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New York Knicks.

EARLY INFO MOVE.

Game 529.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Sport fans, I am well aware the home team has won each game in this series straight up. But as we all know, sports betting isn't about which team wins, it's about which team covers. New York has covered three of the last four overall meetings in this series. If you recall in the last series with Philadelphia, they covered two of three as a guest. The Knicks have a chance to close out this series here, and I believe they'll come into this matchup still riding momentum from the Game 5, 121-91 victory at home a few days back. New York dominated the boards in that last matchup, outrebounding Indiana, 53-29. Not only that, but despite a less than stellar percentage from downtown overall from the floor, they shot 47%, and made most of the free throws. Once again, I feel this will be a physical contest which will give New York the edge. Hartenstein and Hart are monsters down low. And let's face it, Brunson has been absolutely stellar. I just feel this is way too many points to give the scrappy Knicks. Especially, if they want to face the Celtics in the Conference Finals a bit fresh. Take New York. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

RD 2 TOP PLAY.

Game 525.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

I don't think it's a stretch to say the defending NBA Champions were embarrassed in the first two games of this round of the 2024 playoff. They finished the regular season on fire, then went into the first round and took down the Los Angeles Lakers in five games with authority. Games 1 and 2 of this series, they lost at home by seven and 26 points. This was one of the best home teams in the league this season. However, those defeats lit a fire under their butts and they then came out to win Games 3, 4, and 5, both straight up and against the spread. As a matter fact, the average margin of victory over the last three games in this series was 16.6 points per game. There's no way they're going to allow Minnesota to tie this series up. I see them winning out right. But I'll take the points with better than a basket here. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Minnesota Timberwolves.

VI Move.

Game 519.

7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST.

If you've been watching this series, then you know Minnesota took the first two games on the road only to get embarrassed in the next two games at home. Now we see, because the Nuggets are returning home and have won the last two games, that they are a big price here. I just don't see them being this much of a price against a team this good. Please understand, the last two games the Timberwolves allowed a combined 232 points. This cannot sit well with the No. 1 defense in the NBA. That's right, Minnesota leads the NBA in points allowed and field goal percentage allowed. They just let Denver shoot a combined 55.3% the L2 matchups. I see their defense tightening up here, thus allowing their offense to succeed in transition. By the way, they've also covered four of the last five meetings played at the Ball Arena. Take the Timberwolves. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

Game 3 Winner.

Game 505.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have certainly dominated the Dallas Mavericks, taking seven of the last 10 meetings, which does include four of six matchups this season alone. The funny thing about these matchups, are each time the Mavericks got a win, they immediately got a loss for the next several contests with the Thunder. I really feel Oklahoma City, which by no accident is the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference this postseason, and owns a 26-17 straight up road record, is the better team. No disrespect to Dallas, which is the No. 5 seed, and let's face it, is a very good team. But I just don't see the matchups for them. On top of all that, the Thunder enter this game following their first loss after riding a 10-game win streak. They are an excellent bounce-back team, my friends. They have also won and covered both away games during this postseason. I feel you will see them still a bit fresher as they didn't have as long of a series in their opening round as did their counterpart. I think you're going to see Giddey shine here following a couple of games in which he struggled in this series. I think you're also going to see less success from downtown in this Game 3 matchup for both Washington and Doncic. Take Oklahoma City. Thank you.

Indiana Pacers.

Game 1 Winner.

Game 555.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

There are a few underlying story plots in this Pacers/Knicks matchup. For starters, New York PG, Jalen Brunson, who leads all the NBA players in scoring this postseason, and Indiana HC, Rick Carlisle do not like one another at all. This stems back from their time together in Dallas. Then there is despite New York dropping two of three this season against Indiana, they are a six-point favorite (as of this post). Both teams defeated solid opposition in the opening round of the playoffs, as the Pacers ousted the Bucks in six games, while the Knicks dispatched of the 76ers, also in six games. Neither has had any extra time to rest, heal, or prepare for this round. Both squads have some personnel that are listed as questionable (check status). The old adage of "offense gets glory, but defense wins the games" is resonating here. The Pacers possess the League’s No.1 scoring offense as well as its best squad in field goal percentage. The Knicks happened to own the NBA's second-ranked scoring defense. They are also monsters at both end of the court on the boards. I really do feel these two teams not only know each other well, but dislike each other even more. I do feel the Indiana offense is going to be able to put up points, especially behind their stellar, three-point shooting. This is a place in which the Knicks had some difficulty this year defensively. As a matter fact, it has been their Achilles heel. And I think this will be the difference maker. Taking the Pacers. Thank you.

Minnesota Timberwolves.

Game 1 Winner.

Game 529.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

In my opinion this is the most anticipated matchup in the second round of the playoffs. Regardless of who wins the Cavaliers/Magic Game 7 meeting on Sunday, none of the other three matchups consist of teams seeded this low. The No. 3 Timberwolves and the No. 2 Nuggets will square off here. These two teams met four times this season, splitting out the four meetings straight up. However, the Timberwolves have covered three of the four this season. Going back to last season, Minnesota has covered five of the last six overall matchups. Many people thought they would not get past Phoenix in the opening round because they could not beat them in any of the meetings during the regular season. But they dispatched them in four games. The Nuggets devoured the Lakers in five games. While the T-Wolves had an extra day off to rest, heal, and prepare for this round, they also enter this matchup covering four consecutive outings. Meanwhile the Nuggets are on a 1-3 ATS run. Going back to the matchups this season, Minnesota, in their two victories in those matchups really had their way with Denver. Meanwhile the two matchups that the Nuggets prevailed, were a lot closer. While nobody can deny the experience of Denver, Minny can keep pace with them offensively, and possess the NBA's No. 1 defense, allowing 106.5 points per game. They also top the league in field goal percentage allowed. While Denver is not far behind them in both of those categories, I just don't see them having their way here. I believe the frustrating defense of the Timberwolves will be the difference and keep this game extremely close. Take Minnesota. Thank you.

Orlando Magic.

Game 6 Winner.

Game 524.

4:00 PM PST/7;00 PM EST.

When it comes to playing at home, there is certainly a big advantage, especially in the NBA. To go one further, particularly in the playoffs. The home team has won each of the five meetings in this Rd. 1 series. However, the Magic have covered the last three meetings. They return home where they sport an overall record of 31-12, while the Cavaliers are just 22-21 as visitor this season. After suffering a one-point loss on the road a few days ago in Game 5, I see Orlando returning home, and evening out of series with authority. Take the Magic. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.
GAME 4 WINNER.
Game 559.
5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Being up 3-0, the Western Conference’s top-seeded, Oklahoma City Thunder has an opportunity to finish off the series and get some rest, some time to heal, and extra time to prepare until they take on the winner of the Los Angeles Clippers/Dallas Mavericks series. This would be huge for the Thunder. And let's face it, they have the ability to close out this series in a sweep. They have taken seven of the last eight meetings straight up against the New Orleans Pelicans, covering six of those eight meetings. This series alone, they have outscored their opponent by an average of 18.3 points per game. Let's face it, the Pelicans, without their top player, Zion Williamson are basically dead in the water. This is a team that's lost five of the last six straight up, going 2-4 ATS during that time. They have failed to cover eight of the last 10 games played at the Smoothie King Center. I just don't see them putting up too much of a fight as they know their season is over. Take the Oklahoma City. Thank you.

New Orleans Pelicans.

ATR play.

Game 519.

6:30 PM PST/9:30 PM EST.

I think we can all agree that Zion Williamson is one of the most exciting young players in the NBA today. As far as the postseason goes, we kind of know, without him the team is going to be in a tough situation to advance. However, this team took down Sacramento on the 19th without their star player, and then lost a heartbreaker, 94-92 in Game 1 of this series, right here at the Paycom Center. This is a team that has played their counterpart very competitively, winning five of the last six meetings, straight up, covering four of those six, which does include three consecutive meetings. I don't see why this game will be any less competitive. Way too many points. Take New Orleans. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.
ATR.
Game 513.
7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

The majority of people out there felt Dallas was going to take Game 1 of this series with ease. Well, the game plan Los Angeles came in with in the absence of Kawhi Leonard was a big surprise for their opponent in the series opener. If you look at the first half of that game, the Clippers were blowing up the Mavericks. However, Dallas head coach, Jason Kidd made some changes and the second half belonged to the them. There are no more surprises up the Clippers sleeve. Take Dallas. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

ABOVE THE RIM.

Game 502.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

I'm gonna’ keep this breakdown very short and very sweet, just like me (lol). Donovan Mitchell seems to have his injury issues in the rearview. The star player accounted for over 30 points in Saturday's game 1, 97-83 win and cover at home over the visiting Orlando Magic. That victory gave the Cavaliers seven wins over the last nine meetings with the Magic, as they have covered seven of those nine meetings as well. Furthermore Orlando, although is a decent team, struggles badly on the road, where they are just 18-24 this season. Most recently they have failed to cover five consecutive games played as a visitor. Maybe it's because they're so banged up. Yes, it's true Cleveland is a lot healthier. I just see the Cavaliers smell blood in the water here. Cleveland. Thank you.

Phoenix Suns.

GAME 1 MONEYMAKER.

Game 577.

12:00 PM PST/3:00 PM EST.

 Yes, the Minnesota Timberwolves finished the regular season a very impressive, 56-26. But this is a team that must be nervous because they have been bounced out of the first round in each of the past two seasons. As a matter of fact, they haven't made it past the first round since 2004. On the other hand, Phoenix ended the regular season winning six of eight games, which does include their final three contests. It's no secret the Suns have dominated the Timberwolves, winning nine of the last 10 straight up, and covering nine consecutive meetings. Getting to the postseason is one thing. But succeeding in the playoffs is an entirely different monster, and Phoenix has made the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year. I think giving this team points is a mistake. Take the Suns. Thank you.

Chicago Bulls.

SLAM DUNK.

Game 559.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Just like me, I'm going to keep this breakdown very short, and extremely sweet (lol). The Miami Heat will be without both, Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier. While I get why a lot of the general public are coming in on the home team here, I really don't think they grasp the severity of these two missing players in this specific matchup. These are two of their three highest-scoring players, not to mention their starting cornerstone. A few items I'd like to make you aware of; for starters, last years, PLAY IN matchup saw Miami finishing on a 15-1 run to overcome Chicago, and end their season. The Bulls must be salivating, knowing they get another chance at the Heat here. Oh, by the way, there's one more thing I want you to know: Chicago covered both meetings in Miami this season. I think it's going be a competitive game and a physical game. Right now, Chicago is a little deeper, a little hungrier, and is looking for a little payback. Take the Bulls. Thank you.

Los Angeles Lakers.

Game 541.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

When it comes down to elimination time, cream rises to the top. And whether you like him or not, LeBron James does not like missing the playoffs. The Lakers have a fight on their hands right now to make sure they make the postseason cut line. This is a team that has taken five of the last six meetings with their opponent, going back to February of 2023. Oh, by the way they've also covered five of those six meetings (lol). They enter this matchup running pretty hot, winning seven of their last 10 straight up, while the pelicans, despite a strong road stand, in which they won all four games, failed to win their last outing, which coincidentally, was at home against this very opponent. I just don't see King James and Company not putting out their best effort here. Take the Lakers. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 525.

