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Play Miami Heat -1.5

            The Heat are rising to the occasion and playing some of the best basketball in the NBA in my opinion currently. As stated in ATS wins the last two weeks D Wade wants this Heat team to get on a roll before All Star break. He has delivered his part and did so with absentee play from his supporting cast last night. Utah is just a mess offensively which bodes to the Heat's advantage. Expect a better effort from the Heat supporting cast and continued solid defense. Grab the Heat.

Wizards +3

            The Magic and Wizards both played last night with the Wizards losing soundly to the Raptors and Magic defeating the Nets. The Magic's win ended a four game losing streak that started with a loss to the Wizards. Yet as I profiled in the Magic's loss to the Wizards no team in basketball looks as tired as the Magic. Last night they were able to win with 83 points and shooting below 40 percent from the field. The Wizards are playing better than they were in the prior matchup and have found a balanced lineup with Temple, Dudley, and others while Bradley Beal is out. Grab the Wizards

Play Portland Trailblazers +10

            If you recall a couple of seasons ago as the Warriors were growing, they had some classic games against the Trailblazers. Big leads never were protected in this matchup. The Warriors small ball lineup should aid the Trailblazers who have an explosive offense at home. Grab the Blazers plus ten points.

Play Miami -5

            Miami is one of those teams that you can sense has upward capability in its near future. With as bad as the Suns have played defensively that should only aid in the Heat's advantages tonight down in Phoenix. Lastly, I've said it before but Phoenix is one of the poorest home teams on Friday nights for whatever reason over the last five-six years.

Play Toronto -2

            I tabbed the Raptors as a devalued team ATS but won't shift to an overreaction as a two point road favorite against the Wizards. Washington has grabbed us a couple of slim covers including last week against the Raptors and a few nights ago against Cleveland. Besides a Raptors fourth quarter offensive lull they had full control of that game. I expect a better sense of play from the Raptors second unit this time around. Grab Toronto -2.

Utah +9

            There's prime value on Utah tonight who seem to play up for competition one night and off the grid the next. After being dominated by the Spurs it'd seem like they're set for another downfall in Texas to Houston. Instead expect the Jazz to be able to hang with the Rockets who allow leads to slip just as fast as they got them. Grab the Jazz +9.

Wizards +7

            The Cavaliers have had their way post Christmas since a blowout loss to the Trail Blazers. They've been able to cover as of late including a game we were on against the Orlando Magic. Yet, playing on the road is a different story for the Cavaliers. With Irving back the second unit is still trying to mesh together. Those 12-15 minutes of bench play are key if you expect to win on the road, which the Cavs have been a meager 8-8. Grab the value on the Wizards similar to what we had on the Suns against the Cavs.

Play Sacramento Kings +5.5

            After a solid road win against the Thunder last night the Kings find themselves as 5.5 point road dogs tonight against Dallas. I don't anticipate the Kings running out of gas here. They're one of the hottest offensive teams in the NBA right now and scored over 140 points Saturday against the Suns. Don't look for the Kings momentum to end here. Grab the 5.5 tonight.

Play Atlanta Hawks -8

            One of the more curious swings of momentum came via the Hawks come from behind win against the Knicks recently. They turned it on and showcased just how much head and shoulders above they are than the Knicks. I'll give credit to the Knicks and their improvement but team's with true team ball and balance give them trouble. Atlanta learned their mistake from falling behind last time and will emphasize a hot start tonight. Hawks win by double digits.

Add Memphis -1

            We'll add Memphis to the card tonight. Playing at Portland is a tough battle for any team. After Memphis loss to the Jazz in overtime a few nights ago I saw a veteran team filled with dejection. I think this is a crucial period for a team that's been intact for awhile---if they fall apart expect trades. The young Blazers have had issues against defensive teams that are physical with them (Bulls/Pistons). Grab the Grizzlies to be aggressive early and defeat the Blazers on the road.

Miami -1.5

            The Pacers have had the Heats number this season but I look for things to fare differently tonight. Miami has played with the veteran uplift prototypical to days Lebron James was there. With Wade healthy he has proclaimed he wants to see the Heat answer strong before the All Star break. Grab the Heat tonight to clear the hurdle of the Pacers finally.

Play Denver +15

            Now is the time that I believe we can start grabbing value against the Warriors as double digit favorites at home. Sure they're going to pack fire power and great support but teams do not cover mid teen spreads with consistency. Denver has the ability to score and should stay in this game even if Steph Curry returns to the floor tonight. Grab the Nuggets.

Play Cleveland -8.5

            Currently I do not believe there is a more tired team in the NBA than the Orlando Magic. For a team that relies on defense and interior scoring that is troublesome. Their defense has waned in the second halves in losses to Miami and the Wizards in recent games. Outside shooting is not their strength which I believe will lead to the Cavs packing their defense inside. Grab the Cavs today.

