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Ricky's 10* play on TOR.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

-  The Raptors are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games.

-  The Raptors are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games versus. a team with a losing road record.

-  The Timberwolves are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games versus. a team with a losing straight up record.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on VAN.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

-  The Commodores are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games.

- The Commodores are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games overall.

- The Commodores are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up win.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on KENT.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

-  The Golden Flashes are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 neutral site games.

-  The Golden Flashes are 23-5 ATS in their last 28 games following a ATS win.

-  The Underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.

Verdict: The value is on the underdog.

Ricky's 10* play on LAC.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Clippers are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games versus a team with a losing straight up record.

- The Timberwolves are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 1 days rest.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on PUR.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Boilermakers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games.

- The Boilermakers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games versus. a team with a losing road record.

- The Hoosiers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 road games.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's10* play on SAC.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Kings are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 road games versus. a team with a losing home record.

- The Kings are 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 games playing on 1 days rest.

- The Rockets are 7-19-1 ATS in their last 27 games overall.

Verdict: The Value is on the road favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on IND.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Hoosiers are 19-9 ATS in their last 28 home games.

- The Hoosiers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games versus . a team with a winning straight up record.

- The Underdog is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.

Verdict: The value is on the home underdog.

Ricky's 10* play on RID.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

-  The Peacocks are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 road games.

-  The Peacocks are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win.

-  The Peacocks are 0-8 ATS in their last 8 games following a ATS win.

Verdict: The Value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on GS.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

-  The Celtics are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 2 days rest.

-  The Warriors are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.

-  The Warriors are 7-5 in their last 11 games.

Verdict: The value is on the road underdog.

Ricky's 10* play on PHI.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The 76ers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 1 days rest.

- The Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 1 days rest.

- The 76ers are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 home games.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on LAC.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

-  The Clippers are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games overall.

-  The Pistons are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games.

-  The Clippers are 3-0-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Detroit.

Verdict: The value is on the road favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on ND

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

-  The Orange are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games following a ATS loss.

-  The Orange are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games overall.

-  The Orange are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road games.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on NO.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

-  The Pelicans are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games versus. a team with a winning % below .400.

-  The Spurs are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss.

-  The Spurs are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss.

Verdict: The value is on the road favorite.

Ricky's 7* play on NO.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

Key Trends:

- The Jazz are 2-10 ATS in their last 12 games playing on 1 days rest.

- The Jazz are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.

- The  Jazz are 6-20 ATS in their last 26 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game.

Verdict: The value is on the home favorite.

Ricky's 10* play on Miami.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is quite significant.

- The Hawks are 2-7 ATS in their last nine games as an underdog.

- The Hawks are 6-15 ATS in their last 21 road games.

- The Heat are 37-18 ATS in their last 55 playoff games as a favorite.

Verdict: The Hawks are really going to miss Clint Capela. 

Ricky's 10* play on DUKE.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is particularly significant.

- The Red Raiders are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 neutral site games.

- The Red Raiders are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 neutral site games as a favorite.

- The Blue Devils are 6-0 ATS in their last six neutral site games as an underdog.

Verdict: The Blue Devils look good in Coach K's swan song.

Ricky's 10* play on MIAMI.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is particularly significant.

- The Hurricanes are 23-8-1 ATS in their last 32 games as an underdog.

- The Tigers are 0-7 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up win.

- The Tigers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight games overall.

Verdict: The Canes might just pull off the upset.

Ricky's 10* play on Dallas.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Clippers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight playoff games as a favorite.

- The Clippers are 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight games as a road favorite.

- The Clippers are 1-4 ATS in the last five head to head meetings.

Verdict: The Clippers have no business being favored on the road at Dallas.

Ricky's 10* play on Dallas.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Clippers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight playoff games as a favorite.

- The Clippers are 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight games as a road favorite.

- The Clippers are 1-4 ATS in the last five head to head meetings.

Verdict: The Clippers have no business being favored on the road at Dallas.

Ricky's 10* play on LA Lakers.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Suns are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The Suns are 1-5 ATS in their last six games playing on 1 days rest.

- The Suns are 2-6 ATS in the last eight meetings in Los Angeles.

Verdict: The injury to Chris Paul appears to be a problem for the Suns.

Ricky's 10* play on PHI.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The 76ers are 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games as a road favorite.

- The Wizards are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 Conference Quarterfinals games.

- The Wizards are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 playoff games as an underdog.

Verdict: Russell Westbrook missed practice, and is questionable for Game 3.

Ricky's 10* play on San Antonio.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Hornets are 1-4 ATS in their last five road games.

- The Hornets are 0-4 ATS in their last four games as an underdog.

- The Hornets are 1-4 ATS in the last five meetings in San Antonio.

Verdict: The Hornets will miss LaMelo Ball, who is out for the season. 

