Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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11-29-17 | Grizzlies +7 v. Spurs | Top | 95-104 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 36 m | Show |
This is a 10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:35 EST). We don’t have to question the Grizzlies effort today as the team comes to town off eight straight losses. Memphis fired head coach David Fizdale because of it and suffice it to say, I expect the Grizzlies to come in extrenely focused here. Most recently Memphis fell 98-88 to Brooklyn on Sunday. Marc Gasol had 18 points, before getting benched for the entire fourth quarter by Fizdale, an unpopular move which triggered his release in the end. San Antonio would love nothing more than to kick this Grizzlies team while its down. The Spurs come in off a 115-108 win over Dallas, led by big man LaMarcus Aldridge with 33 points and ten boards. Tony Parker returned in that one as well for San Antonio. The Spurs are also expected to welcome back leader Kawhi Leonard this week. Everything is going right in San Antonio these days, while Memphis has more questions than answers. But “motivation” can be a difficult factor for oddsmakers to properly quantify into a line and that’s the case here in my opinion. This is the opening game of a home and home set between the clubs. I think the desperate Grizzlies will at the very least keep this one respectable until the final moments. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-28-17 | Bucks -7 v. Kings | Top | 112-87 | Win | 100 | 29 h 22 m | Show |
My 10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Milwaukee Bucks (10:05 EST). I base my selections on many different things. Common sense is a good thing to use in handicapping and that’s the approach I’m taking with this selection. Both Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry sat out in the Warriors 110-106 home loss to Sacramento. The Kings clearly have to be feeling great after that victory over the defending champs and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a massive letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. Conversely, after a four-game win streak, the Bucks come to town having dropped three of their last four, including a humbling 121-108 setback at Utah in their latest action. I’ll point out as well that the Bucks are 2-1 ATS already this year off an upset loss as a favorite, while Sacramento is just 1-6 ATS in non-conference games. For all the reasons listed above, play on Milwaukee. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-26-17 | Heat v. Bulls +6.5 | Top | 100-93 | Loss | -104 | 5 h 19 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Chicago Bulls (3:35 EST). Miami beat Boston and then went on the raod and beat the Wolves 109-97 on Friday night. I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the Heat this evening though. The Bulls will be desperate here, they’ve dropped four straight and nine of their last ten and will be out to atone for a lacklustre 143-94 beatdown in Golden State on the road Friday. Note that this is a revenge game as well after Miami took the first one of the season series, 97-91 back on November 1st. Miami averages 100.9 PPG and concedes 102.5. Hassan Whiteside averags 15.5 points and 12.9 boards per game. Goran Dragic averages 18.9 points, 4.3 boards and 4.7 assists. Chicago averages just 94.4 PPG, while allowing 107.3. Lauri Markkanen averages 14.6 points and 8.2 boards per game, while big man Robin Lopez averages 13.1 points and 5.5 boards per contest. I’ll point out though that Miami is a poor 1-5 ATS as a favorite this season and just 1-3 ATS this year off an upset win as an underdog, while Chicago is already 4-2 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more. I won’t try to convince you that the Bulls are a good team which has just gotten some tough breaks to open the season, as that’s not the case. Chicago has problems across the board, with injuries being one of the main reasons the team has struggled to this point. However, I feel this is a bad spot for the Heat, with a game at Cleveland on Tuesday, followed by at New York on Thursday. All signs point to a letdown/look-ahead for Miami. Grab the points, play on Chicago. Godo luck…Larry | |||||||
11-25-17 | Knicks v. Rockets -13 | Top | 102-117 | Win | 100 | 28 h 0 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Houston Rockets (8:05 EST). New York comes in off a deflating loss in Atlanta just last night and I expect the team to have a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back as well. The Rockets are off their third straight win and nine of their last ten in a 125-95 victory at Denver on Wednesday. If recent history is any precedence, then Houston has to be loving its chances tonight as well, because when these teams met back on November 1st, it was the Rockets that socred the relatively simple 119-97 road victory. The Knicks have been great at home this year, going 5-2, but terrible on the road, now just 1-5 away from friendly confines after last night’s setback. The Rockets average 113.3 PPG and allow just 103.5, which ranks the team tenth. Houston has always been able to score, but now it looks as if its ready to seroiusly challenget Golden State because of its improved performance on that end of the floor. I’ll point out as well that the Knicks are 1-4 ATS in their last five in the second game of a back to back scenario, while Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last five against teams with a winning SU record. For all the reasons listed above, play on the Rockets. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-24-17 | Knicks v. Hawks +2 | Top | 104-116 | Win | 100 | 28 h 45 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:30 EST). I think the Knicks have a letdown here after winning two straight, most recently a 108-100 victory at home over Toronto. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for ATL, as it’s lost three straight and seven of eight after falling 116-103 at home to the Clippers on Wednesday. New York used a 41-10 third quarter to hammer the Raptors last time out. The Knicks average 104.9 PPG and concede 103.4. Big man Kristaps Porzingis averages 27.3 points, 7.4 boards and 2.31 blocks per night. Atlanta averages 102.8 PPG and concedes 108.2. Dennis Schroder keeps his team competitive by averaging 19.7 points, plus 7.1 boards per game. I’ll point out though that New York is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 108 points or more in its previous contest, while Atlanta is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive SU losses. With a game tomorrow night at Houston, I think the Knicks get caught looking ahead. Grab the points, play on Atlanta. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-22-17 | Clippers v. Hawks +3 | Top | 116-103 | Loss | -108 | 27 h 41 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:35 EST). The Clippers are in a free-fall right now, most recently dropping their ninth straight in a 107-85 setback to the Knicks on Monday. The Hawks can empathize, as they lost their second straight and sixth of their last seven in a 96-85 setback on the road in San Antonio on Monday. These teams played twice last year and it was the Clippers that won both, meaning that this does also set up as a double revenge scenario for Atlanta tonight. LA averages 104.9 PPG and concedes 106.6. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 22.7 points, 7.8 boards and 4.7 assists per game. In the loss to New York the Clippers shot just 37.5 percent from the floor, including just 10 of 32 from range. Atlanta averages 102.8 PPG and concedes 107.8. Dennis Schroder keeps his team respectable most nights by averaging 19.7 points, plus 7.1 assists per game. I’ll point out though that LA is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven againt a team with a losing straight up record, while ATL is 5-1 ATS in its last six home games against a team with a losing road record. I think the Hawks are the hungrier team here. They’ve been kicked around long enough and finally have an opponent to take advantage of. After a hot start, the Clippers are in complete dissaray. Grab the points, play on Atlanta. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-19-17 | Nuggets v. Lakers +5 | Top | 109-127 | Win | 100 | 28 h 35 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the LA Lakers (9:35 EST). I think Denver has a letdown here after its big 146-114 home win over New Orleans on Friday. It was the team’s fourth win in its last five games. Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the young Lakers who lost for the fifth time in six games, falling at home to Phoenix 122-113 on Friday. This is a revenge game for LA as well, as Denver has won four of the last five in the series, including taking two of three last year. Denver averages 108.5 PPG and concedes 105.4. Paul Millsap leads the way with 16 points and 6.3 boards per game, while Will Barton adds 14.1 points. Big man Nikola Jokic contributes 16.2 points, 11.6 boards and 4.7 assists per game. LA averages 104.3 PPG and concedes 107.4. Brook Lopez averges 15.1 points and 4.9 boards per game, while Brandon Ingram adds 14.9 points. Despite his recent struggles, Lonzo Ball adds 8.8 points, 6.6 boards and 6.8 assists per game. I’ll point out as well that Denver is just 1-5 ATS this year against teams with losing records and 0-3 ATS this season after scoring 115 points or more, while LA is 3-2 ATS against clubs with winning recrds and 5-4 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per contest. I think the desperation in which the Lakers play with tonight, turns out to be the difference. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-18-17 | Celtics v. Hawks +6.5 | Top | 110-99 | Loss | -108 | 26 h 38 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:35 EST). Is Boston ever going to lose again? The Celtics come to Atlanta on the heels of a 14-game win streak, including having just knocked off the defending champs at home in an impressive 92-88 victory on Thursday. I believe the C’s do finally have a letdown here though as I look for the hungry Hawks to take this one right down to the wire. The Hawks come in with momentum/confidence as well after smashing the Kings 126-80 in their most recent action, the team’s largest margin of victory of all time. Atlanta would go on to record 40 assists, which was the most in the league since December 15th, 2016 when the Warriors posted 41. "Right now we have (one of) the worst record in the NBA, so any win is a good win and we'll take it," Atlanta forward Taurean Prince assessed. Note that this is a revenge game for the Hawks as well after the Celtics won 110-107 back on November 6th. I’m expecting Atlanta to push the pace of this one and to not go down without a fight. Grab the points, play on the Hawks. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-17-17 | Heat +4.5 v. Wizards | Top | 91-88 | Win | 100 | 27 h 16 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Miami Heat (7:05 EST). This is an immediate revenge scenario for the Heat after the Wizards took the first game of this home and home set 102-93 at South Beach on Wednesday. So far Miami averages 101.3 PPG, while conceding 103. Big man Hassan Whiteside contributes 15.7 points, plus 13.9 boards per game, while Dion Waiters adds 16.6 per contest. Washington averages 110.7 PPG and concedes 105. John Wall averages 20.8 points and 9.4 assists per game, while Bradley Beal contribues 23.9. The Heat though have responded well in this spot for bettors, going 19-10 ATS in their last 29 off an upset losss as a favorite, while also going 24-10 ATS in their last 34 when trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent. Conversely, this is a position in which the Wizards have really struggled in, going 12-16 ATS in their last 28 off an upset win as an underdog (including 0-2 ATS this year.) With a tough road trip starting in Toronto on Sunday, I think the home side also gets caught looking ahead here. While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Heat. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-16-17 | Warriors -7 v. Celtics | Top | 88-92 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 37 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Golden State Wariors (8:05 EST). Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr said two weeks ago that the Celtics were “the team of the future in the Eastern Conference.” Clearly Golden State has had this one circled on its calendar for a while now and while some may think the Celtics actually have a shot in this game, I definitely do not. Golden State has won seven straight, including a 110-100 win over Orlando on Monday. Boston has won 13 straight, most recently a 109-102 victory on the road in Brooklyn. The Warriors average 119.6 PPG and concede 107.7. Kevin Durant averages 24.8 points, 7.5 boards and 5.2 assists per game, while Stephen Curry posts 25.2 points, plust 6.7 assists per contest. The Celtics average 102.7 PPG and concede 94.5. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 20.6 points and 5.2 assists per game, while Jaylen Brown contributes 14.7 points and 6.7 boards. The Warriors are a unique team, as they can damage you in so many ways offensively. If you want to get into a “run and gun shootout,” then they have no problems with that. If you want to play a slower-paced game and run half court sets while on offense, they have no issues with that either. They hurt you from 3-point land, in the paint and also in transition. The Celtics have been amazing early, but I think they’re in for a rude awakening tonight. Lay the points, play on Golden State. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-14-17 | Spurs -6 v. Mavs | Top | 97-91 | Push | 0 | 25 h 20 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the San Antonio Spurs (8:35 EST). The Spurs are rolling as they come in having won four of their last five, most recently smashing the Bulls 133-94 at home on Saturday. The Mavs are moving in the opposite direction, as they’ve lost two in a row and eight of their last nine after losing 112-99 at Oklahoma City on Sunday night. So far San Antonio averages 103 PPG and allows 99.6. Big man LaMarcus Aldridge is leading the nightly charge with 21.8 points and 8.5 boards per game, while Pau Gasol averages 10.9 points and 8.1 boards per game. Dallas averages 99.5 PPG and concedes 107.7. Harrison Barnes tops all players with 19 points and 7.1 boards per game, while rookie Dennis Smith Jr. averages 14.8 points and 4.9 assists per game. I’ll point out that the Spurs are 4-1 ATS in their last five road games against a team with a home winning percentage of less than .400, while Dallas is a horrible 1-10 ATS in its last 11 when playing on one days rest. Greg Popovich has his team firing on all cylinders again despite injuries to key players. That doesn’t bode well for this young Mavs side which is struggling with consistency across the board. All signs point to a rout. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-12-17 | Rockets v. Pacers +3.5 | Top | 118-95 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Indiana (6:00 EST). Houston crushed the Grizzlies 111-96 just last night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a letdown here finally from the Rockets as they transition for this Eastern Conference contest. Conversely, Indiana looks ready to build off its 105-87 win over the Bulls on Friday to snap a four-game slide. Houston averages 110.5 PPG and concedes 104.1 .James Harden leads the team with 29.9 points and 4.9 boards per game. Indiana averages 109 PPG and concedes 108.4 Victor Oladipo had 25 points, six boards and six assists against the Bulls. I’ll point out though that Houston is just 2-3 ATS this year against teams with losing records and interestingly, just 1-3 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest, while Indiana is 20-14 ATS in its last 34 after allowing 90 points or less and already 3-2 ATS in front of the home town crowd this season. I think “the road” catches up to Harden and company today and the rested/focused Pacers at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-11-17 | Kings +5 v. Knicks | Top | 91-118 | Loss | -105 | 26 h 34 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Sacramento Kings (8:05 EST). The Kings come in with a ton of momentum as they’ve won two in a row, most recently a 109-108 upset victory at home over the 76ers. The Knicks on the other hand look primed for a letdown here. New York had won three straight and six of seven before losing their final game of their road trip, 112-99 in Orlando on Wednesday. The first game back from an extended trip often can be considered a “trap” for a team and I believe that will in fact be the case here today. Also note, not only is this is a “letdown” spot, but it’s also a “look ahead” spot as well for the Knicks, who have the Cavs coming to town on Monday night. The Kings have looked a lot better on both ends of the floor of late, but the team still ranks just 29th in scoring with 95.2. Sacramento has been better on the defensive end, ranked 11th by conceding 104.2. Zach Randolph leads the team with 13.6 PPG. But the Kings get the job done by committee, with Buddy Hield, Willie Cauley-Stein, George Hill and Vince Carter. New York averages 105.4 PPG and concedes 106.3 Kristaps Porzingis averages 30 points, 7.5 boards and 2.3 blocks per night. But as mentioned off the top, I love Sacramento to keep the momentum rolling and to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire against a distracted Knicks side. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-10-17 | Bucks +4.5 v. Spurs | Top | 94-87 | Win | 100 | 26 h 16 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the Milwaukee Bucks (9:05 EST). The 4-6 Milwaukee Bucks are in San Antonio to take on the 7-4 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the hungry visitors. This the final game of an extended road trip for the Bucks and they come in having lost four straight, most recently a 124-119 setback to Cleveland on Tuesday. The Spurs enter on the other end of the spectrum, having won three in a row, most recently a 120-107 win over the Clippers on Tuesday. It’s interesting to note that these two teams split a pair of games last year, each winning on the others floor. Giannis Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with 40 points, nine rebounds and four blocks in the loss to the Cavs. So far the Bucks average 105.4 PPG and concede 108.7. Note that the newly acquired Eric Bledsoe is supposed to suit up for Milwaukee tonight (and if he doesn’t, I still love this play as I think this sets up as a letdown spot for the home side.) The Spurs still only average 101.7 PPG, while conceding 100.6. So far big man LaMarcus Aldrige has filled the void left by still injured superstar Kawhi Leonard by averaging 22.6 points plus 8.3 boards per game. Aldridge had 25 in the Spurs latest victory. I’ll point out though that Milwaukee is 13-9 ATS in its last 22 after three or more consecutive SU losses, while San Antonio is just 37-43 ATS in its last 80 after three or more consecutive SU victories. I like the desperate Bucks to at the very least, take this one down to the wire for the comfortable ATS cover. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-06-17 | Celtics v. Hawks +8.5 | Top | 110-107 | Win | 100 | 31 h 49 m | Show |
