Sports Picks & Predictions

15* NBA Monday UPSET SHOCKER on Houston Rockets +1

The Los Angeles Lakers are in a massive letdown spot off their epic 145-144 (2 OT) win at Golden State Saturday night.  They are already 2-0 SU against the Houston Rockets this season winning both meetings at home, so they won't be all that motivated to beat this team again.

The Houston Rockets will be motivated playing with double-revenge.  The Rockets are 16-8 SU & 16-8 ATS at home this season and finally get the Lakers at home this time around.  Houston is 3-1 SU & 3-1 ATS in its last four home meetings with Los Angeles with three outright upsets.  The Lakers are 9-15 SU on the road this season.

The Lakers are 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games off an upset win as a road underdog.  Los Angeles is 16-30 ATS in its last 46 games off two or more consecutive wins.  Darwin Ham is 6-20 ATS off a road win as the coach of the Lakers.  Wrong team favored here.  Bet the Rockets Monday.

20* NBA Monday No-Doubt Rout on New York Knicks -8

The New York Knicks are 12-2 SU & 11-3 ATS in their last 14 games overall since trading for OG Anunoby.  That includes home wins over the Nuggets by 38 and the Heat by 16 in their last two games coming in.  Now I fully expect them to make easy work of the hapless Charlotte Hornets tonight.

The Hornets just traded away Terry Rozier and now their best player in LaMelo Ball is questionable tonight and likely won't go.  They were already without Mark Williams and Gordon Hayward.  This is one of the least talented teams in the NBA in their current state.

The Hornets are 3-21 SU in their last 24 games overall.  Charlotte is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games overall and has rarely been competitive.  The Hornets are coming off a pair of blowout home losses to the Jazz by 12 and the Rockets by 34.

The Knicks own the Hornets going 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in three meetings with them this season winning by 22 and 24 at home as well as by 14 on the road.  New York is 16-4 ATS vs. a team with a losing record this season.  It will be more of the same tonight with the Knicks winning by double-digits.  Bet the Knicks Monday.

15* NBA Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Chicago Bulls -6.5

I love the spot for the Chicago Bulls tonight.  They are coming off a pair of single-digit road losses to Phoenix and the LA Lakers.  Now they have had the last two days off to rest and recover and now take a big step down in class against the Portland Trail Blazers.  This one has blowout written all over it.

Portland is 4-10 in its last 14 games overall and just cannot stay healthy.  They lost both Jerami Grant and Scoot Henderson to injury in the 1H of their 116-100 road loss to the Spurs on Friday.  Now they will be playing in their 5th different city in 8 days and returning home from a four-game road trip.  I always like fading teams in their first game back home from an extended road trip.

Grant, Henderson, Malcolm Brodgon, Anfernee Simons and Jabari Walker are all questionable to play tonight.  Sheadon Sharpe is out.  Depending how this injury news breaks, the Bulls could close as double-digit favorites.  There's just not much talent for the Blazers outside of these guys that are questionable or out.

Portland is 0-9 ATS in its last nine home games after covering four or five of its last six ATS.  Chicago is 8-1 ATS vs. poor teams that are outscored by 3-plus points per game this season.  Bet the Bulls Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Los Angeles Clippers +7.5

This line has been adjusted up too much for the fact that the Clippers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  But the Clippers had two days off before their 127-107 win in Toronto last night.  They made such easy work of the Raptors that they didn't have to play their starters big minutes.

The Clippers will still be plenty fresh and motivated to try and knock off the Boston Celtics tonight.  The Clippers are 12-2 SU in their last 14 games overall with the two losses coming by 3 points to the Lakers and by 4 to the Timberwolves.  So the Clippers would be 14-0 ATS with a line of +7.5 in their last 14 games.  They are playing too well right now to be catching 7.5 points.

The Celtics will be without Kristaps Porzingis and they are much less efficient without him.  They should not be favored by 7.5 without Porzingis, who would have been a matchup nightmare for the Clippers in their current state.  Bet the Clippers Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Night BLOWOUT on Utah Jazz -9.5

This is a terrible spot for the short-handed Charlotte Hornets.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 6th game in 9 days.  They just lost 138-104 at home to the Houston Rockets last night, and their effort won't be any better tonight.  They traded away Terry Rozier and now they are even more short-handed without Gordon Hayward and Mark Williams already.

The Utah Jazz will be playing just their 3rd game in 7 days.  They blew out the Wizards 123-108 on the road last time out and will win this game by double-digits as well to get us the win and cover.  The Jazz are 13-6 SU & 15-4 ATS in their last 19 games overall and playing their best basketball of the season now that they are fully healthy.

Charlotte is 4-15 ATS in its last 19 games when playing 6 or more games in 10 days.  Utah is 14-3 ATS in its last 17 games when playing its 3rd road game in 5 days.  Bet the Jazz Saturday.

20* NBA Thursday UPSET SHOCKER on New York Knicks +2.5

The New York Knicks are 9-2 SU & 8-3 ATS since trading for OG Anunoby of the Toronto Raptors.  They have become an elite defensive team since the trade holding 10 of their last 12 opponents to 106 points or fewer, including seven of them to 100 or fewer.  That's remarkable in today's NBA.

Now I fully expect the Knicks to upset the defending champion Denver Nuggets at home tonight.  The Nuggets are 14-10 SU but 8-15-1 ATS on the road this season and have been vulnerable on the highway.  The Knicks are 14-5 SU & 11-7-1 ATS at home this season.

New York is a perfect 10-0 ATS in home games with a total of 220 to 229.5 this season.  Bet the Knicks Thursday.

20* Knicks/Nets TNT No-Brainer on New York -4

The New York Knicks are 8-2 SU & 7-3 ATS since trading for OG Anunoby of the Raptors.  They are in a great spot tonight rested coming off two days' rest and I expect them to make easy work of the Brooklyn Nets as a result.

The Nets are 4-15 SU & 3-15-1 ATS in their last 19 games overall and dealing with a bunch of trade rumors right now.  This is a terrible spot for the Nets returning home from a 3-game road trip that included two games in Los Angeles against the Lakers and Clippers to close out the trip.  They will be flat tonight in their first game back home.

The Knicks have owned the Nets going 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in the last three meetings winning by 18 and 24 at home and by 19 on the road, which was their lone meeting this season.  New York is 15-4 ATS in its last 19 games vs. a team with a losing record.  Bet the Knicks Tuesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on San Antonio Spurs +14.5

The San Antonio Spurs have quietly gone 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall and have been a lot more competitive than they are getting credit for.  That includes a 4-point loss to Milwaukee, a 2-point loss to Cleveland and a 6-point loss to Chicago.  I expect them to hang with the Philadelphia 76ers tonight.

This looks like a potential sleepy spot for the 76ers, who have won five consecutive games and have a five-game road trip coming up next.  They kind of sleep walked through their 97-89 win as 11-point favorites at Charlotte on Saturday.  They will now be playing in their 3rd different city in 4 days.

This is the final game of a 5-game road trip for the Spurs and I always feel like teams are more motivated in that final game on a road trip to end it with a win.  San Antonio will give Philadelphia a run for its money tonight.  Bet the Spurs Monday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Utah Jazz +4

The Utah Jazz have been fully healthy for a few weeks now and are showing what they are capable of when that's the case.  The Jazz are 12-2 SU & 12-2 ATS in their last 14 games overall with seven outright wins as underdogs.  What more does this team have to do to get some respect?

They beat the Pacers by 27, the Lakers by 7 on the 2nd of a back-to-back, the Raptors by 32, the Nuggets by 13, the Bucks outright by 16 as 8-point road dogs and the 76ers outright by 11 as 8.5-point road dogs in their last six games coming in.  They should not be 4-point home underdogs to the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight.

The Jazz have a big rest advantage over the Thunder, who will be playing their 3rd road game in 4 days and in altitude tonight to boot.  The Thunder will also be playing their 6th game in 9 days tonight and started to show signs of wearing down with a 7-point loss to the Lakers and an 11-point loss to the Clippers in their last two games coming in.  Meanwhile, the Jazz will be playing on two days' rest after having last night's game against the Warriors canceled.

The Jazz are 15-5 SU & 16-3-1 ATS at home this season.  Utah is 9-1 ATS as a home dog of 6 points or less this season.  The Jazz are 11-1 ATS when playing 8 or more games in 14 days this season.  Utah is 10-1 ATS in home games when revenging a road loss this season.  Utah is 9-0 ATS in home games vs. a team with a winning record this season.  Bet the Jazz Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on San Antonio Spurs +16

The San Antonio Spurs are 2-5 SU but 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall playing their most competitive basketball of the season.  They only lost at Memphis by 8, to the Bucks by 4, to the Cavs by 2, to the Bulls by 6 and at the Hawks by 10 in their five defeats during this stretch.  Now they are catching too many points once again to the Boston Celtics tonight.

Boston is overvalued due to its 19-0 home record this season.  But they needed OT recently at home to beat both the Pistons and the Timberwolves.  With this perfect home record comes expectations that are difficult to live up to, and it's time to 'sell high' on the Celtics as a result.

Three starters in Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White are all questionable to play tonight for the Celtics.  Jaylen Brown is banged up as well.  The Spurs are as healthy as they have been all season, which has been the key to them being so competitive of late and covering a bunch of spreads.  They'll cover another tonight.  Bet the Spurs Wednesday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Phoenix Suns -4

The Phoenix Suns finally heave the Big 3 of Durant, Booker and Beal healthy and playing at the same time.  They are showing what they are capable of when that's the case in recent weeks.  The Suns are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games overall including a 127-109 road win over the Lakers two games ago.

The Suns have the next two days off so they will be 'all in' to get a win over the Sacramento Kings tonight.  I question how much the Kings have left in the tank as they will be playing their 5th consecutive road game and coming off an OT loss at Milwaukee at the buzzer on Sunday.  They will be playing their 5th road game in 8 days as well as their 9th game in 15 days overall.

Sacramento is 12-25 ATS in its last 37 games after playing two consecutive road games.  The Kings are 18-34 ATS in their last 52 road games off a close road loss by 3 points or less.  Plays against road underdogs (Sacramento) - off two or more consecutive road losses against an opponent that is off a road win by 10 points or more are 25-7 (78.1%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Suns Tuesday.

20* NBA Monday No-Doubt Rout on Utah Jazz -7.5

The Utah Jazz have been fully healthy for a few weeks now and are showing what they are capable of when that's the case.  The Jazz are 11-2 SU & 11-2 ATS in their last 13 games overall with seven outright wins as underdogs.  What more does this team have to do to get some respect?

They beat the Lakers by 7 on the 2nd of a back-to-back, the Raptors by 32, the Nuggets by 13, the Bucks outright by 16 as 8-point road dogs and the 76ers outright by 11 as 8.5-point road dogs in their last five games coming in. They should be more than 7.5-point favorites over the Indiana Pacers tonight.

This is a terrible spot for the Pacers. They are without their best player in Tyrese Haliburton. They are coming off a 109-117 road loss at Denver on Sunday. Now they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back in altitude. They will also be playing their 7th game in 11 days and their 3rd consecutive road game. This is a tired team to say the least.

Utah is 11-1 ATS in home games when revenging a road loss this season. The Jazz are 14-5 SU & 15-3-1 ATS at home this season. Bet the Jazz Monday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on San Antonio Spurs +7.5

The Atlanta Hawks are the most overvalued team in the NBA this season. They are 15-23 SU & 9-29 ATS this season, including 6-11 SU & 3-14 ATS at home. They don't play defense ranking 27th in defensive rating, and their chemistry is terrible right now.

The Hawks are 3-8 SU & 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games overall. They haven't won a game by more than 7 points since December 15th, which was 15 games ago, so they'd be 0-14 ATS in their last 14 games with a line of -7.5. They were just upset by 28 at home by the Wizards as 7-point favorites. They should not be 7.5-point favorites over the Spurs today.

The Spurs are playing some of their best basketball of the season right now. They are 6-0 ATS in their last six games overall taking the Grizzlies, Bucks, Cavs and Bulls to the wire in four losses by 8 points or less. They also crushed the Pistons by 22 and the Hornets by 36. They will have Victor Wembanyama for this game, and they are a pretty good team with him in the lineup.

