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After a losing road trip the Trailblazers took care of business against the Thunder. Now they head back onto the road aiming to win a third matchup of the season against Denver. One of those match ups was an overtime win in Denver October 29th, in which the Trailblazers erased an eight point lead in the final two minutes. While many may see motivation on the side of the Nuggets combined with the Trailblazers slide as an angle, I'll side with the value of another Portland win over Denver.

Here we'll take a look at a Pelicans team that's regaining health and value. Indiana on the other hand has struggled with consistent play over their last three games. Two of the three were wins which may seem strange, but in both they needed to rally either from surrendering a steep deficit or in comeback fashion. Traveling in consecutive nights should extend that weakness as the Pelicans are becoming a potent offensive team. Grab the Pelicans.

Two 7-3 teams will battle it out Thursday as College of Charleston heads to East Carolina. The Pirates are coming off a steep twenty-three point loss to Virginia, and should have thoughts of getting out early against Charleston. While East Carolina may be the veteran team and at home, Charleston has the better core talent and cohesiveness. Grab the small line on the underdog Cougars.

Detroit

Off a poor home loss to the 76ers, one would believe the Pistons are vulnerable here on the road against the Mavericks.

Yet, the Pistons are a capable team of bouncing back here. Even on the road, one can not mask the poor play the Mavericks have exhibited. 

Imbalance with youth and veterans is an odd mix that doesn't bode well against a reliable depth-laden Pistons team.

The sports betting market is always quick to remember the cinderellas, especially in non-conference play. Middle Tennessee State was one last year as they advanced to the sweet sixteen. Facing Belmont hasn't tricked oddsmakers, and I believe this line should be slightly in their favor. They have a way of finishing off games as they did recently against Evansville, and will do so here again tonight. Grab Belmont.

Monmouth +3.5

Based on strength of schedule one can see why Memphis is the slight favorite. They're the home team tonight and the well known school. Yet, neither Monmouth or Memphis has been stellar in non-conference play. Both have lost to the main schools on their schedule---Monmouth (Cuse, South Carolina), and Memphis-(Providence, Ole Miss). This is where I'll lean to a veteran Monmouth team that's played several top schools dating back to last season. Lacking the same fire power as a year ago may stray folks from backing Monmouth as their last three wins over Canisius, Wagner, and Army have been subpar. Grab the contrarian play here with Monmouth.

Portland's sloppy road trip continued to go worse as they blew a 98-90 fourth quarter lead, regain the lead back to six, and lost it once again.

This doesn't seem to bode well for them on Monday as they travel to Los Angeles, a team that has already exacted revenge for last year's playoff exit twice.

To get the job done Monday, I expect the Trailblazers to capitalize against a boosted line here.

Both the Trailblazers guards are playing at peak levels right now, and if one other player can get back on track this should be an easy cover.

The Pelicans lost in embarrassing fashion on Saturday to the Clippers. With several starters out--including key star Anthony Davis who DNP due to rest. Expecting the Pelicans to be refreshed against a Suns team they took to overtime at home is a factor here. Phoenix is also a team that's not shown consistency off a key win, as they just defeated the Lakers. Yet, I like the Suns here to grow off of Friday's win and keep the Pelicans reeling on their current road trip.

Not often will I play against a team on consecutive days, but Sunday I will with the Timberwolves. Golden State is coming off a steep loss to the Grizzlies in which they weren't in it from the onset. Minnesota on the other hand has been abysmal ATS, because of the inability to finish games. Three quarters in they've been competitive. At home and playing the best team in the NBA, I do not expect their motivation to fall apart late. Grab the Timberwolves on a line that should be closer to 7.5-8.

The Detroit Pistons are coming off two impressive wins including a blowout win over the Timberwolves. Their value is even higher as they've been a different team on their home floor. That figures to play into the hands of a 76ers team that is subpar on paper and poor on the road. Yet, I see the 76ers coming to play in this one. Grab the value on the high line.

Memphis +10.5

For Saturday we'll back the home Grizzlies who many may believe are an illusion at this point. A five game win streak has boosted their record from 11-8 to 16-8. Each win was slim with none higher than five points. The competition in those wins can also be a question mark. Yet, this Grizzlies team knows how to stay in games and is riding the great underrated play of Marc Gasol. With the Warriors having won in easy fashion as of late, I'd be leery with how they finished of their last win against the Jazz. Grab the Grizzlies.

Are the Bruins seeing too high of a line adjustment or are they still devalued? I'm on the devalued side especially against a Michigan team that's issues are hidden via their record. They lack the ability to play two halves of solid basketball which is a scary proposition against an old school potent Bruins squad.

Off a poor loss the Butler Bulldogs will look to bounce back against a Bearcats team built to play for forty minutes. Yet, the Bearcats have had a long layoff not having played since last Sunday. They've also not traveled much early in the season with all home games besides their win against Iowa State and an early tournament in Connecticut. Grab the Bulldogs here on downgraded value off their first loss.

On paper one has to wonder why Dayton is a seven point favorite. East Tennessee State not only has shown great scoring ability but also turns teams over at a high rate. While Dayton may not be at it's strength of two seasons ago they have a carbon copy of style of basketball that East Tennessee State tries to enforce. A smaller rotation on Dayton's side equals better balance in my opinion. The Bucs depth and lack of solidified rotation hurts them in this matchup. Grab the Flyers.