Take: (805) CHARLOTTE HORNETS 

Reason: Play Charlotte +6.5 Here we are with the same number as the other night that we had with the Wizards in Toronto. The Wizards had a poor performance the majority of the game but were able to close and get the cover for us in the fourth quarter. I said then I have the Raptors over valued over the next two weeks and will not sway with the same value on the Hornets. Charlotte is coming off a poor defensive effort against the Clippers at home, but will not have to extend their defense nearly as much against the Raptors lineup. Grab the Hornets to cover another spread for us against the Raptors

Play Utah Jazz +2

The Jazz nearly lost to the 76ers a few nights back, so it's safe to say they're in trouble on the road against the Timberwolves, right? Not necessarily. The Jazz and Twolves matchup well with both teams boasting youth. But the mix of the Jazz youth is gelling better in my opinion than the Twolves. Minnesota has lost four games in a row and is having a tough time allocating the proper minutes to veterans Kevin Garnett and Tayshaun Prince while giving it's stock piled youth experience. Grab the Jazz who have leverage with a rotation that should take advantage of bench minutes of the Twolves.

Play Washington +7

The Toronto Raptors are one of the teams I've tabbed as vulnerable over the next week to two. They're a team reliant on Derozan and Lowry to do a bulk of their scoring, and have seen dips in the play of role players such as Cory Joseph, Luis Scola, and others. Therefore their typical strong home value has come down a bit. Washington is coming off a blowout loss at home to a Clippers team without Blake Griffin. Lets grab the value on the Wizards to respond on the road and cover 7.

Atlanta +3

            The Hawks have value in my eyes on Tuesday as they've been a bit sluggish post holiday. They trailed by double digits to the Knicks before coming back and lost last night on the road to Indiana. Yet I'm impressed with the defense they showcased in the Knicks comeback as well as holding the Pacers to 93 points on their home floor last night. The offense will come and should tonight against a lax Rockets team defensively who allowed the Pelicans to surge back in the final six minutes the other night. Grab the Hawks on the road Tuesday.

Phoenix Suns +8.5

The Suns suddenly continue to lose and fell to a new low by losing to the 76ers in their latest game. Yet the Cavs have lost in back to back games on Christmas Day to the Warriors and in blowout fashion to the Trailblazers. Their defense is below average currently which can not sustain with a mediocre offense. We'll grab the value off the Suns loss to the 76ers.

Orlando Magic -4.5

We swayed from our backing of the Magic against the Heat but have been backing them for the past two weeks. We will in this spot after they blew a double digit lead to the Heat on the 26th. I'll expect the Pelicans to have a bit of tired legs after back to back games against the Heat/Rockets and now on the road against the Magic. Orlando had a meltdown defensively against the Heat that should turn around tonight against the perimeter oriented Pelicans.

LA Clippers +1.5

With Blake Griffin out the Clippers rose to the occasion in a come from behind win over the Jazz. Paul Pierce solidified why he should be a first ballot hall of famer in that win. This exact scenario is why the Clippers added proper depth with Pierce, Wesley J, Stephenson, etc. That combined with improved defense from the guard position leads me to believe they'll continue their road trip success tonight against the Wizards.

Play Miami +4

            Post Christmas Day there is a pretty hefty slate of games in the NBA. Instead of predicting how a team will react post holiday, I'll focus on one team that played on Christmas Day in the Miami Heat. They're getting 4 to take on the Orlando Magic who have been a surprise this season. Yet, I like the veteran nature of the Miami Heat with Deng, Wade, Bosh, Green, Dragic, and others to come ready to play on a short trek up to Orlando. Grab the Miami Heat plus 4.

Houston Rockets +7

            The Rockets are finally starting to show more than flashes of what they showcased a season ago. They've held opponents to under 100 points in three of their last four games, and are also showcasing better floor spacing. At home they'll have something to prove against their in-state superior in the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs may be 25-5 but they've been susceptible to lulls at a higher rate than usual under Poppovich. For our only play on Christmas day we'll grab the Rockets +7.

Charlotte Hornets -2

            The Hornets will try and utilize their home court to get back into the swing of things against the Boston Celtics. Boston's coming off a strong win against the Minnesota Timberwolves in which they won in double digit fashion. Yet I'm not going to side with the Celtics off of one impressive performance. Before that game they were showing signs of coming back to Earth. I like the floor balance of the Hornets to get the job done at home.

Orlando +1

            Orlando has had the ability to stay in games with much improved defense led by coach Scott Skiles. Their youth paired with veterans such as Channing Frye has meshed well. Houston has teased NBA ATS players all season and this is not a spot where I would back them on the road before a holiday. Grab the Magic to play with a concerted effort for four quarters.

OKC -2

A little over a week ago I mentioned that we will look for value plays on the Thunder. That started with a -2 spread against the Memphis Grizzlies in which the Thunder put a beating on the Grizzlies. I'm not expecting a blowout in this spot but I do see value once again in a Thunder team that is shaping into form. They undoubtedly have the second unit advantage over the Clippers, and I look for Westbrook/Durant to put on their typical show. Grab the Thunder.

New Orleans Pelicans +3.5

            After the Suns steep loss to the Warriors on national tv and two losses recently to the Pelicans one would believe tonight is a great spot for the Suns. Instead now is an opportune time to step in against a team that is in a bit of a funk. The Suns have been getting over achieving play from several role players and now without their success the Suns limitations are exposed.  The Pelicans have already scored over 120 points in both wins against the Suns this season. Look for them to put on another show tonight.