Atlanta is 0-9 ATS as a home favorite this season. The Hawks are 2-16 ATS as favorites this season. Atlanta is 1-11 ATS vs. teams that allow 116 or more points per game this season. Bet the Spurs Monday.

15* NBA Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Phoenix Suns -10.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are playing as poorly as any team in the NBA right now. They are 1-6 SU & 1-6 ATS in their last seven games overall with all six losses coming by 21 points or more. That's why I'm willing to lay the -10.5 with the Phoenix Suns tonight.

The Blazers are also in a terrible spot returning home from a 7-game road trip. There is a lot of distractions they will have to deal with back at home, not the least of which is the embarrassment of how poorly they performed on that road trip. The Blazers are also banged up right now which is a big reason for their struggles.

The Phoenix Suns are fully healthy and showing what they are capable of when they have Durant, Booker and Beal on the court at the same time. They are coming off an 18-point road win over the Los Angeles Lakers. They are rested and ready to go as they have had the last two days off and will be playing just their 2nd game in 6 days tonight.

Portland is 1-11 ATS in its last 12 games after scoring 95 points or less in two consecutive games. The Blazers have been held to 93, 77 and 84 points in their last three games, which is absolutely terrible in today's NBA. Bet the Suns Sunday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on New York Knicks -7

The Memphis Grizzlies cannot catch a break. They were playing well when JA Morant and Marcus Smart were back. But now Morant is out for the season, and Smart is out at least six weeks. They were already without Steven Adams, Brandon Clarke and Derrick Rose.

Now the Grizzlies have Santi Aldama questionable and Desmond Bane just left last night's game with an ankle injury and did not return. I can't imagine Bane will be back for this 2nd of a back-to-back. The Grizzlies are just so short-handed right now.

The Knicks are 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS since trading for OG Anunoby from the Raptors. That includes a 128-92 road win at Philadelphia as 5.5-point dogs as four of those five wins have come by 16 points or more. I expect them to crush the short-handed Grizzlies tonight.

New York is 16-6 ATS in its last 22 games as a road favorite. Memphis is 4-13 ATS in home games this season. The Knicks are 12-3 ATS vs. a team with a losing record this season. The Grizzlies are 1-9 ATS vs. good teams outscoring their opponents by 3-plus points per game this season. Bet the Knicks Saturday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Washington Wizards +8

The Atlanta Hawks have been grossly overvalued all season. They are 15-22 SU & 9-28 ATS in their 37 games and consistently getting too much respect from oddsmakers. That is the case again tonight as 8-point favorites over Washington.

This is as terrible spot for the Hawks. They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 126-108 home loss to the Pacers last night. It will also be the 3rd game in 4 days for the Hawks after going to OT against the 76ers the game prior. They won't have much left in the tank for the Wizards tonight.

The Wizards have played their best basketball on the road this season going 12-8-1 ATS in their 21 road games. They are rested and ready to go tonight after having the last two days off. They are also fully healthy.

Atlanta is 0-8 ATS as a home favorite this season. Washington is 28-11 ATS in its last 39 road games following six or more consecutive losses. The Wizards are 7-0 ATS in road games vs. poor defensive teams that allow 116 or more points per game this season. Bet the Wizards Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Night BLOWOUT on Utah Jazz -3

The Utah Jazz have been fully healthy for a few weeks now and are showing what they are capable of when that's the case.  The Jazz are 9-2 SU & 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games overall with seven outright wins as underdogs.  What more does this team have to do to get some respect?

We'll gladly take advantage again tonight and back the Jazz as short home favorites over the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors are without starting C Jacob Poeltl and their best player in Pascal Siakam is questionable. The Raptors are playing well also, but this is a tough spot for them.

The Raptors will be playing their 6th road game in 10 days here. They just played the Lakers and Clippers in Los Angeles in back-to-back days. They won't have much left in the tank for the Jazz, and they will also be playing in altitude in Salt Lake City tonight to make matters worse.

Utah is 9-1 ATS in home games off an ATS win this season. The Jazz are 9-1 ATS in home games vs. poor defensive teams that allow 46% shooting or worse this season. Bet the Jazz Friday.

15* NBA Friday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Chicago Bulls -3

The Chicago Bulls are fully healthy and playing well right now. They have won three consecutive games coming in and I expect them to take down the short-handed Golden State Warriors tonight.

The Warriors are without four key players right now in Draymond Green, Gary Payton II, Chris Paul and Moses Moody. They are 2-6 SU & 3-5 ATS in their last eight games overall. Their last two games were particularly concerning as they were upset by the Raptors by 15 at home and blasted by the Pelicans by 36 at home.

Golden State is 2-11 ATS after losing two of its last three games this season. Chicago is 42-25 ATS in its last 67 games as home favorites. Bet the Bulls Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Night BLOWOUT on New York Knicks -4.5

The Dallas Mavericks are without Luka Doncic, Dante Exum and Derrick Lively II tonight. Grant Williams is questionable as well. I don't give them much of a shot of even keeping this game competitive against the New York Knicks tonight without Doncic.

The Knicks are 5-0 SU & 5-0 ATS since trading for OG Anunoby of the Raptors. They have won all five games by 6 points or more with four of those wins coming by 16 points or more. They have been absolutely dominant, and they are allowing just 97.4 points per game during this winning streak, which is unheard of in today's NBA. Bet the Knicks Thursday.

20* Nuggets/Jazz ESPN No-Brainer on Utah +7

The Utah Jazz have been fully healthy for a few weeks now and are showing what they are capable of when that's the case.  The Jazz are 8-2 SU & 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall with six outright wins as underdogs.  What more does this team have to do to get some respect?

We'll gladly take advantage again tonight and back the Jazz catching 7 points at home to the Denver Nuggets.  The highlights during this run include an upset home win over the Heat by 8, an upset home win over the Mavericks by 27, an upset road win at Philadelphia by 11 and an upset road win at Milwaukee by 16.  The Jazz will have no problem getting motivated to face the defending champs tonight.

The Nuggets have benefited from a home-heavy, soft schedule here of late with six of their last even games at home.  Their lone road game during this stretch was a 3-point win at Golden State at the buzzer.  The road games prior were all single-digit wins over the Hornets, Nets, Raptors, Bulls and Hawks.  The Nuggets have just one road win all season by double-digits.  They are 11-8 SU but 7-12 ATS on the highway this season.

Utah is 11-5 SU & 12-3-1 ATS at home this season.  The Jazz are 51-26 ATS in their last 77 games as underdogs, including 21-5 ATS in their last 26 games as home underdogs.  Utah is 11-1 ATS after playing two consecutive road games this season.  The Jazz are 9-1 ATS in home games when revenging a loss this season.  Utah is 7-0 ATS in home games vs. a team with a winning record this season.  Bet the Jazz Wednesday.

15* Pelicans/Warriors ABC ANNIHILATOR on New Orleans +1

The Golden State Warriors are broken right now without Draymond Green, Gary Payton II and Chris Paul.  There is just too much on Steph Curry's shoulders.  The Warriors are 2-5 SU in their last seven games overall with their two wins both coming at home over the Magic by 6 and the Pistons by 4.  They are coming off a 15-point home loss to the Raptors, and also lost by 12 at home to Miami and by 10 at home to Dallas.

The Pelicans are 7-0 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven road games.  They beat the Kings by 33, the Timberwolves by 11, the Cavaliers by 19, the Spurs by 36, the Hornets by 5, the Wizards by 20 and the Kings by 10 with six of those seven wins by double-digits.  They are rolling on the road right now and should not be underdogs to the Warriors tonight.

Golden State is 6-14 ATS in home games this season.  Bet the Pelicans Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night BLOWOUT on San Antonio Spurs -3.5

The San Antonio Spurs are 3-0 ATS in their last three games overall playing Memphis (lost by 8), Milwaukee (lost by 4) and Cleveland (lost by 2) all tough and down to the wire.  They haven't been rewarded with victories for their solid play, but they will be rewarded tonight with a blowout victory over the lowly Detroit Pistons.

The spot really favors the Spurs tonight.  They come in on two days' rest and will be playing just their 2nd game in 6 days.  Meanwhile, the Pistons will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 6th game in 10 days.  The blew a 22-point home lead to the Kings last night and wound up losing by 21 points.

The Pistons were playing more competitive basketball of late but then lost their best player in Cade Cunningham to injury.  They were blown out in the 2nd half by the Nuggets in a 17-point loss after losing Cunningham in the 1H the game prior.  They just don't stand much of a chance of being competitive without him.

Detroit is 3-11 ATS in non-conference games this season.  The Pistons are 4-12 ATS after playing a home game this season.  Bet the Spurs Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +7.5

The Indiana Pacers are in a terrible spot tonight.  They just played two consecutive games against the Boston Celtics at home.  After losing the first meeting, they got their revenge in the rematch with a 133-131 victory.  Now they are primed for a big letdown here against the Washington Wizards.

The cost of that victory was a big one, too.  They lost their best player in Tyrese Haliburton to a hamstring injury that is going to sideline him for at least two weeks.  Haliburton was having a MVP-caliber season averaging 23.6 points per game and 12.5 assists per game while shooting 40% from 3, 50% from the floor and 87% from the FT line.  The Pacers go as Haliburton goes.

They should not be 7.5-point favorites over the Wizards tonight without him.  The Wizards have played their best basketball on the road this season going 12-8 ATS on the highway.  They just beat the Pacers 137-123 as 8.5-point home dogs in their last meeting even with Haliburton.  They will hang tough tonight and possibly pull off the upset again.

Washington is 16-4 ATS in its last 20 road games off a non-conference game.  The Wizards are 91-58 ATS in their last 159 games off five or more consecutive losses.  Washington is 7-0 ATS n road games vs. poor defensive teams that allow 116 or more points per game this season.  This is a great spot to 'buy low' on the Wizards.  Bet the Wizards Wednesday.

20* Raptors/Lakers NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Toronto +5

The Toronto Raptors have been playing very well since trading for RJ Barrett and Emmanuel Quickley.  They have gone 3-1 SU & 3-1 ATS in their four games since the trade with their only loss coming at Sacramento by 5 as 4.5-point dogs after the Kings made two free throws with almost no time left.

They beat the Cavaliers at home, upset the Grizzlies on the road and upset the Warriors by 15 on the road.  The Raptors have now scored 124 or more points in four of their last five games as their offensive efficiency is through the roof.

This is a great spot to fade the Lakers.  They are coming off an upset home win over the Clippers last time out, and now they have another huge game against the Phoenix Suns on deck Thursday.  That makes this the ultimate sandwich spot for them and they won't be nearly as motivated to beat the Raptors as they were to beat the Clippers, or as they will be to beat the Suns.

The Lakers have been grossly overvalued for a month now.  They are 4-10 SU & 5-9 ATS in their last 14 games overall.  They should not be 5-point favorites over the Raptors tonight with the way these teams are trending.  Bet the Raptors Tuesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Utah Jazz +10

The Utah Jazz are 7-2 SU & 7-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  They are as healthy as they have been all season, which is a big reason they are playing so well right now.  They should not be catching double-digits on the road to the Milwaukee Bucks tonight.

The Bucks will be without Damian Lillard and Cameron Payne tonight, so they will be short-handed.  The Jazz can shift their focus to just trying to stop Giannis now.  The Bucks are a dangerous team when both of those guys are healthy, but they are closer to an average team without one of Lillard or Giannis.  Milwaukee is 1-3 SU & 0-4 ATS in its last four games overall.

Utah is 50-26 ATS in its last 76 games as an underdog.  The Jazz are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games after playing two consecutive road games.  They are coming off a 120-109 upset win at Philadelphia as 8.5-point dogs, and I wouldn't be surprised at all to see them upset the Bucks tonight.  Bet the Jazz Monday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Detroit Pistons +16.5

The Detroit Pistons have gotten healthy and have been much more competitive of late as a result.  Their 28-game losing streak has had them undervalued for a few weeks now.  The Pistons are 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall.  They only lost by 4 at Golden State, by 6 at Utah in OT, by 6 in Boston in OT and upset the Raptors. during this stretch.