2:10 PM PST/510 PM EST.

The Celtics own the best record in all of pro basketball, at 57-16. However, this team enters this matchup, off back-to-back losses for only the third time during this regular season. That is why I'm compelled to side with the Celtics here. I look for them to bounce back strongly against a team that they've had their way with. They have taken five in a row straight up and seven of the last 10 in this rival. They have also been money in this rivalry covering seven of those 10 as well. Meanwhile the Pelicans are playing “hit or miss” basketball right now. It's hard to believe they have a better away record than they do a home record. That's right, they are just 21-14 at the Smoothie King Center, as opposed to 24-14 as a visitor this season. I just don't think the Celtics are going to allow themselves to fall into a little bit of a funk and drop another game so close to the regular season ending. Trust me when I tell you they want to coast into the last of the regular season games and go into the playoffs with momentum. Take Boston. Thank you.

Orlando Magic.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 545.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Orlando has been red-hot, winning seven of their last nine straight up, and eight of their last 10 against the spread. They have had their way, like many in the league over Detroit, winning the last four meetings in a row straight up, and covering the last three, which does include both meetings this season. The Pistons are once again struggling. They are riding a four-game straight up losing streak, and they have failed to cover three in a row. They just can't keep pace at either end of the court with the superior Magic. Take Orlando. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 541.

7:10 PM PST/10:10 PM EST.

For a team that won the NBA Championship last season, and is currently tied for first place in the Western Conference, at 36-16, the Denver Nuggets aren't getting too much respect, are they? Trust me when I tell you, it's not sitting well with the team. Granted, the Sacramento Kings are very respectable, 29-21 overall this season. And I will admit, are a formidable foe. I know they are playing at home. But I still don't see them being favored here. As of posting this play, they are favored by one-point. I have the other side a favorite of 2.5 points. Having said that, I am aware the Nuggets played last night and took down the Lakers on the road, 114-106. It marked the third consecutive win and their eighth in their last 10 outings. They have been playing excellent on the road. And if you're worried about Denver playing on back-to-back days, don't be. They are money on the second of back-to-back games. Meanwhile, Sacramento dropped their last two outings. They got crushed four nights ago on the road in Cleveland, 136-110. They then followed that game up two days ago at home, losing to the sad-sack, Detroit Pistons, 133-120.  Normally I would look to play a team to bounce back after an embarrassing defeat like the Kings suffered. But in their only meeting this season, back at the beginning of December, Sacramento took down Denver at home, 123-117. I see revenge as a motivation for the visitor here. While the Kings possess an explosive scoring offense, they leave a lot to be desired on the defensive side of the court. This does not bode well as Denver is superior on both ends of the court on the glass, and possess the NBA's fourth-ranked scoring defense. Once again, they say revenge is a dish best served cold, and I see the Nuggets coming in here with vengeance in their hearts. Take Denver. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

EC GOW.

Game 521.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.  

Cleveland is playing some amazing basketball. They sit atop the Central Division at 33-16, which is good enough for them to have the second-best record in the Eastern Conference. They are rolling, winning seven in a row and 15 of their last 16 straight up covering, 11 of those 16 outings. They have dominated Brooklyn, taking the last four meetings in a row SU, which includes both this season. The Nets are in trouble. Not only are they banged up and depleted, but they are really struggling at 20-30. They have lost and fail to cover three consecutive games played at the Barclays Center. I just don't see their lackluster offense doing anything against the very frustrating, third-ranked defense of the Cavaliers here. Take Cleveland. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 515.

4:10 PM PST/710 PM EST.

Golden State is in a very uncharacteristic situation right now. They sit in last place in the Pacific Division with a record of 23-25. Overall, they are 11th in the Western Conference. If they are going to make a serious run at the postseason, they must turn the corner now. And believe it or not, they are starting to stride. The Warriors have won four of their last five, both straight up and against the spread which includes three of four during their current road trip. While the Pacers are a respectable, 29-23, they are showing some signs of inconsistency. They've only covered four of their last 10 overall games and have failed to cover three straight at home. Both teams can score a ton of points. But the Indiana defense has been absolutely atrocious, allowing over 122.5 points per game and 50.2% shooting from the field. Offensively, they are a powerhouse. But much of their offensive success relies upon their ability to shoot from beyond the arc. And facing a Golden State opponent, which ranks in the top 10 defending the three, is going to be very frustrating here. This is way too many points. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Magic.

SD play.

Game 577.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

I feel the line is way off here. Miami, despite being at home, should not be this high of a favorite. I actually feel the line should be at least a “Pick ‘em” or maybe Orlando -1.0. I understand that each team has won and covered a meeting in this series this season at home. But Orlando comes in here red-hot, winning three in a row and four of their last five straight up, while covering their last five straight. Miami is a train wreck. They are the epitome of inconsistency. Moreover, they are a little bit banged up and depleted on their bench. I see their starters getting tired, especially come the second half. Take the points with the underdog. Thank you.

Blazers.

Late Bailout.

Game 557.

5:40 PM PST/8:40 PM EST.

There is no question that Portland isn't a very good team, while Denver is. However, this isn't about wins and losses. This is about covering the number. The Nuggets took down the Blazers just a few days ago, 120-108 on their home floor. However, they failed to cover the big number. And yet there's another big number here tonight. I want you to know Portland enters this matchup covering seven of their last 10 overall, which does include three of four games as a double-digit underdog. On the other hand, Denver is once again being overvalued. This is a team that has failed to cover three straight as a double-digit favorite. As a matter of fact, my friends, they've only covered seven of their last 10 overall games. As I mentioned earlier, they are significantly overvalued. Take the points with the ‘dog and take your bookmakers money. Thank you.

Clippers.

Slam Dunk.

Game 545.

3:10 PM PST/6:10 PM EST.

My friends, we all know how good Jimmy Butler is. And yes, the Heat have won and covered their last two outings. Let's not forget this team overall, is not great. Their supporting cast has just not stepped up when they need to. Prior to the last two games, this team was on a seven-game straight up losing streak, failing to cover eight in a row. Meanwhile, the Clippers are a solid team, folks. They won eight of their last 10 straight up and seven of those ten against the number. They took down Miami 121-104 on January 1 at home. And my opinion this line is very short. I just don't see the lackluster, Heat offense competing on the scoreboard with the top-10 ranked, explosive offense of the Clippers. To make matters worse, on the opposite end of the court, Los Angeles ranks the top-10 in every major category. I just don't see Miami grabbing any rebounds, let alone putting up a fight. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Sacramento Kings.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 571.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Maybe it's because they made it to the NBA finals last year that so many people are shocked at how the Miami Heat are struggling right now. They currently ride the longest active losing streak in the NBA of seven games. They've failed to cover eight in a row. Oh, by the way. surging at the moment, are the Sacramento Kings. They are on a four-game straight up winning streak, covering three of the four contests. By the way, three of those four consecutive wins (their last three) we're all played on the road. They're playing very well as a visitor, going 13-10 away from home this season. This is a team that is relatively healthy and can score points with the best of them. That's right, they average over 118.4 points per game, which does not bode well for the Heat which only average 110.4 points per game. While Miami has a decent defense, they just can't compensate for their lack of offense. Take Sacramento. Thank you.

Phoenix Suns.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 535.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Following a seven-game straight up win streak, the Suns have now dropped their last two outings. What better team to face than the struggling Heat, which are riding a six-game straight up slide and have failed to cover seven in a row. Take Phoenix. Thank you.

New York Knicks.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 519.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

New York is one of the season’s most pleasant surprises. The Knicks currently sit in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, at 26-17. On the other hand, to say Brooklyn has been disappointing, would be an understatement. They sit in 11th place in the East, at 17-25. The Knicks have dominated the Nets, winning and covering all three meetings just in the last 11 months. They also enter tonight's matchup rolling, winning nine of their last 11 SU, and eight of those 11 ATS. They've had an extra day to rest, heal, and prepare for tonight's crosstown matchup. Brooklyn is on a 4-15 straight up run, in which they have only covered three of those 19 contests. They are a little more banged up, and in my opinion, are inferior at both ends of the court. Speaking of both ends of the court, look for the Knicks to dominate the boards, as they rank third on the offensive glass and second on the defensive glass. Take New York. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 536.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

You may not realize this because it's so early in the regular season, but this game is a big matchup. Very possibly, these two teams can face each other come the NBA Finals. Trust me when I tell you, each wants to win this contest. However, there's a few things that certainly compels me to take the home team here. First of all, the Denver Nuggets, although they are very good, are 17-4 at home, but just 11-10 on the road. As a matter of fact, when it comes to covering as a visitor, their numbers aren't very impressive at all, failing to cover their last four games played as a guest. On the other hand, the Boston Celtics are 20-0 at home this season and have covered three of their last four as host. But going even further into this, the last time these two teams met was last New Year's Day, January 1, 2023 in Denver when the Nuggets bested the Celtics, 123-111. That stopped a six-game Boston straight up win streak in this rivalry. By the way, the Celtics still covered six of the last eight meetings, going back several seasons. Boston certainly is one of the most complete teams in the NBA at both ends of the court, ranking in the top-five and most major categories. They are excellent from beyond the arc, which will be a big advantage for them as Denver ranks 16th in the league at defending the “3”. Two other major factors really urge me to side with the “green and white” here. First, they are the best in basketball on the offensive glass, which means they're going to get a ton of second-chance opportunities. And secondly, they are significantly stronger from the free-throw line. You can expect this game to get very physical. The Celtics hit over 80.6% from the line, while the Nuggets are just 75.2% from the line. This might be a lot of points, but it doesn't scare me. Take Boston. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

Slam Dunk.

Game 560.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

Cleveland comes into tonight's matchup, both with momentum and well rested. The Cavaliers have won their last four games, covering three of the four. They will have fresh legs to boot, having not taken the floor since January 11. Granted, Chicago has won four of their last five, straight up. But they have failed to cover their last few games. And as we all know the Bulls lose a little something when they travel. They are just 6-12 on the road this season, and have only covered one of their last four as a guest. To say Cleveland has had their way in this rivalry would be an understatement. They have taken five in a row, both straight up and against the spread over Chicago. This does include a 109-95 win and cover on the road in the only meeting this season, back at the end of December. The Bulls certainly have some talent. But facing a Cavaliers team on the road, that is well rested, riding a win streak, and that has had their number will be fatal for the team. Take Cleveland. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder on the ML.

Best Bet play.

Game 535.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Don't look now, but the Thunder possess the Western Conference’s second-best overall record and the NBA's fourth-best overall mark. This team is playing some great basketball, my friends. Last night they took down the team with the best overall record in all of pro basketball, the Boston Celtics, at home, 127-123. They are now on a five-game win and cover streak. Going back a little further, they have won and covered eight of their last nine contests. They go into State Farm Arena to face a very disappointing, Atlanta Hawks opponent here. Overall, Atlanta is just 13-19, losing four of their last five straight up and riding a five-game no cover slide. I remember a day when the Hawks were money at home. However, they have failed to cover 11 consecutive games on their own court this season, and overall, 12 of 13 games played at the State Farm Arena this campaign. They can still score points on offense. But their defense is absolutely atrocious. They've become a league doormat, allowing over 122.7 points per game, which ranks them 27th in scoring. To make matters worse, they are allowing 50% shooting from the floor, which ranks 28th, and 37.9% from downtown, which ranks them 24th. In today's league that still wouldn't be that bad but they are horrible on the defensive boards as well. They face one of the leagues best scoring offenses. Not only does the Thunder average over 121.5 points per game, they rank in the top-three in field goal percentage, three-point percentage, and if the game gets physical, they are also the best team in basketball from the free-throw line. They've got a pretty frustrating defense as well. This game will get out of hand. But I am posting this very early, so just to err on the side of caution, take Oklahoma City on the Moneyline. Thank you.