We'll grab the Irish in a spot that makes you do a double-take on the spread. Villanova has been a non-conference juggernaut ATS the last three seasons and also have their March tournament run fresh on people's minds. Yet, the one flaw on this newly made over Villanova team is excelling on the defensive end of the floor. Minus big man Daniel Ochefu interior shot blocking is gone, and on-ball defense is not as strong as well without Ryan Arch. Look for the veteran Irish to stand ground as their record suggests and get a big day from VJ Beecham and Steve Vastruria.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have looked out of sorts since Ricky Rubio returned from injury. The ball is not moving fluidly and frankly the youth is showing. Home/away losses to the Knicks, and a loss to the Spurs have detracted their value against a Raptors team that has been a strong home team. With the Raptors losing their latest game to the Cavs many may want to jump on the Raptors here. Instead, grab the roster versus roster value here on the Timberwolves who are much more athletic and have a size advantage over the Raptors.

Traveling across the country to take on UMass will be Pacific University. The Minute Men have failed to play to their optimal levels thus far this season, and should get another challenge here from a decent Pacific squad. While many will anticipate a travel factor and UMass poised to break out, side with the underdogs here.

It's not typical to see a team play three games in three nights. Amidst the NBA's plans to adjust scheduling to avoid such, some people may get caught into the Bulls current slide. They've lost in consecutive nights and are facing a Detroit team that's 7-3 at home. Off a home loss to the Magic one would expect the Pistons to bounce back strongly here against a tired Bulls team. Instead we'll grab the Bulls to challenge the Pistons with a deep roster, and get unexpected points from one of their young talented bench players.

One thing for sure Tuesday night is little to no defense will be played between the Phoenix and Central Michigan. Expected offensive outbursts usually sway to the home team, especially early in the season in non-conference. In fact Central Michigan defeated the Phoenix 89-77 at Green Bay. In the win the Chippewas erased a four point half time deficit. Expect the Phoenix to be ready to play for a full forty minutes this time with the loss fresh on their minds. Grab the Phoenix.

Having lost three of four Rhode Island's value has diminished. Yet, this is a talented Rams team that will bring their value back up to tournament standards before conference play. Facing an Old Dominion team that's two losses were by six points each to Louisville and LSU figures to link bettors to their side. But the Monarchs are a low scoring team and that should pose to the side of the Rams who are an efficient half court defensive and offensive team.

Teams traveling from coast to coast on a road trip aren't supposed to gain in value ATS. Yet, the Kings won outright against the Nets, pushed against the Wizards, and covered by a point against the Celtics. The Knicks on the other hand have won consecutive games against the Timberwolves to push themselves back above .500. So why is this line so small? A season ago the Kings swept the Knicks, which included a home game in which they nearly blew a nineteen point lead. The fact that the Knicks have added better pieces does not mask the issues they still have defensively. Even minus Rajon Rondo the Kings have proper balance to cause the Knicks problems once again.

It may be two years since Georgia State's great run in the NCAA tournament, but they've kept their recruiting principles in line. Miss State on the other hand is a conundrum hard to figure out. They've had solid wins against Boise State and in their latest game against Oregon State, yet have lost to UCF and Lehigh. Look for Georgia State to prove to be the better two-loss team here.

We'll grab Monmouth against MAAC conference opponent Canisius. The Golden Griffins have won two straight while Monmouth has bounced back nicely since losing to South Carolina and Syracuse. With both teams excelling at scoring, one may want to lean Canisius getting so many points. Yet, I expect Monmouth to be able to land more scoring punches and outscore the Golden Griffins.

Here we have a rematch from a few weeks back between the Magic and 76ers. When both were winless the Magic eked out a two-point win at Philadelphia as a five point favorite. In fact, they faced steep deficits in the matchup before rallying back with a 41 point third quarter. Fatigue is factored into this line swaying as well as the 76ers detracted value amidst their poor start. Grab the 76ers who should wear out a road weary Magic team.

Pittsburgh -15

We're going to go ahead and add a play on Pittsburgh tonight against Duquense. Pittsburgh's on floor talent isn't going to blow anyone away, but they are as spurt team. Duquense's lack of size is a prime factor for a Pittsburgh team that can muscle to the hoop in the interior and excels at rebounding. Look for offensive rebounds and turnovers to be the spread toppler here. 

An intriguing night cap matchup sets the stage Thursday night. Here, we'll aim to grab the value with the underdog in UT San Antonio. UT San Antonio has already thrived in underdog roles this season against Fresno State, Oregon State, and UIC. In fact, they have lost all four match ups they've had on the road. Still, Cal Poly is a work in progress offensively, which should bode to the advantage of a feisty UT San Antonio team. Grab the Road Runners.

After losing to the Bucks in blowout fashion one would expect the Cavaliers to bring their A game on Thursday. Yet, the Clippers are also coming off a poor loss to the Nets. One in which their head coach Doc Rivers was ejected with intense emotions. Three straight losses on an East coast road trip to the Pistons, Pacers, and Nets, would lead to the assumption that another downfall is expected Thursday. Instead, look for the Clippers to attack a Cavaliers team they've had scoring success against.

Seton Hall is coming off a loss to a Stanford team in which they blew an early first-half double digit lead. The Pirates transition offense was halted, which is where I believe Columbia can thrive Thursday. With a steep point spread, look for a key sequence from Columbia to carry us to an ATS cover.