Now I expect the Pistons to give the defending champion Nuggets a run for their money tonight.  The Nuggets have been overvalued due to winning the title last year.  They are kind of just going through the motions right now and won't be motivated at all to get margin on the Pistons.

The Nuggets are 2-5 ATS in their last seven games overall.  They lost outright to the Thunder by 26 as 1.5-point favorites at home and outright to the Magic as 9.5-point home favorites during this stretch.

Plays against home favorites of 10 or more points (Denver) - after going over the total by 18 or more points total in their last three games against an opponent that went over the total by 36 or more points total in their last five games are 27-3 (90%) over the last five seasons.  Bet the Pistons Sunday.

15* NBA Tuesday UPSET SHOCKER on Oklahoma City Thunder +4.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been the best covering team in the NBA for three seasons running.  They just cannot seem to get the respect they deserve because they are a small market team.  They continue playing with a chip on their shoulder as a result.

Now they will prove themselves once again against the team that everyone is picking to win the NBA title in the Boston Celtics.  The Thunder are 22-9 SU & 22-8 ATS this season, including 13-5 SU & 13-5 ATS at home where they are outscoring opponents by 8.5 points per game.  The Thunder (+8.7) rank 3rd in the NBA in net rating, only behind the Celtics (10.4) and 76ers (10.3).  This line should be much closer to PK when you look at net rating and factor in home-court advantage.

The Celtics have been vulnerable on the road where they are 10-6 SU & 6-8 ATS.  They were just taken to OT by the Pistons at home and won by 2 over the Raptors in two of their last three games.  They did blow out the Spurs on the road who were without Keldon Johnson, but everyone is beating the Spurs.

Oklahoma City is 8-1 ATS off a blowout win by 15 points or more this season.  Boston is 1-10 ATS in its last 11 road games vs. good pressure defensive teams that force 15 or more turnovers per game.  Bet the Thunder Tuesday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH on New Orleans Pelicans -5.5

I love the spot for the New Orleans Pelicans tonight.  They are rested and ready to go after having the last two days off and will be playing just their 3rd game in 8 days as well.  They want revenge on the Lakers after getting knocked out by them in the semifinals of the in-season tournament.

I like their chances of getting that revenge considering the Lakers are a tired team.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and in their 3rd different city in 4 days after a 106-108 loss in Minnesota last night.  LeBron James and Anthony Davis each played 39 minutes in that game, and don't be surprised if one or both sit.  Plus, De'Angelo Russell got hurt in that game and is questionable to play tonight.

The Lakers have been pretty dreadful since winning the in-season tournament as they just lack motivation in these less important games.  They are 3-7 SU & 4-6 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  I don't expect a very good effort out of them tonight given the spot, and I conversely I expect a max effort from the revenge-minded Pelicans, who are fully healthy right now.

The Pelicans are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 home games after failing to cover 5 or 6 of their last 7 games against the spread.  Bet the Pelicans Sunday.

20* NBA GAME OF THE WEEK on Detroit Pistons +5

The Detroit Pistons have tied the NBA record for longest losing streak in history at 28 games.  They don't want to be the sole owners of this streak, and I expect them to win outright tonight.  We will take the points for some insurance.

The Pistons are as healthy as they have been all season and are trending in the right direction.  They are 2-0 ATS in their last two games and played well in both.  They only lost by 6 to the Nets as 6.5-point underdogs, and then took the Celtics to OT as 17-point underdogs.  They even led the Celtics by 20-plus points early in that game.

Now the Pistons are in a favorable spot here playing just their 3rd game in 7 days.  The Raptors are in a terrible spot, playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd road game in 4 days.  They are coming off a deflating 118-120 loss at Boston last night and won't have much left in the tank for the Pistons.  

Keep in mind Boston was missing Tatum and Porzingis last night and was playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, so the fact that they hung with the Celtics isn't very impressive as they closed as 4.5-point dogs.  Siakam played 40 minutes, Barnes 38, Anunoby 37 and Schroder 34 for the Raptors last night.  They won't have much left in the tank for the Pistons, and they could choose to rest a starter or two.

The Raptors are 4-10 SU & 5-9 ATS in their last 14 games overall, so it's not like they are playing well enough to warrant being 5-point road favorites here.  The Pistons are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 meetings with the Raptors.  That includes 5-0 ATS in their last five home meetings with Toronto.  Bet the Pistons Saturday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Oklahoma City Thunder -1.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder want revenge on the Minnesota Timberwolves.  They knocked the Thunder out of the playoffs last year in the play-in round with a 120-95 victory at home.  They also beat the Thunder 106-103 at home in their first meeting this season.

But now the Thunder finally get the Timberwolves at home in Oklahoma City, and they will get their revenge tonight.  The Thunder are 18-9 SU & 18-8-1 ATS this season, including 10-5 SU & 10-5 ATS at home.  The Timberwolves have just one loss at home all season, but five losses on the road.  Minnesota could be without Karl-Anthony Towns, who is questionable.

Oklahoma City is 12-2 ATS in its last 14 games when revenging a close loss by 3 points or less.  The Thunder are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games after playing three consecutive home games.  Bet the Thunder Tuesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Houston Rockets -3

The Houston Rockets are 12-2 SU & 12-2 ATS at home this season.  They are outscoring opponents by 12.3 points per game at home this year, where they have been grossly undervalued.  That is the case again tonight as only 3-point home favorites over the struggling Indiana Pacers.

The Pacers have struggled since the in-season tournament.  They are just 1-6 SU & 1-6 ATS in their last seven games overall with their lone win coming at home against the lowly Hornets.  They lost by 14 in Milwaukee, by 14 in Washington, by 18 in Minnesota and by 13 in Memphis in their four road games during this stretch.

While the Rockets are fully healthy, the Pacers will be without Bruce Brown (11.6 PPG), who was their biggest offseason acquisition.  Indiana is 1-10 ATS in its last 11 road games after two straight games where they allowed 50% shooting or higher.  Houston is 15-2 ATS following an ATS win this season.  Bet the Rockets Tuesday.

15* Celtics/Lakers ABC ANNIHILATOR on Boston -2.5

The Boston Celtics are the best team in the NBA, period.  They should be more than 2.5-point favorites over the Los Angeles Lakers today.  The Celtics aren't distracted and are on a business trip here in the midst of a four-game road trip.

After opening it with a OT loss at Golden State, the Celtics have been on a mission since.  They dominated the Kings 144-119 in Sacramento despite being on the 2nd of a back-to-back and off an OT game.  They had the next two days off and then crushed the Clippers 145-108 in Los Angeles on Saturday.  Now they will be rested and ready to go against the hated Lakers today.

The Lakers have been terrible since winning the in-season tournament.  They are 2-5 SU & 2-5 ATS in their seven games since the tournament.  They are banged up and distracted right now.  They have been on the road for eight of their last nine games and haven't been able to spend much time with family at home.  They have a lot of obligations to deal with back home for Christmas, which is a big distraction for them.  I like the mental state of the Celtics much more heading into this one.

The Lakers are 6-19 ATS in their last 25 games following a road win.  Boston is 30-15 ATS in its last 45 road games with a line of +3 to -3.  The Celtics are 4-1 SU in their last five meetings with the Lakers.  Bet the Celtics Monday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Portland Trail Blazers +9.5

Golden State is without its two best defenders in Draymond Green and Gary Payton II.  The Warriors can't be this big of a favorite over anyone right now given their current state.  In fact, Golden State has just one win by more than 11 points all season!  They have just one win by more than 6 points in their last 20 games, making for a 19-1 system backing the Blazers pertaining to this 9.5-point spread.

That 11-point win came against the Wizards last night who were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  Now it's the Warriors who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and on tired legs since they are short-handed.  The Warriors could also be caught looking ahead to their game against defending champion Denver on Christmas Day and not take the Blazers seriously tonight.

The Blazers are playing much more competitive basketball here of late with their last three games all decided by 5 points or less.  They upset the Suns, lost by 1 to the Wizards and lost by 4 to the Warriors.  That makes this a revenge spot for the Blazers as well as they just lost to the Warriors on December 17th.  They will be the more motivated team.

A big reason the Blazers are playing a lot better of late is that they have finally gotten healthier with Brogdon, Simons, Henderson, Grant and Ayton all missing some time this year.  But all five are healthy now.  The Warriors are just 3-10-1 ATS at home this season and have been consistently overvalued at home.  Asking them to win this game by double-digits to beat us given the tough rest spot is asking too much.  Bet the Blazers Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Night BLOWOUT on Chicago Bulls -5

The Chicago Bulls are 8-3 SU & 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall and playing their best basketball of the season since Zach LaVine got hurt.  They are playing team basketball, playing smarter on offense with more 3's and layups, and I expect them to keep this momentum going tonight against the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cleveland is without its top three scorers in Mitchell (27.7 PPG, 5.5 APG), Garland (20.7 PPG, 5.9 APG) and Mobley (16.0 PPG, 10.5 RPG) right now.  Sam Merrill has been playing well at PG in their absence but even he is questionable tonight as well.  The Cavaliers stand no chance of being competitive on the road against the Bulls without Mitchell, Garland and Mobley.  Bet the Bulls Saturday.

15* Lakers/Thunder NBA ANNIHILATOR on Oklahoma City -3.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been grossly undervalued for three seasons now and remain undervalued this season.  They are 18-8 SU & 18-7-1 ATS this season.  The Thunder rank 3rd in the NBA in net rating this season trailing only the 76ers and Celtics.

The Los Angeles Lakers won the in-season tournament and have just tanked since as they haven't bene as motivated.  The Lakers are 1-5 SU & 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall with their lone win coming against the Spurs by 3.  They also lost to the Spurs by 14, lost to the Knicks at home by 5, lost by 16 at Chicago and lost by 7 at Minnesota.

Injuries are really starting to pile up for the Lakers as James, Davis and Hachimura are all questionable for this one.  The Thunder blasted the Lakers 133-110 as 5.5-point home favorites in their lone meeting with them this season on November 30th.  It will be more of the same tonight, this time as even shorter 3.5-point favorites.

The Thunder are the much fresher team playing their 2nd game in 5 days and just their 6th game in 15 days.  The Lakers will be playing in their 7th different city in 12 days.  Bet the Thunder Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +12.5

The Washington Wizards have quietly gone 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall with three against playoff contenders.  They upset the Pacers by 14 as 8.5-point home dogs, took the Suns to the wire in a 4-point road loss at 13-point dogs, covered in a 12-point loss at Sacramento as 14-point dogs and upset the Blazers as 4.5-point road dogs.  They are also a solid 11-6 ATS on the road this season, while the Warriors are 3-9 ATS at home.

This number has been adjusted up too much for the fact that the Wizards will now be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  But they had two days off prior to the Portland game, so they should still be pretty fresh.  And they are nearly at full strength right now and one of the deepest teams in the NBA playing nine different players significant minutes last night.

I think the spot is actually worse for the Warriors, who are coming off an upset win over the Celtics in OT on Thursday, which now sets them up for a letdown spot.  Golden State is without its two best defenders in Draymond Green and Gary Payton II, plus Brandin Podziemski is questionable after leaving the Boston game with a back injury.  The Warriors can't be double-digit favorites over anyone right now given their current state.

In fact, Golden State has just one win by more than 11 points all season!  Their largest margin of victory in their last 19 games has been 6 points! They haven't won any of their last 23 games by more than 11 points, making for a 23-0 system backing the Wizards pertaining to this 12.5-point spread.  Golden State has beaten Washington by more than 9 points just once in their last nine meetings.  Jordan Poole wants some revenge here on the team that let him go as well.  Bet the Wizards Friday.

20* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Houston Rockets -8.5

I love the spot for the Houston Rockets tonight.  They will be highly motivated for a victory following three consecutive losses to the Bucks, Cavaliers and Hawks.  They took all three to the wire in single-digit losses but came up just short.