Brooklyn Nets.

Game 525.

6:10 PM, PST/910 PM EST.

With all respect to the defending world champion, Denver Nuggets, they are not the same team they were a season ago. At least not yet. Right now, they sit in fourth place in the West at 16-9. This is a respectful record. But I think we can all agree they are just not in sync. Something isn’t clicking on the Nuggets, and it is showing. Yes, they are a good team. But they are not good enough to lay double-digits against just about any opponent in the NBA, especially the surging, Brooklyn Nets. The Nets have won seven of their last 10 straight up and eight of their last 10 against the spread. They are playing superb basketball. They have covered three of their last four as a visitor, and have given the Nuggets all they can handle in recent matchups. At both ends of the court, they are playing so0lid basketball. They are the best team in the NBA on the offensive glass. So, second-chance shots are huge here. And there is a big mismatch between their third ranked three-point shooting offense, and the Nuggets 14th ranked three-point defense. Giving Brooklyn this many points as an early Christmas present. Take the Nets. Thank you.

Sacramento Kings.

Game 570.

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM EST.

This line might be a bit skewed here, due to the fact that Kings played last night in a barnburner, eking out a one-point victory over the Warriors at home. But let's face it, this team is playing some great basketball. They have won eight of their last 10 straight up, riding a momentum wave for sure. On the other hand, the Clippers are certainly struggling. They were highly touted this season. Meanwhile, they are just 7-9 straight up. And as far as covering your spread goes, they are atrocious, going 6-10 ATS. They struggle went on the road as well where they are just 2-6 straight up away from home. And by the way, overall, just 2-6 ATS their last eight in the role of a favorite. Many out there might think they're in for a bounce back situation here tonight after getting embarrassed a few nights ago at home against the Denver Nuggets. I don't see it. This team is not built to bounce back the way they are currently struggling. I just don't see them keeping pace offensively on the scoreboard in this matchup. Take Sacramento. Thank you.

Indiana Pacers.

Game 521.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

My friends, Indiana is playing some very solid basketball. Offensively, they lead the NBA in scoring, averaging over 125.7 points per game. As a matter of fact, in just about every offensive category, they rank in the top-10. Granted, their defense leaves a lot to be desired. But their rebounding core is strong on the stop end of the court. On the other hand, Atlanta is struggling. Right now, they sit at 6-6 and to be quite honest with you, they are point spread poison, failing to cover five of their last six outings. I remember a time when the Hawks were money at home against the number. Not anymore. They have failed to cover their last four games played at the State Farm Arena. This is a team that can score, but is getting manhandled on the boards. Particularly on the offensive glass. So, they aren’t getting too many second-chance opportunities. Defensively, they are in big trouble here trying to stop the deadly, seventh-ranked three-point shooting team of the Pacers. I just don't see the Hawks. Keeping pace here (No pun intended). I really think the wrong team is favored. So, take Indiana. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Game 555.

12:10 PM PST/310 PM EST.

Like many teams in NBA Philadelphia has dominated. But there might not be a team they have flexed their muscles more against than the Brooklyn Nets. The 76ers have taken eight in a row in this series straight up, going 7-1 against the spread. They enter today's match up sitting in second place in the Eastern Conference, just 1.0 game behind the Celtics at 9-3. They can further distance themselves from the third place team in the East, the Milwaukee Bucks. Let's face it, Philadelphia does not like Brooklyn, at all. They take an enormous amount of enjoyment in beating the Nets. The 76ers are significantly healthier than their counterpart this evening as the Nets will be without Ben Simmons and Cam Thomas once again. On a sidenote, as a big basketball fan, it seems like the 76ers are also enjoying success even more without James Harden on the roster. On both sides of the court, they possess significantly stronger statistics. They are all so much stronger at both ends of the court on the boards. But where I feel you are going see the biggest advantage for the visitor, is at the free-throw line, where they top the NBA, ranking first, hitting over 86.3%, while Brooklyn ranks 21st, making a mere 76.2% of their free throws. Take the 76ers. Thank you.

Phoenix Suns.

Game 561.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Obviously, at 3-4 the Phoenix Suns aren't looking like the team they were just a season ago. However, injuries are a big part of that. When you don't have all-universe, players, like Booker and Beal on the floor, it’s going to show in the record.  On the other hand, the Chicago Bulls, at 3-5 are exactly where many thought they would be at this point. This is not a very good team. So, this is a perfect opportunity for the Suns to flex their muscles. They have had an extra day off to prepare and rest for this match up. They have also covered three of four road games this season. On the other hand, the Bulls have covered just one of their four games played at home in 2023. And to say Phoenix has had their way in this series would be an understatement. Just going back the last few seasons, they have taken seven in a row straight up, covering five of the seven meetings. They need a big ego boost and this is the situation they get it. Take the Suns. Thank you.

Indiana Pacers.

Game 556.

4:10 PM, PST/710 PM EST.

The Indiana Pacers offense is proving to be one of the most explosive in the NBA thus far. As a matter fact, they top the league in scoring, averaging over 124.9 points per game. They rank in the top-10 in every major offensive category. Their defense leaves a lot to be desired. However, facing an opponent like the Utah Jazz isn't going to be a problem this evening. The Jazz have a mediocre offense and a defense that's allowing a league-ranked, 26th, allowing 120.1 points per game. It is ridiculous. They are going to get lit up like a Christmas tree in November.  Look for a little payback from the Pacers as they lost their last two outings against the Jazz last December and this past February. But these are two different teams this season. As you know, Utah is on a 0-3 run, both straight up and against the spread. They just don't have what it takes to keep pace on the scoreboard here. Taking Indiana. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Crash the Boards

Game 521.

3:10 PM PST/6:10 PM EST.

Guys, there is no alternate universe that the Cleveland Cavaliers should be a favorite over the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors have taken the last 10 meetings in a row straight up, going back to June, 2018, covering nine of the 10 meetings. They enter this matchup red hot, winning their last five outings, which includes all four away games thus far this season. They are also 3-1 ATS as a visitor in this short season. Guard, Klay Thompson is listed as questionable here. That's going to be closer to a gametime decision. Obviously, we would want him on the floor. But please remember this team is deep with talent and have one of the smartest coaching staffs in the League. The Cavaliers are just 2-4 on the season straight up, covering just one of their six contests. They have lost and failed to cover all three games played at home so far. They possess a very low-scoring, lackluster offense, averaging nearly 12 points per game less than tonight's opponent. That would be bad enough, but the Warriors enter this match up with a top-10 defense as well.  Oh, by the way, look for one of the sharpest-shooting outside teams in basketball to absolutely shred the Cavaliers from beyond the arc as well. They Golden State. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Game 573.

7:10 PM PST/10:10 PM EST.

The Denver Nuggets are an amazing team. They will definitely be there at the end of the regular season to defend their NBA title, barring a major injury. However, they haven't played the best of the best yet. And I get it, coming off their first defeat of the season, they should look strong this evening. However, Dallas matches up quite well with them. They are also 4-0 straight up and 3-1 ATS so far. Granted, they haven't played the best of the best in the league yet either. But they have covered four of the last six meetings in this series, winning four of those last six straight up as well. Kyrie Irving is listed as questionable this evening. Even without him on the floor (check status), they still are deep enough to run in this match up. Way too many points to give them. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Washington Wizards.

Game 571.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Guys, Miami is certainly off to a disappointing start at 1-4 so far this season. This is a team that won 44 games a season ago. But please take note, only 13 wins were by the margin of 10 or points or more. This is a lot of points to lay for this team. The Heat aren't known to be the best scorers in the league…by far. And to add insult to injury lol, they are just 1-4 ATS this season as well. This is just way too many points for a team that is in crisis to give. Take the Wizards. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks.

Game 566.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

 Milwaukee suffered not just a big defeat, but an embarrassing ass-whooping at the hands of Toronto on the road a few nights ago. This is a team that does not take losing lightly. They will bounce back here against an inferior opponent. The Bucks have had their way with the Knicks, winning and covering six consecutive meetings going back to November, 2021. I just don't see New York's lackluster offense keeping peace on the scoreboard here with a team that is looking to redeem themselves. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

Indiana Pacers.

Fast Break play.

Game 539.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

The Boston Celtics are an outstanding basketball team. They are only one of three teams in the NBA currently that are still undefeated. But after tonight's contest, they have to go on the road to play Brooklyn, Minnesota, and Philadelphia. I'm not saying they're gonna’ take it easy this evening, but they are certainly going to be in a lookahead mode. Please understand that the Indiana Pacers are 2-1, both straight up and against the spread this season. Not only that, but they have covered four of the last five meetings with the Celtics. They play them very competitively, and I just don't see them getting this many points. Taking Indiana. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 531

4:10 PM, PST/7:10 PM EST.

These two teams normally play each other very competitively. However, this season they look to be going in opposite directions. The Bucks are going to settle for nothing less than an NBA title. Meanwhile, the Raptors are just trying to stay alive. Milwaukee started the season 2-1, while Toronto is 1-3. They are on a three-game losing streak, failing to cover their last two outings. They have some grit on the team, they just don't have the personnel to contend with Milwaukee. They've only faced one solid upon thus far, and yet are averaging just 99.5 points per game. I just don't see them keeping pace on the scoreboard with the Bucks here. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

Detroit Pistons.

Game 511.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Guys, I'm not going tell you, I expect the Detroit Pistons to win the NBA Championship this season. But I will tell you, as far as sports betting goes, look for them to be an under-the-radar, ATS, cover machine, particularly in the beginning of the campaign. They have already gone 3-0 ATS in their three outings this season. They have actually won two of the three SU. They went on the road to Charlotte as an underdog and won outright, 111-99. Then at home a few nights ago, they crushed the Bulls as a 2.5-point underdog, 118-102. Oklahoma City is a good team. They are really a decent team… but not world beater. And I don't see them laying this many points to anyone, especially a team that matches up well with them. Last night, they hosted the defending NBA Champions, Denver Nuggets and took a beating, 128-95. Not only will they come in here with tired legs, I believe they are going be outmuscled. As I mentioned earlier, I don't expect the Pistons to win the NBA title. But they are playing very unselfish ball, playing tough in the paint, and their defense has certainly stepped up a bit. This game is going to be a lot closer than the point spread. Take Detroit. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

Fast Break.