Bucks +11

                        Young teams are going to come out flat on their face from time to time. That happened to the Bucks yesterday against the poor dreadful Lakers. In the last week the Bucks have traveled to Toronto, defeated Golden State and made their trek down to California. I expect them to be mentally prepared tonight against a Clippers team that still is not putting teams away. Grab the Bucks.        

Chicago -3.5

                        Chicago's inability to cover spreads has finally dropped their value down to where we can take them. Memphis had a nice win the other night against Washington but has still lacked the same defensive intensity we saw in years past. This allowed run away wins for the Bobcats and Thunder recently. Look for Chicago's offense to have things rolling finally to lead them to a big win at home.

Add Brooklyn +4

Brooklyn may just have seven wins but they're getting upgraded play from Thaddeus Young. Miami has been successful against teams that run up and down the floor. That is not the Nets strength. The Nets like to slow the game down and have tall forwards and centers that will pose problems similar to the Heat's losses to the Pacers. Grab the Nets +4 at home.

Dallas Mavericks +5

                        The Mavericks are quietly ascending in a manner that will make Mark Cuban happy. Though they've won just five of their last ten games they're doing so with veterans playing much better. Deron Williams has looked refreshed and the Mavericks are getting increasing minutes from Chandler Parsons. They have the personnel to give Paul George a great battle for four quarters. When George is average the Pacers look like a completely different team. Grab the Mavericks on value of Indiana being 8-3 at home.

Orlando Magic -1.5

                        We're barely over the 20 game mark of the NBA season and perhaps no team has exceeded expectations more so than the Charlotte Bobcats. Yet they're just five games above .500 at 14-9. Orlando is a young bunch that has won seven of their last ten games---two of those losses were by slim margins to the Suns and Clippers. Grab the value on the Magic Wednesday.

12/15 04:35 PM  NBA   (701) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (702) BOSTON CELTICS (12/15  edit

Take: (701) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 

Reason: Play Cleveland -2 Tuesday in the NBA we'll look to grab the Cleveland Cavaliers against the red-hot Celtics. Boston has enjoyed solid wins over the Warriors and Bulls recently drawing up their value ATS. While Cleveland may not be in the same ATS position they were a season ago, one of the teams they had great success against was the Celtics. Look for Lebron and company to capitalize on the road with great defense to thwart the Celtics. Grab the Cavs -2.

12/14 04:05 PM  NBA   (501) TORONTO RAPTORS VS (502) INDIANA PACERS (12/14 01:43 PM) edit

Take: (501) TORONTO RAPTORS 

Reason: Play Toronto plus 5.5 We're going to add the Raptors on Monday against the Pacers as a mid-day play. Oddsmakers are obviously predicting that the Raptors hit a bit of a wall after a great stretch that included last night's 20 point win over the 76ers. I don't believe that will be the case as the Raptors have added a dimension of defense that has helped boost their output. With Indiana sliding we'll take the value of five on the Raptors.

12/11 06:35 PM  NBA   (721) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS VS (722) PHOENIX SUNS (12/11 10:36 AM) edit

Take: (722) PHOENIX SUNS 

Reason: Play Phoenix -4 The Suns have defeated the Blazers thanks to a couple of great games in the fourth quarter. All contests have been close. Portland is a team that has to have playing a complete four quarters on their mind today. After losing both games in close fashion in late October the mindset may be that Portland has to come out and win this game from bettors. That's not the case here as the Suns have a better backcourt to the Trailblazers and are getting all around contributions from the entire roster. Buy the Suns to win their third game over the Trailblazers

12/11 04:35 PM  NBA   (709) MILWAUKEE BUCKS VS (710) TORONTO RAPTORS (12/11 10:39 AM) edit

Take: (709) MILWAUKEE BUCKS 

Reason: Play Milwaukee +8 A strong showing in recent games by the Raptors against the Warriors and Spurs has this line a bit higher than it should be. Jason Kidd may not be as pleased with his young Bucks roster as he was a year ago but he will not give up on continuous coaching for his roster. Look for the Bucks to give the Raptors a game on a steep line.

12/09 04:35 PM  NBA   (707) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (708) TORONTO RAPTORS (12/09 edit

Take: (708) TORONTO RAPTORS 

Reason: Play Toronto +5.5 Sometimes bettors can get caught repeatedly with top tier teams. Monday the Spurs rested a bunch of starters as Coach Poppovich likes to do from time to time. The Spurs blew out the 76ers as ten point favorites with their bench players. So you figure with the starters rested and back in the lineup they'll handle the Raptors. Not so fast. Toronto is a very solid home team that has been the most formidable team to come close to beating the Warriors twice. They also get great support from their home crowd. We'll back the Raptors Wednesday as home dogs.

2/08 05:05 PM  NBA   (507) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (508) MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES  edit

Take: (507) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER 

Reason: Play OKC -2 There comes a point were a team under achieving becomes valuable ATS. OKC is off of a close win Sunday and had lost consecutive games before hand. They're too talented to continue playing subpar. With depth on their side I find the value on the road against Memphis as slight favorites as a good spot for OKC. Grab the Thunder.

Lakers +9.5

            Sometimes an announcement such as Kobe's can spark a team briefly. What better way than to announce a retirement than before your team's eight game road trip? Kobe is out playing with less of a chip on his shoulder and it's making a difference for him and his teammates. Though the Lakers lost their recent game against the Hawks by 13, they were within four points at the start of the fourth quarter, and defeated the Wizards the game before that. Detroit's defense is the reason for this high line but I like the Lakers lineup to keep them within this high spread of nine points. Grab the Lakers.