Now the Rockets will take out their frustration on the short-handed Dallas Mavericks.  The Mavericks were already struggling even when Luka Doncic was healthy because they were missing so many other key guys.  Now they are without Doncic too, and the future is grim for the Mavericks until some of these guys get back healthy.

Indeed, the Mavericks are 1-3 SU & 1-3 ATS in their last four games overall losing by 18 at home to Minnesota, by 26 at Denver and by 9 at home to the Clippers.  The Mavericks will be without Doncic (32.7 PPG, 9.1 APG, 8.4 RPG), Irving (23.0 PPG, 5.2 APG), Lively II (8.9 PPG, 7.7 RPG), Exum (8.6 PPG) and Green (6.9 PPG) tonight.  They don't stand a chance of even being competitive against the motivated Rockets, who won't be taking them lightly given they have lost three straight.

The Rockets are 11-2 SU & 11-2 ATS at home this season and outscoring opponents by 11.2 points per game.  Houston is 11-1 ATS after playing a home game this season.  The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.  Bet the Rockets Friday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Los Angeles Clippers -3

The Los Angeles Clippers are showing how dangerous they can be when fully healthy.  They are 8-0 SU & 6-2 ATS in their last eight games overall and I fully expect them to extend that winning streak to nine games tonight in Dallas.

The Mavericks are not healthy.  They are without Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively II, Josh Green and Maxi Kleber right now.  That puts a lot on Luka Doncic's shoulders to carry the scoring load, and while he's playing at an MVP level, he cannot beat this loaded Clippers team on his own.

It did not go well for Doncic and the short-handed Mavericks in two games against two other elite teams here recently.  They lost 119-101 at home to the Timberwolves three games ago and 130-104 to the Nuggets last time out.  I fully expect them to get blasted again tonight against another title contender in the Clippers.  Bet the Clippers Wednesday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Houston Rockets -3

The Houston Rockets have the biggest home/road splits of any team in the NBA.  They are 2-10 SU & 5-7 ATS on the road, but an impressive 11-1 SU & 11-1 ATS at home.  The Rockets are coming off consecutive road losses to the Bucks and Cavs by single-digits, so they return home motivated for a victory tonight.

They take on an Atlanta Hawks team that is one of the most overrated teams in the NBA.  The Hawks are 11-15 SU & 6-20 ATS this season.  That includes 2-14 ATS in their last 16 games overall, and they are once again getting too much respect here as only 3-point road dogs to the Rockets, who are the much superior and more complete team.

The Rockets rank 2nd in the NBA in defensive rating while the Hawks rank 27th, and that is the biggest difference between these teams.  One plays defense and the other does not.  Plus, injuries are mounting up for the Hawks as Jalen Johnson remains out while both Bogdan Bogdanovic and AJ Griffin are questionable.  The Rockets look to be fully healthy right now.

Atlanta is 1-11 ATS vs. good 3-point shooting teams that make 36% or better this season.  Houston is 9-1 ATS vs. a team with a losing record this season.  Bet the Rockets Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Los Angeles Clippers -3

The Los Angeles Clippers are showing how dangerous they can be when fully healthy.  They are 7-0 SU & 5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall and I fully expect them to extend that winning streak to eight games tonight in Indiana.

The Pacers are going through a letdown phase after coming up just short in the in-season tournament, losing in the championship to the Lakers.  They have gone 0-3 SU & 0-3 ATS in their last three games overall, losing by 14 at Milwaukee, by 14 as 8.5-point favorites at Washington and by 18 at Minnesota.

I always like fading teams in their first home game back from a long road trip.  Well, the Pacers have been on the road since December 7th dating back to the in-season tournament in Las Vegas.  There are a lot of distractions they have to deal with at home when returning from a long road trip.  Plus, their two best players in Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner are questionable.  Bet the Clippers Monday.

15* NBA Sunday Undervalued Underdog on Orlando Magic +9

I love the spot for the Orlando Magic today.  They will be out for revenge from a 111-128 loss in Boston on Friday night.  They were closing 5-point dogs in that game, and after getting blown out, they are now 9-point dogs in the rematch.  That's too big of an adjustment up.

The Celtics won't be motivated at all to beat the Magic for the 2nd time in 3 days, so they are primed for a letdown.  Asking the Celtics to win this game by double-digits to beat us is asking too much.  The Celtics have just two wins by more than 10 points in their last 14 games overall.

The Magic are 11-3 SU & 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games overall.  The Magic are 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings with four outright upsets as 13.5, 10.5, 7.5 and 5.5-point dogs.  The Magic are 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings as well with that 17-point loss the only one that came by more than 6 points.  Bet the Magic Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Utah Jazz +10

The Utah Jazz are getting healthier and playing well again as a result.  They are coming off consecutive upset wins as underdogs over the New York Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers.  They recently got both Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler back from injury, and these are arguably their two most important players.

Now the Jazz are catching too many points on the road against the Sacramento Kings tonight.  De'Aaron Fox is questionable to play and he means everything to the Kings' success.  I still like the Jazz even if he does play, but this line will crash if he doesn't.

Utah has just one loss by more than 9 points in its last 35 meetings with Sacramento.  That makes for a 34-1 system backing the Jazz pertaining to this 10-point spread.  Bet the Jazz Saturday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Minnesota Timberwolves -7.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves are loaded this season.  They are 18-5 SU including 10-1 SU & 7-3-1 ATS at home this season where they are outscoring opponents by 11.8 points per game.  The Timberwolves will make easy work of the Indiana Pacers tonight.

While the Timberwolves are fully healthy, the Pacers could be without MVP candidate Tyrese Haliburton tonight.  They are already without PG Andrew Nembhard and PF Jalen Smith.  Haliburton suffered a knee injury in a 123-137 loss at Washington last night.  Now the Pacers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 4th road game in 6 days.

This is a tired Pacers team after making it to the championship game of the in-season tournament.  That has started to show in their last two games losing by 14 as 6.5-point dogs in Milwaukee and then getting upset by 14 as 8.5-point favorites in Washington last night, failing to cover the spread by 22.5 points.

The Timberwolves will be the much fresher team playing just their 2nd game in 5 days.  They are also the much better defensive team ranking 1st in the NBA in defensive rating while the Pacers are 28th.  Plays against road underdogs (Indiana) - off two or more consecutive road losses against an opponent that's off a road win by 10 points or more are 23-4 (85.2%) ATS over the last five seasons.

The Timberwolves are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three meetings with the Pacers.  Indiana is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 road games after two straight games allowing a shooting percentage of 50% or higher.  Minnesota is 13-2 ATS in its last 15 home games after a blowout win by 15 points or more.  Bet the Timberwolves Saturday.

20* Lakers/Spurs ESPN No-Brainer on San Antonio +7.5

I love the spot for the San Antonio Spurs tonight.  They get a shot at quick revenge here after losing 122-119 to the Lakers on Wednesday.  Now they get to play the Lakers here two days later and go from 3.5-point dogs to 7.5-point dogs tonight.

While the Spurs will be motivated for revenge, the Lakers will have a hard time getting up emotionally to beat the Spurs by margin again tonight.  The Lakers just won the In-Season Tournament, and it's no surprise they are 0-2 ATS in their first two games out of the tournament as they just aren't as motivated to win these regular season games.  Don't be surprised if they lose outright tonight.

The Spurs are as healthy as they have been all season and playing competitive basketball with their last nine games all decided by 15 points or less, including six by single-digits.  Darvin Ham is 6-18 ATS off a road win as the coach of the Lakers.  Bet the Spurs Friday.

20* NBA Situational GAME OF THE WEEK on Orlando Magic +6.5

The Orlando Magic have a big rest advantage over the Boston Celtics tonight.  The Magic have had the last three days off while the Celtics will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 116-107 win over the Cavaliers last night.  This will also be the 3rd game in 4 days for the Celtics.  They have had some guys banged up and playing through injury, so don't be surprised if they rest one or multiple starters tonight.

The Magic have been grossly undervalued all season especially of late.  The Magic are 11-2 SU & 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games overall.  They are nearly at full strength and one of the deepest teams in the NBA, and they will have an advantage over the Celtics when they go to their bench, which they will need to given how tired their starters are right now.

Orlando has absolutely owned Boston in recent meetings.  In fact, the Magic are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings with four outright upsets as 13.5, 10.5, 7.5 and 5.5-point dogs.  The Magic are 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings as well with their lone SU loss coming by 6 points.  

Boston is 0-11 ATS in its last 11 home games when revenging a road loss.  Bet the Magic Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Late-Night BAILOUT on Oklahoma City Thunder +2

The Oklahoma City Thunder are better than the Sacramento Kings this season and should not be underdogs to them, even on the road.  The Thunder are 15-7 SU & 15-6-1 ATS this season and outscoring their opponents by 7.6 points per game.

The Kings are 13-9 SU & 12-10 ATS this season and actually getting outscored by 0.6 points per game.  The Thunder rank 3rd in net rating (+7.6) which combines their offensive and defensive rating.  The Kings rank 20th (-0.5).

The Thunder are fully healthy right now and a dangerous team when that's the case.  They weren't fully healthy when they lost 105-98 in Sacramento in their first meeting this season.  I know they want revenge on the Kings, especially since they will be reminded that they have lost seven consecutive meetings in this series overall.  

That's why we will get a max effort from OKC tonight, and it will be good enough to pull off the outright upset.  Bet the Thunder Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Brooklyn Nets +9.5

The Brooklyn Nets have been grossly undervalued all season.  They are 13-10 SU & 17-5-1 ATS this season.  They are the definition of team basketball with any of their five starters that can beat you on any given night, and also one of the best benches in the league.

This line has been adjusted up too much for the fact that the Nets are on the 2nd of a back-to-back after winning outright at Phoenix against a Suns team that had Durant, Booker and Beal on the court at the same time for the first time all season.  But this will be just their 3rd game in 6 days, so they should still be pretty fresh.

There will be no letdown here for the Nets facing the defending champion Denver Nuggets.  The Nuggets have been grossly overvalued after winning that title last year.  They are just 6-11 ATS in their last 17 games overall.  They will be without starter Kentavious-Caldwell Pope tonight, and their lack of depth this season is a big reason for their struggles.

The Nets are 8-1 ATS when the total is 230 or higher this season.  Asking the Nuggets to win this game by double-digits to beat us tonight is asking too much.  Bet the Nets Thursday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Cleveland Cavaliers +9.5

I love the spot for the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight.  They get a chance at quick revenge here after losing 113-120 in Boston on Tuesday.  Now they get their shot at revenge here just two days later.  The Cavaliers will clearly be the more motivated team, while the Celtics will have a hard time getting up to beat this team again.

The Celtics aren't really blowing anyone out here of late.  They have just one win by more than 10 points in their last 12 games.  Asking them to win this game by double-digits to beat us in a letdown spot is asking too much.

Keep in mind the Celtics made 20 more free throws than the Cavaliers did in that last meeting and still only won by 7.  They got the benefit of the whistles in that game, and I don't see that being the case again.

Cleveland is actually 6-4 SU & 6-4 ATS in its last 10 meetings with Boston with just one loss by more than 9 points.  That one loss came by only 10 points as well.  That makes for a 9-1 system backing the Celtics pertaining to this 9.5-point spread.

Plays against favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (Boston) - after scoring 120 points or more in two consecutive games are 192-124 (60.8%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Plays against home teams (Boston) - who force 12 or fewer turnovers per game in the month of December are 31-11 (73.8%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Cavaliers Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night BLOWOUT on Milwaukee Bucks -6.5

I love the spot for the Milwaukee Bucks tonight.  They have lost to the Pacers in both meetings this season and both were away from home.  That includes their 128-119 loss to the Pacers in the in-season tournament that knocked them out in the semifinals.  It's safe to say they want revenge, and we will get their best effort tonight as they get them at home for the first time this season.