ASU

Last year the Arizona State Sun Devils saw first hand the dominance of the Wildcats. After controlling the first half the Devils quickly caved and allowed a late surge from the Wildcats. It was enough just to topple a 13.5 point spread. Now a younger team compared to last year's veteran team you'd expect the Devils to be in for another loss to a stronger Wildcats team. Yet, I expect ASU to not go through the same offensive lulls experienced last year and to give the Wildcats a true test.

Sunday, we'll grab Stanford in a spot that would seem suited for the Seton Hall Pirates. After all the Cardinal struggled to match a poor shooting Miami Hurricanes team in their latest loss. Yet, there were positive signs to be taken from that game. Look for the Cardinal to find better balanced offense here and showcase their typical sound defense.

Orlando Magic +2

Post Thanksgiving serves us one of the best line traps of the season involving the Washington Wizards and Orlando Magic. Already this season the Magic defeated the Wizards 88-86 on their home floor, in a game they won with lackadaisical effort. With the Wizards having won two of their last three, they're finally showing signs of life. Yet, they're 0-5 on the road and continually dig themselves a hole in the first quarter. Look for the Magic to get out early and hold on for the ATS cover.

Mercer

An intriguing game on Friday will take place between Mercer and East Carolina. Mercer comes in as a slight favorite in large part as they battle an experienced East Carolina team. Both teams have issues with scoring efficiency, which would lead you to lean with the Pirates depth and experience. Instead grab Mercer here which is devalued and capable of raising their offensive efficiency to levels seen last year.  

New Mexico +5

Is the Virginia Tech program ready to make a semi-leap before conference play in the ACC? Under Buzz Williams they've certainly grown as a program in two short seasons. Still, a factor to consider here is the size and depth of the Lobos. Size has consistently given the Hokies trouble in particular at the forward position. Forward Tim Williams who averages over 23 PPG and tall athletic former Butler guard in Elijah Brown should pose for a long day for the Hokies. 

Temple +10.5

There is no denying the talent disparity between Temple and Florida State. In fact, if this game was played even two to three weeks down the road it may have been a play on Florida State. Instead, this is an early season game that bodes to the advantage of the Temple Owls. Look for the Owls yearly system of tough defense and timely scoring to outpace Florida State's frenetic flow.

Boston

People still aren't buying the Celtics as a strong team let alone sizable home favorite. Combine that with being a road favorite and there is even more disinterest. Yet, the Nets are starting to show heavier cracks to their overall team, in particular on their most recent West Coast road trip. Those issues lingered over in their home loss to the Trailblazers this weekend. Grab the Celtics to showcase one of their stronger outings of the season tonight.

Chicago's strong west coast road trip has not lost steam. They'll look to add their fourth win on the trip against another difficult opponent in the Denver Nuggets. Both teams exhibit an up and down tempo, yet the Bulls also have the capability of honing in on defense when necessary. Grab the Bulls to cash as small road favorites

Towson

We won't be fooled here by the ACC Boston College Eagles. They'll face Towson on Tuesday as slight underdogs. Frankly, Boston College has failed to inherit ACC caliber players and lost key talent last year via transfer. Grab Towson to dictate this matchup for the full forty minutes.

Play Charlotte 

Cavaliers

Cleveland looks to bounce back after a loss to the Pacers on Wednesday. In the matchup LeBron sat out for rest and JR Smith didn't play as well. This is a spot where a sizable line may look favorable for the underdog. After all the Pistons size and team skill posed problems for the Cavaliers in the playoffs. Yet, the Pistons bring a different level of play out of the Cavaliers especially from the three point line. Grab the Cavaliers to go on a patented second half run and pull away from the Pistons.

Texas A&M

Re-tooling is something the Texas A&M Aggies prepared for last season even while starting four seniors. That's hard to do and one USC has struggled with as they've continually shuffled a new lineup each of the past three seasons. Grab the Aggies here to show the strength of their roster.

SMU

Two teams that were superb yesterday battle in MSG for tonights' 2KClassic championship. This is a rematch of last year's matchup in which SMU blew out Michigan. The notion here may be to jump on Michigan which looks refreshed with a new core of talent. Yet, SMU is an underrated defensive team, especially against perimeter oriented teams. They'll get out in transition similar to last season and win the 2K Classic.

Northern Kentucky

The Colonels are a team that has lost a bit since their strong run as a fifteenth seed a few years back. They'll be up for a tough challenge against an Austin Peay team that scores in bunches. In a line that is minimal will side with the home Colonels.

Bulls

The Chicago Bulls look to continue off their strong win against the Portland Trailblazers. In it they did not need much defense as the Trailblazers were cold. With injuries in their lineup facing a healthy Jazz team figures to be troublesome. Yet, Utah has tricked bettors as of late with hot/cold runs with the ability to control the pace of games. Here, I like Chicago's pace to dictate tempo and continue their road trip success.

Temple

There's no doubt that the Temple Owls have lost a bit each of the last two seasons. Former Atlantic 10 representative will take on UMass in an old rivalry. This rivalry is not forgotten and I expect the close point spread to be indicative of the outcome. Grab Temple to pull within the small number.

Charlotte

It's certainly odd to see Charlotte as a favorite at any juncture this early in the season let alone against an American conference opponent. Charlotte took it's licks last season as Mark Price took the reigns over on a program that struggled with solid talent the year prior. Now in his second year your starting to see the 49ers blossom a bit. East Carolina has a core group of talent that's played beneath their talent level. Look for the 49ers to capitalize on that Thursday.