Charlotte +6

            For the third time this NBA season we will look to grab the value on the Bobcats against the Bulls. The first time the Bobcats blew out the Bulls and the second time we snuck under the number of 6.5. Today it's six again, which is odd for how competitive the Bulls and Bobcats have played. Charlotte has the personnel to match the Bulls yet again. While others may fall for the trap on the Bulls at six again, we'll snare the value.

Toronto +7.5

            With the Warriors at 20 wins will they experience a road hangover finally at the hands of the Raptors? Toronto nearly defeated the Warriors on their home floor a few weeks ago, which is why I see value on the Raptors today. We've picked our spots well to go against the Warriors this season and have landed three covers. Lets get our fourth.

NBA-Orlando +2

Time and time again we will continue to look for value on teams playing each other again in a short time span. Minnesota lost in a thrilling over time thriller by three points five games ago. Since then the Twolves have bounced back nicely rolling off three wins before Sunday's loss to the Clippers. There are just certain matchups were an opposing team holds that upper hand and I believe the Magic have that with an advantage at the guard position and great interior play from Tobias Harris and Vucevic. People may want to fade the Magic today off of three straight impressive wins and the thoughts of the Twolves avenging the loss to the Magic. I won't here as I look for the Magic to continue playing well and get the ATS cover.

11/30 07:35 PM  NBA   (515) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS VS (516) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (11/30 08:17 AM) edit

Take: (516) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS 

Reason: Play Clippers -7 Sure the Clippers are coming off an early Sunday game which places this as a back to back scenario Monday night. As I've stated before back to back games are no longer as valuable from an ATS perspective as they were 3-4 years ago. Teams have adjusted and have the utmost care from trainers and team medical staff. Portland is one of those teams that are taken poor shots and turning the basketball over far too frequently to back even against a team playing in a back to back scenario. Back the Clippers.

11/30 04:35 PM  NBA   (501) BOSTON CELTICS VS (502) MIAMI HEAT (11/30 08:14 AM) edit

Take: (501) BOSTON CELTICS 

Reason: Play Boston +4.5 Boston is coming off a horrid loss but has a coach in Brad Stevens that has a don't look back at yesterday mentality. Off nights happen in the rigorous NBA and that was the case for the Celtics. The Heat have been a team for the first month of the NBA season that have played a bit above themselves. Look for the youth of the Celtics to hold court tonight against the aging Heat that are reliant on defense. Grab the Celtics

Portland +3

            Something is a bit off with the Bulls currently that we've been tracking on several of our covers this season. Yes they can score but their defense has suffered immensely with Doug McDermott, Aaron Brooks, and the obviously not healthy Joakim Noah. This has led to leads being blown time and time again. On the road against a potent Trailblazers guard heavy lineup I do not believe the Bulls should be favored tonight. Expect Lillard to have his way and for plenty of pick and roll opportunities. Grab the Blazers.

11/20 06:05 PM  NBA   (515) PHOENIX SUNS VS (516) DENVER NUGGETS (11/20 11:20 AM) edit

Take: (515) PHOENIX SUNS 

Reason: Play Phoenix -2 Phoenix showed some guts in a big comeback effort against the Bulls on Wednesday. Chicago was a team hunting for an all around game after stammering a bit over their last 4-5. You could think Denver is in that same boat tonight as the Suns blew them out just days ago in Phoenix. Yet, I'll be looking for Phoenix to replicate a similar scenario they were in when they played Portland twice in a similar span. They held things together and weathered the storm for two wins over the Trailblazers in less than a week. Expect the Suns to do that tonight as well as small favorites on the road.

11/20 05:05 PM  NBA   (505) DETROIT PISTONS VS (506) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (11/20 11:16 AM) edit

Take: (506) MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES 

Reason: Play Minnesota +2.5 Yes Minnesota is playing in a back to back scenario after an overtime loss against Orlando. 2-3 years ago when the NBA scheduling was revamped you could find value in back to back spots. Now oddmakers and teams have adjusted. The Timberwolves are a young team that should be primed for a successful night at home against the Pistons

11/20 04:05 PM  NBA   (501) PHILADELPHIA 76ERS VS (502) CHARLOTTE HORNETS (11/20 11:12 AM) edit

Take: (501) PHILADELPHIA 76ERS 

Reason: Philadelphia +10 As part of our three game NBA pass on Friday night, we'll be playing the 76ers. Yes, they're winless but they're not as poor as the 76ers teams of recent years. They have fight to them and I believe they'll be able to stay within this ten point spread against a Bobcats team that has seen their value rise. Grab the 76ers tonight

Play Clippers +7

We'll grab yet another value play in the NBA tonight as the Clippers look to halt the undefeated Golden State Warriors. Golden State has been unstoppable but nearly went down to Toronto at home a few nights ago. We landed a cover on the Clippers a few weeks back as 7.5 point road dogs to Golden State, and have to take the home value on the same number. Grab the Clippers

Play Denver Nuggets +6

Tuesday, we are looking at a play on the Denver Nuggets plus six against the Pelicans. Denver is coming off getting their tails handed to them this weekend against the Phoenix Suns. They shot the ball poorly and were out of the game before the end of the first quarter. Though the Pelicans are playing better basketball they're not to the level of play that would call for just a point decrease from the -7 offered to the Suns on Saturday. Value play here on the Nuggets

Charlotte Bobcats +6.5

Just a little over a week ago the Bobcats throttled the Bulls by scoring 130 points. They were on fire. So tonight you'd expect a revenge spot from the Bulls to blow out the Bobcats. Not necessarily. The Bobcats have hung in with the majority of their opponents lately besides a late third/fourth quarter meltdown to the Spurs. They'll hang in this one on the road against the Bulls. Grab the Bobcats.