The Pacers were in a letdown spot after losing to the Lakers in the finals of the in-season tournament, but unfortunately the Detroit Pistons haven't won a game in over a month and couldn't take advantage.  The Bucks will take advantage, and I think this is where we finally see the letdown for the Pacers, especially after just beating the Bucks a week ago.  They won't be nearly as motivated to beat them in this game as they were in the in-season tournament.  This one has blowout written all over it.  Bet the Bucks Wednesday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Charlotte Hornets +8

I love the spot for the Charlotte Hornets tonight.  They have a chance at quick revenge here after losing 114-116 to the Heat on Monday night.  Now they travel to Miami to face the Heat here just two days later on Wednesday.  I like them to stay within this inflated number at the very least and possibly pull off the upset.

The Heat are in no position to be laying 8 points to the Hornets right now.  They are without Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro and Haywood Highsmith.  They are just 3-5 SU in their last eight games and 2-5 ATS in their last seven games.  Adebayo is arguably their most important player, at least even with Jimmy Butler.

The Hornets have been playing some very competitive basketball with four of their last five games decided by 6 points or fewer.  They rarely get blown out by the Heat, either.  The Hornets are 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.  All four were decided by 6 points or less with two outright upsets by the Hornets.

Miami is 14-29 ATS in its last 43 games as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points.  The Heat are 2-15 ATS in their last 17 games as home favorites of 6.5 to 12 points.  Miami is 14-31 ATS in its last 45 games vs. a team with a losing record, including 3-15 ATS in its last 18 games when playing against a bad team (25-40% winning percentage).  They Heat are the classic team that plays to the level of their competition, and they won't be motivated at all to beat the Hornets for a 2nd time in 3 days.  Bet the Hornets Wednesday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Chicago Bulls +11.5

The Chicago Bulls have quietly gone 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall since losing Zach LaVine to injury.  It's no surprise nobody wants to trade for this guy.  The Bulls are playing better team basketball now and it is paying off.

The Bulls upset the Bucks 120-113 as 9.5-point dogs, upset the Pelicans 124-118 as 3-point dogs, crushed the Hornets 111-100 as 5-point favorites and rolled to a 121-112 victory at San Antonio as 2-point favorites.  Now the Bulls are catching too many points against the Bucks again tonight.

The Bucks will have questionable motivation here after being on the big stage and losing in the semifinals to the Pacers in the in-season tournament in their last game.  They won't be nearly as motivated here in their first game back from the tournament, which will help the Bulls keep this one close.

The Bulls are 3-3 SU & 4-2 ATS in their last six meetings with the Bucks which have all six been decided by 13 points or fewer, so they tend to take the Bucks to the wire every time.  Billy Donovan is 42-24 ATS as a road underdog of 6.5 to 12 points as a head coach.  Bet the Bulls Monday.

20* Nuggets/Clippers ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on Los Angeles PK

The Denver Nuggets are just kind of going through the motions right now after winning the NBA title last year.  With that title comes expectations that are very difficult to live up to.  The Nuggets are just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games overall.

The Los Angeles Clippers have gotten healthy and played up to their potential here in recent weeks with their loaded roster.  They are 6-3 SU in their last nine games overall with wins over the Warriors, Kings and Mavericks in their last three victories.

Now the Clippers have their sights set on revenge after losing each of their first two meetings this season with the Nuggets.  They only lost by 3 in Denver with a fully healthy Nuggets team.  But they were upset as 10.5-point home favorites when they took the short-handed Nuggets lightly.  They won't be taking them lightly tonight wanting revenge.  Bet the Clippers Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday UPSET SHOCKER on Brooklyn Nets +4

The Brooklyn Nets have been one of the most underrated teams in the NBA this season.  They are 10-9 SU & 14-4-1 ATS in their 19 games this season.  They are 4-2 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall with the two losses coming by a combined 3 points.

One of those losses came 145-147 in Atlanta on November 22nd, so you can bet they will be out for revenge against the Hawks tonight.  The Hawks won't have Jalen Johnson (14.1 PPG, 42.5% 3-pointers) this time around as he is out with injury.

While the Nets are one of the most underrated teams in the NBA, the Hawks are one of the most overrated.  They have gone 9-10 SU & 5-14 ATS in their 19 games this season and play zero defense.  The Hawks are 3-6 SU & 1-8 ATS in their last nine games overall.  They have really struggled since losing Johnson with their last three losses all coming by double-digits and their lone win coming by 2 points over the lowly Spurs.

Atlanta is 1-8 ATS after playing a road game this season.  Brooklyn is 10-2 ATS vs. poor defensive teams that allow 46% shooting or higher this season.  The Hawks are 1-8 ATS vs. good 3-point shooting teams making 36% or better this season.  Bet the Nets Wednesday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Cleveland Cavaliers -4

The Cleveland Cavaliers are finally healthy with the Big 4 of Mitchell, Garland, Allen and Mobley and a dangerous team when that's the case.  They are laying too short of a number here at home against the Orlando Magic tonight.

It's time to 'sell high' on the Magic.  They just had their 9-game winning streak snapped with a 101-129 road loss at Brooklyn last time out.  I always like fading teams the game after having a significant winning streak snapped because there always tends to be a hangover effect.  They aren't as motivated any more because they don't have a winning streak to protect.  But they are still getting a ton of respect due to winning nine of their last 10.

Cleveland owns Orlando, going 4-0 SU & 3-0-1 ATS in the last four meetings with both home wins coming by double-digits.  Cleveland is 4-0 SU & 3-1 ATS in its last four home meetings with Orlando with all four wins coming by 6 points or more and three by double-digits.  Bet the Cavaliers Wednesday.

20* Suns/Lakers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Phoenix +2

The Phoenix Suns want revenge from two narrow losses to the Lakers by a combined 8 points already this season.  They lost 95-100 as 6.5-point road dogs on October 26th and 122-119 as 2-point home favorites on November 10th.  There will get their revenge tonight with an outright victory.

The difference is that the Suns did not have Devin Booker for either of those first two meetings due to injury.  Booker means everything to this team averaging 27.9 points per game, 8.4 assists per game and 5.8 boards per game.  When he and KD (31.0 PPG) have been on the court at the same time, this team has been dangerous.

The Lakers are 0-8 ATS following an ATS win this season.  They are actually getting outscored by 16.4 points per game in this spot this season.  Bet the Suns Tuesday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Portland Trail Blazers +2

The Portland Trail Blazers got two key guards back from injury in Malcolm Brogdon and Scoot Henderson.  It's no surprise to me that they have been playing well since, and they have been an undervalued commodity in recent games due to their poor start to the season with all these injuries.

Indeed, the Blazers have gone 3-1 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  They beat Utah 121-105 as 3-point home dogs, only lost 102-108 at Milwaukee as 13-point dogs after blowing a double-digit 4th quarter lead, won outright at Indiana 114-110 as 12-point dogs and won outright at Cleveland 103-95 as 12-point dogs.

The Blazers aren't just covering they are destroying these spreads.  They have covered their last four games by a combined 62 points.  Now they are somehow underdogs to the Utah Jazz, who are without their two best players in Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson.

It's no wonder the Jazz are struggling going 2-6 SU in their last eight games overall.  It's also no wonder their offense is broken as they have scored 105 or fewer points in five of their last six games overall.  They are coming off a 90-101 loss at Minnesota which followed up a 91-105 loss at Memphis.

Utah is 6-18 ATS in its last 24 games as a home favorite of 6 points or less.  Wrong team favored here.  Bet the Blazers Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday UPSET SHOCKER on Indiana Pacers +3.5

The Indiana Pacers want revenge from their 132-142 loss at Miami on Thursday.  They don't have to wait long to get their revenge as they play again here just two days later Saturday.  The difference is the Heat will be missing their best defender and arguably their most important player in Bam Adebayo for the rematch.

While the Pacers will be locked in wanting revenge, the Heat will relax a little not being overly excited to try and beat this team again.  I think things will come even easier for the Pacers than they did in that first meeting without Adebayo.  The Pacers rank 1st in offensive rating this season and 1st in adjusted tempo.  Miami doesn't want to try to defend these guys again.

Miami is 14-27 ATS in its last 41 games as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points.  Plays on underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points (Indiana) - after scoring 120 points or more against an opponent after a combined score of 255 points or more are 41-11 (78.8%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Pacers Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Detroit Pistons +9.5

The Detroit Pistons not winning a single game in November has made some headlines lately.  Their 17-game losing streak dates back to October 30th.  With this media attention comes an opportunity for us to 'buy low' on the Pistons.  They will be desperate to end this skid tonight.

The Pistons were competitive in their 112-118 loss at New York last time out as 14.5-point underdogs, and they have been more competitive at home than on the road.  Asking the Cavaliers to win this game by double-digits on the road to beat us is asking too much.

The Cavaliers are 2-3 SU & 2-3 ATS in their last five games overall.  They lost by 33 to Miami at home, lost by 6 to the Lakers at home, beat the Raptors by just 3 at home and lost outright to the Blazers by 8 as 12-point home favorites.  They certainly aren't playing well enough to warrant being this big of a favorite on the road tonight.

Detroit is as healthy as they have been all season with both Ausar Thompson and Bojan Bogdanovic upgraded to probable tonight.  The time is now to 'buy low' on the Pistons.  Bet the Pistons Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Night BLOWOUT on Los Angeles Clippers -4.5

I love the spot for the Los Angeles Clippers tonight.  They will be out for revenge from a 120-114 loss at Golden State on Thursday.  Now they get the Warriors at home in the rematch so they don't have to wait long to get their revenge.

The Clippers were at a big disadvantage in that game at Golden State because they were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a shootout 131-117 road win at Sacramento the night before.  They didn't have much left in the tank and were still competitive.  Now, after having Friday off, I expect a much better effort from them in the rematch.

The Warriors won't be nearly as motivated to beat this team again.  Plus, the Warriors are missing two key players in Chris Paul and Gary Payton II, and Andrew Wiggins is questionable.  Meanwhile, the Clippers are fully healthy for this one and primed for a big effort.

The Warriors are 20-36 ATS in their last 56 road games.  Golden State is 5-15 ATS in its last 20 road games after going over the total in two consecutive games.  Home-court advantage has been huge in this series as the home team is 11-0 SU & 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings, including 8-0 SU & 8-0 ATS in the last eight meetings.  Enough said.  Bet the Clippers Saturday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Washington Wizards +11.5

The Orlando Magic have been the most profitable team to back in the NBA this season at 13-5 SU & 15-3 ATS.  But with that fast start comes lofty expectations that are going to be tough to live up to in the immediate future.  It's time to 'sell high' on the Magic tonight.

If the Magic were going to have a letdown, it would be tonight.  That's because they just beat this same Washington Wizards team 139-120 as 9.5-point home favorites on Wednesday.  How motivated are they going to be to beat this same team again?  The answer is not very.

The Wizards will be the more motivated team here for revenge.  The Magic aren't going to shoot as well as they did in that first meeting.  They shot 60.7% from the floor and an unsustainable 17-of-27 (63%) from 3-point range.

The Wizards have been more competitive on the road than they have been at home this season.  In their six road games prior to losing to the Magic, they went 5-1 ATS upsetting Detroit by 19 as 3-point road dogs, only losing by 3 at Milwaukee as 14-point dogs, only losing by 3 at Charlotte as 4-point dogs, only losing by 4 at Toronto as 8-point dogs, only losing by 8 at Brooklyn as 7-point dogs and upsetting Charlotte by 16 as 2.5-point dogs.  So the 19-point loss at Orlando was the aberration, and it was only due to the Magic shooting an unsustainable percentage.  

Plays on any team (Washington) - off a blowout loss by 15 points or more against an opponent that is off two straight games where both teams scored 115 or more are 55-18 (75.3%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Wizards Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Portland Trail Blazers +12

The Portland Trail Blazers got two key guards back from injury in Malcolm Brogdon and Scoot Henderson.  It's no surprise to me that they have been playing well since, and they have been an undervalued commodity in recent games due to their poor start to the season with all these injuries.

Indeed, the Blazers have gone 2-1 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three games overall.  They beat Utah 121-105 as 3-point home dogs, only lost 102-108 at Milwaukee as 13-point dogs after blowing a double-digit 4th quarter lead, and won outright at Indiana 114-110 as 12-point dogs.  Now they are once again catching too many points against the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight.