Game 537.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

Guys, I had Cleveland on the moneyline the other night, to get us all paid on the road at Brooklyn. And I expect great things from the Cavaliers this season. I really do. While Oklahoma City is certainly an improved team, I feel that many out there, including the odds makers and the general public don't feel they going to be able to compete too well this season. Well, that would be a big mistake my friends. I do feel they are going to be able to compete. I feel especially this time of the campaign, so early, we could take advantage of some lines that might be a little bit off. And I feel this line is certainly off. For starters, they've covered seven of the last 10 meetings with Oklahoma City. They are also a very unselfish team. I watched this team in their season-opener on the road in Chicago, absolutely beat the Bulls in every aspect of the game, including tallying over 30 assists. They match up well here. And I think giving them this many points, is a mistake. Take the Thunder. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Crash The Boards.

Game 541.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Guys, the Boston Celtics are monster team, no doubt about that. Their season-opener, was a tough one. They visited Madison Square Garden to face their archrival, New York Knicks, and believe me, the game was even closer than the 108-104 score. They did not cover the game as it landed on the number. Going back a bit, this team gets seriously overvalued. They've only covered two of their last eight coming into tonight's matchup. And by the way, their opponent tonight is a very good team. As a matter fact, they've covered eight of the last 10 meetings in this Eastern Conference rivalry. You can expect a very physical game this evening. And I think that definitely benefits the road team here. Miami can play very physical basketball, especially down low. I think they're going to come in here a little better rested than the Celtics.  These two teams know each other very well. And as I mentioned earlier, I expect a very physical game. I just think this is way too many points for the Celtics to lay against a very formidable foe. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk.

Game 535.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

Guys, if this was a different situation, I would look at this match up very differently. These two teams, over recent seasons have played one another very competitively. However, having said that, the Nuggets will take out some revenge over the Grizzlies here tonight. We all know that Ja’ Morant is going to be sidelined for a while. That's bad enough. But now without, center, Steven Adams, I just don't see Memphis competing in the paint here at all. The Nuggets have been money on the road covering, their last five a season ago as a visitor. Take Denver. Thank you.

Phoenix Suns.

Fast Break play.

Game 503.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Last season, both of these teams left the playoffs a lot earlier than they expected. They enter this season the second and third choice (at most books) to win the Western Conference Title. The Suns have taken four of the last five meetings over the Warriors, which includes three of four a season ago. There's a lot of underlying storylines going on here like Kevin Durant taking the floor in a Phoenix uniform against his former team. Plus, his old buddy, Chris Paul is now sporting a Golden State uniform. However good, Steph Curry and company is, especially at home, it is going to be an uphill battle for the Warriors in this matchup as they face a bolstered front line of Durant, Booker, and Beal. As in any game, always do your due diligence and check injury reports…especially in the NBA. I expect a faster start out of the gate by the Suns this season. Take Phoenix. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk play.

Game, 502

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Of course, there is no love lost between these two teams. The Nuggets ousted the Lakers from the postseason last year. Not only that, but they really had their way with them the entire season. Denver took six of the eight meetings last season over Los Angeles. There was a lot of talk this off-season about revenge. Both teams lost a few players and both teams game the few players. However, age has certainly caught up with the nucleus of the Lakers. Meanwhile, depth and talent are certainly on the side of the Nuggets. They must come out and make a statement here on the opening game of the season. To add to their motivation, unveiled during this game will be their Championship banner. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Game 519.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

For the third straight time in as many games in this series, the Miami Heat shot better from downtown than the Denver Nuggets. And yet, Denver leads the series 2-1. There are a few reasons for this my friends. For starters, in each matchup in the Finals, the Nuggets have outrebounded the Heat. They are winning the battle of the boards, giving themselves more second-chance opportunities on offense, and taking away their opponents second-chance opportunities on defense. Next, Jokic and Murray are playing on another level, folks. They are putting up record numbers, and are outshining their counterparts. After the Game 2 loss, Denver knows they cannot allow Miami to get back into this series. So, they put their foot on the as in game 3 and revved the engine. They will not take a chance here and allow the Heat to tie the series up. Lastly, and most importantly, they are just plainly and simply…a better team. Deeper, healthier, and better-coached. You may not realize this, but Miami has now lost five of their last seven games straight up. Denver has covered fourth straight games played on the road, four of their last five games played on one days rest, and four of their last five games played overall. Oh, by the way, the Heat have failed to cover five consecutive games played following a double-digit loss at home. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Game 513.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Well folks, the Denver Nuggets have had a full week more to rest, heal, and prepare for this series. They are also playing at home, where they own a 42-7 record this season. I believe they are the stronger team. But giving a number eight seed, which has made it to the NBA Finals. this many points, is a huge mistake by the oddsmakers. I think we can all agree that lines on the Nuggets at home tend to be inflated. They did fail to cover Games 1 and 2 of the Western Conference Finals against the Lakers, which were both played at the Ball Arena. While I mentioned a few benefits for Denver earlier in this analysis, I will tell you one benefit for Miami. They do not have as much pressure on them to win here. That will play a big part. I know, I know, I know. It’s the Finals and everybody wants to win. But there are people in the sports world, in the betting world, and just all over the world in general, that aren’t giving them a snowballs chance in hell in this series. I am well aware of the fact the Nuggets won and covered both meetings with the Heat this season. I am furthermore aware of the fact that Denver has covered five of the last six meetings against Miami played at home. But the Heat has played very well, and they have gotten that us bettors paid against the spread in the postseason. They have covered six of the last eight games played on the road, eight of the last 10 games played following a straight up win, and 12 of the last 16 games played overall. I just think this is way too many points. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 509.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

It’s no secret that Miami took the first three games of this series, only to drop Games 4, 5, and 6. Game 6, we did see Jimmy Butler and company come to life, playing a lot more competitively than the two previous matchups. We all know the statistics that in 150 times teams were down 3-0, never, and I mean never has a team come back to win a seven-game series. Miami doesn’t want to be the butt of all jokes my friends. I expect them to come in here very competitively, fight for every loose ball, and crash the boards like they did in the first few meetings of this round. On the other side of the spectrum, the Heat can also make history themselves. They can be only the second team in the ever to make the NBA Finals as the number eight seed. If you recall, games 1 and 2 of this Eastern Conference Finals series were played at the TD Garden and Miami won both. They have also covered 15 of their last 21 meetings played in Boston, 11 of their last 15 games played on one days rest, five of their last seven games played following a straight up loss, five of their last seven games played on the road, and 11 of their last 15 games played overall. Take the points with the Heat. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Slam Dunk Top-Rated GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 549.

5:30 p.m. PST/8:30 PM EST.

After taking the first three games of the Eastern Conference finals, on Wednesday, the Miami Heat were outhustled and outplayed, losing to the Boston Celtics, 116-99. Obviously, the Celtics are a very good team folks. However, this long season has taken its toll on them. They went six tough games with the Hawks in the first round, and seven very physical matchups with the 76ers in the second round. Everything did go right for Boston in Game 4. However, Miami is a very good team also. And they match up very well with a Celtics. The Heat also know that if they allow their opponent to get another win here tonight, they can easily let this series slip away. There is another item also my friends. The Denver Nuggets closed out the Western Conference Finals over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday. So, every day that the Eastern Conference Finals continues, the Heat be allowing the Nuggets to get another day of rest, another day to heal, and another day to prepare for them. I do expect Boston to show up here once again tonight at home. However, giving Miami this many points is a huge mistake. Boston is 2-5 ATS their last seven games played following a straight up win, 2-5 ATS their last seven games seven games played versus teams with winning record, 1-4 ATS their last five games played on one days rest, 2-5 ATS their last seven games play at home, and 1-4 ATS their last five Conference Finals games. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 543.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

My friends, very simply, the Denver Nuggets are a much better team than the Los Angeles Lakers. They are up 3-0 in this series. And will close it out tonight. So, making them an underdog is a huge mistake made by the odds makers. Obviously, they feel that the general public is going to be compelled to side with the home team Lakers here because of urgency. Let me break this down for you, my friends. In Games 1 and 2, the Nuggets out rebounded and outhustled them and won both games with authority. Now granted, those games were at home where Denver happens to be one of the strongest home teams in the NBA. Game 3 took place in L.A. And despite Los Angeles winning the battle of the boards and making most of their free throws, they still lost. What does this tell you? That they are outclassed here. There is no way that they can win this series, and they know it. Even if they did win here, they would be humiliated the next game on the road. Don’t put too much stock in the fact that the Nuggets might want to take it easy here and then go home and win in front of their hometown fans. They want to close this game out quickly and get some extra time to rest, heal, and prepare for the Finals. Take the points with Denver. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 539.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

My friends, I know a lot of people out there subscribe to the “zigzag” style of sports betting come the NBA playoffs. However, the Denver Nuggets took both Games 1and 2 with authority. I understand they are on the road right now. We all know they’re one of the best home teams in the league. And when they travel, they lose a little bit of luster. However, they cannot afford to allow the Los Angeles Lakers to get back into this series. Another win here tonight and it would be virtually impossible for the Lakers to have any chance to advance. This is a team that has dominated the boards in both contests during this round. Understand that Anthony Davis cannot do it all himself in the paint for Los Angeles. Let’s be honest, LeBron James, although will always get his numbers, is not the player he once was. But it doesn’t stop him for calling for the ball as much as possible. I just feel with the way the Nuggets have dominated the glass, they will get a more second-chance opportunities offensively, and will take away second-chance opportunities for their opponent here, defensively.  This is way too many points to give a team that has covered 11 of their last 15 games played versus teams with a winning record. Take the points with a Nuggets. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Game 537.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

I know many people out there subscribe to the “zigzag“ angle of sports betting in the NBA postseason. As an 8.5-point underdog in Game 1 of this series, on the road, the Miami Heat took down the Boston Celtics, 123-116. While, I did like the Miami Heat. I had no idea they were going to come in that strong. We all know what happened quarter by quarter in the series-opener. At one point, the Celtics were up by 11. The third quarter, the Heat took the game over. It’s hard to argue with the 30-points Jayson Tatum put up for the Celtics. But when he has to carry a game on his shoulders, that means some of the other players just aren’t doing their job. I know Boston will come in here a lot more competitive, looking to even this year is up, before they have to travel on the road. But giving Miami this many points, is a huge mistake. Please understand that Miami has won and covered the last three meetings in this Eastern Conference rivalry, all since December. This is just way too many points my friends. By the way, Miami has covered 14 of their last 19 meetings played at the TD Garden. Let’s not forget that they have covered four of their last five games played on the road, eight of their last 10 games played on one days rest, and eight of their last 10 games played overall.  Take the Heat. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

WESTERN CONFERENCE GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 532.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Very simply, the Denver Nuggets are a better team than the Los Angeles Lakers. I know these two teams have split out (both straight up and against the spread) four meetings this season. But let’s face it, when the Nuggets play at the Ball Arena, their game rises to another level. Overall, on the season they are 40-7 straight up at home. Not only that, but they’ve covered 23 of their last 32 games played as host. Let’s face it, the Lakers lose a little bit of their luster when they travel, as they are just 22-25 straight up away from home this season. Moreover, for our purposes, they’ve only covered one of their last five outings played as a visitor. By the way, Denver won and covered both meetings against Los Angeles this season at the Ball Arena. Having said that my friends, the Nuggets also come in here a bit better rested, having had an extra day off to rest, heal, and prepare. Furthermore, they have played three less contests this postseason than did the Lakers. Especially, with that tough, fast-paced series Los Angeles just came off of going six full games with Golden State. I believe they are going to come in here a little tired, especially come the second half. They will run out of gas. To make things worse for L.A., Denver is more accurate from beyond the arc, and overall, from the floor. They also come into this matchup possessing the league’s top-ranked defensive rebounding unit. This means Los Angeles will not get as many second-chance shots as they are accustomed to getting. The Lakers have only covered one of their last seven meetings played in Denver. Meanwhile, Denver has covered five of their last six games played on three or more days rest, 11 of their last 15 games played versus teams with a winning record, and six of their last eight games played following a straight up win. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 503.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