Detroit Pistons Plus 1

            I made the mistake of going against the Pistons Sunday and witnessed them come back from a huge deficit against the Trailblazers. That’s not happening today. We’ll back the Pistons who are bringing A-intensity defensively each and every night. While George Karl has done an admirable job to start the season for the Kings, the flow and pace of the Pistons will be too much.

Atlanta Hawks -11

            Last night the Pelicans grabbed a resounding win over the Mavericks. Dallas may have the biggest issues of a team trying to mesh early in the season than any team in the NBA. Pelicans guard Jrue Holiday did get more minutes for the Pelicans last night but I’m still not impressed with the shot selections of the Pelicans. Atlanta teased the Pelicans the other night and should have no problem with production. Grab the Hawks and don't be alarmed if this moves to 10.5 or 10.

Indiana Pacers Plus 3.5

            Size can be a detriment to opposing teams. Boston is a pesky group with small guards such as Isiah Thomas, Avery Bradley, and forward Evan Turner. While the Pacers have Paul George, George Hill, CJ Miles, and Monta Ellis-----all 6’3 or higher. This seems like an advantageous spot to grab the Celtics after their narrow loss to the Pacers a week ago. Instead look for the Pacers defense to frustrate the Celtics as they did in limiting them to 88 points last week. 3.5 is a comfortable number in which should be a one possession game.

Los Angeles Lakers Plus 8.5

            A narrow point spread loss to the Heat last night may cause people to side the other way with a solid Orlando Magic squad. This is a valuable underdog spot in my opinion with a Lakers team that should be able to catch a couple of scoring drives against the Magic. Back the Lakers

Play Utah plus 6

            Throughout Lebron James career he has struggled playing against Utah. Although it’s only twice a season it’s worthy of noting. The Jazz have big bodies inside that prevent James from creating the way he likes. They’ll also present a problem for Tristan Thompson and Mozgov. Grab Utah to play Lebron and company pesky again and cover the six points.

Play OKC -4.5

            Sunday the Thunder had one of those team games that you can count on carrying over to the next. They blistered the Suns with torrid shooting and did so with uncanny chemistry from the starters to the eighth man. Add to that Durant will have his team uplifted back in his hometown. Don’t be surprised if OKC scores over 125 points Tuesday. Grab OKC.

Add Portland -1.5

Play Phoenix Suns +8.5

            Over the years the OKC Thunder have had stellar games from Kevin Durant and Russ Westbrook against the Phoenix Suns. But they also were coached by Scott Brooks during that span. Billy Donovan is the guy now and the Thunder are on a three-game losing streak. Phoenix frustrates opponents as they have a sound backcourt and one of the best big men at stretching the floor in Markieff Morris. Until the Thunder show the ability to play defense I can not back them as 8.5 point favorites.

Play Raptors +2.5

            The Miami Heat have had some of the smallest point spreads in the NBA over their last four games. They were 3.5 point favorites against the Rockets, 3.5 against the Atlanta Hawks, 3 against the Timberwolves, and a point favorite against the Pacers. They split those contests but were fortunate not to go 1-3 as they needed a huge surge to defeat the Rockets. The Heat are getting solid play from Dwayne Wade and timely defense, but I think today they’ll look a bit off against a Raptors team that is playing superb basketball. They’ll bounce back from their loss to the Magic and get the cover Sunday.

Detroit Pistons plus 4.5

            I’m buying the young Pistons on how they’ve looked to start the season. They’ve had two days off to mend their first loss of the season against the Pacers. Phoenix has an open court style of play that Pistons Head Coach Stan Van Gundy will throttle. Phoenix is also a dismal home team on Friday nights for whatever reason. Grab the Pistons.

Pelicans plus 3.5

            The woes of the Pelicans are hard to ignore but the Hawks are exactly the type of team they want to face while in a slump. Atlanta’s an efficient team but one that keeps opposing teams in games with their style of play. That bodes to the Pelicans favor at home and in need of confidence. They’ll get a crucial second half run to get the cover for us Friday night.

NY Knicks

            Derek Fisher may not have the type of talent he wants as Head Coach but he is getting the buyback from his core group of players that you want to see. They’re playing sound defense and I like how Fisher is balancing his bench with his starters. Jason Kidd has maybe the toughest task in the NBA juggling minutes amongst a lineup filled with first to third year players. This is a great home spot for the Knicks at just -2.