Cleveland

The Cavaliers played a neck and neck game on their home floor against the Toronto Raptors. Defensively the Cavaliers struggled to contain the Raptors and one would figure more of the same in a back to back scenario against the Pacers. Yet even with an improved roster the Pacers have been prone to offensive droughts. Grab the Cavaliers to pull a close one off ATS.

Texas State

Over the last several years Hawaii has been a strong team to back early in the season. One, they always host tournaments and two, the time zone change is a prime factor for college athletes.

Yet, Texas State is a matchup problem for Hawaii. They have a similar style of play and I do not expect a tournament lull from them here. Grab the points with the Bobcats.

Texas San Antonio

Texas San Antonio's has went through a bit of a down period, and will be catching a steep nineteen points on Sunday.

Oregon State has shown the ability to pull off upsets within the Pac-12 but are still a program that will skirt on the outside of the top fifty in college basketball.

In a forty minute game expect Texas San Antonio to fight and creep within this number late.

Bradley

Quick turn arounds don't happen too often at the mid-major level. Yet, former Green Bay Coach Brian Wardle has done that in his second season at Bradley. After severe struggles last season the team showed the type of spark at the tail end that you look for. Delaware on the other hand is a veteran team that does not have the right makeup of players to contend with the Braves. Grab Bradley here.

Houston Rockets

After a five game road trip the Rockets host the Spurs. The Spurs shook off the cobwebs of their home woes last night defeating the Pistons. As expected Coach Poppovich utilized the Spurs bench to preserve minutes for tonight. That, a 4-0 away record, and revenge for the Spurs losing as 8.5 point underdogs to the Rockets serve as value on the Spurs side tonight. Yet, this Spurs team is not a crisp as it was to start the season. Grab the Rockets as slight underdogs here.

St. Joseph's

Replacing two top scorers has left St. Joseph's vulnerable for offense. This seems troublesome against a MAC Toledo team that is solid in transition and half court sets. Yet an issue that hurt Toledo last regular season is their poor defense. This is where X's and O's can trump on court talent. St. Joseph's will have the proper game plan and cover the small number.

Undoubtedly the loss of Stacy Davis to graduation for Pepperdine is an irreplaceable starter in a conference such as the WCC. Yet, small schools that retain three to four year players find their ways through checks and balances. Pepperdine boasts seniors Jett Raines, Lamond Murray Jr., and Jeremy Major. Cal Poly on the other hand is a program in decline from the promise they showcased two seasons ago. Grab Pepperdine.

Cal Irvine is a respectable program that has done a solid job at recruiting under the radar recruits. They've also pulled off some quality upsets over the years. Yet, they've been slow out of the gates before getting things into gear. Losses to UofA, Texas-Arlington to name a few off the top of my head. Sometimes coaches will over emphasize a good start to a season and get into their own players heads. Grab the value here on Utah State.

UCLA once again meets Pacific a team last year they were 14.5-15.5 point favorites against. This year the line has climbed which would figure to bode to the underdog. Yet, in the game last year UCLA toyed with Pacific and handled them with ease defensively. Grab UCLA to pour it on from last year's showcase.

Spurs -8.5

The Detroit Pistons value thus far ATS has come with a strong home record. On the road they've been abysmal as their offense is lacking an identity. If it's not Andre Drummond in the post, it's usually an errant shot from Tobias Harris or a wing player. This plays into the hands of the Spurs that have a shocking home record below .500, but have also played teams such as the Jazz, Rockets, and Clippers. Grab the Spurs here.

New York Knicks +5.5

Everyone is waiting for the Celtics to showcase the skill we all expected. Expectations can be the biggest downfall early in the season for attractors ATS. Frankly, this Celtics team is not a top team in the East at the moment. Signs were shown in the playoffs and was the main reason Danny Ainge revamped the roster. The Knicks on the other hand have played three consecutive games of a tale of two-halves basketball that may detract people here on the road. Instead, grab the Knicks to carry over the momentum of a comeback home win against the Nets.

Orlando Magic +5

Utah's revamped team has shown to play better offense, but a long road trip appears to have worn on them. Lets not forget Gordon Hayward made his return against the Knicks, and the Jazz have implemented a deeper rotation minutes wise. It's the same scenario the Magic have struggled with, including a steep home loss to the Timberwolves in their latest game. Yet, grab the Magic here to showcase offense against the Jazz.

East Tennessee State was one of those teams last year that maybe had too much talent at their disposal. They upset teams such as Green Bay and Georgia Tech, but faltered when you least expected. Exposure at the end of the season saw a team that started to figure it out. Although Fordham has become a more respectable A-10 team this is an opening game they'll struggle in. Grab East Tennessee State.

Here is another steep number to start the season as College of Charleston takes on Citadel. Both of these schools are close in-state in South Carolina. The contrast of styles is one that oddsmakers have pointed out with a sizable line. Citadel's struggled over the years to put up points even during the new rules change last season. Grab Charleston's tempo and factor to win against a close college to pull through here.

Sometimes turn arounds under a program with a respectable Coach can be a bit exaggerated. Frank Martin got the most out of his South Carolina team last year especially in non-conference play. Opening against Louisiana Tech is a much higher step up than opponents they faced in non-conference last year. Grab Louisiana Tech who has always been a team to play respectable teams in non-conference and fare well against the number.

