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Detroit's free fall has continued as they are 2-8 overall in their last ten. Consistent reshuffling of the lineup by Coach Stan Van Gundy has made the team better offensively, but they're still highly susceptible defensively. Charlotte may have tired legs after a solid comeback win over OKC but they'll have enough in the tank to tackle a Detroit team prone for poor quarters.

Today, we'll make a play on the Raptors as they continue their road trip in game number six against the Spurs. The angle here is decreased value on a Raptors team that's trending backwards ATS. They had a difficult time defeating the Trailblazers undermanned team, were blown out by the Warriors, lost to the Suns, and needed a strong second-half to cover against the Lakers by a half point. Meanwhile the Spurs have resurged and are coming off a tough road loss against Atlanta that featured an abnormal spark from Tim Hardaway Jr (11-13 FGs). Instead of envisioning a Spurs refocused game here at home, grab the value on the Raptors to rise to the occasion in a formidable matchup for them.

This line has come down .5 point from the opener. It's odd to see a Wizards team with as much talent as it has be steep underdogs. The lack of chemistry amongst it's star players and role players is the main reasoning here. John Wall, Bradley Beal, and Otto Porter are efficient nightly, but they're cohesion defensively/offensive with the rest of the Wizards is lacking. That's a problem on the road against a potent Rockets team that has found an higher level of balance since Patrick Beverly's return. Grab the Rockets here.

Damian Lilliard is out still with an injury and it's obvious like the Clippers how much they miss their star player. The Timberwolves inconsistency to win back to back games is bothersome here, but this is a spot where they should be able to runaway with offense alone. Portland's road woes even with Lillard in the lineup has featured a plethora of allowance of points north of 105. Grab the Timberwolves here.

Detroit's mishaps lately have created value here on the road against an Atlanta team that typically is a home team worthy of backing. Yet, this is a predictable head swing game. Atlanta's still trying to feel out their new lineup and more importantly consistent role players. Meanwhile, Stan Van Gundy has went with defense over offense by bringing Tobias Harris of the bench in favor of Jon Leur. I think the lineup has had enough time to get their chemistry in order to be a difference maker on the road. Grab Detroit.

Post holiday the 76ers will have one of the toughest games, as they travel to take on the Kings. Pre-holiday the Kings posted comeback wins over both the Trailblazers and Jazz from double-digit deficits. They've seem to put some of the negative media attention behind them. The 76ers on the other hand are in a tough position dividing up minutes amongst their young roster. Grab the Kings to continue to win ATS and tonight against Philadelphia.

The Pelicans take on a Dallas Mavericks team that has caught attention of backers lately. They upset the Clippers, took the Jazz to the brink, and have played better as of late. Yet, this is a spot where the Pelicans balanced and potent offensive attack should overwhelm the Mavericks. Play the Pelicans.

The Bulls recent slide on the road has featured losses against the Hornets and Bucks. Disarray has shown on both ends of the floor, and one would expect this to be a revenge spot off the Bulls home win over the Spurs earlier this season. Combined with the Spurs strong play as of late, the spread seems correct. Yet, I like the mixture of the Bulls experience to show it's colors in a spotlight game. Grab the points here.

We're starting to see the same pattern of veteran age creep up on the Cavaliers as it has the past two seasons. Both Kevin Love and JR Smith are dinged up but the Cavaliers still have their top two players in Kyrie Irving and LeBron James. After defeating the Bucks last night in overtime by a margin of six, we're seeing the same number here on their home floor tonight. Yet, perhaps no team in the Eastern Conference has grown from a matchup standpoint against the Cavs as the Bucks have. They not only boast athleticism but feature immense size. Of the Bucks top eight man rotation no one is shorter than Matthew Dellavedova at 6'4. It's almost a carbon copy of the Cavaliers size, except a high advantage of youth lies with the Bucks. We'll side with that factor here and take the Bucks as a road dog.