Play Portland +4

Portland returns home tonight on a two-game road win streak. They defeated the Timberwolves and last night defeated the Jazz. Memphis shook off some rust to handle the Kings easily two nights ago. Yet, Portland is a team with a great home court advantage. CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard are shooting lights out and that will be a tough combination for a Grizzlies team that has been struggling to score prior to Tuesday’s game.

Play Charlotte +4

Charlotte heads to Dallas to take on a Mavericks team that is pleasantly surprised to have Chandler Parsons back in the lineup. His return plus the acclimation of Deron Williams and Wesley Matthews is going to take on court playing time to adjust.  Instances where teams land new veteran starters have showcased opportunistic value ATS. Charlotte may only have one win but they have an uplifting bench and can be counted on to play for four quarters. Look for them to hang in this game against Dallas.

Play Miami -3.5

The veteran laden Heat will be looking to get off to a better start tonight than they have in their last two wins. They found themselves down high teens to the Rockets and then down to the Hawks at home on Tuesday. This should be a great spot for the Heat to pull together as a team against the youth of the Timberwolves. Minnesota has a bright future but also features a team that is prone to turnovers and poor half court shot selections. Grab the Heat -3.5.

Clippers +7.5

We’re finally able to get the inflated line we need to go against the Warriors at home. Recent blowout wins have catapulted the Warriors to a territory oddsmakers will have a tough time with. This game tonight should help calm those worries. Los Angeles added key defensive assets in Lance Stephenson and Wes Johnson that will cause problems for the undersized perimeter Warriors. Golden State will still have their same explosive offense but I look for 2-3 stretches of solid play from the Clippers to key this ATS win.

Philly +9

This game between the Bucks and 76ers is truly a matchup of all youngsters. The Bucks got back a couple of key players with Tyler Ennis and Jabari Parker declared eligible with medical clearance. Parker’s return should reap rewards for the Bucks. I just don’t see the value on tonight’s game in general for the Bucks. Philadelphia showed four quarters of toughness against the Cavs Monday and should against the Bucks as well.

Spurs -4.5

The Spurs continue their east coast road trip that features their third game in four nights. I’m impressed with how well their rotations have meshed together with the addition of Lamarcus Aldridge. They may not be playing dominating basketball yet but the spurts and stretches they do are proving to be enough to cover. They’ll get it done again on Wednesday.

Indiana +2

I have this game as Indiana -3.5. Boston has lacked the intensity we saw from a Brad Stevens led team a year ago. Defensively they have not been the same and offensively they seem to be lacking clear go to players to lean on for points. That combined with a suspect bench leaves the Celtics vulnerable on the road. Even though Indiana is playing in a back to back spot we’ll grab them tonight

Play Grizzlies -4

This line has been drove down and may likely come down more before game time. I'll go the Contrarian angle here as I believe the Grizzlies can bounce back after a horrific loss last night to the Warriors. It was just one of those nights for the Grizzlies who have not been themselves to start the season. I expect them to buckle-down defensively and get back the style of play they've showcased the past few seasons. Take the Grizzlies tonight in Sacramento.

Play Atlanta +3.5

The Hawks showcased a bit of their team style of basketball in a narrow Sunday win against the Hornets. It was a rusty win for a team that has yet to click similar to last season. The Heat on the other hand are coming off a tremendous come from behind win against the Rockets. The Rockets derailed themselves with lazy passes and poor offensive execution. Tonight's matchup is an advantageous game for the Hawks to utilize their team camaraderie in grabbing a cover in Miami. Grab the Hawks.  

Play Phoenix Suns +9

            The Clippers have added piece after piece that has them primed to match the Spurs in June. But we’re in November. The grind of the NBA season typically presents rust for stretches for teams with superior talent. With a young Suns team opposite and former Clipper Eric Bledsoe leading the way I expect the Suns to stay in this game. Getting nine points is far too many.

Play Portland +5.5

            The Trailblazers are coming off back to back losses to the Phoenix Suns. They’re adjusting to playing without superstar LaMarcus Aldridge and also role player Nicholas Batum. That’s caused a few lapses especially in fourth quarters. Today I think they’ll be able to hang with a young Timberwolves team. As well as the young group of Timberwolves have played you have to expect a downturn. Grab the Trailblazers tonight.

Play Spurs -7

            San Antonio played rusty last night and still was able to cover the spread against Boston. They did it with great half court defense which throttled a young Celtics team that is very similar to the Knicks. In years past the Spurs have been offensive juggernauts at Madison Square Garden. Minutes were reduced last night with key players such as Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobli to pave the way for tonight. Grab the Spurs

Play Cleveland -13

            It’d be easy to mark this game as a typical NBA downtrodden approach from the Cavaliers. They’re clearly the front runner of the Eastern Conference and the 76ers are permanent cellar fixtures. I just can’t back the 76ers at all even as home underdogs of thirteen points. Cleveland’s core group of talent may not be capable of winning this high of a spread based on offense but they surely can with their defense. This is a game at half that the Cavs should be up in the mid to high teens and I expect the role players to continue the score higher in the second-half.

Play Magic +7.5

Play Miami -3

Play Celtics +5.5

Play Knicks +7.5

Play Orlando Magic +8

Play Timberwolves +3.5

Play Atlanta Hawks -6.5

To open up the NBA season we'll be grabbing the Atlanta Hawks at home. Detroit did finish last season on a better note but the Hawks are a focused underrated team. They lack a true go-to star with Jeff Teague being the main catalyst. But they play as a group from all five positions that extends to their bench. Grab the Hawks to use their team style and home court edge to get the cover opening night.