Ricky's 10* play on Georgetown.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Hoyas are 4-0 ATS in their last four neutral site games.

- The Hoyas are 4-0 ATS in their last four games as an underdog.

- The Buffaloes are 0-4 ATS in their last four NCAA Tournament games.

Verdict: Georgetown comes into the tournament as one of the nation's hottest teams.

Ricky's 10* play on the Michigan.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The favorite is 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings.

- The Hawkeyes are 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.

Verdict: The Wolverines might be the hottest team in the country right now.

Ricky's 10* play on the Grizzlies.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Pelicans are 1-6 ATS in their last seven road games.

- The Pelicans are 6-16 ATS in their last 22 games playing on 1 days rest.

- The Grizzlies are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games following a straight up win.

Verdict: The Pelicans don't win many games on the road.

Ricky's 10* play on Maryland.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Cornhuskers are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games following an ATS win.

- The Cornhuskers are 7-16 ATS in their last 23 games as an underdog.

- The Cornhuskers are 9-19 ATS in their last 28 games overall.

Verdict: This line could be a lot higher considering Nebraska has lost nine of 10.

Ricky's 10* play on the Bulls.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Cardinals are 1-5 ATS in their last sox games as an underdog.

- The Cardinals are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 road games.

- The home team is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

Verdict: The Bulls have won four of the last five meetings by double digits.

Ricky's 7* play on the Trojans.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Buffaloes are 13-40 ATS in their last 53 road games.

- The Buffaloes are 7-19 ATS in their last 26 games as an underdog.

- The Trojans are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games as a home favorite.

Verdict: The Trojans are a strong home team.

Ricky's 10* play on the Rams.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Rams are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The favorite is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.

- The home team is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.

Verdict: The Rams are a tough home team, and undervalued after playing a tough schedule.

Ricky's 10* play on Milwaukee.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Bucks are 3-1 straight up in the last four head to head meetings.

- The Bucks last three wins over Golden State all came by at least nine points.

- The Bucks had the best home record in the NBA last year.

Verdict: The Warriors did not look good in their season opener at Brooklyn.

Ricky's 7* play on the Pirates.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

Key Trends:

- The Gaels lost their top three scorers from last year.

- The Gaels were 2-7 straight up in their first nine games last season.

- The Gaels are 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight Monday games.

Verdict: The Pirates leading scorer is a 6"11 senior (Sandro Mamukelashvili).

Ricky's 10* play on UCLA.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

Key Trends:

- The Bruins are 5-0-1 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The Bruins are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games

- The Bruins were perfect against the Mountain West last season.

Verdict: The Aztecs lost their leading scorer to the NBA draft, while UCLA brings back all it's top scorers.

Ricky's 10* play on Auburn.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. The Wildcats are not playing well, coming off an uninspired win over Vanderbilt. Auburn's home record (11-0) has plenty of significance here.

Key Trends:

- The Tigers average over 85 points per game at home.

- The Wildcats were losing at the half at home versus last place Vanderbilt in their last game.

- The Tigers are 4-2 ATS in the last six head to head meetings.

The verdict: look for the Tigers to heat up from three-point range, and run up the score.

My 10* BLOWOUT ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on the Washington Wizards.

Off a home win over the Knicks, I expect the Hornets to predictably struggle on the road in the nation's capital. The Wizards come in focussed on the task at hand as they enter off a double-digit loss to Milwaukee. 

Despite the win last time out, note that the Hornets have averaged fewer than 100 points over their last five. 

The Wizards' deplorable defense catches a break here today facing this stagnant Hornets' offense. 

Key Trends:

- The Wizards are 4-1 ATS in their last five at home.

- Charlotte is only 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. the division.

- The Hornets are already just 3-7 ATS this season after successfully covering the spread in two or more straight outings.

The verdict: I think the home side has the distinct advantage here, as I expect a double-digit blowout once it's all said and done; lay the short points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on the Portland Trail Blazers.

I think the home side digs deep and finds a way to get the job done in front of the home town crowd. Indiana is 13-11 away from home, which isn't great. But compared to the Blazers sub-par 10-11 home record, it's much better. 

This is game five of a five game road trip for Indiana and I think it's going to struggle to find energy vs. this desperate home side. 

Portland is currently on the outside of the playoff picture looking in. This is the third game of a four-game home stand. The Blazers have just two wins in their last five games. 

Key Trends:

- Indiana is a poor 0-2 ATS off two straight road wins by ten points or more.

- Portland is 6-1 ATS in its last seven after allowing 110 points or more for four straight games (including 3-1 ATS this season.)

The verdict: I think the Pacers come out flat in their final game of this trip and I expect the Blazers to play with a sense of urgency from start to finish; lay the short points!

My 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS is on UNLV.

SDSU is 20-0, while UNLV is 11-10. I think the Aztecs are going to have a fight on their hands from start to finish and in a contest which I think'll be decided in the final moments, I'm going to grab up the ample points.