With how solid the Nets are playing offensively it'd seem like they'll be in for a good fight tonight against Toronto. Yet, the Raptors are too potent of an offensive team to allow the Nets to stay in this one. I'm also concerned with the Nets road trip causing a significant let down here. Grab the Raptors.

Something has to give Sunday between the youth of the 76ers and that of the Nets. Brooklyn attracted value prior to their loss against the Magic with key ATS covers against the Wizards, Nuggets, Rockets, and Lakers. The blending of their youth has flourished as of late with Brook Lopez as a catalyst. Yet, their issues on the road (one win) are troublesome for a young team. The 76ers have several big men to throw at Brook Lopez which is going to leave the Nets needing to find extra scoring. Look for the Nets road issues to continue.

Sunday, the Clippers continue their east coast road trip in Washington. The Clippers are coming off consecutive narrow ATS losses to Orlando and Miami. In last year's late spring matchup in LA against the Wizards, the Clippers surrendered a 6.5 point spread loss in the final few minutes thanks to a flurry of final minute three pointers from John Wall. The game was Blake Griffin's return from a lengthy absence and team chemistry was rusty. That's a non-issue Sunday and I expect the Clippers to take advantage of a small road line.

The Clippers continue their road trip in Florida, after a five-point victory over the Magic. Beyond the second quarter in the contest the Clippers led in solid fashion. For the Heat one has to disbelieve they have the offensive punch to keep up with the Clippers.  Yet, defensive pieces are there with Justice Winslow back combined with Tyler Johnson and Hassan Whiteside. Grab the Heat to make this more interesting than anticipated as they become the second Florida home team to cover as underdogs against the Clippers.

The fire power the Raptors are showcasing currently is quietly being devalued. DeMar DeRozan is playing at a level unseen and the Raptors rotation balance extends as deep as any team. The struggling Hawks would seem as no match especially after a recent forty-four point loss in Toronto. Yet, this is a good buy low spot to grab the Hawks against the surging Raptors.

An odd line takes place in most eyes Friday as the Nets are six point underdogs against the Orlando Magic. The main reason here is the Nets have been dysfunctional to say the least on the road, with a 1-10 record. I see that extending Friday and at the right price for the home Magic. Brooklyn may seem to have ATS value as they've covered four of their last five, but are still in a major conundrum rotation wise. Grab the home Magic to take advantage.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cleveland

What does Toronto have left in the tank for game six?

They've shown all throughout the playoffs that when you believe they're down for the count, they're not.

Yet, this series has been more of a theme to Cleveland.

When Cleveland dictates their style of play they've cruised over the Raptors.

Albeit those wins were at home, which has some believing in the Raptors in game six.

I don't see it as the Raptors looked like a team on their last leg against the Miami Heat.

Cleveland got in their own way in prior games in Toronto. This time they'll treat this game in fashion of games 1-2 and 5.

Golden State

Being on Oklahoma State's side over the last few weeks has delivered plenty of profits for us.

Yet, on Thursday I can't bypass a Warriors team that went 73-9 in the regular season.

Golden State needs their team to uplift them with Steph Curry not at 100 percent. They did so against the Rockets and Trailblazers and surely have the capability to do so on their home floor in a must-win situation.

Oklahoma State has had great success but tackling a beast as such as the Warriors in this key spot is troublesome.

I for one did not agree with game one or two's spreads of 8 and 7.5. But in this instance the line may be too low and is high value off the Thunder's last two wins and Curry's healthy percentage.

Grab the Warriors.

Cleveland

The past two games in Toronto featured the Raptors come together like they haven't the entire playoffs.

They frustrated the Cavaliers perimeter offense and found their rhythm offensively.

It took Cleveland nearly two entire games to adjust offensively from their perimeter playoff attack to more of a true regular season root.

At the end of the third quarter in game four, Cleveland finally stopped having the ball stick on the perimeter and moved the ball fluidly. The result was eleven straight made field goals in the fourth quarter.

As great as the Raptors turn around in the series has been there is no denying that this series hasn't been played to the level of a series tied at two games apiece.

OKC 

Swayed value has finally occurred as the OKC Thunder have soared with dynamic performances against the Spurs and now Warriors.