My 10* NBA GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:30 EST). The 8-2 Boston Celtics are in Atlanta to take on the 2-8 Hawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. Both teams come in off victories, with the Celtics winning their eighth straight with a 104-88 win over Orlando, while the Hawks notched their second victory of the season with a huge 117-115 upset win over the Cavs in Cleveland yesterday afternoon. These teams average the same amount of points almost, with the C’s pouring in 102.8 per night, while the Hawks average 101.1. That’s where the similarities end though, as ATL is ranked 24th in scoring defense by conceding over 110 per game, while Boston is No. 1 on the defensive side by allowing just 93.8. Clearly the Celtics are the better team, but with a three-game home stand starting on Wednesday with the Lakers up first, I think this sets up as a classic “trap” for the visitors. Atlanta on the other hand can’t afford to bask in the glory of its big win over Cleveland last night after the terrible start to the year. Back-to-back upsets? Maybe. But in a contest which I foresee being decided late, I’m going to grab the points just in case. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-05-17 | Thunder v. Blazers +3 | Top | 99-103 | Win | 100 | 28 h 25 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Portland Trailblazers (9:05 EST). The 4-4 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Portland to take on the 5-4 Trailblazers on Sunday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. OKC comes in off a deflating 101-94 loss to the Celtics at home and I think that residual disappointment gets carried over here. The Thunder have looked great defensively, but the offense has yet to find its stride. The Blazers got back into the winners circle after a short two-game slide, holding on for a 113-110 victory over the Lakers on Thursday. And now I think Portland carries that momentum over here. Paul George had 25 points and ten boards, while Russell Wesbrook added 19 points, 11 assists and six boards in the Thunder’s crushing loss to Boston. Carmelo Anthony though was just 3 of 17 from the floor, finishing with ten points. Portland needed a a last second three-pointer to beat the upstart Lakers from Damian Lillard to seal the victory. Lillard would go on to finish with 32 points, going 14 of 14 from the charity stripe. In all the Blazers would hit 24 of 27 from the free throw line. I’ll point out as well that Oklahoma City is just 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Western Conference, while Portland is 3-1 ATS in its last four after allowing 110 points or more in its previous contest. With a more “winnable” game at Sacramento on deck, I think OKC gets caught looking ahead here as well. Play on Portland. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-04-17 | Mavs v. Wolves -13 | Top | 99-112 | Push | 0 | 12 h 9 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (8:05 EST). The 1-9 Dallas Mavericks are in Minnesota to take on the 5-3 Timberwolves on Saturday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Dallas comes in off a listless 99-94 loss at home to New Orleans just last night. Minnesota is trending in the opposite direction, it won its third straight by beating the Pelicans 104-98 on the road Wednesay. The Wolves took two of three meetings between the teams last year, with the home side winning each time. So far the Mavs average just 98.2 points, while conceding 108.3. Harrison Barnes leads the way with 16.3 points and 6.1 boards per game. The Wolves average 108.8 PPG and allow 113.1. Andrew Wiggins averages 19.5 PPG, while Karl Anthony Towns puts in 21.4 points and 11 boards. With a game at home tomorrow night against Charlotte (before a big road trip, with a stop in Golden State to kick things off), I’m fully expecting Minnesota to push the pace of this one from the opening tip until the final horn. And a chance to pad their defensive stats against this tired and dejected Mavs team, I expect the Timberwolves to lay the hammer down and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-03-17 | Nets +2.5 v. Lakers | Top | 112-124 | Loss | -105 | 14 h 11 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Brookly Nets (10:30 EST). The 3-5 Brooklyn Nets are in LA to take on the 3-5 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. No need to overthink this one in my opinion. The young Lakers come in off a hard-fought and disheartening 113-110 loss at Portland just last night and clearly they’re going to be “gassed” here. The Nets will look to take advantage. After starting 3-2, Brooklyn has lost three in a row. Brooklyn remains in the top ten in the league in scoring, but is now also once again one of the worst on the defensive side of the floor. D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 21.7 points, 5.7 assists and 4.1 boards per game. LA moved Russell to the Nets so that it could make room for Lonzo Ball, so expect the ex-Laker to go out and try and prove a point tonight. Additionally I’ll point out that the Nets have done extremely well against the Pacific for a long time now by going 41-18-2 ATS in their last 61 against the division, while LA has struggled in this spot for bettors by going just 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 against the Atlantic. The situation favors the visitors, I like Brooklyn to pull away down the stretch. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-02-17 | Lakers v. Blazers -7 | Top | 110-113 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 24 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:35 EST). The 3-4 LA Lakers are in Portland to take on the 4-4 Blazers. LA had lost two straight before smashing the Pistons 113-93 at home on Tuesday. Portland though comes in off consecutive losses, falling 99-85 to the Raptors on Monday, before dropping a hard-fought 112-103 OT loss in Utah last night. With a game at home tomorrow night against Brooklyn though, I think the young Lakers get caught “looking ahead” to that one. LA is averaging just 103.4 PPG, while allowing 106.6, while Portland is averaging 107.6 PPG and conceding just 98.3. The duo of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum is a formidable one. The Lakers are filled with a ton of talent, but not a lot of experience. LA has struggled mightily in this spot for bettors as well, going just 5-13 ATS in its last 18 after a win by ten points or more, while Portland has excelled in this position by going 27-18 ATS in its last 45 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest. After a stretch of poor play, I expect Portland to defend its home floor against the up-start Lakers. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
11-01-17 | Hawks +8.5 v. 76ers | Top | 109-119 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 11 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (7:05 EST). The 1-6 Atlanta Hawks are in Philadelphia to take on the 3-4 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Hawks are going to be desperate tonight after dropping six straight, most recently falling 117-106 at home to Milwaukee on Sunday. Conversely, I think the young 76ers look primed for a letdown here after their second consecutive victory, most recently posting an impressive (and highly satisfying) 115-107 road win over Houston on Monday. Dennis Schroder led Atlanta with 21 points and eight assists in his team’s most recent setback. So far ATL is ranked 25th in scoring with 99.6 PPG, while ranked 19th in scoring defense by conceding 107.6. Marco Belinelli contributes 14.6 points and 2.6 boards per game. Philadelphia averages 104.1 PPG, while ranked 21st on the defensive end in conceding 108.3. The 76ers shot an unreal 55 percent from the floor in their win over the Rockets. Joel Embiid leads the team with an average of 20.8 points and ten boards per contest. I’ll point out though that the Hawks have excelled in this spot for bettors, going 15-11 ATS in their last 26 when playing with two days of rest, while the 76ers are interestingly just 16-21 ATS in their last 37 against the Southeast division. I’m not calling for an outright victory, but I do definitely expect the hungry Hawks to at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on Atlanta. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
10-31-17 | Suns v. Nets -2.5 | Top | 122-114 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 9 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:30 EST). The 2-4 Phoenix Suns are in Brooklyn to take on the 3-4 Nets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Phoenix travels across the country after falling 114-107 in Portland on Saturday, while Brooklyn lost its second straight in a 124-111 setback at home to the Nuggest on Sunday. So far the Suns are ranked 19th in the league in scoring with 102.5 PPG, while ranked second to last on the defensive side in conceding 117.2. Devin Booker had 34 points in the loss to Portland. With Eric Bledsoe now gone, TJ Warren will be leaned upon more, so far he’s chipped in 14 points and 5.2 boards per game. The Nets are dominating offensively, averaging 114.7 PPG. Unfortunatley for Brooklyn though it’s conceding 118.3 (the worst in the league.) Spencer Dinwiddle came off the bench to lead the Nets with 22 points in the team’s most recent setback. But so far D’Angelo Russell leads the nightly charge with 19.8 points and 5.2 assists per game. From a trend based stand point, this was favors the home side as note that Phoenix has struggled in this spot for bettors for some time now, going just 4-15 ATS in its last 19 when playing with two days rest, while Brooklyn has excelled by going 13-6 ATS in its last 19 against the Pacific division. The Suns’ lack of depth will continue to be a problem for the team until it can deal Bledsoe. Brooklyn comes in rested, focused and healthy. I’m laying the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
10-28-17 | Rockets v. Grizzlies -1.5 | Top | 89-103 | Win | 100 | 11 h 26 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:05 EST). Houston is 5-1 and comes in off a big 109-93 win at Charlotte just last night. Memphis will look to take advantage of a tired and complacent Rockets team and build off its latest 96-91 victory at home over Dallas on Thursday. And if recent history is any precedence, then the Grizz have to be liking their chances, as note that Memphis scored the 98-90 road win over the Rockets back on October 23rd. Houston averages 105.8 PPG and concedes 102.8. With last night’s victory at Charlotte, the Rockets are already 4-0 on the road to start the year. Can anyone say letdown spot here? Not surprisingly, James Harden is leading the charge with 26.4 PPG, while Eric Gordon contributes 24.6. Memphis averages 100.4 PPG and concdes just 95.2. Marc Gasol averages 25 points and 10.8 boards per game, while Mike Conley adds 19.4 points and 4.2 assists per night. With a night off before a “cream puff” at home against Philadelphia, it’s not too hard to imagine the Rockets also getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. I’m banking on the Grizzlies taking advantage. Play on Memphis. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
10-26-17 | Hawks +2.5 v. Bulls | Top | 86-91 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 15 m | Show |
My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Atlanta Hawks (8:00 EST). The 1-3 Atlanta Hawks are in Chicago to take the 0-3 Bulls and in my opinion, all signs point to a cover for the visiting side. The Hawks opened the year with a win but have since dropped three straight, most recently a 104-93 setback at Miami on Monday. The Bulls can empathize, as they’ve lost three straight as well, most recently a 119-112 setback on the road in Cleveland. So far ATL is ranked 21st in scoring in the early going with 103.3 PPG, while ranked 20th in scoring defense in conceding 110. Kent Bazemore and Taurean Prince each had 20 points in the Hawks most recent setback. Chicago is averaging 96.3 PPG, while allowing 107.7. Justin Holiday had 25 points in the Bulls’ most recent loss. I’ll point out that ATL is 4-1 ATS in its last five agains the Central division, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after allowing 100 points or more in its previous contest and just 1-5 ATS in its last six against the Eastern Conference. Mirotic and Portis are still out for Chicago, making the Hawks the deeper overall team tonight. I like Atlanta to take advantage of that fact and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
10-25-17 | Wizards -7 v. Lakers | Top | 99-102 | Loss | -103 | 15 h 0 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Washington Wizards (10:35 EST). With a game at Golden State up next, I think the Wizards leave everything on the floor tonight as the team tries to move to 4-0 to open a season for the first time since 1974. Washington most recently defeated Denver 109-104 on Monday, while the Lakers enter off a 119-112 setback at home to New Orleans on Sunday. So far the Wizards are averaging 115 PPG this year. Bradley Beal averages 23.3 PPG, while John Wall averages 24.3 PPG and 10.0 assists. Forward Otto Porter addes 18.3 points and 9.0 boards. The Lakers struggled with the Pelicans’ big men and they’ll have their hands full again tonight. All eyes will once again be on LaVar Ball for LA, he’s so far averaging 9.4 points, 8 boards and 12 assists per game. I’ll point out though that the Lakers are just 14-27 ATS in their last 41 against good offensive teams which score 106-plus points per contest, while the Wizards are 20-16 ATS in their last 36 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per game. Wall and Beal are on a mission right now and won’t be “looking past” the Lakers today. Instead, this is a golden opportunity for Washington before a tough game on Friday night in Golden State. I’m laying the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
10-18-17 | Blazers v. Suns | Top | 124-76 | Loss | -110 | 33 h 37 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Phoenix Suns (10:00 EST). Portland was 41-41 last year and got swept in the first round by the Warriors. Phoenix was just 24-58 and missed the postseason for a seventh consecutive year. Note that this is a revenge game for the Suns after the Blazers took three of four meetings last season, including in the last one, a 130-117 home win on April 1st. The Blazers averaged 107.9 PPG last season and conceded 108.5. Damian Lillard averaged 27 PPG and 5.9 assists, while CJ McCollum chipped in 23. The Suns averaged 107.7 PPG and allowed 113.3, which was last in the league. Phoenix added Josh Jackson, Mike James, Alec Peters and Davon Reed in the offseason. Eric Bledsoe led the nightly charge with 21.1 PPG last year, while Devin Booker averaged 22.1 PPG. Phoenix won’t have McCollum in the ilne-up though due to a one game suspension, which I think will be a big difference maker on Opening Night. I like the Suns to hold serve on their own floor and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
10-17-17 | Rockets +9 v. Warriors | Top | 122-121 | Win | 100 | 76 h 55 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Houston Rockets (10:35 EST). Houston won 55 games last year and finished as the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. James Harden averaged 29.1 PPG and posted an NBA best 11.2 assists and finished second in the MVP race behind Russell Westrbrook. Harden has some big time help in the form of All-Star point guard Chis Paul and now the Rockets will look to even better their results in 2017/18. And what better test than against the best in the league? The Warriors are back on top after defeating the Cavaliers in five games last season. Golden State didn’t do too much to its lineup and is once again expected to contend for the NBA title once it’s all said and done. I’ll point out though that Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last five on the road, while Golden State is interestingly just 1-2 ATS in its last three Opening Night games. Houston is out for revenge here after faling in five games to Golden State in the conference finals last year, except this time it has arguably the best point guard in the World running the show. While I’m not calling for an outright upset, I do definitely believe this is a few too many points to be giving up here. Play on Houston. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