The Aztecs are 9-0 in MWC play, while the Rebels are 6-2. Most recently the Aztecs come in off a 72-55 win over Wyoming at home. Malachi Flynn led the way with 18 points. Overall SDSU averages 74.7 PPG and it concedes 56.7. 

UNLV comes in off a loss to Nevada and it'll be eager to get back on track here at home and to try and snap the Aztecs perfect record. UNLV averages 71.9 PPG and it allows 69.7. 

Key Trends:

- SDSU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games following a SU/ATS loss.

- SDSU is only 3-4 ATS in its last seven after a 15 points or higher home victory.

The verdict: I don't think SDSU is going to run the table and despite having a key injury to its point guard, I believe UNLV will give the Aztecs their "best shot" this afternoon; grab the points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Denver.

Denver won't be going down without a fight tonight. Last time out it also battled tooth and nail vs. North Dakota on Thursday, but its come-back bid fell short in the 78-71 setback. Ade Murkey was a bright spot in defeat with 25 points, while Jase Townsend added 19. Overall the Pioneers average 67.1 PPG and they've been holding the opposition to 31.5 percent from range, ranked second in the Summit League. It's also ranked third in the league in getting to the charity stripe.

North Dakota State averages 72.9 PPG and it concedes 65.4. Vinnie Shahid leads the nightly charge with 16.6 PPG. 

Key Trends:

- Denver is 7-3 ATS in its last ten road games after scoring 70 or more points in its previous outing and still losing SU.

- North Dakota State is just 4-7 ATS in its last 11 home games as a favorite in the -9.5 to -15.5 points range.

The verdict: I like Denver to keep pace offensively and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to this one being significantly more competitive than what this spread would suggest; grab the points!

My 10* UNDERDOG ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on Marist.

Marist is just 4-13, while Siena is only 7-9. The Red Foxes though come in under the radar here, as they've won two straight, while the Saints are on the other end of the spectrum, having lost three in a row. The Saints fell 72-71 to Niagara last time out. 

Most recently Marist got the better of Manhattan 75-73. The Red Foxes trailed by ten at half time and were the underdog in that one, but I have no reason not to believe that they can't carry over that second half momentum here. 

Key Trends:

- Marist is 5-1 ATS in its last six as a road dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range (including 2-0 ATS this year.)

- Sienna is a terrible 8-20 ATS in its last 28 as a favorite (including a horrible 2-8 ATS this season.)

The verdict: I think this one is going to be much tighter than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe; grab the points!

My 10* UNDERDOG U OF THE U is on Middle Tennessee State.

MTSU is only 4-15, while Louisiana Tech is 13-5. Will the Bulldogs have a letdown here vs. their lowly opponent? I believe enough of one to let the home side very comfortably sneak in through the back door with the large spread they've been afforded. 

Louisiana Tech has won seven of its last nine, while MTSU has dropped 15 of its last 16. Which of these two teams is "hungrier" here? 

Also note that MTSU plays with revenge after falling 73-56 on the road in this game last year. 

Key Trends:

- Louisiana Tech is just 5-12 ATS in its last 17 as a road favorite or pick.

- MTSU is 6-1 ATS in its last seven vs. good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest.

The verdict: Louisiana Tech is still hung up on its 51-50 loss to UNT last time out as well. The numbers and the overall situation favors the Blue Raiders; grab the points!

My 10* BEWARE OF DOG play is on Georgia Tech.

At 8-10, I think the lowly Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets come in "under the radar" here vs. the mighty 15-3 Louisville Cardinals. Georgia Tech will be hungry here though, as it's lost two straight. The Yellow Jackets were competitive in defeat last time out, falling 63-58 to Virginia. 

Louisville returns home after a three-game road trip and after topping Duke 79-73 last time out, there's no doubt in my mind that this sets ups a letdown/trap for the contented home side this evening. 

Key Trends:

- Georgia Tech is 3-1 ATS already this year off a loss vs. a conference rival.

- Louisville is already just 1-3 ATS this year off a road win vs. a conference rival.

The verdict: The situation and the trends are working heavily in favor of the underdog in this one; grab the points!

My 10* BLOWOUT ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on San Jose State.

New Mexico returns home after losing two straight on the road. New Mexico is 15-5 overall and 4-3 in league play, while SJSU is 6-13 and 2-5 in conference action. 

The Spartans have lost two in a row as well, but they've been competitive, most recently falling 98-87 to UNLV on the road. Seneca Knight led the Spartans with 30 points. SJSU averages 69.3 PPG and it concedes 78.4.

The Lobos average 80 PPG, but they allow 75.3. Most recently they lost 99-78 at UNLV on Saturday. 

Key Trends:

- The Lobos are a poor 1-4 ATS in their last five following an ATS loss.

- New Mexico is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after allowing more than 90 points in its previous game.