Both Marquette and Vanderbilt lost big man in the interior. You'd expect the advantage here to lie with Marquette as they have speedy guards and solid shooting. Yet, two years ago Coach Wojo struggled to lead his team in close games. That was a bump they cleared at a better rate last year. Expect Marquette's old ways of not closing games to lurk big on a small number. Grab Vanderbilt.

Sacramento

During the Kings road trip a week ago they could not get out of their own way in losses to the Heat, Magic, and Bucks. Yet a Sunday win against the Raptors in Canada has boosted their confidence. Sometimes teams return home from a long road trip and play sloppy in their first game. The Kings did so against a winless Pelicans team but still managed to cover the number. In a prime time network game people are always quick to remember their last visual of a team. The Lakers knocked off the Warriors in impressive fashion. Play the contrarian angle here on a Kings team refreshed and focused in a new arena.

New Orleans +4.5

The Pelicans continue a road trip after losing both games in California to the Warriors and Kings. 0-8 and traveling to Wisconsin figures to be a poor outcome for the Pelicans. Instead I've seen a team that has been in a handful of their losses. They were competitive in both games against Golden State, a game against Denver, their latest loss to the Kings, and played in two overtime games. The Pelicans may falter again in a close affair but they'll cover the number.

NY Knicks -8

The Nets come off an impressive home win last night as five point underdogs. They defeated the Timberwolves with efficient scoring from a plethora of players. Traveling from Brooklyn to Manhattan figures to be as minuscule of a road factor in a back to back scenario. Yet, I like the Knicks veteran lineup and leadership to get back on track from an early Sunday loss to the Jazz. Grab the Knicks here.

Memphis

Attraction on Memphis is hard to calculate. They've dealt with injuries upon injuries and now Mike Conley is questionable for Tuesday's game. Chandler Parsons return on Saturday did not fare as well as planned as he went 0-8 from the field. With scoring balance in doubt the notion would be to take the Nuggets here who just put up 123 on the Celtics. Yet, this is a conference matchup where both teams have advanced scouting on each other's rosters. Take the Grizzlies to wear down a Nuggets team that is playing their sixth of seventh road game to start the season. 

Phoenix +3

The Lakers are at their highest value ATS since Kobe's last healthy season. After a big win over the Warriors in front of a national televised audience the Lakers must maintain focus with a young team combined with new Coach Luke Walton. I expect both the Lakers personnel on the court to have a letdown but also Coach Walton after an emotional high defeating his ex-team. An added bonus value here is the fact that the Suns are on on of the oddest road trips in recent years. Phoenix traveled to New Orleans on Friday and now back to LA before a Tuesday game in Portland. A noteworthy fact pointed out by long-time Suns color commentator Eddie Johnson, who does not ever recall a trip as such. Yet, the Suns offense seems to be gaining steam as Earl Watson configures more minutes for TJ Warren, Brandon Knight, and rookie spark plug Marquesse Chriss.

An East coast road trip figures to detract value on the Denver Nuggets. In fact last year the Nuggets were down by twenty points in the fourth quarter at Boston before rallying back for a backdoor cover. This is a scenario where you would expect an improved Boston roster to thrive at home. Instead grab the value on the Nuggets having learned last years matchup.

Utah -1

Utah here as a small favorite has all the variables to take the home Knicks. First, the Knicks are riding an emotional high as ex-Bulls D. Rose and Joakim Noah upset the red-hot Bulls in Chicago. Utah, on the other hand detracted value with a poor home loss to the Spurs. Flying across the country to New York for an early AM game with daylight savings change over is another variable to side with the Knicks. Instead, we'll take the Jazz who have been a hot-potato offensively but should come to life against a poor Knicks defensive team.

OKC

After a big letdown loss against the Warriors, the public/sharps likely will look to fade the Thunder here against a Timberwolves team that has great depth. Especially with the fact that this Timberwolves team upset a better OKC roster as 14 point underdogs last March. Yet, this Timberwolves team is faltering to find offensive balance with a solid inside-outside game. Part of that has been due to utilization of Kris Dunn/Tyus Jones who are adjusting to the NBA. Grab the Thunder to bounce back nicely and improve to 5-1.

Sacramento

Sacramento continues their road trip traveling to take on the Magic Thursday. While Sacramento did run out of gas in their last game, I still like the floor spacing and offense they've showcased thus far. Orlando on the other hand did show life in a comeback win against the 76ers. Still, the better team chemistry lies with the Kings who should get enough from Cousins/Gay and complimentary scoring to get the cover Thursday.

Thus far the Trailblazers and Suns have been teams unable to play four full quarters of basketball to start the season. Portland's came back to defeat the Jazz/Nuggets while faltering to higher caliber opponents in the Clippers and Warriors. Phoenix on the other hand has been competitive after a blowout opening loss to the Kings. Yet, this is a spot where a young Suns team can show some growth. Last year to start the season they lost twice to the Trailblazers in the early portion of the season. Look for the Suns to capitalize from an ATS standpoint as the Trailblazers play in a back to back scenario.