06-12-17 | Cavs +9 v. Warriors | Top | 120-129 | Push | 0 | 53 h 38 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (9:00 EST). With their backs against the wall, I think the Cavaliers will at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with what I feel to be a very healthy spread afforded to them in this one. Down 3-0, the Cavs came out like gang-busters and never looked in their big Game 4 victory and clearly there won’t be any change in game-plan tonight. Cleveland will have to throw everything it has at the Warriors once again if it has any hopes of taking this one back to its own floor. The Cavs though finally solved the Warriors defense after setting several offensive records in Game 4. One of the biggest differences though was the play of the Cavs role players, who finally stepped up and made their presence known. Am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money line?” I’m not. I simply feel that the Cavs made some big time adjustments in Game 4 and I believe they’re going to take what they learned and make it extremely difficult on the Warriors again tonight. I’ll also point out that Cleveland is 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 115 points or more, while Golden State is just 1-5 ATS this year after a loss by ten points or more and only 5-7 ATS this season after allowing 115 points or more. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Cavs. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
06-07-17 | Warriors v. Cavs +3 | Top | 118-113 | Loss | -105 | 59 h 45 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (9:00 EST). I took the Cavs in Game 1 and lost badly. I took the Cavs in Game 2 and lost badly. I’m taking the Cavaliers in Game 3 as well and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. The addage: “Don’t underestimate the heart of a champion,” is pretty apt in this situation as far as I’m concerned. It’s do-or-die for LeBron James and company, as clearly a 3-0 hole against these 2017 Warriors would simply be too much overcome. And for me, that’s what this pick comes down to, as I’m expecting the defending champs to risk life and limb tonight to secure a victory. The difference in this series so far hasn’t been the superstars on each side. James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love have all played well for Cleveland and Golden State has been getting big time production from its three stars as well in Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. The difference has been the bench production. Golden State’s role players have to this point absolutely domianted their counterparts. But with the shift in venue, I think that major factor is about to change. And that’s going to be the difference for James, Irving and Love, over their three all star counterparts. I’ll point out as well that the Warriors are just 7-8 ATS this year when playing on two days rest, while Cleveland is 3-1 ATS in its last four in the same position. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Cavaliers. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
06-04-17 | Cavs +9 v. Warriors | Top | 113-132 | Loss | -115 | 54 h 58 m | Show |
This is a 10* SIDE OF THE MONTH on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:00 EST). I played Cleveland in Game 1 and felt pretty good about the pick heading into half. LeBron James looked strong and the Cavaliers were only down by five. But Golden State was able to slow down James in the second half and unfortunately, no one else was really able to step up. Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving both had decent outings, but not spectacular. For Cleveland to beat Golden State, James needs both Love and Irving to play spectacular every night. He also needs his bench to give him some support, as the Warriors’ reserves drastically outplayed their counterparts. Am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money line” as well? Of course not. I simply feel this is too many points to be giving up to the defending champs, as I expect coach Tyrone Lou to make adjustments. I’ll point out as well that Cleveland has performed well for bettors in this spot over the last couple of years, going 6-4 ATS in its last ten when trailing in a playoff series, while Golden State has struggled in this position by going just 6-8 ATS this season when playing with two days rest. Grab as many points as you can, play on the Cavaliers. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
06-01-17 | Cavs +7 v. Warriors | Top | 91-113 | Loss | -110 | 158 h 1 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (9:00 EST). I’m with Golden State head coach Steve Kerr on this series. How come the Warriors are such massive favs to win it all? Cleveland is the defending champ and it’s stacked top to bottom with talent. It’s also led by the single best player on the planet in LeBron James. Am I saying the Cavs are going to win this series? I am not. Am I saying that Cleveland is going to win Game 1 outright? Also, I am not. But I do think that this veteran laden Cavaliers team can at the very least, take this one down to the wire and cover with what I feel to be a very ample spread. From a situational stand point, this one also sets up extremely well for the Cavaliers, as this is in fact a spot in which Cleveland has performed extremely well in for bettors all season, while this is a position in which the Warriors have struggled in mightily. As note, the Cavs are a perfect 4-0 ATS this year when playing with three or more days rest, while the Warriors are just 3-4 ATS in the same position. Both teams have great offenses, but the Warriors are better on that end of the floor. Both teams have adequate defenses, but the Cavaliers are slightly better on that end of the floor. I think Cleveland comes to play in Game 1 as it looks to at the very least, get a split in Golden State before heading back to Defend The Land! Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-22-17 | Warriors v. Spurs +11.5 | Top | 129-115 | Loss | -105 | 32 h 44 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:00 EST). Will the Warriors stumble like the Cavaliers did last night and lose this one outright? Probably not. But the Spurs won’t be going down without a fight, so while I’ll stop short in calling for the upset, I do think that the home side will play with pride and keep this one competitive until the final moments. Other than Za Za Pachulia’s injury, there’s nothing much to report about the Warriors. They remain the highest scoring team in the playoffs, while ranked in the middle of the pack defensively. Exactly the same as in the regular season. The Spurs on the other hand are now ravaged with injury. They lost Tony Parker in Round 1, then Kawhi Leonard in Game 1 of this series. David Lee went down in Game 3 and is out for the remainder of the year as well. But San Antonio still has weapons in LaMarcus Aldridge and Manu Ginobili. Like the Celtics, one of the main strengh’s of the Spurs is their incredible depth. I think the Spurs’ effort in this one will be the difference maker in the end. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-21-17 | Celtics +14.5 v. Cavs | Top | 111-108 | Win | 100 | 34 h 52 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is the Boston Celtics (8:30 EST). I got down on this one early (before it was announced that Celtics’ star Isaiah Thomas would be out for the remainder of the playoffs) and have a poor line. But regardless, I still like this play as I expect the undermanned Celtics to fight hard, to keep this one competitive down the stretch and I look for it to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the ample amount of points they’ve been afforded. Cleveland will look to jump out to an early insurmountable lead, but with the knowledge that Thomas is out, will the Cavs rest some of their starters in the second half? Very likely, as the defending champs can now safely start “looking ahead” to their third straight matchup with the Warriors in the Finals. I’ll point out though that Boston is still 10-5 ATS this year after a loss by ten points or more, while Cleveland is just 3-4 ATS this season after allowing 90 points or less. Even with Thomas out, I think the Celtics respond after their historic beatdown loss in Game 2. The Spurs weren’t able to cover last night with their superstar out, but I believe all signs point to Celtics being able to succeed, where San Antonio failed.. Grab as many points as you can. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-15-17 | Wizards v. Celtics -4.5 | Top | 105-115 | Win | 100 | 59 h 4 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Boston Celtics (8:00 EST). This has been a back-and-forth series. So far the home team has won every game “straight-up,” but the Celtics were able to cover the spread in Game 6 despite the setback. I think the Celtics are the better overall team and have a clear advantage in this situation on their home floor and in the end, I expect them to find a way to get the job done. Washington shot only 43 percent from the floor and was just 5 of 24 from range in Game 6, while also hitting only 13 of 21 from the charity stripe. Bradley Beal was a standout with 33 points, while John Wall added 26. Boston had a chance to wrap this up in six games, but was sunk by the last second shot by Wall. Avery Bradley and Isaiah Thomas had 27 points apiece in the setback. I’ll point out though that Washington is just 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road and 0-6 ATS in its last six road games against teams with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while Boston is 4-0 ATS in its last four at home and 6-1 ATS in its last seven following an ATS victory. Boston fought tooth and nail for the entire regular season so that it could ensure home court throughout the playoffs and in pivotal Game 7 scenarios just like this. So here we are. I think the Celtics pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover, lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-14-17 | Spurs +10.5 v. Warriors | Top | 111-113 | Win | 100 | 58 h 6 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the San Antonio Spurs (3:30 EST). If the Spurs have any hopes of pulling off an upset in this series, I think they obviously have to gain a split in Golden State. And of the two games, I believe Game 1 is the best opportunity for an underdog to steal one. Last night I had a play on the +190 Senators in their Game 1 upset over the Penguins in the NHL. While I will stop short in calling for an outright upset in this one, I do expect San Antonio to throw its best punch in Game 1 and I look for it to keep this one competitive until the final moments (remember, San Antonio started the season off with an opening night win in Golden State this year.) The Spurs last played on Thursday, while the Warriors have been off since Monday. Will rest lead to rust? Probably not, but the extra few days off has also been beneficial for San Antonio, as top scorer Kawhi Leonard who sat out the Game 6 blowout over the Rockets, has been given the green light to go in this one. Clearly it won’t be easy. The Warriors are favored for a reason as they have an offense which is almost impossible to stop. The Spurs though did completely stop the Rockets’ James Harden in Game 6 though, holding him to a season-low ten points. San Antonio has a flexible defense that’s built around trying to stop Golden State in the playoffs. So here we go. The Spurs had the No. 1 defense in the regular season and the Warriors had the No. 1 offense. I’ll point out that San Antonio is 20-15 ATS this year following a win by ten points or more, while Golden State is just 2-3 ATS this season when playing with three or more days rest. Surely the Spurs could have run the table on the Jazz as well. And likely the Rockets could have taken at least one game from the Warriors if these teams had switched second round opponents. Regardless, I think San Antonio is not getting nearly enough respect here. Play on the Spurs. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-10-17 | Wizards +4.5 v. Celtics | Top | 101-123 | Loss | -107 | 58 h 2 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washignton Wizards (8:00 EST). I played on Boston in Game’s 1 and 2 and then backed Washington in Game’s 3 and 4. So far home floor advantage has meant everything in this series, but I think that changes tonight. The Wizards made some key adjustments over the last two games that I think the Celtics will continue to struggle with. And I also believe that Boston star Isaiah Thomas is much more mentally burnt than even he realizes. Thomas’ sister was tragically killed in a car accident the night before his first round series with the Bulls. The Celtics went on to lose the first two games of that series at home, but then Thomas was able to recover a bit from the initial shock and he used his anger to fuel his team to six straight victories. Boston needed two epic come-from behind efforts in Game’s 1 and 2 of this series, but with Thomas once again starting to struggle, I have a hard time seeing the C’s keeping pace with the high-flying Wizards in Game 5. I’ll point out as well that Washington is a near-perfect 8-1 ATS in its last nine when playing on two days rest, while Boston is just 7-19 ATS in its last 26 in the same situation. I think the duo of John Wall and Bradley Beal continues to be just too much for the Celtics to handle and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. It’s a perfect storm of factor working in favor of of the Wizards. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-08-17 | Warriors -8 v. Jazz | Top | 121-95 | Win | 100 | 35 h 41 m | Show |
My 10* Western Conference SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Golden State Warriors (9:00 EST). Just like the Cavaliers did to the Raptors last night, I’m expecting the Warriors to put the Jazz out of their misery this evening. Golden State is in the drivers seat and will be wanting to match Cleveland with the perfect 8-0 start. Kevin Durant was a monster in Game 3, finishing with 38 points in the 102-91 victory. Even without Durant in the lineup near the end of the regular season, the Warriors cruised to 14 straight victories. None were even close. Golden State has yet to win a game in this series in blowout fashion, but I think the deflated Jazz are ripe for the picking here. Gordon Hayward was a standout for the Jazz in Game 3 with 29 points and big man Rudy Gobert contributed 21, but they didn’t get much help after that. The numbers/trends definitely support us today as well, as Golden State is 8-0 ATS its last eight on the road and 10-2-1 ATS in its last 13 when playing on one days rest, while Utah is just 1-4-1 ATS in its last six in front of the home town crowd. The Warriors have been toying with the Jazz to this point in my opinion and I’m expecting the biggest rout of the series in Game 4. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-07-17 | Spurs v. Rockets -5.5 | Top | 104-125 | Win | 100 | 34 h 20 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the Houston Rockets (9:00 EST). The Rockets crushed the Spurs by 27 points in Game 1, but San Antonio has bounced back to take the next two. I think Houston is going to rally in Game 4 though as it’ll look to push the pace from start to finish and run San Antonio off the court. This is essentially a “do-or-die” for the Rockets, as a 3-1 deficit would likely just be too much for the team to overcome, especially with all of the experience on the Spurs. So this is it. Houston will be leaving everything it has on the floor tonight. Clearly this one means just as much to the Spurs, but I’ll point out that they’re just 4-7 ATS in their last 11 when leading in a playoff series and just 2-3 ATS this year off an upset win as an underdog. And note, the Rockets have performed extremely well for bettors in this spot this season, going 9-3 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent and 11-6 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite. Despite the Game 3 setback, Houston is still 3-1 on its home floor this year. I think the desperate home side is the correct call tonight. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-07-17 | Celtics v. Wizards -4.5 | Top | 102-121 | Win | 100 | 57 h 8 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Wizards (6:30 EST). I played Boston in Game’s 1 and 2 and then backed Washington in Game 3. For a number of different reasons, I think the home side will also take Game 4. Clearly “home court” is going to play a significant role in this series. After two opening losses to Chicago, Boston rattled off six straight wins and looked primed for a letdown in Game 3. The Wizards had double digit leads in both Game’s 1 and 2, so Washington was finally able to play a complete four-quarters in Game 3 and suffice it to say, I think the teams carries over that confidence and momentum in Game 4. The Celtics have been playing extremely “emotional” in these playoffs and that can be very draining. Isaiah Thomas’ sister was tragically killed just before Boston’s opening series with the Bulls and the Celtics’ superstar has used her death to drive him to this point. However, I think Thomas is gassed both physically and mentally right now. The Wizards’ Kelly Oubre Jr. has been suspended for this game after he body checked Kelly Olynyk in the second quarter. Washington vowed to be more physicaly in Game 3 and it certainly was, as there were three ejections and 52 personal fouls overall. Washington did a great job on the boards, winning 50-38 while also knocking down 22 of 25 from the charity stripe. I’ll point out that Boston is just 7-18 ATS in its last 28 when playing on two days rest, while Washington is 7-1 ATS in its last eight in the same position. It’s a perfect storm of factors working in favor of the home side, play on the Wizards. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-04-17 | Celtics v. Wizards -5 | Top | 89-116 | Win | 100 | 32 h 40 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Wizards (8:00 EST). I played on Boston in Game’s 1 and 2, but with their backs against the wall and essentially in a do-or-die scenario, I think the Wizards play their best game of the series and claw their way back into it. Washington had its chance in Game 2, but would eventually fall apart down the stretch, losing 129-119 in OT on Tuesday. Boston has been on an absolute tear since Game 3 of its opening round series against the Bulls by winning six straight. That’s an awful lot of high-intensity, focused games in a row and suffice it to say, I think Game 3 sets up as a classic “letdown” spot for the visitors, who I think will finally be caught a little “flat-footed” tonight. And clearly for the Wizards, this is a “must win” game, as a 3-0 deficit would likely be too much for the team to overcome. I’ll point out that Boston is already just 5-15 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 9-11 ATS after a victory by ten points or more, while Washington is 3-1 ATS in its last four after allowing 115 points or more. The Wizards are fighting for their playoff lives, while the Celtics are looking to catch their breath after an extended streak of high-level play. When you add it all up, the correct call is indeed on the home side in this one. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-03-17 | Raptors +7.5 v. Cavs | Top | 103-125 | Loss | -105 | 33 h 47 m | Show |