- The Spartans are 4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU loss. 

The verdict: The Lobos were forced to kick Carlton Bragg from the team because of a violation and since then they've gone 0-2 and allowed 105 and 99 points in each. And note that these teams have already played this year and San Jose State won 88-85 at home. Grab the points, but don't be completely shocked by an outright upset!

My 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING is on Bucknell.

I like the Bucknell Bison to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the large spread they've been afforded in this matchup. Last time out the Bison beat Lehigh 72-56, led by 15 points from Avi Toomer. The Bison are now 4-2 in confernec play. 

The Colgate Raiders beat Boston 79-70 in their latest action, led by 21 points from Will Rayman. Overall Colgate is 5-1 in league play. 

Key Trends:

- Bucknell is 7-3 ATS in its last ten road conference games after holding its previous opponent to 58 points or less.

- Colgate is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven home games after allowing 70 points or more in a SU victory in its previous outing.

The verdict: I like the hungry Bison to step up here and push the home side to the brink; grab the points!

My 10* ATS BLOOD-BATH is on the Washington Wizards.

Both teams are terrible. The Pistons are 16-27 and the Wizards are 13-28. However I think that Detroit takes a step back here in the Nation's capital after its rare 136-103 blowout win over the Hawks on the road in their last action (Atlanta had played and won in OT at San Antonio the night previous). 

The Wizards are the "hungrier" team no doubt, as they enter off a humbling 140-111 loss at the Raptors. 

Key Trends:

- Detroit is just 4-8 ATS this year as a road dog.

- The Pistons are a poor 2-5 ATS this season already off a road victory.

- The Wizards are already a near-perfect 5-1 ATS this season after three or more SU losses. 

The verdict: I love the home side to double down defensively and to gut out the victory here; lay the short points!

My 10* U OF THE U is on the Atlanta Hawks.

Detroit is coming in off a rare win over the Celtics, but I think it'll take a step back here. The Hawks come in off an impressive win at San Antonio just last night and I believe this young and hungry home side carries that confidence and momentum over in this one. The Pistons are receiving inconsistent play from game to game with Blake Griffin still sidelined with injury. 

Trae Young and the Hawks though have in fact won two in a row, after also upsetting the Suns previous to last night's victory. The All Star break is looming and I believe Young will keep the foot on the gas in this favorable home matchup this evening.  

Key Trends:

- The Hawks are 11-6 ATS in their last 17 at home.

- Detroit is just 6-13-1 ATS in its last 20 road games.

The verdict: For all the reasons listed above, play on the home side!

My 10* U OF THE U is on Loyola Marymount.

I think Loyola Marymount will give the San Francisco Dons everything they can handle in this one. 

The Lions come in off a tough 75-67 loss at Pepperdine, led by 19 points from Erik Johansson. Overall Loyola Marymount averages 71.1 PPG.

San Francisco held on for a tight 79-75 win over Pacific last time out, giving it its first conference loss of the year so far. Overall the Dons average 80 PPG. 

Key Trends:

- Loyola Marymount is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games following a loss in which it conceded 75 points or more in.

- San Francisco is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine after scoring 78 point or more in its previous contest.

The verdict: I'm not calling for an outright upset, but everything points this one being a "nail biter." Grab the points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Iowa.

I don't think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in the outcome of this game. 

Michigan is only 2-3 in conference action and it enters off a demoralizing 75-67 road loss to Minnesota. Iowa is only 3-3 in league play, but it comes in off back-to-back victories. 

In fact note that Michigan is 0-4 in true road games this year. 

The Wolverines score an average of 77.9 PPG and they allow 68.6, while Iowa averages 79.3 PPG and it allows 68.9. 

Key Trends:

- Michigan is 1-4 ATS on the road this year.

- The Wolverines are only 3-4 ATS this season vs. good offensive teams which average 77 plus points per game.

The verdict: I look for Michigan's road woes to carry over here vs. this red hot home side; lay the points!

My 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS is on the Washington Wizards.

Toronto is going to be in the playoffs at the end of the year and depending on how healthy it is, it has a legitimate shot at once again advancing to the NBA Finals. At 13-27, the Wizards are already planning and looking ahead to next year.

All of that said, I do indeed feel though that this one favors the hungry visiting side, as I look for Toronto to come out and flat and to get caught looking past its lowly opponent tonight. 

Toronto is in Minnesota tomorrow night, followed by a game in Atlanta, so the "look ahead" is also a concern for Raptors bettors tonight.

Washington plays with revenge after a 122-118 loss to Toronto in the team's most recent action. And with two whole nights off before a home game vs. the Pistons, the Wizards' full focus is on trying to upset the defending champs here. 

Key Trends:

- Washington is already 7-3 ATS this year (that's 70%) as a road dog in the 6.5 to 12 points range. 