This is a spot that can be tricky against the defending champions, yet they're at home and have thriving momentum.

I like the system changes Donovan has implemented, and clearly Durant/Westbrook have showcased they're on an extra level.

Look for the Thunder to carry over momentum and put the Warriors in a tough spot. Grab the Thunder.

Cavaliers

We'll call game three a semi let down for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

They never got in rhythm offensively and lost focus on the defensive end. It was a flat performance against a team deservedly in a conference final.

Yet, Toronto's teased us all playoffs with one or two dynamic games every series.

I do expect Tyronn Lue to come back with a defensive plan to offset the Raptors transition game.

Offensively the Cavaliers should get back to the level we've seen all playoffs. Keep in mind the Raptors are a dinged up team and have been prone to severe offensive droughts throughout the playoffs.

Grab the Cavaliers.

OKC

Golden State ignited in a big way game two which may cause people to forget game one.

OKC just did not have the counters offensively to stay in such a game on the road.

Do it all point guard Russ Westbrook had just a lone rebound which is not typical of the All-Star. Another anomaly for the Thunder was allowing fifteen offensive rebounds to the Warriors to just seven of their own.

Back at home I expect a much more balanced attack offensively and defensively that we've seen from the Thunder this post season.

Golden State's value ATS is still undetermined against a new and improved Thunder.

Take the value on the home dog.

Cavaliers

Toronto's home court ability has helped them in the first two rounds.

Yet their offense has been a no-show thus far against the Cleveland Cavaliers. In game two yet again they allowed an end of quarter run that proved to be the difference ATS and for the game with a Cavaliers 14-2 run before half.

Give Coach Casey credit as he has tried tweaking the lineup in a plethora of ways.

While they may extend into the second half playing close with the Cavaliers, I do not anticipate them finishing the game off.

Take the Cavs to pull off a road win ATS Saturday.

Oklahoma City +8.5

This is a spot where Golden State assuredly has to respond on their home floor.

The pressure is on the defending national champion to not go down 2-0 before heading to Oklahoma City.

I'm not saying that will lose but the value still is on the Thunder's side.

They played a below standard game from my eyes and still prevailed outright in game one. There's a lot of improvement to expect in game two from a defensive stand point as well as from stars Kevin Durant/Russ Westbrook offensively.

The Warriors are who they are. They're going to feed off their crowd and go on igniting offensive surges as they thrive with small ball basketball.

OKC is fine with that tempo and realizes those spurts are inevitable.

They're able to combat runs with key stretches of getting to the free throw line and increasing their defensive intensity when needed.

I was stunned to see this line increase from game one. Now we've surpassed regular season odds of eight points which is mind numbing. Take the points yet again with the Thunder.

Cleveland

Oddsmakers have surely made you think with a steep increase in value on the Cavaliers. 

The Cavaliers meet a second team in the playoffs that have had their number in the regular season as Toronto defeated them twice.

Yet, this is a different Raptors team. Health is of concern with several players playing hurt and key big man in Valuncianus out with an ankle injury.

My main concern with the Raptors is the several player adjustments they've made in the past two rounds.

Against the Pacers Nolan Powell was taken out of the starting lineup. Against the Heat Biyombo was inserted due to injury to JV, meanwhile veteran Luis Scola did not play entirely after registering a 21 minute average in the regular season.

All of these adjustments have forced even higher pressure on the Raptors Lowry and DeRozan the strength of their bench to fade.

Grab the Cavaliers to bypass the rust of being off for eight days.

OKC 

Subscribers should not be fooled here. I've talked about the Thunder's edge ATS for a gamut of games now. Oddsmaker's have failed to adjust.

The Warriors are a strong home team and the defending NBA champion.

Regular season numbers would showcase that the Warriors should be favored at the current line of 7.5 as they swept the Thunder three games to none.

Yet, this is a different Thunder team that is gaining confidence as they extend into the playoffs.

Billy Donovan's trust in his players is awfully similar to the trust Steve Kerr bestows on his Warriors.