My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST). I played the Raptors in Game 1 and obviously came up short. I think Toronto though can make adjustments and keep Game 2 a lot closer than what the oddsmaker’s are leading us to believe. Am I going to suggest to you to “sprinkle a little on the money line” as well? No I am not. Cleveland took Game 1, 116-105 on Monday. Last year the Cavs knocked off the Raptors in six games in the Eastern Conference Finals. If Toronto is going to “get over the hump,” it has to figure out a way to win in Cleveland. Kyle Lowry was a bright spot with 20 points and 11 assists. Clearly head coach Wayne Casey is going to have to make some adjustments. The Cavs came out with a lot of energy, but weren’t overly effecient in Game 1, shooting 45.9 percent from the floor, including 14 of 34 from range. LeBron James dominated with 35 points and ten boards. I’ll point out though that the Raptors have performed well in this spot for bettors, going 5-1 ATS in their last six following a straight up loss and 4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU loss of more than ten points, while the Cavs are interestingly 0-4 ATS in their last four when playing on one days rest. Toronto has an infamous reputation now in dropping Game 1 of its recent playoff series the last few years as Monday’s setback made it ten straight Game 1 losses in a row. The Raptors bounced back against the Bucks in Game 2 in their opening series and as I stated off the top, I think they’ll be much more competitive tonight as well. I’m grabbing the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
05-02-17 | Wizards v. Celtics -5 | Top | 119-129 | Win | 100 | 34 h 60 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the Boston Celtics (8:00 EST). I played the Celtics in Game 1 and after a slow start, Boston would put the foot on the gas and pull away for the eventual 123-111 victory. I think the C’s come out much more prepared from the start tonight though and look for them to once again find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Washington is crushed, it had a 22-5 lead at one point in the first quarter, but things went South quickly after that. The Wizards struggled with the inside-outside game of the Celtics and the dynamic guard duo of John Wall and Bradley Beal were effectively “shut down” by Boston’s Isaiah Thomas and company. The Celtics shot a blistering 51.1 percent from the floor and hit 19 of 39 from range. Thomas was a standout with 33 points and nine assists. And I’ll point out that Washington is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with a winning percentage above. 600, while the Celtics are 4-0 ATS In their last four following an ATS/SU victory. “Momentum” is a very real, almost tangible factor in the playoffs and it’s one which I believe the books often have a hard time properly quantifying into a line. And that’s the case here I think. The Wizards’ suspect defense comes back to haunt them again in Game 2, play on Boston. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-30-17 | Wizards v. Celtics -4.5 | Top | 111-123 | Win | 100 | 25 h 19 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Boston Celtics (1:05 EST). Washington advanced to the second round by knocking off Atlanta in six games, including a 115-99 road win in Game 6. Boston also won its opening round series with the Bulls 4-2, including a 105-83 victory in Game 6 on the road. These teams split four meetings in the regular season. John Wall and Bradley Beal had their way for the most part with the Hawks, with Wall going for 42 points and eight assists in the Game 6 victory. But now the team faces a much stiffer test in my opinion, as I think the Celtics match up much better against Wall and Beal. The Wizards have been poor on the defensive end, conceding 105.5 PPG in the playoffs. The Celtics have been conceding just 96.5 in the postseason. Isaiah Thomas has gotten progressively better with each game since Game 3 (was blindsided by the death of his sister just before the series started) and so too has everyone around him, including Jae Crowder (12 points, 5.3 boards in the playoffs), Avery Bradley (16 points, four bouards, three assists) and Al Horford (15.3 points, 8.3 boards and 6.5 assists). I’ll point out though that the Wizards are just 1-4 ATS in thier last five road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, whil Boston is 4-1 ATS in its last five following a SU victory. The Wizards looked great at home in their opening series, but struggled on the road, going 3-0 at the Verizon Venter and just 1-2 away from friendly confines. The C’s dropped those first two games at home to the Bulls, but that was under extraordinary conditions, a factor that no one could have anticipated. Since then though, Boston has fully recovered and note that it did go 30-11 at home in the regular season, while the Wizards were just 19-22 on the road. I’m laying the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-27-17 | Spurs -4 v. Grizzlies | Top | 103-96 | Win | 100 | 35 h 41 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:35 EST). The best player in this series has been Kawhi Leonard for the Spurs, so far he’s averaged 31 points per game on 57 percent shooting. I’m expecting the best player in this series to lead his team to a convincing series clinching victory on the road tonight. San Antonio steam rolled its way to two big wins at home, but then the Grizzlies responded in kind on their home floor in Game’s 3 and 4. The Spurs once again defended their home court in Game 5 with a resounding 116-103 victory. So far home court has played a big part in this series, but I think that trend ends this evening. The Spurs are shooting a combined 48.3 percent from the floor, as Memphis’ normally stout defense has started to show signs of fatigue. Experience, depth and leadership (Popovich) all count at this point of a series. I’ll point out that San Antonio is 10-4 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more, while Memphis is just 1-3 ATS in its last four following a loss by ten points or more. The Grizzlies put up a much bigger fight than expected, but all signs point to a Spurs blowout. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-26-17 | Bulls v. Celtics -8 | Top | 97-108 | Win | 100 | 33 h 22 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Boston Celtics (8:30 EST). I’ve successfully played on and against each of these teams so far in this series. So far in this series, home floor has not been an advantage, with Chicago taking Game’s 1 and 2 and the Celtics returning the favor in Game’s 3 and 4. Isaiah Thomas was blind-sided by the death of his sister just before the series started, so it was a great situation to take advantage of in the first two games. But as the series wore on, Thomas was able to adjust and cope and clearly he looked a lot better on the road. I think Thomas though continues his dominant play and has his best game of the playoffs thus far. Chicago got big production from Rajon Rondo in the first two games, but he injured his wrist and missed the next two. He’s also been ruled out for Game 5. Clearly it’s a big blow for the chemistry of the Bulls’ offense. Thomas had 33 points in Sunday’s 104-95 victory: “I just try to play the same way no matter who’s out there on the floor (defensively),” Thomas said. “I have a job to do, and that’s to score the basketball, make plays for others and be the leader.” I’ll point out that Chicago is already just 5-10 ATS this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Boston is 3-1 ATS in its last four after holding an opponent to 96 points or less. Look for Boston to continue its surge and lay the points with confidence. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-24-17 | Warriors -6.5 v. Blazers | Top | 128-103 | Win | 100 | 36 h 49 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Golden State Warriors (10:30 EST). Head coach Steve Kerr won’t be on the sidelines, but with a chance to end the series tonight, I look for the high-powered Warriors to put the foot on the gas from start to finish and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Portland is in a 3-0 hole and I think it’ll fold up its tents early in this one. Golden State averages 115.9 PPG this year, while the defense concedes only 104.3. Portland averages 107.9 PPG, but allows 108.5. Golden State is just too deep, too skilled defensively and too experienced overall for Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum to overcome themselves. I’ll point out that Golden State is 6-0 ATS in its last six away from friendly confines and 13-3-1 ATS in its last 17 after scoring 100 points or more in its previous contest, while Portland is just 5-12 ATS in its last 17 in this series in front of the home town crowd. Portland’s only hope was Game 3. Look for the Golden State to deliver the knock out blow, lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-23-17 | Clippers +2.5 v. Jazz | Top | 98-105 | Loss | -110 | 35 h 39 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the LA Clippers (9:00 EST). Blake Griffin is out, but I think the Clippers are still the deeper, more skilled, more experienced and better coached team. Griffin was out in Game 2, but veteran point guard Chris Paul took over, leading a 15-0 fourth quarter run, en route to the 114-106 Game 3 victory: “He has an amazing will,” Clippers’ head coach Doc Rivers assessed afterwards. “He’s just a tough guy. He’s stubborn in a very, very positive way. All the great ones have that in them. They’re stubborn like they aren’t going to lose.” Paul went on to finish with 34 points, ten assists and seven boards, while DeAndre Jordan added 17. Gordon Hayward was once again the focal point for Utah, he’d play 42 minutes and pour in 40 points. George Hill also showed up with 26 points. Of course, big man Rudy Gobert missed Game 3 and is listed as doubtful for Game 4 as well. For arguments sake, lets call Gobert and Griffin a “wash.” When looking at the remaining pieces, in my professional opinion, LA has still has several advantages. And I’ll point out that the Clippers are 3-1 ATS in thier last four after scoring 113 points or more, whle Utah is just 16-20 ATS this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. Grab as many points as you can, play on LA. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-21-17 | Clippers +1 v. Jazz | Top | 111-106 | Win | 100 | 60 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* 33-Club Play is on the LA Clippers (10:00 EST). These teams are 1-1 so far in this series and depending on when/where you played it, they’re also 1-1 ATS. Utah stole Game 1 97-95, while LA bounced back with a 99-91 win in Game 2. LA held an 18-0 advantage with points in the paint in the first quarter and used that strategy throughout the game, as Utah struggled with the loss of big man Rudy Gobert. The Clippers shot 52.4 percent from the floor and held a 39-33 edge on the boards. Blake Griffin had 24 points, while Chris Paul added 21 points and ten boards. Gobert has once again been ruled out for Game 3. The Jazz managed go go 17 of 22 from the free throw line in Game 2, the only factor that kept the game as close as it was. Gordon Hayward was a lone bright spot with 20 points in the setback. I’ll point out that LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four when playing on two days rest, while Utah is only 1-3 ATS in its last four in the same position. I think the extended absence of Gobert comes back to haunt the Jazz again tonight, play on the Clippers. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-20-17 | Spurs -3 v. Grizzlies | Top | 94-105 | Loss | -110 | 35 h 26 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:30 EST). The Grizzlies showed some life in Game 1, but were clobbered in Game 2, 96-82. San Antonio’s depth is once again proving to be just too much for Memphis to handle and I believe nothing will change in Game 3. The Spurs have to be feeling pretty confident as they’ve now won 16 of the last 20 in this series. Keep your eyes on San Antonio star Kawhi Leonard, who had a career playoff-high 37 points in the Game 2 win. Veteran point guard Tony Parker contributed 15 points as well. Mike Conley was a standout for the Grizzlies in Game 2, finishing with 24 points. Tony Allen missed Monday’s game with a calf issue and is questionable for tonight as well (note that he’s averaging just 9.1 PPG this year). I think a 4-0 sweep is very possible in this series. I believe the Spurs win big again in Game 3, lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-19-17 | Blazers +15.5 v. Warriors | Top | 81-110 | Loss | -110 | 60 h 44 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:30 EST). Portland got 41 points from CJ McCollum and 34 from Damian Lillard, but it still wasn’t enough in the 121-109 Game 1 loss to the Warriors. I’m not going to predict an outright upset here or anything, but I do think that the Blazers can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Game 1 was actually tied entering the fourth quarter, but an early 9-2 run by the Warriors would spell the end for Portland’s chances. It wasn’t a perfect game for Golden State by any sense though, as the Warriors did go on to concede 19 points off 16 turnovers. And I’ll point out that Portland is 8-1 ATS in its last nine after scoring 100 points or more in its previous game and 6-1 ATS in its last seven following a SU loss, while Golden State is 4-12-2 ATS in its last 18 when playing on two days rest. I think Golden State takes the foot off the gas tonight and I expect the desperate visitors to sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on Portland. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-18-17 | Jazz v. Clippers -8 | Top | 91-99 | Push | 0 | 36 h 28 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Clippers (10:30 EST). I had a play on the Jazz in Game 1. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting the Clippers to risk life and limb in Game 2 to secure a victory and expect the Jazz to fold up their tents early and be completely content with the split before heading home. Utah played great defensively and got a buzzer beating 3-pointer from Joe Johnson to seal the 97-95 victory in Game 1. The Jazz were the No. 1 defensive team in the league in conceding only 96.8 PPG, but they were ranked 28th overall on the offensive end in averaging 100.7. This is do-or-die essentially for the Clippers, as an 0-2 hole heading back to Utah would likely be too big of a climb to get out of. LA has to be feeling confident though, it averaged 108.7 PPG and conceded 104.4 in the regular season. I’ll point out that Utah is just 4-6 ATS this year when playing with two days rest and only 7-10 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while LA is 7-5 ATS this season in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 6-4 ATS in its last ten against good defensive clubs with allow only 98 plus points per contest. Jazz center Rudy Gobert was injured in the first few minutes of Game 1 and basically didn’t even play and somehow Utah still managed the dominant victory. Gobert is listed as doubtful this evening as well. I think this will have an impact on the visitors. For all the reasons listed above, I’m laying the points and expecting a blowout. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-17-17 | Grizzlies v. Spurs -10.5 | Top | 82-96 | Win | 100 | 35 h 48 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:30 EST). I played on San Antonio in Game 1 and I think it will once again lay the hammer down in Game 2. Home court is going to be important in this series I think from an “Against The Spread” angle anyways. Memphis got off to a good opening quarter in Game 1, but the Spurs were able to reign in the Grizzlies and then pull away before the half. Memphis shot just 39 percent from the floor, including only 7 of 20 from range. Marc Gasol was a standout with 32 points on 11 of 18 shooting. Memphis averages only 100.5 PPG, but makes up for it on the defensive end in conceding only 100.5 That vaunted defense looked pretty mediocre against the Spurs though, who would go on to shoot a blistering 53 percent from the floor. Kawhi Leonard led the charge for San Antonio with 31 points. Leonard played smothering defense all season and the Spurs would go on to allow just 98.1 PPG. I’ll point out that Memphis is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road, while the Spurs are 2-1 ATS in their last three following an ATS victory. I think the Grizzlies have no answer for the Spurs on either end of the court and while I do believe Memphis will look a lot better on its home floor, all signs point to another blowout this evening. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-17-17 | Pacers +7.5 v. Cavs | Top | 111-117 | Win | 100 | 32 h 9 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Indiana Pacers (7:00 EST). I played Indiana in Game 1 and I think the Pacers can once again take Game 2 down to the wire. Indiana managed to cut the lead to just one in the waning moments of Game 1, but a missed CJ Miles shot at the buzzer sealed the 109-108 home win for the Cavs. Paul George led the way for Indiana with 29 points, five boards and seven assists, while Lance Stephenson chipped in 16 off the bench. The Cavs backed their way into the playoffs, losing four straight and were lucky that Miles missed the shot and that George wasn’t taking it. LeBron James was a standout with 32 points, six boards, 13 assists and three steals. I’ll point out though that Indiana has performed extremely well in this spot for bettors all year, going 4-0 ATS in its last four after allowing 100 points or more and 6-0 ATS in its last six following an ATS victory, while Cleveland is a poor 1-5 ATS in its last six when playing on one days rest. Indiana won’t be rolling over. In fact, this is pretty much do-or-die for the Pacers, as an 0-2 hole would likely be just too much for the team to recover from. While I won’t be so bold as to predict the outright upset, I do think that the hungry visitors can at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on the Pacers. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-16-17 | Thunder v. Rockets -7 | Top | 87-118 | Win | 100 | 78 h 23 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the Houston Rockets (9:00 EST). The 47-35 OKC Thunder are in Houston to take on the 55-27 Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. This one features the two leading candidates for MVP in James Harden and Russell Westbrook. Westbrook is probably the better oveall player, but I think that Harden has the better overall team. The Rockets also have home court advantage and I think that will be a crucial deciding factor once it’s all said and done this evening. Houston has to be feeling pretty confident as well as it took three of the four regular season meetings. OKC averages 106.6 PPG and concedes 105.8. Houston averages 115.3 PPG and concedes 109.3. From a trend based stand point, this one heavily favors the home side, as note that OKC is just 12-19 ATS this year against good offensive clubs which average 106 plus points per contest and only 19-22 ATS on the road overall, while Houston is 18-11 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 3-1 ATS when playing with three or more days rest. I think home court advantage will be important in this series and look for the Rockets to set the early tone. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-16-17 | Bulls +8 v. Celtics | Top | 106-102 | Win | 100 | 76 h 39 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Chicago Bulls (6:30 EST). The 41-41 Chicago Bulls are in Boston to take on the 53-29 Celtics and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the visitors. This is strictly a “situational” play. Isaiah Thomas is the heart and soul of the C’s. Thomas’ sister was tragically killed in a car accident early Saturday and he may not even play in this game. If he does, clearly his head won’t be in it. Boston is a deep team, but without their floor general completely focused, I think it is going to struggle tonight. I’ll point out as well that Chicago is 6-1 ATS in its last seven when playing with three or more days rest, while Boston is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven at home and only 1-5 ATS in its last six home games against a team with a losing road record. These teams split four games this year, and three of those four were decided by seven points or less. I think Chicago does in fact have a shot at a victory today, but as mentioned off the top, I’m grabbing the points in the end. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-15-17 | Jazz +6 v. Clippers | Top | 97-95 | Win | 100 | 56 h 56 m | Show |
My 10* 33-Club Play is on the Utah Jazz (10:30 EST). The 51-31 Utah Jazz are in LA to take on the 51-31 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Clippers took the tie-breaker by winning three of four in the season series. Utah though won its last game over the Spurs on Wednesday. Utah hasn’t been to the playoffs since 2012 and will clearly be leaving everything on the floor tonight as it looks to score the upset and gain the early upperhand. The pressure is clearly on LA this year. It comes in having won seven straight, but I think this sets up as a classic trap/letdown spot for the home side. As note that Utah is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while LA is just 15-16 ATS after a win by ten points or more and only 9-15 ATS after scoring 115 points or more. While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I do think that the stage is set for a nail-biter. In a contest which I believe will be decided in the closing moments, I’m grabbing the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-15-17 | Grizzlies v. Spurs -9 | Top | 82-111 | Win | 100 | 53 h 22 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Antonio Spurs (8:00 EST). The 43-39 Memphis Grizzlies are in San Antonio to take on the 61-21 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. If recent history is any precedence, then the Spurs have to be loving their chances today as they swept the Grizzlies in the first round last year. Memphis averaged just 100.5 PPG, but made up for it on the defensive end in conceding just 100. The Spurs averaged 105.3 PPG and conceded just 98.1. I’ll point out though that Memphis has struggled in this spot for bettors this year, going just 1-11 ATS when playing with two days rest, while the Spurs are 7-4 ATS in their last 11 in the first round of the playoffs. Memphis was consistently inconsistent this year, while San Antonio remained in the Top 3 in the league the entire way. Experience and coaching counts in these situations. Lay the points, play on the Spurs. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-12-17 | Mavs v. Grizzlies -6 | Top | 100-93 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 6 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:00 EST). It’s the final day of the regular season, so many of the techniques that handicappers have used for the regular season just don’t pertain in this situation. This is a great situational play in my opinion, as the Mavs come in off a game just last night against the Nuggets and will now look to put the final nail in the coffin in another disappointing season. The Grizzlies on the other hand would love to have a win before the postseason as they’ve stumbled of late, losing four of their last five, most recently a 103-90 setback to Detroit on Sunday. I’ll point out that Dallas is just 1-3 ATS in its last four in the second game of a back-to-back, while Memphis is 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 90 points or less. I like the Grizzlies to push the pace and end the season on a high note in front of the home town crowd, while I also expect the visitors to simply go through the motions in this one. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-10-17 | Wizards -2.5 v. Pistons | Top | 105-101 | Win | 100 | 28 h 57 m | Show |
My 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Washington Wizards (8:00 EST). The 48-32 Washington Wizards are in Detroit to take on the 36-43 Pistons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Wizards lost for a fourth time in their last six games with a 106-103 setback to the Heat on Saturday night, dropping the team back into fourth place in the East. Washington remains fifth in the league in scoring with 109.3 per contest, while ranked 21st in conceding 107.4. John Wall leads the team with 23.1 points, 10.7 assists and 2.01 steals per game. The Pistons average 101.2 PPG and concede 102.4. Tobias Harris leads all players with 16.2 points, plus 5.1 boards per game. I’ll point out that Washington is 23-13 ATS this season in trying ot revenge a loss against an opponent, while Detroit is just 15-22 ATS as an underdog. The Pistons have nothing to play for right now except the role of spoiler. There’s nothing to spoil for Washington though, which has already punched its ticket to the posteason. Detroit looked bad against Memphis last time out and I don’t think it’ll put up much of a fight here either. The Wizards are cold at the worst possible time, but have a big opportunity here to get untracked and gain some momentum as they head into the playoffs. Lay the points, play on Washington. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-09-17 | Cavs -1.5 v. Hawks | Top | 125-126 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 14 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (3:35 EST). I played on Cleveland in its big win over the Celtics earlier in the week, a victory which would give the Cavs the No. 1 spot in the East at the time. A favorable matchup the following night against an Atlanta Hawks team which would be without most of its starting players looked like a perfect opportunity to keep the momentum rolling, but the home side would come out flat and inexplicably fell 114-100 on Friday. Suffice it to say, I think it’s payback time today as note that ATL has in fact taken two of three in the season series from the Cavs already. The Cavs are still fighting for the No. 1 seed in the East. They average 110.4 PPG and concede 106.8. LeBron James had 27 points, eight boards and seven assists in the setback on Friday. The Hawks average 103.1 PPG and concede 104.1. Note that ATL hits just 34.2 percent from range, ranked 24th overall. Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson are both doubtful for this one, but I don’t think it’s going to matter. The Hawks are also dealing with injury issues. I believe Cleveland feels embarrassed by its performance last time out and I look for it to make amends with a decisive effort this evening. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-08-17 | Heat v. Wizards -6 | Top | 106-103 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
My 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Washington Wizards (7:05 EST). The 38-41 Miami Heat are in the nation’s capital to take on the 48-31 WIzards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The Heat’s playoff hopes are fading quickly after falling 96-94 in Toronto just last night. The Wizards are trending in the opposite direction, as they’ve won two straight after edging by the Knicks 106-103 on the road Thursday. This is a double revenge scenario, as Miami has taken the first two meetings this year, including a 112-101 home victory in the last matchup back on December 12th. It was an amazing run for the Heat after the All Star break, but they’ve now run out of gas. Miami has lost three of its last four. The Heat are a poor offensive team, averaging 102.9 PPG. Miami makes up for it on the defensive end though by conceding just 101.9. The Wizards are a good offensive team, averaging 109.4. Washington is poor defensively though in conceding 107.4 per night. But the situational and motivational factors are clearly working in favor of the home side in this one. Washington now looks to close the season strong, to avenge the two earlier losses and to take advantage of what will clearly be a very tired Heat side. Lay the points with confidence. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-06-17 | Wolves v. Blazers -6 | Top | 98-105 | Win | 100 | 32 h 52 m | Show |
My 10* Western Conference SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:30 EST). The 31-46 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Portland to take on the 38-40 Blazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. With just four games to go, Portland has a one-game lead over Denver for the eighth spot. The Blazers will be desperate to maintain that position obviously, but also to get back on track after a two-game slide, one of which came by one point at the hands of these very Timberwolves in Minnesota on Monday night. Suffice it to say, it’s payback time on Thursday! Minnesota has won three of its last five, but has nothing to play for other than spoiler now. And that can only provide so much motivation for so long before everyone just throws in the towel. This is what I envision happening this evening as Portland risks life and limb tonight to get off the schneid with a decent full four-quarter effort. And if history is any precedence, then the Blazers have to be loving their chances today as they’ve won 20 of the last 22 meetings at home against Minnesota: “We’re ready to go home and finish the season out strong and we know that we control what happens,” Portland’s star point guard Damian Lillard said last night. I’ll point out that the Wolves are just 1-6-1 ATS in their last eight on the road and just 1-6 ATS in their last seven when playing on one days rest, while the Trailblazers are 6-0 ATS in their last six when playing on one days rest and 4-0 ATS in their last four at home against clubs with losing road records. I think the Wolves check out of this one early and expect Portland to put the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
04-05-17 | Cavs +3.5 v. Celtics | Top | 114-91 | Win | 100 | 9 h 17 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:05 EST). The 49-27 Cavaliers are in Boston to take on the 50-27 Celtics and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. This is the biggest regular season game for both teams so far as first place is up for grabs in the Eastern Conference. Boston won its second straight and sixth in its last seven with a 110-94 victory over New York on Sunday, while Cleveland cruised to a 122-102 win over Orlando at home last night. The Cavs have taken two of three so far this year, but it was the C’s which won 103-99 at home in the latest on March 1st. Cleveland has now won three straight. It averages 110.3 PPG and concedes 107. LeBron James leads the nightly charge with 26.3 points, 8.5 boards and 8.7 assists per game. Note that the Cavs are second in the NBA in made threes with 13 triples a game. Boston averages 107.8 PPG and concedes 105.1. Isaiah Thomas averages 29.1 points and 5.9 assists per game. Boston is ranked fourth in three points with 11.9 per contest. I’ll point out though that Cleveland is 12-9 ATS this season following a win by ten points or more, while Boston is just 11-15 ATS this year against poor defensive teams which allow 106 plus points per contest (also only 5-9 ATS following a win by ten points or more). For many, the Cavaliers playing the Warriors this year was the “biggest” regular season game. Perhaps the Warriors and Durant against the Thunder as well. However, this is the biggest game in terms of it actually meaning something for the postseason. That means that it’s “go” time for James and company. I look for the defending champs to put on a show tonight and at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-31-17 | Pacers +7 v. Raptors | Top | 100-111 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 22 m | Show |
My 10* LEGEND is on the Indiana Pacers (7:05 EST). The 37-38 Indiana Pacers are in Toronto to take on the 45-30 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Pacers come in desperate here, they lost for the fourth time in five games in a 110-97 road defeat in Memphis on Wednesday. Toronto looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after it had its six game win streak snapped in a 110-106 home loss to Charlotte. Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, it’s sometimes even more difficult to get back. Also note, to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as Toronto has taken three straight and eight of the last nine in the series, including a 116-91 victory at home in the first matchup of the year on March 19th. Indiana is in eighth spot in the East and will be desperate here as it looks to break the slide of poor play. Indiana averages 104.3 PPG and concedes 105.4. Paul George leads the nightly charge with 22.8 points plus 6.4 boards per game. The Raptors average 107.2 PPG and concede 103. DeMar DeRozan leads everyone with 27.2 points and 5.3 boards per contest. I’ll point out though that Indiana is 11-6 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more, while Toronto is just 1-2 ATS in its last three off an upset loss as a favorite. I think the “hungrier” team is the way to go in this one and while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, play on Indiana. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-30-17 | Cavs -6 v. Bulls | Top | 93-99 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 39 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:05 EST). The 47-26 Cleveland Cavaliers are in Chicago to take on the 35-39 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. It’s going to be all hands on deck for the Cavs today, they’ve lost four of their last six, most recently a humbling 103-74 road loss in San Antonio on Monday. With two extra days off between games and after losing top spot in the East to the Celtics, I’m absolutely expecting LeBron James and company to lay the hammer down tonight though. Note as well that this is a quadruple revenge game for the Cavaliers, having lost each of the last four meetings with the Bulls. Chicago sits just a game behind Miami for the final spot in the East, but note that it’s just 8-10 ATS this year off an upset win as an underdog and only 6-8 ATS following a divisional contest. Also note that the Cavs have excelled in this spot for bettors, going 4-1 ATS in their last five when playing with two days rest. This is Cleveland’s most important game so far this entire season and suffice it to say, I look for the defending champions to respond with a resounding performance. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-29-17 | Wizards v. Clippers -5 | Top | 124-133 | Win | 100 | 34 h 45 m | Show |