07/17 01:30 PM  NBA   (553) MIAMI HEAT VS (554) SACRAMENTO KINGS edit

Take: (554) SACRAMENTO KINGS 

Reason: Play Kings Miami has lost a couple of games now. To Boston and the other night. They've been down right away in these games as they've been slow out of the gate. The Kings will look to do the same. Early leads are hard to erase and even though the Heat may come back in the later quarters, I'll still grab the 3.5 and buy to 4 here.

07/17 01:00 PM  NBA   (551) HOUSTON ROCKETS VS (552) PHILADELPHIA 76ERS edit

Take: (552) PHILADELPHIA 76ERS 

Reason: Play Philadelphia We'll play on some summer league action Friday. Philadelphia has carried the underdog role just like they do in the regular season. Here I love the points as Philadelphia showed some grit the other night coming back from a 15 point half time deficit. They'll fight hard today. Grab the value with four points.

05/15 04:00 PM  NBA   (745) ATLANTA HAWKS VS (746) WASHINGTON WIZARDS edit

Take: (745) ATLANTA HAWKS 

Reason: Play Atlanta plus 3 The Hawks have a chance to wrap up their series tonight on the road against Washington. Last night we saw the Clippers lose to head to game seven and the Cavaliers finished off the Bulls. Atlanta has not played well it seems like the entire playoffs, but their last two games they've started to resemble more of what we saw in the regular season. Their spacing the floor better and defending the basketball better. Washington's offense seems to be bogging down a bit. Paul Pierce has been expected to take more shots than what he signed up for and inside you never know what type of game you're going to get from Nene or Gortat. Grab the Hawks tonight as they find a way to close this out or keep things close enough for the cover

05/10 12:30 PM  NBA   (725) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (726) CHICAGO BULLS edit

Take: (726) CHICAGO BULLS 

Reason: Play Bulls plus 2 Buy the half point in this situation. The Lebron factor has carried bettors for half a decade through his last year in Cleveland and four years in Miami. Warning signs have been there all season at this being an adjustment year for the Cavaliers. That was with full health. Kevin Love is obviously out and Kyrie Irving is dinged up. This was the position of the Bulls a month ago with Rose, Gibson, and Butler hurt. They're at full strength and I believe this team will pull off yet another stunner on Sunday. Paul Gasol is day to day but this team has depth in the interior and should get better defense from his substitute if needed. Game three was a sloppy win for the Bulls, but don't be shocked to see this game shape out the way game one did.

05/09 05:00 PM  NBA   (723) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (724) MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES edit

Take: (723) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS 

Reason: Play Warriors -4 Game two was confusing to see the Warriors offense befuddled as much as it was. They seemed to be a bit shocked by the play of Mike Conley. He was expected to play but no one anticipated him being able to have the impact he did. Maybe the Steph Curry MVP ceremony also was an emotional high for the Warriors. This is playoff basketball though and I believe the Warriors will have the answers offensively to separate in game three from the home squad of the Grizzlies. Grab the Warriors.

05/09 02:05 PM  NBA   (721) ATLANTA HAWKS VS (722) WASHINGTON WIZARDS edit

Take: (722) WASHINGTON WIZARDS 

Reason: Play Wizards plus 4.5 Money moved significantly in game two and barely caught bettors the line shift from 6 to 9. Today it's also moving slightly on the Hawks side with the impact injury to John Wall. His status and value on the court is the big unknown. What's not is the fact the Hawks just have not played as a number one seed throughout the playoffs. Washington has the size inside and may have to shift their offensive focus for the remainder of this series. Getting Nene and Gortat more involved needs to be a focal point for success. Attacking inside is how the Nets made a series of the first round against the Hawks. Grab the value today on the Wizards

05/08 05:05 PM  NBA   (717) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (718) CHICAGO BULLS edit

Take: (718) CHICAGO BULLS 

Reason: Play Bulls -2 The Bulls did their job in Cleveland and won one game. Now they'll have to respond to the much more aggressive LeBron James. No team is prepared to see such a drastic shift in a superstar's aggressiveness, and the Bulls just were caught off guard in the first quarter of game two. That coupled with the Cavs red-hot three point shooting may have been a bit of an aberration. I still expect this series to go seven games and I expect the Bulls to make necessary changes in game three. To get that done they'll need to close the gaps of penetration by LeBron James. Poor shots on the offensive end led to missed shots and quick run outs from the Cavs. A team can get back on defense but without guarding the runners on the perimeter it led to wide open three point shots. Better offensive execution has to take place for the Bulls in game three. Grab the Bulls to respond at home as a veteran team that has the roster to shake itself from game two's miscues.

05/04 04:05 PM  NBA   (703) CHICAGO BULLS VS (704) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS edit

Take: (703) CHICAGO BULLS 

Reason: Play Bulls plus 5 If this series is as expected, it'd should start off with a fantastic game one. Lebron has had a history with this Bulls squad from his days back with Cleveland the first go around. This Bulls veteran squad has the young pieces to give the Cavs a run for their money. This is the series where LeBron may have a tug of war battle with his young point guard Kyrie Irving and added traded pieces. Grab the Bulls plus five to start the series.