The Cavaliers are coming off a 23-point win over the Hawks which has them overvalued.  They lost by 33 at home to Miami, were upset by 6 at home by the Lakers and only beat the Raptors by 3 at home in their previous three games.  It's not like they are playing well enough right now to warrant being 12-point favorites here.  Bet the Blazers Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Phoenix Suns -2.5

The Phoenix Suns are rolling right now going 7-0 SU in their last seven games overall with all seven wins coming by 3 points or more.  Devin Booker is playing at an MVP level, and there's a good chance they get Kevin Durant back from injury tonight.

The Suns come in on two days' rest and will be the fresher team, which is the biggest reason for this play.  The Raptors will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a hard-fought 103-115 loss in Brooklyn last night.  The Raptors will also be playing their 6th game in 9 days in their 5th different city.  They will have nothing left in the tank for the Suns tonight.  Bet the Suns Wednesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Undervalued Underdog on Houston Rockets +4.5

The Houston Rockets are the most undervalued team in the NBA right now.  They have gone 8-3 SU and a perfect 11-0 ATS in their last 11 games overall.  Their only three losses came on the road by 6 at the Clippers, by 1 at the Lakers and by 5 at the Warriors.  They have beaten the Nuggets twice, the Lakers and the Kings twice during this run.

The Rockets play team basketball without the superstar names.  That's what makes them such an undervalued commodity.  The Mavericks have the big names in Doncic and Irving, but not much help outside of them.  And Doncic has a banged up thumb right now that he is expected to play through tonight.

The Mavericks are 2-4 SU & 2-4 ATS in their last six games overall with their two wins coming over the lowly Wizards and the Lakers by 3 who were tired playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  They lost by 21 at the Pelicans, by 7 at the Bucks, by 16 at home against the Kings and by 19 at the Clippers.  They aren't playing well at all right now and don't warrant being 4.5-point favorites here.

Dallas is 24-40 ATS in its last 64 games as a favorite.  Bet the Rockets Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday UPSET SHOCKER on Oklahoma City Thunder +3.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder want revenge from a 120-95 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the play-in round of the playoffs last year that ended their season.  This is their first shot at revenge this season, and I expect them to make the most of it tonight.

The Thunder are fully healthy right now and are a dangerous team when that's the case.  They have gone 6-1 SU & 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall with their only loss coming by 4 points to the Philadelphia 76ers, who are one of the best teams in the NBA this season.  Five of their six wins came by double-digits while the other was a 7-point win at Golden State.

The spot really favors the Thunder not only because of the revenge factor, but also because they are the more rested team playing just their 2nd game in 6 days tonight.  The Thunder are 12-4 ATS in all games this season and have been covering machines over the last three seasons.  Oklahoma City is 12-1 ATS in its last 13 road games vs. good shooting teams that make 48% or better.  Bet the Thunder Tuesday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Chicago Bulls +14

The Boston Celtics are getting too much respect from the books tonight as massive 14-point favorites over the Chicago Bulls.  That's especially the case considering the Celtics will be without Kristaps Porzingis tonight with starting PG Jrue Holiday questionable as well.

The Bulls are undervalued right now after a 5-13 SU & 5-12-1 ATS start this season and this is a good 'buy low' spot on them.  They always seem to play the Celtics tough, and there's no doubt they will be up for this game tonight.

Indeed, the Bulls are 8-1 ATS in their last nine meetings with the Celtics with five outright wins as underdogs.  Three of their four losses straight up have come by 8 points or less.  They will stay within this inflated number again and keep their series dominance going in this head-to-head matchup.  Bet the Bulls Tuesday.

15* NBA Sunday Night BLOWOUT on Minnesota Timberwolves -6.5

The Memphis Grizzlies rank 28th in offensive rating while the Minnesota Timberwolves rank 3rd in defensive rating.  With all the injuries the Grizzlies are dealing with right now, points have been very hard to come by for them.  The Grizzlies were held to 100 points by the Celtics, 91 points by the Rockets and 89 points by the Suns in their last three games to fall to 3-12 SU & 5-10 ATS this season.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are 11-4 SU & 8-5-2 ATS this season and have been one of the more undervalued teams in the NBA.  But they are coming off a bad home loss to the Kings, which will have them refocused and not taking the Grizzlies lightly today.

Memphis is 8-25 ATS in its last 33 games as an underdog.  Bet the Timberwolves Sunday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Portland Trail Blazers +13

Giannis, Brook Lopez and Damian Lillard combined for 101 points last game and the Bucks still were life and death with one of the worst teams in the NBA in the Washington Wizards in a 131-128 win as 13.5-point home favorites.  They lost Kris Middleton to an Achilles injury in that game and he won't play today.  They will be life and death with the Blazers again today because they just don't have much help outside of those Big 3.

The Blazers are coming off a 121-105 upset win over the Jazz as 3-point home underdogs.  They are getting healthier and playing better.  Now they are rested and ready to go after having the last three days off.  I expect the Blazers to give a big effort today in this sleepy afternoon game for the Bucks, who won't have their usual home-court advantage due to this early start time.

Plays against favorites (Milwaukee) - after two straight games where both teams scored 115 points or more against an opponent that scored 120 points or more last game are 52-21 (71.2%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Blazers Sunday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Brooklyn Nets -3.5

I love the spot for the Brooklyn Nets tonight.  They will be highly motivated for a victory coming off three consecutive losses.  They are also motivated because one of those losses came 122-115 at Miami on November 14th.

The Nets also have a big rest advantage over the Heat tonight.  The Nets come in on two days' rest and will be playing just their 3rd game in 10 days.  Meanwhile, the Heat will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 98-100 loss at New York last night.  This will also be the 9th game in 15 days for the Heat, which is about as tough as it gets in the NBA.  Eight of those nine games were on the road so there has been a ton of travel involved.

Jimmy Butler played 36 minutes, Bam Adebaoy 34, Josh Richardson 34 and Kyle Lowry 33 last night.  The Heat are already short-handed without Tyler Herro and likely without Duncan Robinson again tonight.  I also wouldn't be surprised to see them sit Butler and/or Adebayo tonight given the tough rest spot.

Brooklyn is 17-7 ATS in its last 24 games when revenging a road loss.  Miami is 13-29 ATS in its last 42 games vs. a team with a losing record.  Bet the Nets Saturday.

15* NBA Friday UPSET SHOCKER on Houston Rockets +3

The Houston Rockets are the most underrated team in the NBA right now.  They are 7-3 SU & a perfect 10-0 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  The three losses all went to the wire and were all on the road losing by 6 at the Clippers, by 1 at the Lakers and by 5 at the Warriors.  They are a perfect 7-0 SU & 7-0 ATS in their last seven home games.

The Rockets are back home where they just crushed Memphis by 20.  They will be highly motivated to beat the defending champion Nuggets tonight.  The Nuggets just aren't the same without Jamal Murray and have struggled without him in recent seasons.  The Nuggets are 3-4 SU but 0-7 ATS in their last seven games overall without Murray with the three wins all coming by 4 points or fewer.

Denver is 1-9 ATS vs. good passing teams averaging 23 or more assists per game this season.  Houston is 10-0 ATS vs. good passing teams averaging 23 or more assists per game this season.  I fully expect Houston to win this game outright.  Bet the Rockets Friday.

15* Heat/Knicks ESPN ANNIHILATOR on New York -5.5

I love the spot for the New York Knicks tonight.  They are rested and ready to go after having the last three days off following a road loss at Minnesota which was their 5th consecutive road game.  They needed the rest, and they will far back here on Black Friday with a blowout win over the Miami Heat.

The Heat are getting a lot of respect now after winning nine of their last 10 against a very soft schedule.  They are coming off a blowout win at Cleveland, but the Cavaliers were on the 2nd of a back-to-back after beating the 76ers in OT on the road the night before.

The Heat have two key starters questionable to play tonight in Bam Adebayo and Duncan Robinson and may be short-handed.  They already lack depth as it is without Tyler Herro.  Meanwhile, the Knicks are fully healthy.

New York is 10-1 ATS in its last 11 games after scoring 100 points or less last game.  Miami is 2-11 ATS in its last 13 games after allowing 105 points or less in two consecutive games.  Home-court advantage has been big in this series as the home team is 5-0 SU in the last five meetings with four of those five wins coming by 6 points or more.  Bet the Knicks Friday.

15* NBA Friday Night BLOWOUT on Phoenix Suns -7.5

The Memphis Grizzlies are an absolute mess right now with all their injuries.  They are 3-11 SU & 5-9 ATS this season.  They are without Morant, Smart, Tillman, Kennard, Adams, Clarke, LaRavia and could be without Bane tonight.

The Phoenix Suns are getting healthier and forming some chemistry right now.  They are 5-0 in their last five games overall, and I expect them to handle the short-handed Grizzlies tonight.

Memphis is 8-24 ATS in its last 32 games as an underdog.  Bet the Suns Friday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night BLOWOUT on Houston Rockets -4.5

The Houston Rockets are one of the most undervalued teams in the NBA right now.  They are 6-3 SU & 9-0 ATS in their last nine games overall with their only losses all coming on the road to three of the best teams in the NBA in the Clippers by 6, the Lakers by 1 and the Warriors by 5.

Now the Rockets are back home where they are 6-0 SU & 6-0 ATS in their last six home games.  They host one of the worst teams in the NBA in the Memphis Grizzlies, who are 3-10 SU & 5-8 ATS this season.  The Grizzlies have the worst injury situation in the entire NBA which is the biggest reason for their struggles.

Memphis is 1-18 ATS in its last 19 games as a road underdog of 6 points or less.  Bet the Rockets Wednesday.

15* Jazz/Lakers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Utah +8

The Utah Jazz are playing well going 2-2 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  Their two losses came to the Suns by 3 points apiece with Devin Booker and Kevin Durant both healthy.  Now they will give LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are run for their money tonight.

The Lakers are getting too much respect now after winning five of their last six games coming in.  But three of the five were decided by 6 points or less, and it has mostly come against a very soft schedule.  They lost by 15 at home to the Kings for their lone loss.  Their only wins by margin came against arguably the two worst teams in the NBA in the Grizzlies and Blazers, and they also only beat the Blazers by 6.  They beat the Rockets by 1 last time out.

The Jazz should be the fresher team here too playing just their 3rd game in 7 days, while the Lakers will be playing their 5th game in 8 days.  The Jazz are 38-18 ATS in their last 56 games as underdogs.  Utah is 32-13 ATS in its last 45 games vs. a team with a winning record.

Plays against favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (LA Lakers) - off a close home win by 3 points or less, winning between 51-60% of their games on the season are 22-4 (84.6%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Jazz Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday Night BLOWOUT on Milwaukee Bucks -9

The Milwaukee Bucks are starting to form chemistry now with Damian Lillard in the fold and they are playing up to their potential.  The Bucks have gone 4-0 SU & 3-1 ATS in their last four games overall with their lone ATS loss coming by a half-point in a 9-point home win over the Bulls as 9.5-point favorites.  They beat the Mavs by 7 as 2-point home favorites on the 2nd of a back-to-back.  They also beat the Raptors by 16 and the Hornets by 31 on the road.

Now they hit the road again and face arguably the worst team in the entire NBA in the Washington Wizards.  The Wizards are 2-10 this season.  The Wizards rank 25th in defensive efficiency and are allowing 122.9 points per game and 49.6% shooting this season.  They also rank just 24th in offensive efficiency and 27th in net rating.

The Bucks are 3-0 SU & 2-1 ATS in their last three meetings with the Wizards with two wins coming by double-digits.  Milwaukee is 39-20 ATS in its last 59 games as a road favorite.  The Wizards just lost by 13 to the Mavericks and by 21 to the Knicks at home in their last two games to fall to 1-4 SU & 1-4 ATS at home this season.  It will be more of the same here against the Bucks with another double-digit home loss.  Bet the Bucks Monday.