I’m gonna keep my breakdown of this matchup very brief, my friends. Very simply, under Steve Kerr, the Golden State Warriors are 8-2 when faced with an elimination game. This is a team that always has a punchers chance. And let me tell you right now, they are not going down without swinging. I am well aware of the fact they’re not the greatest road team overall. I’m also well aware of the fact they lost and failed to cover both games played at the Crypto.com Arena in this series. As a matter fact, going back a bit, they have failed to cover the last five games played in Los Angeles. But once again under Steve Kerr, this team is very good in an elimination situation. Not only that, but Steph Curry will take this game on his shoulders and show you why he’s one of the greatest to ever walk on the pro basketball hardwood. Also, one more thing folks... I’m not saying the Lakers are going to intentionally lose here. But being up 3-2, they don’t have to play as hard because they know they have a Game 7 to still try and win the series. We’ve seen this time and time again in the NBA postseason my friends. Take the points with Golden State. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 556.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

To say this series has been “heated“, would be an understatement. These two teams seriously do not like each other. To say that the Nuggets are a better team, would also be an understatement. I think we could all agree that Nikola Jokic has shined, while Deandre Ayton has tarnished. The absence of Chris Paul certainly plays a part in the outcome of this matchup. Losing a player with his postseason experience is significant. But this is still a professional basketball team, the Phoenix Suns, that are 51-41 this season. They seemed to have a real look of defeat on their faces and the faces of their coaching staff at the end of last game. Just since the beginning of January, these two Western Conference rivals have met eight times, as Denver has covered six of those eight meetings. Now they come in here with a chance to eliminate a hated rival from the postseason. Making them underdog is a serious mistake made by the odds makers. The Suns are just 3-8 ATS their last 11 games played versus teams with a winning percentage of .600.  Oh and by the way, they are also 2-5 ATS their last seven Conference Semifinal games. Take Denver. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Fast Break Play.

Game 554.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Boston was leading the series 2-1 and then things fell apart for the Celtics. Philadelphia has taken the last two games and have an opportunity to eliminate their Eastern Conference rival from the postseason. I keep hearing about Joel Embiid’s injury issues. My friends, on a bad knee the other night, he accounted for 33-points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. So, don’t put any stick into the injury rumors. Feeling the pressure now having to take it to the road, Boston is in big trouble. I just don’t see them coming back. Momentum is definitely on the side of Philadelphia. And momentum means quite a bit in the NBA. Now they got to close out the series of a hated rival at home in front of their loyal fan base. The 76ers are 27-13 ATS their last 40 games played at home, 5-2, ATS their last seven games played on one days rest, and 9-2 ATS their last 11 games played overall. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 548.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

All four meetings in this playoff series have been won and covered by the home team. Denver took the first two at home, while Phoenix took the last two at home. Now this series moves back to the Ball Arena, a place that is by far the hardest in the NBA for any visitor to be successful at. The Nuggets are 39-7 straight up at home this season. Just going back the last several weeks, they have covered six of their last seven games played as host. We all know the Suns are not the greatest road team, sporting a 19-26 away record this season. They have failed to cover four of their last five games played as a guest. There is no question in my mind that Denver is a better team than Phoenix. And being that they allowed the Suns to even up this series on the road, I look for them to come out with a vengeance here tonight, prove something, and get a big win and cover.  They have covered five of their last seven overall meetings in this Western Conference rivalry. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

First Break play.

Game 545.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

With the series now tied at 2–2, I feel we’re going to see a very competitive game here. It seems that Philadelphia’s success rides on the success of James Harden. If he plays, well, they win. If he doesn’t, they do not. I really feel the line here is inflated. I just don’t see Boston being a 7.5-point favorite, even at home. The 76ers are an excellent road team winning 28 of their 45 games played away from home this season. They have covered five of their last six games played as a visitor and eight of their last 10 games played overall. They have been very good to us bettors against the number. Granted, the Celtics are pretty good ATS as well. But once again, I just feel the odds makers have put out an inflated line here. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Game 531.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Sports fans, I expect this game to be the most competitive yet in this series. We all know Denver is up 2-0 in this round as they have taken both games so far with at home with authority. They took Game 1 by 18-points and Game 2 by 10-points. We are also all well aware of the fact that they are a much better home team than they are a road team. The same could be said for Phoenix. And normally being down 2-0 in a series and going home for your first contest played in front of your fans, I would look to play that team. However, the Nuggets did cover the last two games played at the Footprint Center. But that’s not all, folks. The Suns will be without Chris Paul. While he hasn’t put up monstrous numbers this round, the point guard is a true veteran that has a ton, and I mean a ton of postseason experience. He has averaged a lot of minutes both during the regular and the postseason. They lose a true seasoned veteran with him on the bench here tonight. I think that will be a major factor in this matchup. Please remember Denver has covered five straight meetings in this rivalry, their last five games played on three or more days rest, 20 of their last 28 games played versus teams with a winning record, five of their last six games played following a straight up win, and six of their last eight games played overall. Meanwhile Phoenix has only covered one of their last five games played on three or more days rest, three of their last 10 games played following a straight up loss, one of their last five games played versus teams with a winning record, none of their last four Conference Semifinal games played, and only one of their last five games played overall. I have to take the points with the Nuggets. Thank you.

Los Angeles Lakers.

Game 550.

7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST

Up 3-2, Los Angeles cannot afford to allow Memphis to tie this series up. Playing at the Crypto.com Arena certainly benefits the Lakers, as they have covered four consecutive meetings against the Grizzlies on their home court. What furthermore prompts me to side with them here in this game 6 matchup is the fact that they were absolutely humiliated in Game 5 on the road, 116-99. That was an embarrassing loss. And that’s something that does not sit well with King James and company. Whether you love him or love to hate him, LeBron James is one of the most successful postseason players in the history of the NBA. He wins when it counts. Memphis has won just one of their last six games played on the road, seven of their last 22 road games played versus teams with the winning home record, none of the last six games played following a straight up win, and just three of their last seven games played overall. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Game 527.

6:30 PM PST/9:30 PM EST.

With another victory, Miami will send Milwaukee home for the season. Not many out there gave the Heat a chance in this series with the Bucks. After all, Milwaukee was the top seed. While the Heat are dealing with injuries, what has helped them is the way head coach Eric Spoelstra has rotated in players in their absence. It makes it very difficult for Milwaukee to prepare for any one starting lineup. You can expect the Greek Freak to come out here today and try to take this series on his shoulders. However, this will also benefit Miami, as Milwaukee’s offense will become more one-dimensional. No matter what, you can expect the Heat, which have covered seven of their last 10 overall meetings with the Bucks, to come out here and be extremely competitive. They do not want their opponent to gain any momentum. They have also covered five consecutive outings played on one days rest. Meanwhile, the Bucks have failed to cover five of their last six games played overall and four straight outings played on one days rest. Take Miami. Thank you.

New York Knicks.

Game 529.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

A lot of people did not give the New York Knicks even a slim chance in this series with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Coming into the postseason, Cleveland possessed the NBA’s top-ranked scoring defense. However, the switch has been flipped in this match up with New York, as the Knicks have swarmed them with a stifling defense, allowing just 94.0-points per game. In the series opener, the New York proved that they can beat the Cleveland on their own court. My friends, New York has covered six of their last seven meetings with Cleveland going back to December. By the way, they’ve also won six of their last seven meetings straight up. They are a monster road team as far as us bettor‘s are concerned, going 37-16-1 ATS their last 54 games played on the road. They also seem to step up against good teams against the spread, covering 16 of their last 21 games played versus teams of the winning percentage above .600. Meanwhile, Cleveland has struggled, covering just one of their last five games played at home and one of their last six games played versus teams with a straight up winning record. Take the Knicks. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Game 507.

6:30 PM PST/9:30 PM EST.

I feel the line is a little low here, because the odds makers are looking to throw a trap at you folks. Don’t fall for it. Denver has dominated Minnesota, winning and covering all three games of the series thus far, taking the first meeting by 29-points, the second by 9-points, and the third by 9-points as well. Yes, they can afford to ease back a bit. But my friends, why would they? They finish the series off today, and they will have a huge edge over their next opponent, resting, healing, and preparing. The Timberwolves have only covered two of their last 10 games played at home, one of their last seven games played on one days rest, and one of their last five games played following a straight up loss. They are deeply overmatched and they are going to end their season today and start making plans to play golf. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Game 505.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Knowing that their next opponent, the Philadelphia 76ers are already resting and preparing for the upcoming series, the Boston Celtics can not take their foot off the gas here. It is obvious that they are a better team than their opponent in this series. After taking Games 1 and 2, they were beat in the first road game played on Friday, 130-122. They don’t want to let Atlanta back into series, nor do they want to give up any edge whatsoever. There is no way the Hawks, which are seriously overmatched, can contend with the Celtics. Understand that Boston has dominated Atlanta prior to Friday’s loss, taking seven in a row, both straight up and against the spread. They want to finish the series off so they can get a little time to rest against Philadelphia. By the way, they’ve also covered five of their last six games played following a straight up loss. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Sacramento Kings.

Game 503.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

Taking Games 1 and 2 at home was big for Sacramento. But Game 3, which obviously was the first game being played at Golden State, they were not just embarrassed, they were downright humiliated, being downed 114-97. Perhaps the Warriors have gotten back on track. However, giving a team like the Kings this many points is a huge mistake made by the odds makers. Don’t let them trap you here, my friends. Sacramento is not just a healthy squad they also possess the top-scoring offense in the NBA. This is a team that matches up very well with their opponent here. This is way too many points to give a team that has covered 15 of their last 21 overall meetings with Golden State, 11 of their last 14 meetings played at Golden State, and 11 of their last 14 overall road games. Take the Kings. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Vegas Insider Move.

Game 555.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Obviously, up to two games to none in the series, Boston has had their way with Atlanta. But their domination in this rivalry goes much further back. The Celtics have now taken seven consecutive meetings over the Hawks, both straight up and against the spread. Two of those games were played at the State Farm arena. Speaking of Atlanta, and their home court “advantage,“ they used to be one of the most bankable teams in the NBA when hosting. That’s not the case anymore folks. They have failed to cover four of their last five games played at home. But overall, this team has been quite inconsistent of late, winning just one of their last five outings, both straight up and against the spread. Overall, their defense has been absolutely deplorable, ranking 26th in the league, allowing 118.1 points per game. They just cannot stop, let alone slow down the Boston offense. The Celtics enter this contest running red-hot, winning seven of their last eight games, straight up. And also covering seven of those last eight games as well. You can expect the same outcome here tonight as they will once again dominate Atlanta. And get another win and cover. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

VI MOVE.