- Toronto is already a disturbingly poor 0-4 ATS this season off an puset win as a road underdog.

The verdict: Grab the points and expect a competitive battle until the final moments!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Marist.

I think Marist, which comes in off a 69-52 loss at home to Rigers on Sunday, will keep this one closer than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe. Braden Bell had nine points and three streal in the most recent setback for the Red Foxes. 

Monmouth enters off an 84-70 loss at Quinnipiac. The Hawks are 5-0 at home this year and are led by Deion Hammond with 15.3 PPG. 

But with a game at Manahattan on Saturday night, I think the home side gets caught "looking past" its lowly opponent to that much more difficult contest vs. the No. 2 team in the conference standings. 

Key Trends:

- Marist is a strong 4-1 ATS in its last five as a road dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range (including 1-0 ATS this year.) 

- Monmouth is already just 1-2 ATS this year as a home favorite.

The verdict: The stars and the planets have aligned for the Red Foxes tonight; grab up all those points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on the Detroit Pistons.

On paper, the Celtics are the better team. They also have the home floor advantage. But Detroit is the "hungrier" team tonight and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do think that the writing is on the wall and a "nail biter" is in the cards. Detroit enters off a tough OT loss to the Pelicans, while the C's come in off a double-digit win over the Bulls. 

Yes, Detroit is down to Andre Drummond and Derrick Rose for the most part, but it clearly will be hungry to get off the schneid. 

Also note that the Celtics are expected to rest offensive star Jason Tatum this evening. 

Key Trends:

- Detroit is 5-1 ATS in its last six after allowing 105 points or more in five straight games.

- Boston is just 3-5 ATS in its last eight after two straight victories by ten points or more.

The verdict: The clincher? I think it sets up as a "look ahead" spot as well, as Boston is in Milwaukee tomorrow night to take on the East leading Bucs. Grab the points and expect a battle until the final horn!

My 10* TOP DOG is on George Washington.

I think that 12-4 George Mason takes a step back here vs. this hungry 6-10 George Washington home side. To say this is a "revenge game" would be a bit of an understatement, as George Mason has taken four straight in the series, including all three last year. The Colonials lost to Duquesne last time out, while the Patriots got the better of La Salle. 

Previous to its latest win though, George Mason had lost three in a row. 

The Colonial lost 66-61 to the Dukes, led by 14 points from Jameer Nelson Jr. 

Key Trends:

- While the Patriots have been winning SU in this series, they've stumbled badly ATS, going just 2-6 ATS in their last eight vs. George Washington.

- George Washington is a perfect 5-0 ATS in its last five as a home dog of three points or less.

The verdict: Grab the points, but obviously we're expecting an outright win here!

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Memphis Grizzlies. 

Houston comes in off a win over Minnesota, but I think it'll have its hands full in this difficult road venue this evening. The Grizzlies won't be going down without a fight at home and they enter playing their absolute best ball of the season, having won six straight after a victory over the Warriors last time out. 

The Rockets are going to be without Russell Westbrook tonight though, as the super star guard will not play both games in a back-to-back situation, with Houston at home to Portland tomorrow night. That's then followed by the Lakers coming to town next weekend. This not only sets up as a letdown spot in my opinion for the Rockets, but it's also a look ahead spot. Letdown/look-ahead = trap.

Ja Morant has posted double digits in scoring during the Grizzlies six-game run. 

Key Trends:

- The Grizzlies are 5-0 ATS in their last five after allowing 100 points or more in their previous outing.

- The Rockets are interestingly just 1-6 ATS in their last seven vs. home teams with a losing SU record. 

The verdict: For sure the outright victory is possible, but in the end I'm going to grab the points!

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on Nebraska.

The 7-9 Nebraska Cornhuskers storm into the Pacific Northwest looking to pull off the big outright upset vs. the 11-5 Ohio State Buckeyes on Monday night. Ohio State is the better "on paper," but the Buckeyes enter with absolutely no momentum whatsoever, having lost five of their last six. 

Nebraska beat Iowa, but then stumbled to Northwestern 62-57 last time out. The Huskers rank 22nd in the country with only 11.2 turnovers per game, meaning that they don't usually "beat themselves." 

Ohio State lost 66-54 to Inidana last time out. 

Key Trends:

- Nebraska is already 2-0 ATS this year off a loss vs. a conference rival.

- The Huskers are 4-1 ATS in their last five off a road cover where it lost SU as an underdog.

- The Buckeyes are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight off an upset loss as a favorite (including only 1-2 ATS this season.)

The verdict: Both teams are hungry. Expect a battle. Also, grab the points!

My 10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on the Phoenix Suns.

Charlotte has somehow already taken two of three from Phoenix in the season series this year. The Suns broke a two-game slide though with a win over Orlando last time out and I thikn they're going to pull away late here for a convincing victory as well.