20* NBA Sunday No-Doubt Rout on Indiana Pacers -4

The Indiana Pacers undervalued to start the season opening 7-4 SU & 7-4 ATS.  They score 126.5 points per game while ranking 2nd in pace and 1st in offensive efficiency.  Playing at home today, the Pacers will force the Magic into an up-tempo game.  They are forcing everyone into up-tempo games, which is beneficial to them considering they are the best offensive team in the NBA, so more possessions equals more points for the Pacers.

This is a great spot for the Pacers as they are rested and ready to go after having the last four days off.  Meanwhile, the Magic will be playing their 4th road game in 6 days and are a tired team right now, especially since they are short-handed due to injury.  The Magic lost by 20 at Brooklyn and then upset the Bulls twice in three days, but the Bulls are terrible and the Magic are getting respect now for those two wins when they shouldn't be.

Orlando is 12-32 ATS in its last 44 games following two consecutive wins by 6 points or fewer.  The Pacers are 15-5 ATS in their last 20 November home games.  The Pacers are 4-1 SU & 3-2 ATS in their last five meetings with the Magic.  Bet the Pacers Sunday.

15* NBA Eastern Conference ANNIHILATOR on Miami Heat -2.5

The Miami Heat are rolling right now with seven consecutive victories.  They play a struggling Chicago Bulls team that is in the midst of a ton of trade rumors right now.  The Bulls have lost three consecutive games, including back-to-back losses to Orlando at home.

The spot really favors the Heat tonight.  They had yesterday off while the Bulls will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back following a 97-103 loss to the Magic last night.  This will also be the 5th game in 7 days for the Bulls, which is one of the toughest spots a team can be in in the NBA.  Bet the Heat Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Night BLOWOUT on New York Knicks -6.5

The New York Knicks have been one of the most underrated teams in the NBA over the last two seasons.  That has been the case again this season as they are 7-5 SU & 7-3-2 ATS in their 12 games.  They have a great bench and guys like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle just don't get the respect they deserve.

The Charlotte Hornets are a dumpster fire again this season and battling injuries.  No starter other than La'Melo Ball scored more than 11 points last night in a 130-99 home loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.  Now I expect them to get blown out by the Knicks, who are coming off a 120-99 road win at Washington last night.

The Knicks just beat the Hornets 129-107 as 10.5-point home favorites on Sunday.  They will cover this short 6.5-point spread in the rematch as well with the Hornets showing nothing worth betting on of late.

The Knicks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall.  New York is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 games as a road favorite.  The Knicks are 18-5 ATS in their last 23 road games vs. a team with a losing record.  New York is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 road games vs. poor teams that are outscored by 3-plus points per game.  Bet the Knicks Saturday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Sacramento Kings -8.5

The Sacramento Kings have been rolling since getting De'Aaron Fox back from injury as he means everything to this team.  In the two games back they crushed Cleveland 132-120 as 1-point home underdogs and upset the Lakers 125-110 as 1-point road dogs.  Now they take on the hapless San Antonio Spurs tonight, and another double-digit blowout in their favor is going to be the result.

The Spurs are 0-6 SU & 0-5-1 ATS in their last six games overall with their last five losses coming by an average of 22.0 points per game.  Injuries have set them back as they are without both Devin Vassell and Tre Jones.  Plus, they just don't play any defense and simply don't have much talent aside from Wembenyana.

The Kings are 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings with the Spurs with their last three wins all coming by double-digits.  San Antonio is 3-14 ATS in its last 17 games following four or more consecutive ATS losses.  Sacramento is 8-0 ATS in its last eight road games vs. terrible defensive teams that allow 48% shooting or higher.  Bet the Kings Friday.

20* NBA Western Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Oklahoma City Thunder -2.5

The Golden State Warriors are going to be without their two most important players tonight.  Stephen Curry (30.7 PPG) is what keeps the Warriors a contender in the West.  Well, they are going to be without him tonight.  They will also be without Draymond Green, who is their best defender and important in screen and rolls with Curry and as a passer.  They are one of the worst teams in the NBA without these two.

I think the Warriors are getting too much respect here because they were able to hang with the Timberwolves in a 3-point loss without these two in their last game.  That was clearly a letdown spot for the Timberwolves after beating the Warriors two days earlier, and knowing they didn't have to face Curry in the rematch.  Then Green and Thompson got tossed right away and Minnesota simply took their foot off the gas.

The Oklahoma City Thunder won't make the same mistake tonight.  They are in a great spot here as they are fully healthy and playing their best basketball of the season.  They are 4-1 SU in their last five games overall and 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall.  They also want revenge from a 141-139 home loss to the Warriors as 6-point dogs on November 3rd just two weeks ago.  Well, they didn't have their star in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for that game, while the Warriors were fully healthy and they still only lost by 2 on a buzzer-beater by the Warriors.

This game will also be on National TV so we'll get a fully-focused effort from the Thunder.  Oklahoma City is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 games when revenging a close loss by 3 points or less.  Plays on road teams where the line is +3 to -3 (OKC) - off a blowout home win by 20 points or more, a good team winning 60-75% of their games on the season are 22-3 (88%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Thunder Thursday.

15* NBA Tuesday Night BLOWOUT on Dallas Mavericks -3.5

The Dallas Mavericks are 8-2 this season and showing what they are capable of when Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are on the court at the same time.  They have changed their offensive philosophy and are getting off shots quick so defenses don't have time to adjust, and Doncic is in the best shape of his life to accommodate it.

The Mavericks are scoring 124.1 points per game this season.  They rank 9th in pace and 2nd in offensive efficiency, so it's clearly working.  They just beat the Clippers 144-126 at home which was followed up by a 136-124 win at New Orleans.  They get to play the Pelicans again tonight, and it's going to be more of the same given the current state of their opponent.

The Pelicans are one of the most injury-ravaged teams in the NBA right now.  They are without CJ McCollum, Jose Alvarado, Trey Murphy III and Larry Nance Jr.  They could also be without Herbert Jones, who is questionable.  There is too much on the shoulders of Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, and these two aren't capable of beating the Mavericks on their own.

The Pelicans are 0-5 SU & 0-5 ATS in their last five games overall with four losses by 12 points or more and the five losses coming by an average of 14.8 points per game.  New Orleans is 0-9 ATS in its last nine games vs. explosive offensive teams that score 120-plus points pre game.  Bet the Mavericks Tuesday.

15* NBA Monday PLAY OF THE DAY on New York Knicks +9

The New York Knicks have quietly gone 5-3 SU & 6-2 ATS in their last eight games overall.  They haven't lost a single game by more than 9 points all season, and they aren't about to start now.  

The books have set this number too high because the Knicks are playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, but they blew out the Hornets 129-107 at 12:00 PM EST Sunday and now don't play until night on Monday. They also had three days off prior to that game and rested their starters in the 4th quarter of that blowout Sunday.  They will still be fresh for this game Monday, and they want revenge from a 104-108 home loss to the Celtics in their first meeting this season.

The Celtics are getting too much respect here off a pair of blowout home wins over the Nets and Raptors.  This is a big step up in class for them tonight.  They never blow out the Knicks, going 1-3 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four meetings with New York.  The Knicks have them figured out, and they will keep this one close again tonight if not win outright.

New York is 10-1 ATS in its last 11 games following a blowout win by 20 points or more.  The Knicks are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 road games following three or more consecutive wins.  Asking the Celtics to beat the Knicks by double-digits to beat us tonight is asking too much.  Bet the Knicks Monday.

15* NBA Sunday UPSET SHOCKER on Oklahoma City Thunder +3

The Phoenix Suns are going to be fade material until they get healthy.  Bradley Beal is working his way back from injury, Devin Booker remains out and Eric Gordon is questionable after missing the last game.  There's just not enough depth on this team to be missing these guys, or not having them at 100%.

The Suns are 2-4 SU & 1-4-1 ATS in their last six games overall which includes upset losses to the Spurs (twice) and Lakers all at home.  Their only two wins during this stretch came against the lowly Bulls and Pistons.  Now they take a big step up in class here against an Oklahoma City Thunder team that I believe is a contender in the West when healthy.

Well, the Thunder are healthy right now beating the Hawks and Cavaliers at home before a disappointing loss at Sacramento.  They'll come back highly motivated for a victory after that loss to the Kings, and they should not be underdogs here given the current state of the Suns.

The Thunder are 42-22 ATS in their last 64 games after scoring 105 points or less.  Oklahoma City is 37-23 ATS in its last 60 games as an underdog.  Bet the Thunder Sunday.

15* NBA Sunday Undervalued Underdog on Houston Rockets +4.5

The Houston Rockets are grossly undervalued right now.  They are 5-0 SU & 5-0 ATS in their last five games overall despite being underdogs in three of those five games.  They have wins by 9, 18, 25, 34 and 3 points as these games have rarely even been close to the spread.

Now the Rockets will stay hot tonight and won't have a letdown considering the defending champion Denver Nuggets are coming to town.  The Nuggets have been fortunate to play a home-heavy schedule to this point with six of their first nine games at home.  They are 1-2 ATS on the road with a 4-point win over lowly Memphis and a 21-point loss at Minnesota included.

The Nuggets aren't at full strength right now as Jamal Murray is sidelined with a hamstring injury.  They have been dominant when Murray and Jokic have been on the court at the same time, but they have been vulnerable the past several seasons when Murray has been out.  They are vulnerable tonight against the red-hot Rockets.  Bet the Rockets Sunday.

15* NBA Saturday PLAY OF THE DAY on Toronto Raptors +8.5

The Toronto Raptors have turned it around and been very impressive in their last four games.  They have gone 3-1 SU & 3-1 ATS in their last four games overall with their lone loss coming to the 76ers on the 2nd of a back-to-back.  The 76ers have just one loss this season and it came by a single point.

Toronto beat Milwaukee 130-111 as 4.5-point home dogs.  The Raptors went on the road and topped San Antonio 123-116 as 3.5-point favorites.  They then upset the Dallas Mavericks 127-116 as 4.5-point dogs.  Now they are rested and ready to go after having the last two days off, plus they will be playing just their 2nd game in 6 days here.

Meanwhile, Boston will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after beating the Nets 121-107 at home last night.  The starters had to play most the game in that one as it wasn't decided until late in the 4th quarter.  It will also be the 5th game in 8 days for the Celtics, who shouldn't be laying this big of a number given the Raptors' rest advantage.

Four of the last five meetings between Boston and Toronto have been decided by 6 points or fewer.  Bet the Raptors Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Late-Night BAILOUT on Oklahoma City Thunder -1.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder just got their star in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander back in the lineup and promptly pulled off two consecutive upset victories over the Hawks 126-117 and the Cavaliers 128-120.  They are as healthy as they have been all season and a dangerous team when that's the case.

The Sacramento Kings are still without their star in De'Aaron Fox, and they have been dreadful without him.  The Kings are 1-3 SU & 1-3 ATS in their last four games without Fox.  That includes consecutive blowout losses to the Rockets by 25 and 18 points, as well as a narrow 3-point win over the Blazers as 8-point favorites last time out.  This is now a big step up in class here for the Kings against the Thunder tonight.  It won't go well for the Kings here.  

Plays against home teams were the line is +3 to -3 (Sacramento) - after losing by 42 or more points total against the spread in their last five games in the first half of the season are 25-5 (83.3%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Thunder Friday.

20* NBA BLOWOUT GAME OF THE WEEK on Houston Rockets -2.5

The Houston Rockets are grossly undervalued right now.  They are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last five games overall despite being underdogs in three of those four games.  They have wins by 9, 18, 25 and 34 points as these games aren't even coming close to the spreads.

Now the Rockets will stay hot tonight against the injury-ravaged New Orleans Pelicans.  The Pelicans are 0-3 SU & 0-3 ATS in their last three games overall losing by 18, 18 and 21 points.  They are without CJ McCollum, Jose Alvarado, Naji Marshall and Trey Murphy III.  Both Zion Williamson and Herbert Jones are questionable tonight as well.

New Orleans is 16-32 ATS in its last 48 games vs. a team with a winning record.  The Pelicans are 6-17 ATS in their last 21 games vs. good teams outscoring opponents by 3-plus points per game.  The Pelicans are 2-12 ATS in their last 14 road games when playing against a marginal winning (51-60%) team.

