate 76ers will at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. And that’s because the visitors come to town having lost four straight, most recently a hard-fought 131-124 road loss to New Orleans on Sunday. The Wolves enter off a 97-92 home win over the Mavericks. These teams split a pair of games last year, with each winning on the others home floor. Philadelphia comes in averaging 108.2 PPG, while conceding 108.8. Ben Simmons averages 18 points, 9.1 boards, 7.7 assists and 2.08 steals per contest. Minnesota holds a 1.5 game lead in the Northwest Division. The Wolves average 107.1 PPG and concede 106.3. Andrew Wiggins averages 18.2 points, plus four boards per game. I’ll point out though that Philadelphia is 9-5 ATS in non-conference games this year and 3-2 ATS after allowing 115 points or more, while Minnesota is just 1-7 ATS in non-conference contests this season and just 4-8 ATS in front of the home town crowd. The Wolves have hit a very “vanilla” part of their schedule, with upcoming games against bottom feeders Sacramento and Phoenix at home next. It’s not too hard to imagine Minnesota get caught looking past their lowly Eastern conference opponent tonight. As mentioned off the top, whether Embiid plays or not, I think the intensity in which the 76ers play with tonight turns out to the be the difference. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-11-17 | Raptors v. Clippers +6 | Top | 91-96 | Win | 100 | 14 h 16 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the LA Clipeprs (10:35 EST). The 17-7 Toronto Raptors are in LA to take on the 9-15 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The Clippers broke a four-game slide with a gutty 113-112 home win over Washington last time out and I expect them to carry that momentum over here. And with an extended Eastern Conference road swing starting on Wednesday, tonight’s game takes on added importance for LA. The Raptors have won six straight and come in off a highly satisfying 102-87 victory over the Kings just last night. With a game at Phoenix on Wednesday, there’s no doubt that tonight’s contest sets up as a classic “letdown/lookahead” for the visitors in my opinion. LA is without leader Blake Griffin, but it still has five players that are averaging in double figures. Offense isn’t an issue for the Clippers, it’s their defense. Which normally would spell disaster facing the extremely deep and talented Raptors, but fortunately for LA it catches them on the tail-end of the back-to-back scenario. A great situational play in my opinion and a mistake made by the oddsmakers. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Clippers. Good luck…Larry |
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12-09-17 | Magic v. Hawks -2 | Top | 110-117 | Win | 100 | 27 h 37 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:35 EST). Orlando took the first game of this home and home series 110-106 in OT on Wednesday. Suffice it to say, I think it’s “payback” time! Atlanta averages 102.8 PPG and concedes 108.6. Dennis Schroeder leads the way with 20.5 points, plus 6.5 assists per game, while Marco Belinelli chips in 12 points and 2.5 boards. Note that the Hawks are tied for fourth in the league in three point shooting percentage (37.9.) The Hawks haven’t played since the loss to the Magic, but Orlando was in action just last night, falling 103-89 at home to the Nuggets. It’s interesting to note that Orlando is just 4-7 ATS this year against poor defensive teams which allow 106-plus points per contest, while ATL is 5-3 ATS this season against good offensive teams which score 106-plus points per game. I think Orlando comes in with “heavy legs” and I look for the revenge minded Hawks to take full advantage. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-03-17 | Clippers v. Wolves -12.5 | Top | 106-112 | Loss | -103 | 11 h 1 m | Show |
My 10* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (7:00 EST). The Clippers lost the services of Blake Griffin to a knee injury for a few weeks and last night they came out and laid and egg in a 108-82 setback in Dallas. The Wolves have been alrternating wins and losses of late and most recently fell 111-107 to a desperate OKC team on the road on Friday. LA averages 105.9 PPG, while conceding 107.2. Griffin had been leading the nightly charge with 23.6 points, plus 7.9 boards per game, but DeAndre Jordan is the main man now with Griffin sidelined. Jordan averages 10.8 points, plus 13,8 boards per game. Minnesota averages 107.7 PPG and concedes 107.4. Karl Anthony Towns averages 20.5 points and 11.6 boards per game, while Andrew Wiggins adds 19.2 points and 4.1 boards. I’ll point out that LA is 0-5 ATS in its last five in the second game of the back to back, while Minnesota is a solid 5-0-1 ATS in its last six against the Western Conference. The Clippers are “gassed” and under-manned. The Wolves are rested and hungry. This will be a slaughter from start to finish. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry |
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12-02-17 | Kings v. Bucks -11.5 | Top | 104-109 | Loss | -105 | 13 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:35 EST). No need to overthink this one in my opinion. Sacramento comes in off an extremely rare 107-106 win in Chicago just last night and I fully expect a predictable letdown here. Milwaukee enters off a second straight win after beating Portland 103-91 on the road Thursday. And if recent history is any precedence, then the Bucks have to be loving their chances for another big performance tonight, because when these teams played in Sacramento just last week, it was Milwaukee which secured the relatively simple 112-87 victory. Despite last night’s win, note that the Kings still average just 94.7 PPG, while ranked last in the league in three point shooting at just 38.1 percent from range. The Bucks average 102.9 PPG and concede 103.9. Giannis Antetokounmpo averages 29.2 points, 10.1 boards, 4.5 assists and 1.74 steals. The Bucks are a deep team, which gets balanced scoring. I’ll point out as well that Sacramento is 0-4-1 ATS in its last five in the second game of a back-to-back scenario, while Milwaukee is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six against a team with a win percentage below .400. Milwaukee returns home off a successful trip and just hammered the Kings by 25 last week. All signs point to another blowout, so lay the points with confidence. Good luck…Larry |
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12-01-17 | Wolves v. Thunder -4.5 | Top | 107-111 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 20 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:05 EST). Minnesota comes to town off a very satisfying 120-102 road win over New Orleans on Wednesday, while Oklahoma City dropped its third straight in a listless 121-108 road loss to Orlando on Friday. Note that the Wolves are already 2-0 in the season series with OKC this year, meaning that the Thunder are definitely out for some revenge tonight. Minnesota averages 107.8 PPG and concedes 107.2. Andrew Wiggins averages 19 points and 4.1 boards per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns adds 20.4 points and 11.7 boards. OKC averages just 102.3 PPG, but it concedes just 99.3. Russell Westbrok averages 22.4 points, 9.2 boards, 9.5 assists and 2.2 steals per game, while Paul George adds 20.5 points, 5.9 boards and 2.75 steals per game. I’ll point out that Minnesota is just 1-3 ATS this year already after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Oklahoma City is 5-3 ATS at home this season and 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive SU losses. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Thunder. Good luck…Larry |