Brooklyn

Were aiming for a value play on Monday. Chicago comes in with two victories over revamped quality teams in the Pacers and Celtics. The value here is opponents based. Brooklyn has also played the Celtics and Pacers to start the season and faced steep deficits in both. They did rally to beat the Pacers in the exact same spread as tonight's six point line. Look for backers to over react to the Bulls blowout win over the Pacers on a line that looks 'pleasing'. Grab the Nets.

The Clippers and Jazz both have done an excellent job at building their rosters with depth. That's not easy to find throughout the NBA. From an ATS standpoint though the Clippers appear to have bought in to playing team defense. It's a catalyst that combined with their potent scoring is worthy of backing as a steep home favorite. Grab the Clippers.

Portland +2

Denver at home is always an x-factor ATS. In an odd scenario the Nuggets have had three days off since their first game in a victory over the Pelicans. The rest and first game at home our factored into this spread. After a loss to the Clippers in which the Trailblazers were outplayed in bench points, one has to wonder if the Nuggets deep roster will give the Blazers the same fits. Instead, side with the cohesive starting lineup edge of the Blazers who should benefit from a bit of rust from the Nuggets.

Atlanta -7

Change over isn't supposed to be a seamless transition. Yet, the Hawks elevated pieces that were in place with point guard Schroder, forward Mike Muscala, and Tim Hardaway Jr. Interior experienced advantage with Dwight Howard and Paul Millsap will be too much for four quarters for the youth of the 76ers.

Detroit

Both Detroit and Orlando had awful outings in their first matchup. Yet, the Pistons fought back to some degree against the high scoring Raptors. Orlando, on the other hand looks like they have on-court chemistry issues combined with adjusting proper five man rotations. Grab the Pistons who will use their home court edge and sideline experience of Stan Van Gundy.

Charlotte -2

The Bucks are certainly a team on the rise that looks to return to form of two seasons ago. Now healthy for the most part they seem poised to challenge for a bottom seed. Yet, Charlotte is a team that blended well last season as their youth began to shine next to Kemba Walker. The losses of Jeremy Lin, Courtney Lee, and Al Jefferson may be a detractor but I believe the new depth is ready to step up. Grab the Hornets.

Miami +4

In the span of three years the Heat have went from fielding LeBron, DWade, and Bosh to having a team expected to miss out on the playoffs. Pat Riley made no qualms about waiting to attract prime free agents, besides retaining Hassan Whiteside. Orlando on the other hand seems ready to ascend forward with the youth at their disposal. In fact, they added veterans Serge Ibaka, Jeff Green, and Bismack Biyombo, and Jodie Meeks in the offseason. Yet, for an opening game look for Coach Spoelstra's defensive minded team philosophy to trump the home Magic. Grab the Heat.

Portland -5

Both the Trailblazers and Jazz made off-season moves to bolster their rosters. Last season Utah was a team that had sporadic play last due to injuries and unsettled play at point guard. They believe they've alleviated those issues which should elevate their play based on solid defense. Yet, Portland is one of those teams that goes on surges versus spurts offensively. Grab the Trailblazers here.

New Orleans Pelicans

We're seeing slight line movement towards the NBA D-League Select team. And for good reason as the Pelicans have lacked defensive intensity and their star has struggled to shoot at a high percentage in Buddy Hield.

Yet, I was not impressed with the D-League Select's effort in-person against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Body language shifted quarter to quarter to a mindset of lost focused.

That happens in these tournaments as the D-League select is filled with players that know their roles next season.

The Pelicans roster may be below average for summer league but I expect them to have the higher level of effort for four quarters. Take the Pelicans.

Phoenix Suns

Yesterday, the Miami Heat sat out both Josh Richardson and Justice Winslow as they've played extended time in the Orlando and beginning of the Vegas summer league.

That didn't stop the Heat from playing well yesterday in a blowout win over the Denver Nuggets.

Keep in mind this Heat roster will likely add several summer league players as they look to fill out a roster that has only a few players signed for next season.

Still, I like the Suns organization in the summer league. They're giving key minutes to their youth in Devin Booker/Tyler Ulis and first-round pick Dragan Bender.

They also have solid depth with Kyle Kuric and Troy Williams in case the Suns decide to rest key players. Grab the Suns to take care of business Tuesday. 

Cleveland

Both the Cavaliers and Timberwolves sit at 0-2 in the NBA Summer League. 

Both have been competitive in close narrow losses, yet at the end of today one will be 0-3.

Minnesota's future back court with Tyus Jones and Kris Dunn have played above par. In college both were main facilitators on a daily basis for their respective teams in Duke/Providence.

Yet, summer league is a different caliber that bodes well to scorers and an open court style.

Cleveland has that with natural scorers in Kay Felder, DeAndre Liggins, and Jordan McRae.

The also have former St. John's do it all performer in Sir-Dominic Pointer that suits summer league style perfectly.

New Orleans

This line has come down in favor of the Utah Jazz. Utah have a mix of talent from different teams in the Orlando summer league that include Treveon Graham, Mike Tobey, Aaron Craft, and Jazz forward Trey Lyles.

New Orleans on other hand has a nice blended mix of guards that should be able to score in the open court with Ryan Boatright and Anthony Barber.

They also have first round pick Buddy Hield who should be anxious to get in on the action. 

Concerns with rebounding may be there for New Orleans but I'll believe they'll be able to combat that with their scoring and forcing turnovers.

Grab the value on the line movement here and take the Pelicans.

Sacramento Kings

Today, we'll gravitate to the Las Vegas Summer League, which figures to be a fun-filled eleven days.