My 10* BAIL-OUT is on the LA Clippers (10:35 EST). The Washington Wizards are in LA to take on the 44-31 Clippers on Wednesday night and for a couple of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Note that Washington played just 24 hours previous against the Lakers and suffice it to say, I think it’s going to be “gassed” in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. And with tough games at Utah and at Golden State upcoming respectively, it’s certainly not too hard to imagine the Wizards also in some small way getting caught “looking ahead” to those very tough contests. The Clippers will be looking to take out their frustrations on someone after letting an 18-point fourth quarter lead go by the way side in a 98-97 setback at home to the Kings. LA currently sits 1.5 games behind Utah for the fourth seed, so it needs to start winning immediately if it has any hopes of securing home court advantage in the first round. Also note that this is a “revenge” game as well for LA after the Wizards won 117-110 in Washington on December 18th (note though that the Clippers have won eight straight at home in this series). With two whole days off to rest, prepare and re-focus, I love the home side to lay a severe beating from start to finish. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-29-17 | Bucks v. Celtics -8 | Top | 103-100 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 46 m | Show |
My 10* Eastern Conference SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Boston Celtics (7:35 EST). The Milwaukee Bucks are in Boston to take on the 48-26 Celtics on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Milwaukee has a solid defense which ranks in the top 10 in the league, but it plays in Charlotte on Tuesday night and suffice it to say, I think it’s going to be “gassed” in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. Boston has taken over top spot in the East and won’t want to give it up. The C’s have won four in a row and seven of their last eight. Boston is ranks eighth in scoring and 14th in points allowed. Isaiah Thomas averages 29.1 PPG and six assists per night for Boston. Note that the Celtics are 27-9 at home, while Milwaukee is a few games under .500 on the road. Also note that the Bucks are just 10-14 ATS in their last 24 in Boston, while the Celtics are 17-12 ATS against teams with winning records this year and interestingly, 10-4 ATS against Central division opponents. I think Milwaukee comes in flat-footed after the game last night and look for the Celtics to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-28-17 | Wizards v. Lakers +9 | Top | 119-108 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 24 m | Show |
My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the LA Lakers (10:35 EST). The 45-28 Washignton Wizards are in LA to take on the 21-52 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. I’m not going to be so bold as to predict an outright upset here, but I do definitely believe that the home side will catch the Wizards “looking past” their lowly opponent today and keep this one a lot closer than what Vegas is leading us to believe. At the very least, Washington will have the No. 3 seed in the Eastern conference. Clearly the Wizards are the better team, both on paper and on the floor. However, with a game against the Clippers tomorrow night, followed by tough outings at Utah and Golden State respectively, the stage is set for a classic “trap” game this evening. LA has nothing to play for and will almost assuredly be the second worst team in the league behind the Nets. But with one of the few remaining home games to put on a show for the crowd, I think the young Lakers come to play. And I’ll point out that Washington is just 16-17 ATS on the road this season and only 9-15 ATS overall since the All Star break, while LA is 2-1 ATS this year after scoring 85 points or less and interestingly, 6-2 ATS against the Southeast division. Grab as many points as you can, play on LA. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-27-17 | Thunder v. Mavs +1 | Top | 92-91 | Push | 0 | 26 h 23 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:30 EST). The 41-30 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Dallas to take on the 31-41 Dallas Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. OKC comes in off a loss in Houston yesterday afternoon and I think will be “gassed” here. Dallas will now look to take advantage and to get back into the winners circle after a 94-86 home loss to Toronto in its latest action. These teams have already split a pair of meetings this year, each earning the victory on its home floor. Suffice it to say, I expect that trend to carry on here. Dallas is 21-17 on its home floor and needs to start stringing some wins together immediately if it has any chance whatsoever at making it into the postseason. Desperation breeds motivation and note that the Mavericks are 3-1 ATS in their last four after scoring 86 points or less, while OKC is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the second game of a back-to-back. After yesterday’s high-scoring defeat, I think the Thunder come out flat here. The correct call in this one is on the home side, play on Dallas. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-25-17 | Knicks +15.5 v. Spurs | Top | 98-106 | Win | 100 | 11 h 38 m | Show |
My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the New York Knicks (8:35 EST). The 27-45 New York Knicks are in San Antonio to take on the 55-16 Spurs and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the situation favors the visitors and look for them to keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. The Knicks come in under the radar here, they’ve lost four straight and seven of their last eight, most recently a 110-95 setback at Portland on Thursday. Conversely, the Spurs come in complacent after winning their third straight and fifth in their last seven by outlasting the Grizzlies 97-90 at home on Thursday. New York comes in averaging 105.1 PPG and is fourth in the NBA in rebounding with 45.5 boards per game. The Knicks are poor defensively though, conceding 108.7 per contest. San Antonio averages 106.3 PPG and concedes 98.4 Kawhi Leonard leads the way with 25.9 points, 5.9 boards and 1.84 steals per game. I’ll point out though that New York has excelled in this spot for bettors this year, going 7-3 ATS after three or more consecutive losses and 22-13 ATS when playing against a team with a winning record, while San Antonio is just 11-16 ATS this season after three or more consecutive victories and just 5-8 ATS following a divisional contest. Clearly this is a matchup of David vs. Goliath on paper, but not only do the trends support the Knicks in this situation, but so too does the overall “situation.” There’s no doubt that this sets up as a classic “trap” game for the Spurs, with games against the Cavaliers and Warriors on Sunday and Tuesday resepectively. I think the visitors do more than enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the ample spread they’ve been afforded as they catch the home side “looking ahead.” Play on New York. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-24-17 | Kings +17.5 v. Warriors | Top | 100-114 | Win | 100 | 31 h 47 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Sacramento Kings (10:35 EST). Clearly the Warriors are the superior team, they come into this one having won five straight, including covering the spread in their last four as well. The last time Golden State faced Sacramento, it would smash the Kings 109-86 on February 15th. So am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money-line” as well? Of course not. I simply feel that this sets up as a “trap” game for the Warriors, who will next face the Grizzlies, the Rockets and Spurs respectively. It’s not too hard to imagine the home side taking the foot off the gas a little bit tonight as it focuses on its much tougher upcoming schedule. The Kings have struggled with offensive consistency since making the DeMarcus Cousins trade, but note that they’ve excelled in this spot for bettors this season, going 8-5 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 11-4 ATS after three or more consecutive losses. And it’s interesting to note that Golden State is just 3-7 ATS this season when playing with two days rest and only 10-16 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per contest. For all the reason’s listed above, I’m grabbing the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-22-17 | Knicks v. Jazz -10 | Top | 101-108 | Loss | -110 | 33 h 60 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (10:30 EST). The 27-43 New York Knicks are in Utah to take on the 43-28 Jazz on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The Knicks are now officially looking ahead to next season with nothing but pride to play for the rest of the way. The Jazz on the other hand are trying to hold on to fourth place in the West playoffs, a spot which would give them home floor advantage in the first round. New York comes in off two straight losses, losing at home to Brooklyn on Thursday and then starting this trip with a 114-105 seback at the Clippers on Monday. The Knicks play a game tomorrow night, so could also be caught looking ahead here. Utah comes home in a foul mood after dropping three straight to close a four-game road trip. Gordon Hayward was a bright spot with 38 points in the most recent setback. I’ll point out though that New York is just 1-2 ATS this year against good defensive teams which concede 98 points or less per contest, while Utah is 12-7 ATS this season against poor defensive clubs which allow 106 points per contest. With a big game against the Clippers on Saturday (the team sitting a half game back in fifth spot in the West), the Jazz can ill afford to drop another “gimme.” This has essentially become a “must win” game for Utah, so lay the points with confidence. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-18-17 | Spurs v. Grizzlies +3.5 | Top | 96-104 | Win | 100 | 15 h 44 m | Show |
My 10* UNDERDOG SUPER SHOCKER is on the Memphis Grizzlies (9:05 EST). The 52-15 San Antonio Spurs are in Memphis to take on the 39-30 Grizzlies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. San Antonio comes to town off a 110-106 home loss to Portland, while Memphis beat Atlanta 103-91 on Thursday. If recent history is any precedence, then the Grizzlies have to be loving their chances for an upset today, because in the lone meeting between the clubs earlier in the year, they’d score the 89-74 home victory. San Antonio has started to show some signs of fatigue finally, it’s just 2-2 over its last four after winning nine in a row. The Spurs average 106.5 PPG and concede 98.5. The Grizzlies average just 101.4 PPG, but make up for it on the defensive side in conceding just 98.2. In the win over Atlanta, they’d hold the Hawks to 40 percent shooting. Big man Marc Gasol had 18 points, ten boards and ten assists. I’ll point out that San Antonio is just 4-8 ATS this year against the division and only 3-7 ATS when playing on two days rest, while Memphis is 10-7 ATS off an upset win as an underdog and 15-11 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 points or more per contest. With a much “easier” game at home tomorrow night against the Kings, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors also in some small way getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. I like the Grizzlies to battle hard until the final moments, grab as many points as you can. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-17-17 | Rockets v. Pelicans +5 | Top | 112-128 | Win | 100 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the New Orleans Pelicans (8:05 EST). The 47-21 Houston Rockets are in New Orleans to take on the 27-41 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. I think the Rockets are poised for a letdown here after three straight wins, including a victory over the Cavs in that stretch. New Orleans though will be hungry here, it had won two straight before then suffering a loss at red hot Miami on Wednesday. Houston is in third in the West, with no real shot at being able to catch either the Warriors or Spurs. New Orleans still has a playoff shot, but its hopes are dwindling. This is the most important stretch of the enitre season for the Pelicans, with three straight at home. I’ll point out though that Houston has in fact struggled in this spot already this year, going just 11-16 ATS after a win by ten points or more and only 4-5 ATS after scoring 130 points or more. And note that New Orleans has excelled in this position, going 14-8 ATS this season against poor defensive clubs which allow 106 points per contest. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’ll recommend grabbing the points in the end. Play on New Orleans. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-16-17 | Thunder v. Raptors -2.5 | Top | 123-102 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 40 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST). The 38-29 Oklahoma City Thunder are in Toronto to take on the 39-28 Raptors and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. OKC comes in complacent in my opinion after rolling to a third straight win, most recently a 122-104 road victory in Brooklyn on Tuesday. The Raptors had lost four of six before smashing Dallas 100-78 on Monday and suffice it to say, with two nights off to focus and prepare, I’m looking for the home side to build off that impressive performance. The Thunder average 106.6 PPG and concede 106.2. The error of margin is obviously extremely slim. Russell Westbrook leads the way wih 31.8 points, 10.6 boards and 10.1 assists per game. Toronto averages 107.2 PPG and concedes 103.4. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 27.2 points and 5.4 boards per game. I’ll point out that OKC is just 1-4 ATS in its last five road games and only 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road against teams with a winning home record, while Toronto is 8-1 ATS in its last nine when playing on two days rest and 4-1 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference. Kyle Lowry is still missing from the mix in Toronto, but despite that, the Raptors are still the deeper team. Serge Ibaka gets a shot at his old club tonight, so look for the home side to come out extra motivated. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-15-17 | Bucks v. Clippers -8 | Top | 97-96 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 17 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Clippers (10:35 EST). The 32-34 Milwaukee Bucks are in LA to take on the 40-27 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Milwaukee’s big six-game SU/ATS win streak is over and suffice it to say, I think the team will suffer a predictable letdown here as it hits the West Coast to take on a revenge minded Clippers team. The Bucks got smashed 113-93 in Memphis, allowing the Grizzlies to shoot 52 percent from the floor and go 14 of 27 from range. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 18 points. The Clippers will be in a foul mood after falling 114-108 in Utah on Monday. It was a tough matchup, as LA had won nine straight in Utah previous to that, so the Jazz were extra fired up for that one. Chris Paul had 33 points in the setback. I’ll point out though that Milwaukee is just 4-11 ATS in its last 14 following a straight-up loss and just 1-4 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss of more than ten points, while LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. Milwaukee beat LA, 112-101 in Milwaukee back on March 3rd. Suffice it to say, I think its “payback” time. Milwaukee has only covered in four of its last 14 trips to LA. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-12-17 | Heat v. Pacers -4 | Top | 98-102 | Push | 0 | 21 h 2 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Indiana Pacers (7:05 EST). The 31-34 Miami Heat are in Indiana to take on the 33-32 Indiana Pacers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. No need to overthink this one in my opinion. This one sets up great for Indiana in that Miami played just last night, hammering the Raptors in a very satisfying 104-89 victory. Indiana on the other hand comes in desperate, it’s lost two of its last three, including a listless 99-85 setback at Milwaukee on Friday. The Pacers also play with double revenge after dropping both games to the Heat this year. Miami still only averagses 102.3 PPG despite its recent turnaround in play. Indiana averages 104.8 PPG and will be risking life and limb today as it fights for playoff positioning. With two nights off before a long home stretch, I think the tired Heat come out flat tonight and the hungry home side takes full advantage. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-09-17 | Spurs v. Thunder +3 | Top | 92-102 | Win | 100 | 28 h 16 m | Show |
My 10* SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:00 EST). The 50-13 San Antonio Spurs are in Oklahoma City to take on the 35-29 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. I think the Spurs are poised for a letdown here, they’ve won nine in a row, including seven straight since the All Star break. Most recently San Antonio would take care of the Kings 114-104 at home on Wednesday. Conversely, the Thunder will be desperate tonight, they’ve lost four straight after falling 126-121 at home to the Trailblazers on Tuesday. OKC also plays with revenge after falling 108-94 in the first meeting between the teams in San Antonio on January 31st. San Antonio averages 106.6 PPG and concedes 98.4. Kawhi Leonard leads the nightly charge with 26.3 points, six boards and 1.89 steals per game. OKC averages 106.3 PPG and concedes 106.5. Russell Westbrook averages 32.1 points, 10.5 boards and ten assists per game. I’ll point out though that the Spurs are just 5-9 ATS in their last 14 on the road and only 5-8 ATS in their last 13 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per game, while OKC is 21-10 ATS at home this year, 14-9 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent 9-6 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 8-4 ATS after scoring 115 points or more. With a matchup at home against Golden State on Saturday night, I think the visitors finally have a small mental lapse this evening. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-07-17 | Lakers +10 v. Mavs | Top | 111-122 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 46 m | Show |