The Hornets on the other hand are coming off another terrible performance, falling 109-92 to the Jazz. 

Key Trends:

- Charlotte is interestingly already 1-5 ATS this year when playing on a "Sunday." 

- The Hornets are just 9-10 ATS this year after playing a road game.

- Phoenix is interestingly 3-0 ATS this season already after failing to cover the spread in three or more straight games.

The verdict: The Suns are fully healthy and they're finally starting to play together as a team. This one has home side "blowout" written all over it; play on the Suns!

My 10* BEWARE OF DOG TOP DOG is on LBSU.

I like the 5-12 LBSU 49ers to sneak in the under the radar here and catch the 12-4 UCSB Gauchos off guard tonight. I'm not calling for an outright upset, but everything points to a much tighter battle than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe in my opinion. UCSB comes in content after six straight wins, most recently a 63-45 victory over Cal Poly. JaQuori McLaughlin averages 15.3 PPG. 

LBSU enters off a 95-77 loss to Cal State Northridge. Michael Carter III was a bright spot in the setback with 19 points. 

Key Trends:

- LBSU is 5-1 ATS in its last six after failing to cover the spread in three or more straight games.

- UC Santa Barbara is already a poor 1-2 ATS this season as a home favorite of 12.5 points or more.

The verdict: I think the Gauchos come in complacent and I believe the 49ers will play desperately. Grab the points and expect this one to come down to the wire!

My 10* GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Phoenix Suns.

The Suns won four straight ATS, but they come into this one "desperate" after back-to-back losses. First it was a 121-114 setback to the Grizzlies, who were playing their second game of a back-to-back. Then it was a 114-103 loss at home to Sacramento. The Suns are ready to get back into the winners circle here with some very "winnable" games ahead of them. After tonight they have Charlotte at home, followed by the Hawks and Knicks on the road. Note as well that the Suns play with revenge here after falling 128-114 to the Magic back in early December. 

The Magic come in off back-to-back wins, beating Brooklyn 101-89 and Washington 123-89. Complacency is an issue for this Orlando team and maintaining consistency on the road from one game to the next has been a weak point as well. With upcoming games at Sacramento, the Lakers and the Clippers, Orlando could very well be caught "looking past" their lowly non-conference opponent tonight as well.

Key Trends:

- Orlando is a poor 3-7 ATS in its last ten off a home victory vs. a division rival (including 0-2 ATS this year.) 

- Phoenix has been "lights out" in a "revenge role" this year, going 17-6 ATS in that department (including 7-2 ATS in revenging a loss of ten points or more.) 

The verdict: Check out Orlando's five road victories this year: twice against the Cavs, twice against the Wiz and also vs. the Pelicans. I look for this revenge minded and amped up home side to lay the hammer down from start to finish; lay the points!

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Illinois Chicago.  

The 10-6 Norse invade 6-11 Illinois Chicago on Friday night and I'm expecting a minor upset. Despite having the better record, NKU has still lost three of its last five games. Same for the Flames. UIC is better at home than on the road and I believe they'll be the hungrier team on the floor as well. 

NKU got a season-high 21 points from Bryson Langdon in the Norse's most recent 75-64 win over Oakland, but the continued absence of leading-scorer Dantez Walton is significant tonight in my opinion. 

The Flames though are desperate after three straight losses, including a 64-62 nail-biter to Milwaukee. Darius Roy was a bright spot in the setback with 19 points.

Key Trends:

- NKU is a poor 9-13 ATS in its last 22 as a road favorite or pick.

- Illinois Chicago is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a home dog of three points or less or pick.

The verdict: I think the home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night; play on UIC!

My 10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on Northwestern.

Am I suggesting that Northwestern will pull off the outright upset here? I'm not. But I do think that the hungry Wildcats are going to come out on fire and I look for them to keep this one close down the stretch. 

The Hoosiers are susceptible right now as well after back-to-back losses. The Wildcats do have one respectable win this year, taking down Providence at the start of the season. 

Key Trends:

- Northwestern is already 6-2 ATS this year as an underdog (and 3-1 ATS as a road dog.) 

- The Wildcats are 5-3 ATS this season vs. teams with winning records.

- Indiana is already 0-2 ATS this year as a home favorite in the 12.5 to 18 points range.

The verdict: Clearly Indiana is the better team. But I believe the desperate Wildcats come in under the radar here and cover with the large spread they've been afforded tonight; grab the points! 

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the LA Lakers.

New York has surprised people of late and it most recently took the Clippers down to the wire in this very building, but eventually falling 135-132. The Lakers have continued to win, but they haven't been blowing teams out of the water or anything.

But I think that the writing is on the wall and a major letdown for the Knicks is imminent here. The Lakers have won four straight, most recently a 106-99 win over Detroit in which they posted 20 blocks. 

Key Trends:

- New York is interestinly just 6-12 ATS in its last 18 after a close loss by three points or less (including going 1-3 ATS this year.) 