Sacramento comes in as a two baskets underdog against the Toronto Raptors.

On paper the main reasons for this have to do with the Kings getting late roster additions and a new coaching change over with Joerger taking over for George Karl.

Yet, talent wise I like the Kings presence with athletic position players all over the court (Elgin Cook, Cauley Stein, D Jones, R Ledo, D Dukan to combat the size and veteran presence of the Raptors.

Miami Heat

Detroit has been devalued in Orlando as I had them as the top team overall.

Today, they'll face their toughest challenge against a Miami Heat team that continues to feature both Justice Winslow and Josh Richardson getting quality minutes.

That likely will continue with the fact the Dwayne Wade has signed with the Bulls.

Yet, were playing the spread here and we'll jump on a three point spread line movement from three to six in the Heat's favor.

Detroit's stayed close and won all their games thus far with a solid young core. 

They'll give the Heat a challenge but expect the Heat's squad to over power and close above the closing number of six.

LA Clippers

The Clippers have under performed in their first two games against the Heat and Thunder.

Before the tournament I had them ranked as the second best team overall and the Knicks the worst.

Nothing has changed with the Knicks who have been blown out their first two games.

Perhaps they'll be more competitive here against a winless Clippers team. 

Yet, look for the Clippers to finally start playing a higher level of basketball after showcasing glimpses in their latest loss to the Thunder.

Grab the Clippers

Orlando Magic White

Today, we'll take the Orlando Magic White against the Dallas Mavericks.

Both had a day off Sunday after playing their first games on Saturday. Saturday, the Mavericks lost a heart breaker to the OKC Thunder, while the Orlando Magic White blew out their opponent in Charlotte.

I expect the balance of the Orlando Magic White to continue to excel today. In the interior they may have the best scorer of the Orlando Summer League with Arinze Onuaku.

They also under achieved from the perimeter in their initial game.

Expect even more scoring from them against a Dallas team that may get support off a close last second loss in their first matchup against OKC.

Take Orlando Magic White.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder rode Cameron Payne, Mitch McGary, and others to a thrilling last second victory over the Dallas Mavericks.

Flashy scoring paved the way as the roster did just enough to out duel a Mavericks team that fought hard down eight points late in the third quarter.

The Clippers on the other hand came into the Orlando tournament with the second-best roster in my opinion.

Yet, sometimes a roster and team synergy are two vastly different elements.

I did not like the team chemistry showcased in yesterday's loss to the Heat.

Look for their flat effort to continue Sunday and for the Thunder's dynamic scoring to outpace the Clippers.

Charlotte

Yesterday we hit on the Pacers who were shockingly underdogs. Today, they find themselves a favorite against a Charlotte team that fell short to Orlando White by five points.

I like the effort Orlando White showcased in yesterday's near comeback.

Today they'll take on an Indiana team riding an extreme high from Joseph Young, Glenn Robinson III, and Rakeem Christmas.

All three in my opinion did enough in game one to settle their NBA nerves down (rosters for next season).

Expect a come down to Earth game from the Pacers and for the Hornets to capitalize. Grab the Hornets.

Indiana Pacers

This is an actual game I anticipated earlier in the week. On paper I believed the Pacers should be 4.5-5 point favorites.

With the Orlando Blue team favored by three points I'll jump on the other side on this one.

The Pacers made some key moves in free agency and via the draft that may divide up the relationship with young talent in Rakeem Christmas and Joe Young.

They're literally on the clock to prove their worth.

Coupled with Stephan Hicks an underrated scorer from Cal-State Northridge, Julian Jacobs (USC), and Nate Wolters (former Bucks draft pick) and Indiana should have no problems scoring.

This is a day one oddsmaker misread in my book. Take the Pacers

Orlando White

The second game in summer league play for Saturday features a veteran laden Orlando White team against a young Hornets squad.

Orlando's veterans include 30 year old Justin Dentmon and a carry overs from the Atlantic 10 in Patricio Garino, Treveon Graham, and Jordan Sibert. 

On the other hand the Charlotte Hornets have young talent including Bobcats draft choice last year in Aaron Harrison along with UNLV's early exit in Goodluck Okonoboh.

Look for the veterans in Orlando White to use their poise to buckle down defensively when needed and close out this game in style to cover a small three point margin.

Cleveland

While value seems to be on Golden State for game seven, I'll side with the Cavaliers again here.

History is against them as they look to become the first team in history to win a championship down three games to one.

Yet, this series changed after game two. Cleveland has found the balance needed defensively and offensively with a shortened rotation.

Keep in mind Warriors Coach Steve Kerr is in just his second year. He started the season out with a back injury. 

This is the first time he has seen his team flounder a bit amidst adversity. Unlike against the Thunder the chemistry offensively has been missing. That's a challenging issue when relying on depth is your balance.

The x-factor for Cleveland is Kevin Love as he has to respond in game seven. After a dismal performance in game five and a foul plagued seven minutes in game six, I think he'll have the mindset necessary.

Grab Cleveland to become the second sport to witness a team knock off a strong regular season team (Panthers 4.5-5)

The Cavaliers have suddenly went from dead in the water at three games to one to a game away from forcing a game seven.

They've done so by buying in to Coach Tyronn Lue's defensive game plan for an entire game.

In fact, if not for a breakdown in the third quarter of game four, this could have been a closeout game for the Cavaliers.