My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the LA Lakers (8:35 EST). the 19-44 LA Lakers are in Dallas to take on the surging 26-36 Dallas Mavericks and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the hungry visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. LA comes in off seven straight losses, most recently a 105-97 setback to the Pelicans on Sunday. The Lakers are in full rebuilding mode right now, but clearly the team is going to be hungry to get off the schneid. Conversely, the suddenly over-achieving Mavericks look poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning their second straight and fourth in their last five with a 104-89 home victory over OKC on Sunday. And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as Dallas has won 13 straight in the series, including a 122-73 home victory on January 22nd. LA averages 103.9 PPG and concedes 110.8. Julius Randle, D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Nick Young all average double figures. The Mavs are still last in the league in scoring with an average of just 97.9 PPG. Dallas is tough defensively in conceding only 99.7. Harrison Barnes leads the team with 20.1 points and 5.1 boards per night. I’ll point out though that LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Dallas is 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 90 points or less. After big wins over Memphis and Oklahoma City, the Mavs now face the dregs of the league in the Lakers, followed by the Nets and then Suns. All at home. It’s simply not too hard to imagine the home side finally coming in a tiny bit complacent here as it looks past its lowly opponent to this very favorable/vanilla part of its schedule. I’m grabbing the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-06-17 | Celtics v. Clippers -5 | Top | 102-116 | Win | 100 | 31 h 18 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Clippers (10:35 EST). The 40-22 Boston Celtics are in LA to take on the 37-25 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Boston comes in off a deflating 109-106 loss at Phoenix on Sunday, while the Clippers come in off a big victory over the Bulls. Suffice it to say, I think the C’s have a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. Boston averages 108 PPG and got 35 points from Isaiah Thomas yesterday afternoon, but it wasn’t enough as the defense looked horrible. The Clippers had lost four games after the All-Star break, but Jamal Crawford would score 28 points and LA would net the 109-100 victory over Chicago: “He’s going to always break out,” LA coach Doc Rivers said of Crawford. “I always tell him to give yourself a shooter’s chance. If you don’t shoot it, you have no chance of breaking out of it.” The Clippers average 107.8 PPG and concede 104.9. I’ll point out that Boston is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven against the Pacific, while LA is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 when playing on one days rest. I think the Clippers come in focused on the task at hand and take advantage of this favorable matchup. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-04-17 | Nets v. Blazers -11 | Top | 116-130 | Win | 100 | 30 h 37 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:05 EST). The 10-49 Brooklyn Nets are in Portland to take on the 25-35 Trailblazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. When these teams met on November 20th, Portland came away with the 129-109 victory. Suffice it to say, I expect a similar final outcome here as well. Brooklyn was smashed in Utah just last night and I think will come into this one “gassed.” Conversely, the Blazers are finally coming off a big win and will be looking to snowball that momentum after beating the Thunder 114-109 at home. Portland would shoot 49.4 percent from the floor and go 10 of 25 from range. But more impressievly, Portland would hold OKC to just 39.5 percent shooting, while outrebounding it by five. Damian Lillard had 33 points and five assists. I’ll point out that Brooklyn is just 3-9 ATS in its last 12 against the Western Conference, while Portland is 5-2 ATS the last seven in this series. Portland can ill afford to lets games like these slip through its fingers as it continues its hunt for a playoff spot. I’m expecting a blowout from start to finish, lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-03-17 | Nets v. Jazz -13.5 | Top | 97-112 | Win | 100 | 28 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* NON CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST). The 10-49 Brooklyn Nets are in Utah to take on the 37-24 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The Nets are poised for an immediate return to mediocrity after they broke a 16-game road losing streak with a 109-100 effort over the Kings on Wednesday. The Jazz have lost two straight and will be out to atone for a brutal 107-80 home loss to the Wolves on Wednesday. If recent history is any precedence though, then Utah has to be liking its chances for a bounce back performance as it’s taken five straight in the series, including a 101-89 road win in the first matchup this year back on January 2nd. Brooklyn averages 105.4 PPG, which lands them 14th overall. The Nets though are last in the NBA in scoring defense in conceding a whopping 114.2 PPG. Brook Lopez has been a standout this year, leading with 20.5 PPG. Utah averages 100.2 PPG, but concedes just 96 per contest. George Hill is one of four players averaging double figures, with 17.7 points per contest. I’ll point out that the Nets are just 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 on one days rest, while the Jazz are 5-1 ATS in their last six following a double-digit loss at home. Brooklyn is ripe for a letdown after the rare win, while the hungry Jazz are desperate to wash the stink of back-to-back pathetic efforts out of their mouths. Lay the points with confidence. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-03-17 | Raptors +5 v. Wizards | Top | 114-106 | Win | 100 | 26 h 12 m | Show |
My 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE REVENGE PLAY OF THE MONTH is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST). The 36-25 Toronto Raptors are in Washington to take on the 36-23 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Wizards pulled away for a win at home and then followed that with a victory on the road over these very Raptors the next night. I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for Washington. Conversely, the Raptors are hungry and searching for answers after losing point guard Kyle Lowry to injury for an undetermined amount of time. Toronto though can take confidence in knowing that when it last played in the nation’s capital, it would come away with the 113-103 victory on November 2nd. DeMar DeRozan is healthy and averaging 27.8 PPG and he’s now joined with newcomers Serge Ibaka and PJ Tucker. Toronto averages 108 PPG and concedes 104. Washington averages 107.9 PPG and concedes 105.4. I’ll point out that Toronto is 14-7 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Washington is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 overall and only 1-2 ATS in the second game of a back to back after scoring 105 points or more in the first game. I think this one comes down to the wire and will therefore be grabbing the points. Play on Toronto. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
03-02-17 | Warriors -6.5 v. Bulls | Top | 87-94 | Loss | -115 | 28 h 60 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Golden State Warriors (8:00 EST). The 50-10 Golden State Warriors are in Chicago to take on the 30-30 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Warriors dropped the second game of a back-to-back in a 112-108 setback at Washington on Tuesday, while Chicago had its four game win streak snapped with a 125-107 home loss to Denver on Tuesday. But if recent history is any precedence, then the Warriors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve won three straight in this series, including 123-92 at home in the first matchup back on February 8th. Kevin Durant is out for the Warriors, but I say who cares. At least for this game anyways. I like the Warriors to rally together today and use Durant’s injury as fuel to compete for the rest of the regular season. Note that Golden State boasts the No. 1 offense with 118.1 PPG, while ranked 14th on the defensive end in conceding 105.5. The Bulls average just 102.9 PPG, while ranked seventh overall in conceding 103.4 per night. Chicago is led by Jimmy Butler, with 24 points and 6.3 boards per game. I think it’s important to point out that Chicago is last in the league with 6.7 three pointers per game and last overall by shooting 32.5 percent from range. Also note that Golden State is 4-1 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference. I have a hard time seeing the Bulls keeping pace with what should be a highly motivated Stephen Curry and company. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-27-17 | Warriors -13.5 v. 76ers | Top | 119-108 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 3 m | Show |
My 10* NON-CONF GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Golden State Warriors (7:05 EST). The 49-9 Golden State Warriors are in Philadelphia to take on the 22-36 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. Golden State enters off a third straight win and sixth in its last seven after handling the Nets 112-95 at home on Saturday. The 76ers have played a lot better over the last month, but looked primed for a letdown here after a late rally came up short in a 110-109 setback at new York on Saturday. If recent history is any precedence, then the Warriors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve taken six straight in the series, including in the most recent, a 117-105 home victory back on March 27th. Golden State is the No. 1 ranked offense in the league with an average of 118.2 PPG. The Warriors also lead the league in assists with 31 a night. Golden State is in the middle of the pack on the defensive end, ranked 12th in conceding 105.4 per night. Kevin Durant is leading the nightly charge with 25.7 points and 8.4 boards per game. Despite the recent “up tick” in play, Philadelphia is still ranked 25th overall in scoring with 101.6 PPG, while ranked 23rd on the defensive end in conceding 106.9. I’ll also point out that Golden State is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss and 5-2-1 ATS in its last eight against the Eastern Conference, while Philadelphia is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after allowing 110 points or more. I think the visitors keep the foot on the gas from start to finish and pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-25-17 | 76ers v. Knicks -4.5 | Top | 109-110 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* EAST-CONF BLOWOUT OF THE MONTH is on the New York Knicks (7:35 EST). The 21-35 Philadelphia 76ers are in New York to take on the 23-35 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The 76ers are coming off a game just last night, besting the red hot Wizards 120-112 and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. The Knicks however will be desperate to break their current slide of futility, they enter off their sixth loss in their last seven games, most recently falling 119-104 to the Cavs on the road Thursday. New York also plays with revenge here after falling 98-97 in Philadelphia back on January 11th. Despite the recent “up tick” in play for the 76ers though, note that they’re still just 8-19 on the road this season. They also only average 101.2 PPG, while conceding 106.8. New York averages 106 PPG and concedes 109.4. Carmelo Anthony still leads the way with 23.3 points and six boards per contest. I’ll point out though that Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three on the road, while New York is 12-7 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more and 10-7 ATS after a loss by ten points or more. I think a desperate, hungry and revenge-minded Knicks team finally gets off the schneid with a convincing effort. Play on New York. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-24-17 | Heat v. Hawks -3.5 | Top | 108-90 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 42 m | Show |
My 10* REVENGE BLOWOUT is on the Atlanta Hawks (8:05 EST). Miami was one of the hotttest teams in the league heading into the All Star break, winning 14 out of its final 16 games, including big victories over Houston, Golden State and these very Atlanta Hawks. Wiill “rest lead to rust” though for the Heat? I think the answer is yes. And now the Hawks look to take advantage and to avenge the earlier setback. Atlanta is just 2.5 games out of third place and will be eager to return after dropping three of its final five leading up to the break. Goran Dragic leads the way for Miami with 20.3 points and 6.2 assists per game, while Dwight Howard is the leader in Atlanta with 13.5 points and 13 boards per game. I’ll point out that Miami is just 13-14 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 11-12 ATS after a non-conference game, while Atlanta is 8-6 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more and 2-1 ATS in its last three against clubs with losing records. Divisional contests are always the toughest and they almost always mean more to the home side. After losing the first matchup of the year between the clubs, the Hawks will be out to make a statement tonight. And note, with a game tomorrow at home against the Pacers, it’s not too difficult to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. I’m laying the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-23-17 | Knicks +10.5 v. Cavs | Top | 104-119 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 42 m | Show |
This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New York Knicks (8:00 EST). The 23-24 New York Knicks are in Cleveland to take on the 39-16 Cavaliers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. New York is at a cross roads right now, as it’s still in the playoff picture, but clearly needing some better play and some type of surge to stay in the conversation. The Cavs are in first in the East and look forward to a favorable part of their schedule with three straight games at home over inferior opponents. After the extended All Star break, could the defending champs come out a bit flat in the opener? Possibly. The Knicks however absolutely can not take anything for granted and need to start stringing some victories together immeidately. Obviously an outright upset win on the road against the Cavs would be a monumental step in the right direction for the club. And while I’m not going to predict an outright upset, I do think from a motivational stand point that this one sets up great for the visitors tonight. Remember, Kevin Love is still out for Cleveland as well. And note that the Knicks have in fact done well in this spot for bettors, going 15-8 ATS after a non-conference game, 1-0 ATS when playing with one more days rest and 11-6 ATS after allowing 115 points or more, while the Cavaliers have struggled in this position, going just 5-11 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 10-16 ATS against teams with losing records. I think the home side comes out a bit flat and the desperate Knicks take this one down to the wire. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-15-17 | Hawks +2.5 v. Clippers | Top | 84-99 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 54 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Atlanta Hawks (10:35 EST). The 32-23 Atlanta Hawks are in LA to take on the 34-21 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the visitors. I believe that LA has a letdown after winning three straight and in the final game before the All Star break. The Hawks come to town off a confidence building 109-104 OT victory in Portland on Monday. Note that this sets up as a “revenge” game as well for the visitors after LA beat the Hawks by ten in Atlanta earlier in the year. Keep your eyes on the Hawks’ Paul Millsap tonight, he had 21 points, nine rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots in the victory over Portland. Atlanta averages 104.1 PPG and concedes 104.3. LA averages 108.1 PPG and concedes 104.5. Blake Griffin has stepped up his play of late, averaging 26 points, 7.5 assists and 10.3 boards over his last four games. I’ll point out though that that Clippers are just 8-12 ATS in non-conference games this year, just 9-10 ATS after a win by ten points or more and only 7-8 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while the Hawks are 3-1 ATS in their last four in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent and 5-3 ATS as a road dog of three points or less. I think the home side comes out a bit flat and the Hawks, at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-14-17 | Kings v. Lakers +1 | Top | 97-96 | Push | 0 | 32 h 42 m | Show |