Don't forget the Warriors missed out on Steph Curry's play in spots in both the first and second rounds.

The Thunder are healthy and have played well against Golden State this season. One loss the Thunder came back after being down eighteen in the third quarter and another Steph Curry nailed his miracle three pointer.

Grab the Thunder to match up well in game one as a half point differential from the regular season is a bit odd here.

Toronto Raptors

The Heat have rode the magic of great coaching and veterans to get to this stage of seven games.

They're a tough group but game seven is where the cream always rises to the top.

Frankly, I believe this series should have been over in five games by the Raptors.

For whatever reason they've continued to carry over rusty play from their Pacers series.

Luckily for them the Heat are at a high disadvantage without Hassan Whiteside. Coach Spoelstra quickly made adjustments in game six to a smaller lineup that thrived.

Yet, they also held the lead from the first quarter on.

On the road against a deficit could spell trouble quickly for the Heat.

How much more can the Heat get out of Wade, Dragic, Winslow, and Richardson?

The Raptors have thrived attacking the basket in games five and six since the loss of Whiteside. Look for that to continue in game seven and the rise of play from Lowry/DeRozan to shine. 

Miami Heat 546

The grueling series between the Heat and Raptors has been tough to watch from an offensive standpoint. 

Miami seemed to falter in game five without Whiteside in the interior but still came close to pulling off another road win.

That's worrisome to me on Friday as the Raptors still don't look fluid enough offensively to finish off a series in less than seven games.

One thing of notice in game five was the fact that Josh Richardson and Justice Winslow found their confidence.

If they can carry that over into game six we could see a complete shift in the Heat's chances of winning this series outright.

From game six's standpoint look for the Heat's balance to outdo the Raptors and for Coach Spoelstra to have necessary adjustments to thwart the Raptors.

OKC-

We see this all the time in other sports. Teams peak in the playoffs and can beat the best of the best teams.

It's happening right before our eyes with the Thunder and the Spurs.

For the Thunder to beat the Spurs twice on their home floor speaks volumes as the Spurs had lost only once all season.

They're getting it done with a college basketball mentality from Billy Donovan. He's giving the freedom necessarily needed to his star players in Durant/Westbrook and it's working.

While the Spurs long standing dominance is deserved of being favored, it's coming to an end Thursday.

Grab OKC to finish off the Spurs in grandiose fashion.

Toronto Raptors 538

There's an odd paradigm taking place in the Heat-Raptors series. The focus on the Heat has been the great resurrection of Dwayne Wade while with the Raptors the focus has been negative.

Continued poor shooting from All-Stars DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry have cast doubt on the Raptors.

Yet, I see things opposite. This series could easily have been over courtesy of a sweep from the Raptors if not from imploding in game four and playing rusty in game one.

Defensively they're flat out wearing down the Heat.

Wednesday, for the first time expect the Raptors to get their offense in gear both with the starters and bench.

They had success attacking the rim on Monday in particular with DeMar DeRozan who missed several gimme layup attempts.

Those will fall Wednesday as the Heat are not going to get away with utilizing Amare Stoudemire, Josh McRoberts, and Udonis Haslem as their triple threat interior players in consecutive games.

Oklahoma City Thunder 535

There has been superb basketball in the second round of the NBA playoffs. Unfortunately I've been on the side of some tight outcomes. 

Tuesday, I see the Spurs and Thunder as likely the best spread in the second round yet.

Throughout the years the Spurs have been battle tested and responded in tough situations. They've also been a dominant home team.

Therefore oddsmakers had no choice but to offer a higher line than game one and two's set lines.

Market value would say to take the Thunder and that's where we'll go with Tuesday's selection.

OKC has the athletes and has changed their team chemistry with their defensive recognition.

Grab the value here on the Thunder as people expecting a game one scenario will be fooled on Tuesday.

Portland Trailblazers 532

Can the Portland Trailblazers continue to sway momentum against the juggernaut Golden State Warriors?