Game 547.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

There is no way around it. No matter how you cut it, the Brooklyn Nets just do not possess the personnel to compete with the Philadelphia 76ers. Not only do they not have the talent to run in this series, but they are being outcoached as well. Doc Rivers adjustments have been crucial to Philly’s success, taking an overwhelming lead two games to none. For our purposes, not only has the 76ers won four games in a row, they have also covered fourth straight overall outings. They have certainly had Brooklyn’s number. They have won all six meetings with them this season straight up, covering five of the six. It doesn’t matter if they are at home or on the road, they dominate Brooklyn. Oddsmakers continue to overvalue the Nets, particularly at home, where they have only covered three of their last seven games played. By the way, they’ve also failed to cover five straight Conference Quarterfinals games as well. The 76ers are just too strong, too deep, too well-coached, and have too much power in the paint. They will once again own the glass here and get another win and cover. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

New York Knicks.

Above The Rim Play.

Game 553.

4:30 PM PST for 7:30 PM EST.

I know a lot of people subscribe to the zigzag method of betting when the NBA postseason comes around. However, I just don’t see the Cavaliers coming out here and dominating the Knicks. New York came out in the series opener with authority, winning and covering, 101-97. That win and cover gave them four consecutive wins and covers against their Eastern Conference rival. A few things did not go their way in the first meeting, and yet they still prevailed. The way the Cavaliers defense has been playing, I just don’t see them stopping the motivated New York offense right now. Just since the last few days of March, they have allowed 120, 130, 105, 113, 94, 106, and 101-points in consecutive contests. New York has covered six of the last eight meetings played in Cleveland, while the Cavaliers have failed to cover four consecutive outings played at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. Take the Knicks. Thank you.

Minnesota Timberwolves.

RD 1 GOY.

Game 513.

7:30 PM PST.

Coming into the postseason healthier than your first-round opponent means a lot. There is no question the Timberwolves enter today’s Game 1 matchup with the Nuggets with a bit of a healthier edge. Not only that, but something else I put a lot of stock in going into the playoffs, is momentum. Minnesota has won four of the last five games straight up, covering all five of those outings. They also come in here a little fresher. Denver has not taken the floor since the ninth of the month. And has only won two of the last seven outings straight up. The Timberwolves have covered six of the last seven meetings overall. And going back a bit 24, of the last 31 matchups played in Denver. They have also covered five of the last six games played on the road. This is way too many points to give a very game team that comes in here healthier and riding some momentum. Take the Timberwolves. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Game 507.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Guys, in my opinion this is one of the best matchups we will see in this round of the playoffs. Both teams are very talented. Both teams have some veteran leadership. Both teams have some solid youth. And both teams also go pretty deep bench wise. Unlike several of the other matchups in this round, these two teams aren’t listing a million players on the injury reports. straight up, Golden State got the better of Sacramento this season, taking three or four meetings. They also enter this contest a little bit hotter, both straight up and against the spread. Personally, as I mentioned, I think it’s going to be a very competitive contest. But it’s hard to go against the team that has without question one of the most successful postseason players of this or any generation. And yes, I’m talking about Steph Curry. I really do like Golden State in the first game. The Warriors are 12-4 ATS the last 16 games played on three or more days rest and 32-14 ATS the last 46 Conference Quarterfinals games. The Kings are 1-6 ATS the last seven games played on three or more days rest and 0-4 ATS the last four games played at home. The Take the Warriors. Thank you.

New York Knicks.

Game 505.

3:00 PMN PST/6:00 PM EST.

Sports fans, it’s no secret that both of these squads have a laundry list of injuries. For New York, they have questionable‘s on Brunson and Keels. While, Randall and Washington are both out. For Cleveland, they have quite a few players questionable in Okoro, Windler, LeVert, Garland, and Mitchell. Now a couple of those names have no real significance. But several of those players certainly will have a bearing on the team having success in this series. Having said that, the Cavs come into this matchup possessing one of the best defenses in the NBA. However, the Knicks have won and covered both meetings in this rivalry this season. This does include a matchup just two weeks ago on the road at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. As you know, Cleveland tends to get overvalued when hosting, covering just two of the last seven at home. Their ugly, against the spread trends don’t stop there either folks: they’ve also only covered one of the last five games played on three or more days rest, one of the last five games played versus teams with a winning record, one of the last seven Conference Quarterfinals games, and just one of the last five overall games. New York may not do it very pretty, but they do, do it. What I’m talking about is covering: they have covered 37 of the last 52 games played on the road, four the last five games played against teams with a winning percentage above .600, and four the last five games played on three or more days rest. Oh, by the way, they have also covered five of the last six games played on the road against teams with a winning home record. I do feel this is way too many points to give New York. Take the Knicks plus the points here in Game 1. Thank you.

Chicago Bulls.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 569.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

It is impossible to overlook Chicago winning and covering all three meetings against Miami this season. They enter today’s match up winning and covering five of the last seven contests. For the most part, which is very rare for this season, particularly at this time of the campaign, they are relatively healthy. The Heat, on the other hand have lost and failed to cover two of the last three outings. And have several key players either banged up or out this evening. Momentum certainly plays a part in a matchup like this. And the Bulls certainly have momentum, winning 11 of the final 17 regular season games and continued to win to rally back from a 19-point third quarter deficit to beat the Raptors two days ago. They have covered eight of the last 11 meetings at the Kaseya Center, four all the last five games played on one days rest, and seven of the last nine games played on the road. Take the points with Chicago. Thank you.

Minnesota Timberwolves.

Fast Break Play.

Game 547.

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM EST.

With all the brouhaha surrounding the anticipation of Kevin Durant finally back in the lineup, don’t be fooled by the smoke and mirrors. Minnesota is surging, winning four in a row straight up, and going 3-1 ATS. By the way, they’ve covered all three road games during that span. The Suns are safely above the postseason cut line. The Timberwolves are just on the border and can better themselves significantly by winning here tonight, and then again through the next several games. Minnesota has been money, covering the last four games played versus teams with a winning record, seven of the last nine games played on the road, and five of the last seven games played following a straight up win. Meanwhile, Phoenix has failed to cover four of the last five games played versus teams was a winning record and seven of the last nine games played overall. Take the T-Wolves. Thank you.

Chicago Bulls.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 515.

7:40 PM PST/10:40 PM EST.

Following a very embarrassing loss for a playoff-bound team, I would normally look to jump back on the Clippers in a situation like this. Los Angeles comes off at 131-110 defeat at home against New Orleans two nights ago. However, this team is banged up. And there are certain angles here that prompt me to side with Chicago. With only a handful of games left in the regular season, the Bulls are just north of the postseason cut line. They need every win they can get right now. They are starting to run hot, winning seven of the last nine ball straight up and against the spread. They come in here off of back-to-back road wins and covers. As a matter fact, they won and covered five consecutive outings as a visitor. Chicago is looking for a little payback, as they took a home loss the last day of January to the Clippers 108-103. It looks like Paul George (check status) will not be ready again this evening. Los Angeles has struggled, to say the least, in his absence. In the first meeting, the forward put up 16-points and 10-rebounds. As I mentioned, they are struggling without him on the floor. I just don’t see the Clippers and their lack luster offense putting too many points up on the very nasty, very frustrating, seventh ranked defense of the Bulls. Chicago has covered four of the last five meetings in Los Angeles and five of the last seven overall games played versus Los Angeles. Take the Bulls. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Fast Break Play.

Game 555.

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM EST.

Both Philadelphia and Phoenix come off road losses last night. But there are a few differences coming into today’s match up. The 76ers are on a 9-2 straight up run, covering seven of those 11 outings. Meanwhile, Phoenix is on a 1-6 straight up slide, failing to cover all seven outings. With only a few weeks of games left in the regular season, Philly sits four-games back in the Eastern Conference, and can catch Boston, which is only 1.5-games ahead of them. And are certainly within reach of the four-game gap between the Conference’s top team, Milwaukee. Meanwhile, Phoenix is kind of clustered in the fifth seed in the West, tied with Golden State, just a half-game behind Los Angeles Clippers. And a few games separating Minnesota, Los Angeles, Lakers, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, and Dallas. James Harden missed last night’s contest. He is listed as questionable this evening (check status). However, Joel Embiid is putting up MVP-type numbers. Without Kevin Durant, who won’t be back until early April at least, and Deandre Ayton banged up (check status), I just don’t see the Suns competing here tonight. Philadelphia took the only meeting of the season back in early November at home, 100-88. There is no question that they are significantly stronger offensively. And defensively they have been frustrating opponents with a swarming stop-unit. Phoenix has already been struggling and I just don’t see them outscoring Embiid and the explosive 76ers lineup. Philadelphia has covered five of the last six games played on the road, nine of the last 12 games played on zero days rest, and five of the last seven games played overall. Phoenix has failed to cover five of the last six games played at home, four straight games played versus teams with a winning record, and five consecutive games played following a straight up loss. Take the 76ers. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

First Break Play.

Game 581

7:40 PM PST/10:40 PM EST. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, wins are vital right now for the Thunder. They currently sit in the ninth seed in the Western Conference at 12.5-games back. However, they are tied with the Timberwolves and the Jazz. But only a few games, separate a cluster of teams in the Conference. As a matter of fact, they are just 2.5-games behind the Clippers. A win here and they can close that gap and possibly move up a seed. They have dominated the series, taking both meetings this season, straight up and against the spread. SGA, who leads the team in scoring at 31.4- points per game, returns to the court where his career started. And the team comes off a big win at home against Phoenix, which marked their seventh victory in the last nine outings, both straight up and against the spread. They happen to be the best team in the NBA on the road this season, covering 17 of 26 when they travel. They’ve also covered four of the last five games played on one day rest. Meanwhile, the Clippers have failed to cover four consecutive games played on one days rest and six of the last seven meetings in this rivalry. Take Oklahoma City. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 560.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

The red-hot 76ers are surging, winning eight straight contests, to bring the team within 2.5-games behind the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eastern Conference. They come into today’s game with confidence, having taken eight of the last nine meetings with the Chicago Bulls, both straight up and against the spread. The Bulls have covered just two of the last nine meetings in Philadelphia, only two of the last eight games played against teams with a winning record, and one of the last eight games played on the road. The 76ers have a covered 22 of the last 31 games played at home, four straight games played following a straight up win, and four of the last five games played on one days rest. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Game 581.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

The Boston Celtics have relinquished the Eastern Conference’s top-spot to the Milwaukee Bucks. They now sit three-games behind them in second place in the Conference. Yes, even in the Atlantic Division, they have just a one-game lead over the Philadelphia 76ers. Teams are closing in on them. They have dropped five of the last seven games entering tonight’s matchup. They need to get back on track and they need to do it now. They face depleted Minnesota Timberwolves opponent here. Let’s face it, they’ve got a laundry list of players either banged up, questionable, or out. This is an ideal situation for the Celtics to earn a big victory and get back on the winning track. They took the only meeting with the Timberwolves this season back in December at home 121-109. I look for their explosive offense to absolutely dominate the lackluster Minnesota defense here. The Celtics have covered five of the last six games played at the Timberwolves and five of the last seven overall games played on the road. The Timberwolves have failed to cover six of the last eight games played following a straight up win and four consecutive games at home. Take Boston. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Game 560.