My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE BLOWOUT SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the LA Lakers. The 23-32 Sacramento Kings are in LA to take on the 19-37 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The Kings are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after going 4-1 on a five-game homestand, including downing the Pelicans 105-99 at home on Sunday. LA returns home off a 2-3 road trip, most recently beating the Bucks 122-114 on Friday. To say this is a “revenge” game for the Lakers would be a bit of an understatement as the Kings have won eight of the last nine in the series, including 116-92 in the lone matchup this season back on December 12th. It’s a classic letdown spot for Sacramento though, which also beat Golden State, Boston and Atlanta during the home surge. And note that despite the recent up-tick in play, the Kings are still tied for just 21st in the league in scoring with an average of 103.4 PPG. Unfortunately, the defense hasn’t been much better, ranked 18th in conceding an average of 105.8 per contest. DeMarcus Cousins averages 27.8 points and 10.7 boards per game this year. The Lakers posted 47 first quarter points against the Bucks on Friday. Overall LA is ranked 18th in the league in scoring with an average of 104.7 PPG, while ranked 29th on the defensive end in conceding 110.5 per night. Keep your eyes on Lou Williams, who leads the team with 18.4 points and 3.1 assists per night. I’ll point out that Sacramento is already just 9-13 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more and 0-2 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while LA is 7-5 ATS after playing three consecutive road games and 7-2 ATS in its last nine against good offensive teams which average 99-plus points per contest. The stage is set for the Lakers to grab another victory. Play on LA. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-13-17 | Clippers v. Jazz -7 | Top | 88-72 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 21 m | Show |
The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST). The 33-21 LA Clippers are in Utah to take on the 34-21 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. I think the Clippers are poised for a letdown here after two straight wins. Conversely, after a 112-104 setback to the C’s on Saturday, I expect the home side to come out fired up tonight. Also note that Utah plays with revenge after dropping the first game of the season to the Clippers 88-75 on the road back in October. The Clippers average 108.5 PPG and concede 105.1. The Jazz average just 100.5 PPG, but are ranked No. 1 in the league on the defensive end in conceding a mere 96 PPG. And I’ll point out that LA is just 1-2 ATS this season as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Utah is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 105 points or more. I think Utah comes in focused, eager to break the string of shoddy play and to avenge the earlier loss to the Clippers. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-09-17 | Jazz v. Mavs +2.5 | Top | 105-112 | Win | 100 | 29 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST). The 34-19 Utah Jazz are in Dallas to take on the 20-32 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. No need to overthink this one too much in my opinion, as Utah comes in off a big 127-94 win over New Orleans just last night. I unfortunately had a play on the Pelicans in that one. The Jazz are poised for a letdown now after four straight wins and the revenge minded and much improved Mavericks will be looking to take advantage. Dallas comes in as the “hungrier” team as it’s now dropped two in a row, most recently a 114-113 setback at home to Portland on Tuesday. Note that Dallas does in fact play with “triple revenge” tonight, after dropping all three previous games to the Jazz this season. This is a great situational play, as Utah comes in tired and content. The Mavs are eager to return to the winners circle, have home court advantage and big motivation after already dropping three games to the Jazz this year. And I’ll point out that Utah is just 10-14 ATS on the road this year and interestingly, only 18-22 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while Dallas is 8-2 ATS in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 12-6 ATS after allowing 105 points or more. While I clearly wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Dallas. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-08-17 | Heat v. Bucks -2 | Top | 106-88 | Loss | -115 | 28 h 51 m | Show |
My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:05 EST). The 22-30 Miami Heat are in Milwaukee to take on the 22-28 Bucks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. Miami comes in on the back of an 11-game win streak, but I think it will finally have a letdown here. The Heat most recently got by Minnesota 115-113 on the road on Monday. Conversely, the Bucks are looking to build momentum, they finally got off the schneid and broke a five-game slide with a resounding 137-112 beatdown of the Suns on Saturday. Note that this does indeed also set up as a “revenge” game for Milwaukee, as Miami has taken two of three meetings this year, including a 109-97 home win on January 21st in the most recent. Note that despite the big win streak, the Heat still rank 25th in the league in scoring at 100.7 PPG. Miami is strong defenisvely though, conceding just 102.2 PPG. Goran Dragic usually leads the nightly charge, he’s averaging a team-leading 20.1 PPG. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 30 points, 12 boards, six assists and four blocks in his team’s win over the Suns last time out. Milwaukee averages 105.3 PPG and concedes 105.1. Keep your eyes on big man Greg Monroe, who averages 11.1 points and 6.7 boards in a sixth man role. I’ll point out that Miami is just 10-12 ATS this year after a non-conference game, while Milwaukee is a perfect 3-0 ATS this season after playing three consecutive road games and 5-3 ATS as a home fav of three points or less. Milwaukee comes in rested and focused after four days off. Too many factors working against Miami tonight, I’m laying the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-08-17 | Jazz v. Pelicans +4 | Top | 127-94 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 50 m | Show |
My 10* UNDERDOG OF THE MONTH is on the New Orleans Pelicans (8:05 EST). The 33-19 Utah Jazz are in New Orleans to take on the 20-32 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. I believe the Jazz will finally have a letdown here after winning three straight. New Orleans though will be looking to build some momentum after getting off the schneid and breaking a four-game losing streak in a win over the Suns on Monday. Utah played over its head in its 120-95 win over Atlanta on Monday, shooting a season-high 61.3 percent from the floor. Suffice it to say, I am not expecting a repeat performance here. In fact, there’s only one way that shooting percentage can go (and that’s down!). Anthony Davis had 34 points, nine boards and five blocks in his team’s 111-106 win over Phoenix on Monday. Point guard Jrue Holiday had 30 points, nine boards, seven assists and three steals. I’ll point out that Utah is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight on the road, while New Orleans is 4-0 ATS in its last four home against against teams with winng road records and 5-2 ATS in its last seven following an ATS loss. The Jazz have a hard time with Davis, who averaged 25.3 points and 9.8 boards in four games against them last year. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Pelicans. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-07-17 | Magic v. Rockets -11 | Top | 104-128 | Win | 100 | 27 h 11 m | Show |
My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Houston Rockets (8:00 EST). The 20-33 Orlando Magic are in Houston to take on the 37-17 Houston Rockets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The Magic come in with zero momentum, they lost for the seventh time in their last ten games with a 113-86 loss at Atlanta on Saturday. The Rockets can empathize, they’ve also hit a bit of a rough patch, but do come in off a 121-117 OT win at home over the Bulls to win for just the third time in their last eight overall. These team’s met in Orlando on January 8th and Houston scored the 100-93 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger blowout this evening. The Magic average 99.6 PPG and allow 105.4 per night. Evan Fournier leads the nightly charge with 16.6 PPG. The Rockets average 114.1 PG and allow 108.3. Houston is led by James Harden with 28.9 points, 8.2 boards and 11.4 assists per night. I’ll point out that Orlando is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 when its opponent allows 100 points or more in its previous game, while the Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last five home games against a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400. Houston is tough at home. I think it builds off its latest victory and keeps the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-05-17 | Clippers +6 v. Celtics | Top | 102-107 | Win | 100 | 24 h 30 m | Show |
My 10* CASH BOMB is on the LA Clippers (2:05 EST). The 31-19 LA Clippers are in Boston to take on the 32-18 Boston Celtics and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. The Clippers are the “hungrier” team in my estimation as they come in having lost three of their last four, most recently a 133-120 setback at home to Golden State on Thursday. Conversely, the surging Celtics look poised for a letdown here after winning their sixth straight, most recently a 113-107 win at home over the Lakers on Friday night. Note that LA averages 108.4 PPG and concedes just 104.7. Blake Griffin leads the nightly charge with 21.4 points, 8.7 boards and 4.6 assists per game. Boston averages 108.3 PPG and concedes 105.7. Isaiah Thomas leads the way with 29.9 points and 6.3 assists per game. These are two good teams, but they’re moving in opposite directions right now. But I think that trend starts to move the other way tonight. Boston is likely playing its best ball of the season, but after six straight wins, including three straight at home, and with two nights off before a long Western Conference road swing, I think it finally has a letdown here. It’s the perfect situation for the Clippers (and us!), to take advantage of. Grab as many points as you can. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-04-17 | Pelicans +7.5 v. Wizards | Top | 91-105 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 29 m | Show |
My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the New Orleans Pelicans (7:00 EST). The 19-31 New Orleans Pelicans are in Washington to take on the 29-20 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. New Orleans will be hungry here, it’s coming off its third straight loss, this time a 118-98 setback on the road in Detroit on Wednesday. Conversely, the Wizards could hardly be faulted if they came in a tiny bit complacent as they are off their sixth straight victory, most recently a 116-108 home win over the Lakers on Thursday. To say this is a “revenge” game would be an understatement as well as Washington has taken nine of the last ten in the series, including a 107-94 road victory in the first matchup of the year just last week. New Orleans averages 103.4 PPG and concedes 106.5. Big man Anthony Davis averages 27.9 points, 12.3 boards, 1.3 steals and 2.39 blocks per game. Davis is going to need a few more pieces around him before the Pelicans can ever make any serious noise at a playoff run, note that E’Twaun Moore contributes 9.8 points a night, while Tim Frazier chips in 9.1. Washington averages 107.1 PPG and concedes 105. Guard John Wall leads the way with 23 points, 10.3 assists and 2.15 steals per game. I’ll point out though that New Orleans is already 20-15 ATS this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent and 4-2 ATS as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Washington is just 1-3 ATS in its last four non-conference games. With the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers coming to town on Monday night, it’s also not too hard to imagine the home side getting caught looking ahead to that much more “important” game. I’m banking on the desperate Pelicans to keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-03-17 | Grizzlies v. Thunder -1.5 | Top | 102-114 | Win | 100 | 27 h 50 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:05 EST). The 30-21 Memphis Grizzlies are in Oklahoma City to take on the 28-22 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. This is a big mid-season game as the Thunder sit just 1.5 games behind No. 6 Memphis in the playoff standings. They’ve already played twice this year, each winning on its home floor. I simply feel this sets up as a letdown spot for Memphis though, which has played well of late, winning three straight on the road. The Thunder on other hand have lost three straight, most recently a humbling 128-100 setback at home to the Bulls on Wednesday. The Grizzlies average 100.6 PPG and concede 99.5. Despite struggling some on the offensive end of late, OKC still comes into this one averaging 105.7 PPG. The problem most nights for the Thunder is on the defensive end as they concede an average of 105.7 as well. I’ll point out though that Memphis is just 8-10 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more, while OKC is 8-5 ATS after a loss by ten points or more. Both teams are dealing with injury issues, but I think this one simply means more to Russell Westbrook and the Thunder. Good value on the “hungry” home side, play on Oklahoma City. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
02-01-17 | 76ers v. Mavs -6 | Top | 95-113 | Win | 100 | 25 h 39 m | Show |
My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST). The 18-29 Philadelphia 76ers are in Dallas to take on the 18-30 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. The 76ers most recently beat the Kings 122-119 to stop a two-game slide, while the Mavericks won for the fourth time in their last five games with an upset 104-97 victory over the Cavaliers at home on Monday. Philadelphia won despite big man Joel Embiid sidelined last time out. Robert Covington had 23 points and ten boards against Sacramento. The 76ers average just 100.9 PPG and concede 106. The Mavs are last in the league in scoring at 97.1 PPG. Dallas though is pretty good on the defensive side, conceding just 100.1 points per night. But there’s no question that Dallas has looked a lot better of late. And that’s mainly because it’s been getting healthier. Harrison Barnes leads the nightly charge with 20.4 points and 5.3 boards per night. Embiid is not expected to play today and that doesn’t bode well for the visitors in my opinion. Even if he does play, I don’t expect him to be at 100% capacity. The Mavs are getting big contributions up and down the line-up right now and note that Dallas is already 5-1 ATS as a favorite this year. I’m laying the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
01-31-17 | Hornets +3 v. Blazers | Top | 98-115 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 55 m | Show |
My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Charlotte Hornets (10:05 EST). The 23-25 Charlotte Hornets are in Portland to take on the 21-28 Blazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. These are two teams desperate for some wins. Charlotte dropped its fourth straight and ninth in its last 12 with a 109-106 setback to Sacramento on Saturday. Portland had its three game win streak snapped with a disheartening 113-111 home loss to Golden State on Sunday. Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, it’s even more difficult to get back. I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for the Blazers after their extended streak of excellence was finally cut short in an emotional setback to the conference’s heavyweight. And if recent history is any precedence, then the Hornets have to be loving their chances today as when they faced the Blazers on January 18th, they’d pull away for the convincing 107-85 victory back on January 18th. So far Charlotte averages 105.2 PPG and concedes 103.6. Kemba Walker leads the nightly charge with 23.3 PPG. Note that the Hornets are tied for tenth with 9.7 threes per game. Portland averages 107.6 PPG and allows 110.2 (the fourth worst). Damian Lillard averages 26.2 points and 5.9 assists per contest. I’ll point out that Charlotte is 2-1 ATS in its last three when playing with two days of rest, while Portland is just 13-20 ATS in its last 33 after allowing 105 points or more and only 8-15 ATS against teams with losing records. I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Grab the points. Good luck…Larry | |||||||
01-30-17 | Pistons +7 v. Celtics | Top | 109-113 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Detroit Pistons (8:05 EST). The 21-26 Detroit Pistons are in Boston to take on the 29-18 Celtics and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the visitors. The Pistons come in as the “hungrier” team in my opinion. Detroit has lost two straight, most recently a 116-103 road loss in Miami on Saturday. Conversely, I think Boston could be caught a tiny bit complacent after three straight wins, most recently a hard-fought 112-108 OT win in Mliwaukee on Saturday. If recent history is any precedence, then Detroit has to be liking its chances today, as it would take the first matchup of the year in a 121-114 home victory back on November 30th. Detroit averages just 100.6 PPG, but gets balanced scoring. The Pistons are an above average defensive team, conceding just 101.6 PPG. Reggie Jackson averages 17.2 points and 5.5 assists per contest. Is Boston about to take the foot off the gas after capturing first place in the Atlantic after Toronto lost to Orlando on Sunday? Maybe. The team blew a 15 point lead after the first quarter and let an eight point lead entering the fourth slip away against the Bucks before then managing to gut out the OT victory. Note that the C’s shot just 41.6 percent from the floor, including a poor 14 of 40 from beyond the arc. I think the Celtics are running out of gas. And note that Boston is already just 2-4 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU wins, while Detroit is 2-1 ATS in its last three after a loss by ten points or more. The stage is set for the outright upset, but in the end I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Detroit. Good luck…Larry |
Service | Profit |
---|---|
ProSportsPicks | $832 |
Tom Macrina | $664 |
Jack Jones | $601 |
Ricky Tran | $546 |
Joseph D'Amico | $518 |
Nick Parsons | $498 |
Joey Tron | $436 |
Sean Higgs | $427 |
Dan Kaiser | $200 |
Sean Murphy | $184 |