The lure of Draymond Green's return coupled with the Cavaliers depleted bench poses quick reaction to buy the Warriors here.

Since game two Matthew Dellevedova has seen his minutes decrease and Channing Frye did not play a single minute in game five. This combined with Kevin Love's putrid two point performance in game five is worrisome.

Yet, I believe the confidence had already been there for the Cavs as a defense, and now is there offensively with the combination duo of Irving/Lebron.

This is a case where depth can be trumped by elite level play from Lebron/Kyrie. Grab the Cavs in game six.

Cleveland

We've now won three of four Finals plays as we look to grab number four in game five.

Golden State used defense and timely offense from their back court to spurn a solid effort from the Cavaliers in game four.

The win by Golden State has undoubtedly shifted value exponentially on the Warriors. They won 73 regular season games and were dominant at home.

Yet, I'm not discounting the Cavaliers just yet.

They had a solid game plan that worked to perfection in game three and for the majority of game four.

Ragged offense cost them a chance to even the series combined with uncanny offense from the Warriors.

In the NFL sometimes scrambling quarterbacks can go off even though defenses know it's coming. One big run leads to others as containment gets unraveled from missed assignments.

That's what I saw in game four. Cleveland lost containment of Curry/Thompson in the third quarter and as a result completely unraveled.

Instead of expecting the Cavaliers to lay an egg on the road, look for them to play a strong game and keep containment for a better amount of time in game five on the Splash Brothers.

Golden State Warriors

The Cavaliers did a great job in showcasing the ability to step up on their home court with improved defense in game three.

Limiting both the Warriors starters and bench a consecutive game though will be a tough task.

I'm not sold on continuing to see Irving and JR Smith thrive for four quarters, and more worried about the Cavs limited depth.

Coach Steve Kerr of the Warriors defeated the Thunder with series adjustments and tonight we'll see a few more tweaks.

This should be a great inspired effort once again from the Cavaliers, but they're still under manned to cover two consecutive games.

Grab the value on the Warriors to cover the number in game four.

Cleveland

Cleveland is starting to look more and more like a team that can't contend with the West.

After a great playoff run they're looking in no form of resemblance of what we saw in the first three rounds.

While Golden State has surged in the last ten days to the level we saw during their record breaking regular season.

Yet, traveling to Cleveland I think we'll awaken the Cavaliers somewhat to stave off an improbable 3-0 deficit.

They showed in game one they can play defensively with the Warriors as well as in the first quarter of game two. Problems continue to lie with the Cavaliers bench which just is getting destroyed by the Warriors potent bench.

Challenging the starters to do more has to be an optimal goal from Coach Tyronn Lue.

Look for the Cavaliers to get the offense they need and to get a better level of defense all around to grab game three.

Cavaliers

Market value is always a big indicator of where to go ATS. Prior to the playoffs the Warriors were -330 to win the NBA title.

A subpar post season from their regular season standard dropped them to just -220 over the Cavaliers.

Now after one game series odds have leapt to -400. Nearly double!

That's a steep leap from a one game result, that stemmed from an impressive effort from the Warriors bench.

I don't expect the Cavaliers to over react as they played their defensive game plan extremely well on Warriors guards Steph Curry and Klay Thompson.

Areas of growth offensively are there as the Cavaliers need to shoot the ball better and limit their turnovers.

Lebron and his Cavaliers in my estimation have more room to grow from game one to game two than the Warriors.

In my opinion seeking the extra point from game one's ATS spread is a golden opportunity.

Warriors

While the rested Cavaliers have played better overall in the playoffs than the Warriors, it's a new beginning with a fresh slate in game one.

Suddenly the Warriors have won three consecutive playoff games after being just 9-5 in the playoffs.

Were starting to all know that Steph Curry is not 100 percent. That has limited the Warriors potent offense somewhat.

Yet, the Warriors have found new ways to flourish by turning up their defense another level.

That's the key in game one as the Raptors showed that defensive energy can frustrate the Cavaliers, especially on the road.

While the Cavaliers may play a better first half, there will come a time where the Warriors utilize their home court and defense to go on a patented surge.

Take the Warriors in game one.

OKC

Surely the Thunder would have liked to win the West Finals on their home floor.

Yet a series is seven games and as professionals they must handle the task of taking on the Warriors in Golden State.

Do I expect the Thunder to adjust their game six game plan?

No, similar to boxing the Warriors in desperation mode went for a few haymakers late and landed the knockout blow.

Eight fourth quarter three pointers keyed by Thompson's 41 points did the trick.

While many want to point the blame on another Thunder fourth quarter collapse I saw it as just a superb finish by a championship team.

Yet, expect the Thunder to regroup and have extra emphasis in a critical do or die game seven.

Don't forget Kevin Durant is an impending free agent setting the stage for a possible exit. Take the Thunder plus the points.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Market value is a great determiner in key spots and game six is one between the Warriors and Thunder.

Oddsmaker's tried their best to play catch up to the Thunder's raised play has seen this line move to 2.5.

Yet, I fully believe this is the line that should have been offered in game three.

Therefore, value is still on the Thunder's side.

Yes, the defending NBA champions have been resilient and will be a tough out.

But I clearly expect the Thunder to answer the Warriors punches on their home floor.

Golden State is in the underdog role and deservedly so as they're not the 73 win regular season team we witnessed.

Grab the Thunder to take the series in game six.