- The Knicks are just 7-10 ATS this season after covering the spread in their last game.

- The Lakers are 2-1 ATS this season as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points.

The verdict: The Lakers have been a popular fade over the last month, but I think that trend ends quick fast in a hurry tonight. Lay the points, because I'm expecting a blowout!

My 10* GAME OF THE YEAR is on Nebraska.

The 6-8 Nebraska Cornhuskers close out a five-game home stand in need of a victory. An upset here over 10-4 Iowa would go a long way in helping turn the season around. Nebraska has won three of the last five in the series, including 93-91 in OT last March. 

The Hawkeyes look poised for a letdown here though in my opinion after their 89-86 loss to Penn State last time out. There were ten ties and 30 lead changes in that contest, so after that emotional setback, everything points to another letdown tonight. Iowa averages 83 PPG and it concedes 81.3. 

Nebraska averages 74 and it concedes 77. On paper, clearly the Hawkeyes have the advantage. But situationally and motivationally, I believe the Huskers have the advantage tonight. 

Key Trends:

- Iowa is a poor 6-18 ATS in its last 24 road games.

- The Hawkeyes are just 1-3 ATS in their last four after scoring 85 points or more in two straight games.

- Nebraska is 18-10 ATS in its last 18 after failing to cover the spread in its last game (including 5-2 ATS this year.) 

The verdict: CJ Fredrick is listed as questionable for the visitors as well, as he sprained his ankle in the loss to the Nittany Lions. The visitors are the better team on most nights, but not tonight. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a battle until the final horn!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on the Blazers.

Portland lost by 20 in New York, but it bounced back finally in the Nation's capital with a convincing win over the Wizards last time out. The Blazers won't be lacking for motivation here and I feel they offer great value to sneak in under the radar here and (at the very least!) score the comfortable ATS cover. I think the combination of CJ McCollom, Damian Lillard and Carmelo Anthony keep the visiting side in this one late. 

The Heat come in off a terrible 105-85 home loss to Orlando as well on Friday. And with a couple nights off before three straight road games vs. Eastern Conference opponents, would anyone fault the home side in some small way looking past its lowly non-conference opponent tonight?

Key Trends:

- Portland is interestingly 16-6 ATS in its last 22 vs. the Southeast Division (including 3-0 ATS this season).

- The Blazers are 3-1 ATS in their last four as a road dog of six points or less.

- Miami is already a poor 1-4 ATS this season as a home favorite of six points or less.

The verdict: I like the very hungry visiting side to take this one down to the wire; grab the points! 

My 10* BEWARE OF DOG plays in on the Charlotte Hornets.

The Hornets broke a five-game slide with a 109-106 outright win in Cleveland last time out and I think they offer great value to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch here as well. 

Dallas broke a two-game slide with a 123-111 win over the Nets in its last outing, but this is a spot in which they've struggled in for bettors in the past and I think those trends carry over here. 

Key Trends:

- As note that Dallas is a poor 7-10 ATS at home this season.

- Also note that the Mavs are a terrible 4-8 ATS this season after scoring 120 points or more in their previous outing.

- Conversely note that the Hornets are a sharp 10-5 ATS in their last 15 on the road.

The verdict: For all the reasons listed above, grab the ample points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Mississippi Valley State.

These are two very poor teams. Arkansas-Pine Bluff is 1-11. Mississippi State Valley is 1-12. That said, I don't think that the home floor advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular contest. 

Not only that, but the Devils play with revenge here after getting smoked by Arkansas Pine Bluff 91-57 last March. 

Key Trends:

- Arkansas Pine-Bluff is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine as a road favorite.

- Mississippi Valley State is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 as a home dog in the -2 to -5.5 range after a three-games or longer losing streak.

The verdict: These teams are evenly matched, but the situational and trend based factors working in favor of the home side today make it the correct call; play on the Devils!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on the LA Lakers.

Key Trends:

Analysis posted shortly.

My 10* CASH-BOMB is on San Jose State.

I think 13-2 New Mexico comes into this one complacent vs. hungry 4-10 San Jose State. The Spartans come in off a confidence building 83-68 win over Pepperdine as well, with guar Brae Ivey scoring a career high 23 points. 

UNM most recently got the better of UC Davis 74-69 on Sunday, anchored by 20 points from Corey Manigault. The Lobos though struggled to pull away and depth is a concern with a couple lingering injuries to two starters. 

Key Trends:

- SJSU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games following a victory in which it won and held its opponent to 70 points or less in.

- The Lobos are interestingly 0-5 ATS in their last five road games vs. a team with a home winning percentage of less than .400.

The verdict: The Spartans only lost to ranked Utah State by 12 points and they come in off their biggest win of the year. The Lobos on the other hand are starting to show "cracks in the armor" after their extended run. I think the "hungrier" team keeps it closer than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe here; grab the points!