04/26 03:35 PM  NBA   (505) TORONTO RAPTORS VS (506) WASHINGTON WIZARDS edit

Take: (505) TORONTO RAPTORS 

Reason: Play Toronto plus 6 You don't see to many series that go the course of the underdog such as this one. Toronto just has not been able to contain the Wizards spurts. Each of the first three games has featured a crucial run that sways the game to the Wizards. But for the most part each game has been a back and forth battle. It's tough to measure a teams heart but I'll side with the Raptors plus 6 from what I've seen thus far in the series

04/25 05:05 PM  NBA   (749) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (750) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS edit

Take: (749) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS 

Reason: Play Golden State -7 A steep number for a playoff matchup that has featured a series that does not resemble a 1 vs 8 matchup. That it doesn't, but I expect this game four to be the key game we finally see from the Warriors. There are a lot of headlines to draw from game three but the one I latch onto, is how much is left in the tank from Anthony Davis? All that effort that has resulted in him slowing down in fourth quarters. Plus they've had above expected results from their guards in Gordon/Evans/Cole. Look for the Warriors to finish this series and beat the number.

04/24 06:35 PM  NBA   (743) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS VS (744) SAN ANTONIO SPURS edit

Take: (743) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS 

Reason: Play Clippers plus 4 Is there really a 2.5-3 point differential on the side of the Spurs home advantage versus the Clippers home advantage? I do not believe so. The Spurs played about as good as they could in game two, and exerted a lot of effort to sneak away with the win. If the Clippers weren't a veteran ball club I would have stayed away from this number and watched to see how they responded. But with the Spurs nicked up and the value here, I'll grab the Clippers to keep this game close.

04/23 04:05 PM  NBA   (733) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (734) BOSTON CELTICS edit

Take: (733) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 

Reason: Play Cleveland -4 The first two contests of this series went to the wire of the point spread. This one should be different. Boston has had offensive success in spurts with guard Isiah Thomas and others. Defensively though they've struggled in all phases. It's almost as-if LeBron has waited for moments to seize control and carry his team. On the road I do not expect LeBron to take any chances. I expect an all out effort and for the Cavs to play their best game thus far of the post season.

04/22 07:35 PM  NBA   (731) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (732) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS edit

Take: (732) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS 

Reason: Play Clippers I truly believe this is going to be an advantage series for the home teams. With that being said the Clippers own the home court advantage. If they come ready to play with the same game one intensity we should see the same results. The Clippers are no longer a young team. Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, etc have been around the league for quite awhile. This is just as much an opportunity with the door closing as it is for the Spurs. Grab the Clippers -1 tonight.

04/20 07:35 PM  NBA   (719) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS VS (720) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS edit

Take: (720) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS 

Reason: Play Golden State -11 Game one's are usually a bit unpredictable from a point spread stand point. Seeds play a large role and the line was -12 in game one as a result. Golden State controlled the game and had a comfortable spread win dwindled to a loss in the fourth quarter. The fact of the matter was that Golden State played game one like a regular season game. They drew a large lead and got comfortable; while the Pelicans played a full game intensity wise at a playoff level. I expect Steve Kerr to have his team ready for a full entire game and to grab this ATS cover for bettors Monday. Grab the Warriors -11.

04/19 07:35 PM  NBA   (715) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (716) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS edit

Take: (716) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS 

Reason: Play LA Clippers -1.5 Many believe just because the Spurs are in the playoffs they will trudge along with ease. Not even last year's championship team did so. This is an aged Spurs team that will be tested by a group of young Clippers that senses the door closing. This should be a patented long series and I expect the Clippers to grab game one.

04/18 06:35 PM  NBA   (707) DALLAS MAVERICKS VS (708) HOUSTON ROCKETS edit

Take: (707) DALLAS MAVERICKS 

Reason: Play Dallas plus 5 I'm not going to dive head-first into the NBA playoffs. There will be plenty of action for bigger cards from now through June. One play I do like involves Dallas plus 5. Houston has the mold of a young Mavericks team years back. Run and gun and they try to defeat you by outscoring opponents. They're going to have a hard time relying on a secondary and third scorer behind Harden in this series. Dallas is filled with veteran players that will step their defensive intensity up in the playoffs. Expect a long series and I'll take the Mavericks plus the points in this spot

04/15 05:05 PM  NBA   (511) SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS (512) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS edit

Take: (512) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS 

Reason: Play Pelicans plus 5.5 Playoffs are on the line for the Pelicans. Unfortunately they have to face the red-hot veteran Spurs. The Pelicans control their own destiny to get in the playoffs with a win. I won't suggest money-line here but I do anticipate them hanging in this game and covering the 5.5.

04/15 05:05 PM  NBA   (515) ORLANDO MAGIC VS (516) BROOKLYN NETS edit

Take: (516) BROOKLYN NETS 

Reason: Play Brooklyn -8 Orlando has fought well down the stretch and been competitive against Toronto, Chicago, and others. This matchup I'll side with the Nets. They have an advantage in the back court and should play much stronger than they did against the Bulls a few nights ago. Grab the Nets to end the regular season.