6:10 PM, PST/9:10 PM EST

These are two teams certainly trending in opposite directions. The Denver Nuggets, which are perched atop the Western Conference at 46-19, have won eight of the last nine games straight up and seven of those games against the spread. The Chicago Bulls are just outside the postseason cut line at 29-36. They have turned ice-cold folks, dropping nine of the last 12 straight up, and 10 of those 12 against the number. If you recall, the Nuggets dissected the Bulls one 126-103 in the only meeting this season back in mid-November on the road. On both sides of the court and on the boards, the Chicago is significantly outclassed here. They have gotten blown up in the last two outings (both losses) defensively, getting plowed for a combined 250-points. Now they face a top-five offense accounting for over 117.2-points per game. Not only that, but defensively Denver leads the NBA on the glass, which will take away any of Chicago’s second-chance opportunities. The Bulls have failed to cover six consecutive games on the road and six of the last seven versus teams with a winning record. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have covered 20 of the last 28 games played at home and have covered 10 of the last 11 games played following an ATS loss. Take Denver. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Game 537.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST

The Philadelphia 76ers are exactly where they want to be right now. They are currently in second place in the Atlantic Division, just two-games behind the Boston Celtics. Overall, in the Eastern Conference, they sit in third place four-games behind the Conferences top team, the Milwaukee Bucks. They are relatively healthy and are playing some excellent basketball. This is a team which happens to be equally impressive on the road as they are at home. While playing in Philadelphia, they possess a 24-10 record. When they travel, they are a stellar 18-12, one of the better away marks in the NBA. They face a Minnesota Timberwolves team riding a three-game win streak, both straight up and against the spread. However, those three victories were all on the road. Things happen to change for the team, when hosting, as they are being overvalued of late, losing and failing to cover their last two outings at the Target Center. They will once again be without two key cogs in the wheel, as both Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaylen Nowell continue to be sidelined tonight. I am well aware the 76ers played a barnburner at the Pacers last night, prevailing 147-143. Tonight’s contest will conclude a five-game road trip for the 76ers, which has won three of four already. Please understand they took control of last night’s matchup in the second half, riding the momentum coming into this outing. Granted, it’s always an issue if starters are going to play back-to-back games for any of the top teams in the NBA these days. But I do expect Joel Embiid and James Harden to be on the floor tonight (check status). There is even a good chance at least one, if not both, Tobias Harris, and P.J. Tucker will see some action as well (check status). This is a team that has covered seven of the last 10 outings played on zero days rest and seven of the last 10 as a visitor. They have also dominated this series, covering 13 of the last 16 meetings with Minnesota, which does include four straight on the road. In the only meeting this season, a mid-November matchup in Philadelphia, the T-Wolves prevailed 112-109. It was a cover for the 76ers, but the home loss left a bitter taste in their mouth. They want to sweeten that up with a big victory, and earn a little revenge and get payback here tonight. Take note, the home defeat, came without Harden, Harris, or Maxey playing. Minnesota is just 4-10 ATS the last 14 games played on two-days rest and 2-5 ATS the last seven games played following a straight up win. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Game 541.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Well, my friends, Philadelphia has won six of the last eight outings coming into tonight contest, both straight up and against the spread to bring them just 4.5-games back for the top-spot in the Eastern Conference. Overall they possess a very solid record of 40-21. They’ve been good to us sports bettors, D donning a 36-25 ATS mark this season. The Dallas Mavericks are struggling. They are just one-game over .500 overall, at 32-31, currently the seventh seed in the Western Conference and seven games behind the Memphis Grizzlies and the Southwest Division. They have lost and failed to cover five of the last six outings, including their last two. The recipe of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving has been far from successful. As I mentioned this team is just 1-5, both SU and ATS the L6. The Mavericks certainly have issues on the defensive side of the court. They have been getting smoked, sports fans. Well, in comes a very well-rested Joel Embiid (check status). The 7,0”, 285 lb. center was rested last night so we can be in perfect form for this evening‘s match up. Overall, the Sixers have won four in a row straight up when playing the second of back-to-back games. And is 6-2 ATS this season when unrested. By the way, Embiid is just two-tenths of a point behind Doncic as the NBA’s leading scorers. I look for him to turn it up tonight. I doubt anybody on Dallas can slow him down, let alone stop him. Philly has won and covered three of the last four meetings in this series. They’ve also covered six of the last eight on the road and seven of the last nine playing on zero days rest. Dallas is just 2-6 ATS the last eight at home and has only covered two of the last eight meetings in Dallas against Philadelphia. Take the 76ers. Thank you.

Indiana Pacers.
Game 513.
5:40 PM PST/8:40 PM EST.

This is the first meeting between Indiana and Dallas this season. The teams have split six matchups over the last three seasons, both straight up and against the spread, with the visitor covering four of those six contests. Playing at the American Airlines Center hasn’t given the Mavericks to much of an advantage this season. They own a 20-11 record at home, covering just 10 of those 31 outings. You would’ve thought that Irving and Dončić in the same back court would have brought this team a lot of success. On the contrary, they are starting to struggle, dropping four of the last five, both straight up and against the spread. By the way, they have lost and failed to cover two of the last three at home. In comes a Pacers opponent which has won two of last three straight up and all three of those against the spread. With Halliburton back on the floor of that full strength leading this team (19.8-points per game) I feel the odds makers are giving Dallas way too much credit here. Take Indiana. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

Game 513.

6:10 PM PST/9:10 PM EST.

 My friends, you may not realize this, what is Thunder/Jazz matchup tonight is significant. As we begin the second half of the NBA campaign, Oklahoma City sits in 10th in the Western Conference, a half-game ahead of Utah. Strangely enough, this is the first meeting between these two division rivals this season. It’s true, the Jazz have taken seven in a row straight up. However, they are just 3-4 ATS during that span. As a matter of fact, going back a bit further, the Thunder have covered 12 of the last 16 overall meetings in this rivalry. Both teams are very different currently than they were even a season ago. Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert are no longer sporting Utah uniforms. OKC isn’t the same team either as SGA, Giddey, and Williams are three of their four players all averaging double-digits. They also happen to be one of the most successful ATS road teams in the NBA, covering 44 of the last 66 as a visitor. On the other hand, despite a respectable straight up home record of 18-12 at the Vivint Arena, the Jazz are just are just 8-14 ATS as a home favorite the last 22. This does include losing and failing to cover the last three on their own court. The Thunder a little healthier, a little hungrier, and the stronger side here. Take Oklahoma City. Thank you.

Washington Wizards.

LVSM.

Game 577.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Washington is starting to heat up, winning and covering three of the last four outings. They come into tonight’s match up with confidence, knowing they have taken the last six meetings against Minnesota, both straight up and against the spread. This includes a late November 142-127 victory at home. They face a Timberwolves team which has been very predictable. Over the last nearly three weeks, they have alternated wins and losses. Well folks, their last game they had a win on the road at the Mavericks. Their defense has gotten plowed. And their offense is going to have some trouble against the frustrating Wizards “D.” On both sides of the court, Washington is far better on the boards. I look for them to get quite a few second chance shots offensively. And to pull down any second chance opportunities for Minnesota. The Wizards have covered the last five meetings at the Timberwolves, six of the last eight overall on the road, and nine of the last 13 overall outings. Take Washington. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

LVSM.

Game 562.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

To put it very plainly, Atlanta is in trouble. The Hawks had won seven of the previous nine before losing at home against Charlotte when at the end of the game in which they blew a 19-point third quarter lead, head coach Nate McMillan and star guard Trae Young had an argument. Well, if they had any sort of reconciliation, then they wouldn’t have gotten downed in Chicago the following game, 111-100. This team is in a serious funk, folks. Now they travel to the Paycom Center to take on an Oklahoma City Thunder opponent which has won seven of the last nine straight up and nine in a row against the spread. The Thunder took the only other meeting with the Hawks this season, back in December on the road, 121-114. I just feel that the issues in the locker room for Atlanta are spilling over on the court. Oklahoma City has covered four straight at home, 11 of the last 14 on two days rest, and 20 of the last 27 overall. Oh, by the way, they’ve also covered 25 of the last 36 meetings in this series. Take Oklahoma City. Thank you.

Boston Celtics on the moneyline.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 501.

2:10 PM PST/5:10 PM EST.

Boston is striding, winning 12 of the last 14 straight up, covering four of the last five against the spread. Let’s face it sports fans, the Celtics are playing some great basketball. At 34-12, they possess the best overall record in the NBA. To say they have dominated the Raptors, would be an understatement. They have taken seven of the last nine both straight up and against the spread, including the only meeting this season, a December 5, 116-110 win and cover on the road. Toronto seems to be struggling, losing and failing to cover three of the last four outings. Yes, I know Jason Tatum is supposed to be sidelined this evening (check status), but the way Boston is surging right now, I don’t think it will matter. They have enough depth and talent with their second-ranked scoring offense to outgun the lackluster Toronto squad. The Celtics have covered four of the last five games played on the road. Take Boston. Thank you.

Minnesota Timberwolves.

Oddsmakers Mistake.

Game 508.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

My friends, there is no way Minnesota should be an underdog in this matchup. I have them a two-point favorite on my power ratings. They come off back-to-back wins and covers, including a huge 150-126 victory last night at home against Chicago. They set a franchise mark for points scored and field goals. Don’t expect a let down here as they will keep their foot on the gas because a victory tonight would bring them a better than .500 record. They play a Dallas team that they have taken three of the last five meetings against a season ago. This will be the first meeting this season. However, the Mavericks over the last few weeks have been very inconsistent, going just 2-4 both straight up and against the spread. While both teams have a few questionable players here, the Timberwolves are certainly deeper and can’t sustain the injury situation a little bit better. They are the third ranked field goal shooting team in the league, hitting just shy of 50% from the floor, while the Mavericks rank 26th, allowing 48.1% shooting. Dallas is 6-14 ATS the last 20 games played on the road and 7-17-2 ATS the last 26 games played overall. Take Minnesota. Thank you.

San Antonio Spurs.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 552.

To 10 PM PST/5:10 PM EST.

As of 6 AM PST this morning, the Miami Heat have 15 players listed on their injury report. I guess being fined for violating the league’s injury reporting rules had no effect LOL.  Now I will tell you only two are listed as out, six are listed as questionable, and seven as are listed as probable. That has little to do with why I am coming in on the San Antonio Spurs. But it does play a small part. Obviously overall the Heat are a little banged-up. But Miami travels down to Mexico City after playing two games back-to-back down to the wire in Oklahoma City and in Houston. I think this team is going to be a little weary and a little tired. Despite winning three in a row, the Miami still ranks 29th in the NBA in scoring, averaging just 108.0-points per game. They’re also absolutely horrible on the boards, and shooting from downtown and overall, from the floor. Granted, the Spurs defense leaves a lot to be desired, ranking 30th in several categories. However, they’re not too bad on the defensive glass. They enter this matchup winning and covering three of their last four outings. They are also no strangers to playing in Mexico City.  Over the years they have played six games south of the border, with the most recent coming in 2019. San Antonio took down Miami just seven days ago on the road, 115-111. Normally I look at the losing team in a rematch within a week, however they’re traveling south of the border and as I mentioned at the beginning of this analysis, the Heat are weary and tired. They are also 0-3-1 ATS their last four games played versus teams with a losing record, 7-18-2 ATS their last 27 games played following a straight up win, and there’s 1-5-1 ATS their last seven games played overall. Take the Spurs. Thank you.