My 10* U OF THE U is on the Detroit Pistons.

These teams are moving in opposite directions. The Pistons have lost six of seven, while Utah has won seven of eight. Detroit won't be lacking for motivation here today though and I do indeed feel that this sets up as a trap/look-ahead spot for the now complacent home side.

Utah enters off a 120-107 win over the Clippers as well, which further lends itself to this being a "letdown" spot for the Jazz in my opinion. 

Key Trends:

- Detroit is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 after a blowout loss by 20 points or more (including 2-1 ATS this season.)

- Utah is only 6-8 ATS at home this season.

- The Jazz are just 2-4 ATS this year off a road victory.

The verdict: I like the "hungrier" team to keep this one tight until the final moments; grab the points!

My 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on NC Wilmington.

UNCW is 5-9 and Drexel is 7-7. The Seahawks though have dominated this mathcup, as they've won seven of the last eight SU, including going 5-2 ATS in the last seven. That said, Drexel won the last game last year by 12 points as a 4.5 point favorite, meaning that the "revenge factor" also comes into play here for the visiting side. UNCW averages 73 PPG

The Dragons come in off a loss as wel to Charleston on Friday and I think they're set up for a letdown here as well. 

Key Trends:

- UNCW is 15-5 ATS in its last 20 off a loss vs. a conference rival.

- Drexel is just 2-4 ATS at home this year. 

The verdict: I think the high-flying Seahawks keep this one close down the stretch; grab the points!

My 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING is on Maine.

This is Maine's biggest road trip in program history and I think it'll make the most of it. The Black Bears come in under the radar here, most recently they lost 74-53 to UMass. Nedeljko Prijovic was a stand out in the setback with 15 points. 

Hawaii is led by Eddie Stansberry with 16.5 PPG, but with the New Year break coming up, followed by conference play after, I think the Warriors definitely get caught "looking past" their lowly non-conference opponent today. 

Key Trends:

- Maine is 7-2 ATS in its last nine non-conference road games following a 20 points or more loss in its previous outing.

- Hawaii is just 2-4 ATS in its last six home games a 15 points or more home favorite vs. a non-conference opponent.

The verdict: No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points!

My 10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on the Houston Rockets.

Both teams are coming off poor efforts. The Nets though are injured and have zero momentum and I think that trend of futility gets carried over here. Most recently Brooklyn fell 94-82 to the lowly Knicks. The lone bright spot was Spencer Dinwiddie, who had 25 point sin the setback. Overall Brooklyn averages and concedes 111 PPG.

The Rockets won four in a row before an X-Mas Day upset at Golden State, falling 116-114. Russell Westbrook had 30 points in the setback: "We were up by 13 in the first half and for some reason we decided to start fouling them and putting them on the line and that cost us," coach Mike D'Antoni said. "Defensively we gave up 64 points in the first half and that's not good enough."

Key Trends:

- Houston is 9-1 ATS in its last ten when playing on two days rest.

- The Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU loss of more than ten points.

- Brooklyn is only 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. teams with a winning percentage above .600.

The verdict: The Rockets were embarrassed on National TV in front of the whole world just a couple of days ago and now they get a chance to annihilate this injured Nets team. Expect a blowout!

My 10* BLOWOUT BEST OF THE BEST is on the Milwaukee Bucks.

After getting embarrassed on X-Mas Day in Philadelphia, I look for the Bucks to bounce back here and to take out their frustrations on the lowly Hawks. 

Whether Giannis Antetokounmpo plays or not tonight, I like Chris Middleton and the Bucks to deliver the goods here. Milwaukee has incredible depth and it's defense is going to be able to slow down this weak Hawks' attack.

ATL most recently lost in Cleveland and it enters the post-X-Mas break with zero momentum. Overall the Hawks concede 118.6 PPG, the worst in the NBA.

Key Trends:

- Milwaukee is 30-11 ATS in its last 41 off an upset loss as a favorite (including 3-1 ATS this season.) 

- ATL is just 3-5 ATS this year revenging a same season loss vs. an opponent.

The verdict: This one has all the makings of an epic blowout; lay the points!

My 10* REVENGE U OF THE U is on the Detroit Pistons.

They say "revenge is a dish best served cold." Washington has already taken the first two meetings between these teams and it enters off a rare road win over the Knicks in its last game. 

Can anyone say "letdown" spot?

Detroit on the other hand enters off another terrible peformance, this time falling at home to the 76ers. The Pistons are desperate for a victory and they play with the "double revenge" factor. I think the revenge angle works here tonight.

Key Trends:

- Washington is an unbelievably bad 10-21 ATS in its last 31 when playing with two days rest.

- Detroit is 3-1 ATS in its last four after a blowout loss by 15 points or more.

The verdict: The stage is set for a massive lop-sided blowout for the home side here; lay the points!