Sure they can. Golden State will likely be without Steph Curry who is doubtful and believe the city of Portland will look to create another hostile environment.

Golden State typically has answers with their offense to combat teams but the Trailblazers have an uncanny skill set with two guards in Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum who are causing havoc.

I don't see the Warriors slowing them down Monday. Also, the Trailblazers are receiving under valued play from Al Faroug Aminu, Plumlee, and reserve Allen Crabbe off the bench.

Don't fall for the bait of latching onto the Warriors ATS in game four.

Oklahoma City Thunder (520)

Maturity has never been a word linked with Oklahoma City Thunder stars Kevin Durant and Russ Westbrook.

Yet, it appears the Western Conference's dominance has reshaped their games and uplifted their team's play.

Winning on the road in San Antonio doesn't happen often and the Thunder accomplished that in game two.

The Spurs regular season success of 67 wins is the sole reason why they're favored Friday.

As stated in Saturday's free play winner, I expect the value beyond game one to continue to drift towards the Thunder.

They're a confident group that has the team balance to clear the Spurs Friday. Grab the Thunder.

Atlanta Hawks (518)

Cleveland's historic three point night on Wednesday just adds to the mind boggling execution they've shown throughout the playoffs.

Seemingly Atlanta has to find answers in less than forty eight hours or they're going to be quickly finished by the Cavaliers.

Having lost nine straight to Cleveland you'd expect game three to handily go to the Cavaliers.

Not so fast as the Hawks have toyed with poor play in round one and in the regular season on the road against Cleveland. At home they've showcased to be a much more balanced and solid team.

Look for the Hawks to play a playoff level game and garner an ATS cover Friday.

Toronto Raptors (516)

All signs point to fade the Raptors. They've lost five straight ATS decisions and four of five at home.

It's a peculiar scenario as the Raptors were a dominant home team boasting a 32-9 regular season record.

Offensively their issues remain unsolved as they melted in a key third quarter stretch that proved to be the difference in game one.

Yet, I think the Heat are the team that will show ill effects offensively in game two. This is their fourth game in seven days and third on the road.

In game one Joe Johnson, D Wade, and Dragic shot sixty of their eighty nine team shots. That's a bit high and I'm not sure the Heat have the balance to find other solutions offensively.

Grab the Raptors to finally come to life and showcase their true depth against the tired Heat.

Atlanta (513)

Game one between the Hawks and Cavaliers featured a lethargic Cavs team that still coasted to a double digit win.

With a game in the books you'd expect the Cavs to improve upon their lethargic game one and cruise in game two.

Not exactly. I believe this Hawks team found some confidence in their loss with key penetration from Dennis Schroder. Dating back to last year's playoffs this is a team that has now lost eight consecutive games to the Cavaliers.

Look for Atlanta to increase their defensive intensity and disrupt the fluid offense the Cavaliers have showcased in five playoff games.

Take the Hawks plus the points.

Spurs (510)

One would expect the OKC Thunder to raise their level of play following game one's blowout loss to the Spurs.

Although I did say in my free play winner that I do expect the Thunder to gain value as the series goes on, I don't see that happening in game two.

It's a quick turn around from Saturday's blowout loss and I just don't see the Thunder coming up with necessary adjustments on the road.

San Antonio's offense should continue to click on all cylinders which is the main story line in grabbing them as steep favorites at home Monday.

OKC's defense is a problem and until the Thunder can get Ibaka, Kanter, and Adams to buy-in it's going to be a troublesome beginning. Grab the Spurs to roll again.

Cavs (504)

Game one between the Cavs and Hawks begins today. I do have this one going seven games but in game one we'll look at the Cavaliers to come out with proper aggression.

After all the Cavaliers did sweep the regular season series and last year's Eastern Conference Finals four games to none.

Atlanta is going to have to adjust their style after struggling against the Celtics to showcase an offensive identity. In fact, only Kyle Korver shot above 41% in the Celtics series at the guard position.

Cleveland should be able to jump start game one and grab an ATS cover based on continued dominance in half court offensive sets. Grab the Cavaliers.