Houston Rockets.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 524.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

The Houston Rockets have shown signs of life. They are coming off back-to-back victories for just the second time this season. And the last two opponents were no pushovers in the Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns. If they would’ve had a letdown situation, it would’ve been following the Bucks victory. But instead, they clobbered the Suns by 15-points. As a matter of fact, they have won five consecutive games at home while covering their last six outings at the Toyota Center. Their defense has really played well. I understand that the Heat are a very good team, however they are just 5-9 straight up on the road this season. And to be quite honest with you their offense leaves a lot to be desired. I know defensively they are one of the better teams in the league. But the way the Rockets are playing I just don’t see the Heat contending as a visitor here tonight. By the way, Miami is just 7-18-1 ATS their last 26 games played following a straight up win, 2-7 ATS the last nine games played versus a team with a losing record, and 1-5 ATS their last six games played overall Take Houston. Thank you.

Phoenix. Suns.

OM PLAY.

Game 543.

5:40 PM PST/8:40 PM EST.

The Suns have dominated the regular season play with the Mavericks over the past three or four campaigns. But you may also recall last years Western Conference Finals in which Dallas took the final two games by 27 and 33-points to end Phoenix’ season. In their only matchup this season, the Suns eked out a two-point victory at home against the Mavericks nearly two months ago. Fast forward to tonights meeting, and Phoenix comes in here winning seven of their last eight straight up, which includes a 38-point blowout in San Antonio last night. Dallas had a day off to rest following their 21-point drubbing over New York at the Garden a few nights ago. That was their second win and their last three outings. However, that was also just their second win in their last seven outings. And only their third cover in the last 10. The Suns are still looking for a little pay back from being ousted from last year’s Western Conference Finals and they can exact a bit of vengeance here tonight. I just don’t see the Mavericks contending offensively with the seventh-ranked scoring offense in the NBA. When it comes to defense, both teams are very good. But because the Suns are so strong offensively it will slow Dallas down in transition. Oh, one more item, the Mavericks are one of the worst in the league on the offensive boards and they are facing one of the stingiest and most ferocious defensive rebounding squads in the NBA. So, second-chance shots will be at a minimum. I know the Suns have a couple guys that are banged-up here. It doesn’t matter folk. They will still be very competitive and keep this game close. Getting a few baskets is the play. Take Phoenix. Thank you

Boston Celtics.

Las Vegas Strip Move.

Game 535.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST

Yes, I am well aware of the fact that Toronto is 9-2 SU at home this season. But Boston is pretty darn good on the road themselves, going 8-3 straight up away from home in 2022. These two teams share the Atlantic division as the Celtics are atop with an overall record of 19-5 and the Raptors sit tied for second just above .500 at 12-11. For our purposes, the Celtics have covered three straight in this rivalry. And going back a bit, seven of the last 10 meetings. They come in here a bit hotter and with the No. 1 scoring offense in the NBA. As a matter fact the rank in the top-three in every major offensive category. I just don’t see the Raptors keeping pace with them on the scoreboard offensively.  Boston is 9-0 ATS the last nine meetings in Toronto. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Houston Rockets.

Slam Dunk.

Game 513.

6:10 PM PST/9:10 PM EST.

The Houston Rockets own one of the poorest records in the NBA at 5-14. However, one thing they do is get us bettors paid, going 11-8 ATS this season. They are starting to show signs of life, winning their last two games straight up and covering three in a row and four of their last five against the spread. While the Denver Nuggets are one of the better teams in the NBA atop the Northwest division at 12-7, they are crushing anyone who supports them at the betting window. There is a reason for this my friends. They are severely overvalued by the odds makers. Put a pin in that we will come back around to it. They are currently without several key players. Recently added to the injured list is Jeff Green, who is expected to be out this evening. And Michael Porter Jr., who is most-likely going to be sitting tonight. (Always do your due diligence and check status on both). The Nuggets are not that deep with experienced backup players folks. To be honest with you, both teams statistics as far as scoring offensively and defensively are very similar. Going back to the ATS situation for Denver, they are just 6-13 ATS the last 19 at home, 1-7 the last eight home games versus teams with a losing road record, and 7-19 ATS the last 26 following a straight up win. This is way too many points to give a game team like Houston. Take the Rockets. Thank you.

Utah Jazz.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 550.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Following a few of their big names departing for other teams, many didn’t expect the Utah Jazz to be very competitive this season. Well, they are currently sitting at 10-5 and playing excellent basketball. Getting them off a loss in Philadelphia a few nights ago in which Joel Embiid had one of the best nights a player has had so far this NBA campaign, and having them return home to Salt Lake where they are perfect 5-0 straight up this season, compels us to side with the Jazz. By the way they have covered four of the five at Vivint Arena. The New York Knicks are off a very rough stretch in which they play five road games out West in seven nights. They dropped a game at home on Monday to the Oklahoma City Thunder. That was their sixth straight up loss over the last nine outings. And the seventh time they failed cover in those same nine outings. On both sides of the court, they are significantly our class. While they are relatively healthy, Utah is one of the few teams currently in the NBA that are listening absolutely no injured players. The Jazz have won and covered the last three meetings in this series all quite easily. By the way, the Knicks are 0-4 ATS the last four meetings in Utah. Take Utah. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Fast Break.

Game 557.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Dallas Mavericks were running hot, winning four ina row prior to last nights loss in Orlando. Not only was it a loss, but it was the first time this season that Luka Dončić was held under 30 points. You can expect the Mavs to come back here with a vengeance and redeem themselves as the star forward will light up the scoreboard. They will exploit the Washington Wizards on both sides of the court. Without question, both offensively and defensively Dallas is far superior. The Wizards have a problem scoring points this season, ranking 29th and accounting for just 107.0-points per game. They’re also absolutely horrible on the offensive glass. And one of the worst in the league from beyond the arc. These are each areas Dallas ranks in the top-five defensively. I just don’t feel the Wizards can keep pace offensively against the stifling Mavericks defense. Dallas is 41-18-1 ATS the last 60 games following a straight up loss and 7-3 ATS the last 10 meetings in Washington. Washington is 5-21-1 ATS the last 27 following a straight up win and 1-4-1 ATS the last six at home. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

SLAM DUNK.

Game 529.

7:40 PM PST/10:40 PM EST.

Guys, I honestly don’t know in what alternative universe this line should be just two-points. Cleveland is one of the best teams in the NBA at 8-1 straight up. And more importantly for our purposes, 8-1 against the spread. They have covered four straight road games during their eight-game win streak. Meanwhile Los Angeles it’s just 1-3 at the Crypto.com Arena straight up. And have failed to cover all four at home in the 2022 campaign. They currently rank 30th in the league offensively, averaging just a 102.3 points per game. They must face the third ranked Cavaliers defense yielding just 103.9 points per game. Not only that, but Cleveland also ranks second in the NBA on the defensive glass. L.A. won’t get too many second-chance shots here. When the Cavaliers have the ball, they must deal with a very formidable Clippers defense. However, being that they’re so strong defensively, I feel this will help them in transition. And they will light up the scoreboard. I mean let’s face it, they already average nearly 14-points per game more than Los Angeles. Cleveland took the last two meetings both straight up and against the spread. Los Angeles owns absolutely deplorable ATS numbers going 1-6 ATS the last seven versus teams with a winning percentage above .600, 1-5 ATS the last six following an ATS loss, and 2-7 ATS the last nine overall. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks.

Slam Dunk.

Game 547.

7:10 PM PST/1010 PM EST.

The Milwaukee Bucks are the only undefeated team left in the NBA. And trust me when I tell you they will not let the Minnesota Timberwolves stand in their way of staying perfect. Not only has Milwaukee been winning, they’ve been getting us bettors paid, going 6-1 ATS. On the other hand, Minnesota has lost and failed to cover their last two outings. Granted both of those contests were on the road, but this team is giving up a lot of points. Not only that but they are one of the worst in the league on the defensive glass. This specific mismatch is going to be fatal for them here today as they face the NBA’s top-offensive rebounding squad. On the flipside, believe it or not Milwaukee tops the NBA in defense, both in points allowed and in field-goal percentage. There’s some talk Giannis might be sitting today. The latest report looks like he will play (check status). Even if the star forward does not play, I feel this team has enough talent on the floor and on the bench to stay undefeated. And for our purposes to get another ATS cover. Milwaukee is 9-3 ATS the last 12 road games, while Minnesota is 3-8 ATS the last 11 home games. Take the Bucks. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

Slam Dunk.

Game 570.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The Thunder are playing some great basketball. Not only have they won and covered three straight, but they are 5-1 ATS this season. On the other hand, the Magic are right on course. Orlando is expected to be one of the poorest teams in the NBA this season and so far, they haven’t disappointed. They are 1-6 straight up and 2-4-1 ATS. Oklahoma City has one eight of the last nine meetings in this rivalry straight up going, 7-1 ATS the last eight matchups. While Orlando is still dealing with a slew of injuries, for the most part OKC is relatively healthy. They are much stronger offensively. They are monsters on the offensive boards as well. And will get a lot of second- chance opportunities. While Orlando has a decent defense, offensively, they are absolutely horrible. They rank at or near the bottom of the barrel in a couple of major offensive categories. This includes scoring, which they rank 28th in the league. Not only is this team winless on the road the season, going 0-5, they have also failed to cover the last seven as a visitor going back to last season. Take the Thunder. Thank you.

Utah Jazz.

CRASH THE BOARDS.

Game 517.

6:10 PM PST/9:10 PM EST.

Sports fans, Utah took down Denver at home in both teams season-openers, 123-102. Even if Collin Sexton, who is listed as questionable for this game, doesn’t play, this is still way too many points to give the Jazz. I understand that the Nuggets are in revenge-mode here and are playing at home, but it is still way too many points. On both sides of the court Utah is looking much stronger than Denver at this point. Throw into the mix that the Jazz are monsters on the offensive boards and will get a ton of second-chance shots, and I like the visiting team to possibly win outright here. But I will take the points for sure as they are 5-1 ATS the last six meetings in this series. Meanwhile The Nuggets are just 4-11 ATS the last 15 at home. Take Utah. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

FAST BREAK.

Game 507.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Despite a 2-1 record, the Boston Celtics are not looking like the team that they were a season ago. Their defense is absolutely atrocious, ranking 19th, and yielding over 115.3 points per game. They’ve got a couple of cogs in the wheel that will be continuing to sit due to injuries. But they are going to be without Grant Williams. He is serving a one-game suspension. I feel they are going to be a little thin upfront against the very talented duo of Jarett Allen and Evan Mobley. And when Boston tries to adjust, this will leave Donovan Mitchell open to score at will. Look for a major mismatch from beyond the arc in this contest as well. Cleveland is hitting over 40% from downtown, while Boston is allowing over 40% from three-point land. Not only that, but the Celtics are one of the worst in the NBA right now on the offensive boards. And they must go up against one of the best defensive rebounding corps in basketball. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.