Plays on all teams where the line is +3 to -3 (Houston) - after beating the spread by 42 or more points in their last five games in the first half of the season are 44-18 (71%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Plays on any team (Houston) - vs. division opponents, off three or more consecutive upset wins as underdogs are 48-18 (72.7%) ATS since 1996.  Bet the Rockets Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Brooklyn Nets +12

The Brooklyn Nets are 4-4 SU but 7-0-1 ATS this season.  They haven't lost a single game by more than 10 points and three of their four losses came by 5 points or fewer.  They have been competitive in every game, and they will be competitive against the Celtics tonight.

The Nets will be motivated to revenge that 10-point defeat as it came at the hands of the Celtics on November 4th less than a week ago.  Keep in mind the Nets were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back in that game, while the Celtics were coming in on two days' rest so they had a huge advantage.  They don't have that same advantage tonight.

The Celtics aren't playing well right now going 1-2 SU & 0-2-1 ATS in their last three games overall.  They were upset on the road by both the Timberwolves and 76ers plus pushing in that 10-point win over the Nets.  The Celtics are back home for the first time since November 1st and there are distractions they will be dealing with back home after a 3-game road trip.  Bet the Nets Friday.

20* NBA Wednesday UPSET SHOCKER on Oklahoma City Thunder +2.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder gave the Golden State Warriors all they wanted in a 139-141 loss without their best player in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.  He returned to lead them to a 126-117 home win over the surging Atlanta Hawks last time out.

Now the Thunder are rested and ready to go playing just their 2nd game in 5 days with their best player back.  They have been the single-most undervalued team in the NBA over the last three years and are off to an impressive 5-2 ATS start this season.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are 3-4 SU & 2-5 ATS this season and remain overvalued here as road favorites.  This is a potential letdown spot for the Cavaliers after beating the Warriors 115-104 at home last time out.  They are getting healthier too and will be a bet on team soon, just not tonight.

Oklahoma City is 27-8 ATS in its last 35 games vs. poor offensive teams scoring 108 points per game or fewer.  The Thunder have won each of their last two meetings with the Cavaliers 112-100 at home and 108-105 on the road, which came earlier this season as 2.5-point dogs.  Now they are 2.5-point home dogs in the rematch in a game I expect them to win outright.  Bet the Thunder Wednesday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Utah Jazz +8.5

The Utah Jazz are coming off a tough 2-point home loss to the Orlando Magic.  That followed up a 133-109 home win over Memphis the previous night as it was the 2nd of a back-to-back for them.  They also played the defending champion Nuggets tough in a 102-110 road loss as 8.5-point road dogs in their previous game.  This team is trending in the right direction.

Speaking of the defending champion Nuggets, the Timberwolves just beat them 110-89 at home to avenge their playoff loss to the Nuggets last season.  They will be flat as a pancake off such a big win.  I don't expect them to play with the kind of intensity tonight that it's going to take to put away the Jazz by 9-plus points.

Home-court advantage meant nothing in this series last season.  The road team went 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS with the Jazz winning outright as 4.5-point road dogs and outright as 8-point road dogs.  Utah is 21-7 ATS in its last 28 games after losing two of its last three games.  The Jazz are 35-15 ATS in their last 50 games as underdogs.  Bet the Jazz Saturday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE WEEK on Orlando Magic +4

The Orlando Magic will be out for revenge from a 103-106 road loss to the Lakers are 3-point underdogs on October 30th just a few days ago.  Now they are 4-point home underdogs in the rematch, which is too big of an adjustment.

I know the Magic will be without Wendell Carter Jr., but they are a deep team and can handle the loss.  The Lakers are without Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura and could be without Taurean Prince tonight.  They aren't a very deep team and can't afford these losses.

While the Magic will be highly motivated for revenge, the Lakers won't be that motivated at all to beat the Magic for the 2nd time in a week.  That's especially the case considering it's also a massive letdown spot for the Lakers coming off a 130-125 (OT) win over the Clippers that ended an 11-game losing streak in the series.  The Lakers will be flat as a pancake tonight.  Bet the Magic Saturday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +9.5

The Miami Heat needed the play-in round just to make the playoffs as a No. 8 seed last year.  They struggled in the regular season and were one of the biggest money burners in the NBA.  But they turned it on in the playoffs to make it all the way to the NBA Finals.  Postseason Miami is much better than regular season Miami.

That is playing out in the early going again this season.  The Heat whiffed on Damian Lillard while also losing two key role players in Gabe Vincent and Max Strus in the offseason.  The Heat are 1-4 SU & 0-4-1 ATS through five games with their lone win coming by a single point at home against the lowly Detroit Pistons as 9.5-point favorites.  They lost by 8 at Boston, by 16 at Minnesota and by 8 at Milwaukee.  They were also upset as 6.5-point home favorites by the Nets.

I know the Wizards are rebuilding and not very good, but Miami cannot be expected to win by double-digits against anyone right now, which is what it's going to take to beat us.  The Wizards have played a tough schedule with their three losses to Indiana, Boston and Atlanta, and they covered in that loss to the Hawks.  They also beat Memphis at home.  They can hang with the Heat tonight.

Each of the last four meetings between Washington and Miami were decided by 8 points or less.  Six of the last seven meetings were decided by 8 points or less as well.  Miami is 2-14 ATS in its last 16 games as a home favorite of 6.5 to 12 points.  Bet the Wizards Friday.

15* NBA Thursday PLAY OF THE DAY on Orlando Magic +1

This is a good spot to back the Orlando Magic.  They are coming off consecutive losses to the Lakers and Clippers on the road, which was a tough spot playing them on back-to-back days.  Those are also two of the best teams in the NBA.  Now the Magic take a big step down in class here against the Utah Jazz.  They are rested and ready to go playing just their 3rd game in 6 days, and they are fully healthy.

The spot couldn't be much worse for the Jazz.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  They beat Memphis last night, but everyone is beating Memphis as the Grizzlies are still in search of their first victory.  The Jazz won't have a whole lot left in the tank for the Magic tonight.

The Magic are 21-10 ATS in their last 31 non-conference games.  The Jazz are 6-18 ATS in their last 24 games as home favorite of 6 points or fewer.  Orlando is 17-6 ATS in its last 23 games following two consecutive road games.  Bet the Magic Thursday.

20* Clippers/Lakers ESPN No-Brainer on Los Angeles Clippers +5.5

I took a bad number here as it moved to +7 shortly after I released it on the news that both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are questionable to play tonight due to rest.  I still think the Clippers can be competitive with the Lakers if one or both sit.

The Clippers are 11-0 SU & 10-1 ATS in their last 11 meetings with the Lakers.  It's rare you get the opportunity to back them as underdogs to the Lakers, and the only reason we are tonight is due to the rest situation and the Clippers playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a 118-102 win over the Magic last night.  But that was a blowout and the starters rested late in the 4th quarter and will still be fresh if they play tonight, plus there's no travel involved getting to stay at home here.

This is a fade of the Lakers more than anything.  The Lakers are 2-2 SU & 0-4 ATS this season with their two wins coming 100-95 at home over the Suns, who were playing without both Booker and Beal, and 106-103 at home over the Magic who were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.  They haven't blown out anyone and aren't going to blow out the Clippers tonight.  Bet the Clippers Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Night BLOWOUT on Milwaukee Bucks -4.5

It was going to take some time for Giannis, Lillard and the Bucks to gel.  Now that they have three games under their belts, I like the prospects of this team moving forward.  The Giants/Lillard pick and roll is pretty much unstoppable.

The Toronto Raptors are clearly one of the worst teams in the NBA this season.  They lost Fred VanVleet in the offseason and their offense ranks dead last in the NBA in efficiency.  They are scoring just 99.5 points per game on 42.5% shooting this season, which is terrible in today's NBA.

The Raptors are 1-3 SU this season and lost by 7 to the 76ers and by 8 to the Blazers in their last two home games coming in.  That's a really bad loss to Portland because they are also one of the worst teams in the NBA.  This will be their toughest test yet.

Milwaukee is 37-17 ATS in its last 54 games as a road favorite.  Bet the Bucks Wednesday.

20* NBA GAME OF THE WEEK on San Antonio Spurs +7.5

The San Antonio Spurs took both the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets to the wire in their first two games this season.  But they were blasted by 40 points on the road to the Los Angeles Clippers last time out.  Now it's time to 'buy low' on the Spurs catching 7.5 points against the Phoenix Suns.

Conversely, it's time to 'sell high' on the Suns after opening 3-0 ATS through their first three games.  It's going to catch up with them not having Devin Booker and Bradley Beal because this team doesn't have much talent outside the Big 3 in those two and Durant.  They shouldn't be favored by 7.5 points here over the Spurs without Booker and Beal tonight.

Phoenix is 32-54 ATS in its last 86 home games following a win by 20 points or more.  Plays on road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points (San Antonio) - after scoring 95 points or less against an opponent that scored 125 points or more are 38-13 (74.5%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Bet the Spurs Tuesday.

15* NBA Western Conference ANNIHILATOR on New Orleans Pelicans -3.5

The New Orleans Pelicans have been dominant when Zion Williams, CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram have been healthy at the same time.  They had the best record in the West last season before Zion went down.  They are off to a 2-0 SU & 2-0 ATS start this season, winning 111-104 at Memphis and 96-87 at home over the Knicks.

While the Pelicans are rested and ready to go tonight playing just their 2nd game in 5 days, the Golden State Warriors will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd road game in 4 days.  They won't have much left in the tank for the Pelicans tonight, and don't be surprised to see them rest a starter or two.

The home team went 4-0 SU in four meetings between the Warriors and Pelicans last season with the home team winning by 9 points or more in all four.  Golden State is 4-13 ATS in its last 17 games as a road dog of 6 points or less and was one of the worst road teams in the NBA last season.  Bet the Pelicans Monday.

15* NBA Monday Night BLOWOUT on Milwaukee Bucks -5

The Milwaukee Bucks will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back tonight, but not all back-to-backs are created equal.  They were blasted 127-110 at home by the Hawks last night, so they will be motivated to bounce back with a victory.  There's no travel involved as they are home again tonight, and the blowout nature of that loss meant the Bucks didn't play their starters much in the 4th quarter.  They should still be fresh and pissed off to bounce back.

Adding to their motivation is the fact that they were knocked out of the playoffs in the 1st round by the Miami Heat last year.  They want revenge, and they could have easily been overlooking the Hawks yesterday and looking ahead to this revenge game.

The Heat are one of the most overvalued teams in the NBA this season because of their historic run to the NBA Finals as an 8th seed.  They are much worse in the regular season than they are in the playoffs, needing the play-in round just to get into the playoffs last year.  They struck out on Damian Lillard in the offseason, and now he's with the Bucks.  The Heat just lack talent overall especially after losing Gabe Vincent and Max Strus.

Miami is 1-2 SU & 0-2-1 ATS this season with their lone win coming 103-102 at home as 9.5-point favorites against Detroit.  They then lost by 8 as 8-point dogs at Boston and by 16 as 8.5-point dogs at Minnesota.  They are without two key role players in Caleb Martin and Josh Richardson, leaving too much on Jimmy Butler's shoulders.  They are relying on aging veterans Kyle Lowry and Kevin Love.  Their only good three healthy players are Butler, Adebayo and Herro, who is making his way back from injury.  This is a team I want to fade early in the season.  

Milwaukee is 16-6 ATS in its last 22 games as a home favorite of 6 points or less.  Plays on favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points (Milwaukee) - off an upset loss as a favorite, in the first 6 games of the season, a playoff team from last season that lost 4 or more of their final 5 games are 54-22 (71.1%) ATS since 1996.  Bet the Bucks Monday.

15* NBA Eastern Conference ANNIHILATOR on Indiana Pacers -2.5

The Indiana Pacers are one of the most talented young teams in the NBA this season.  They brought back all their key pieces from last season including Haliburton, Mathurin and Turner.  They added Denver's key 6th man in Bruce Brown and Obi Toppin from the Knicks.

The Pacers are off an running with a 143-120 home win over the Wizards as 5-point favorites and a 125-113 road win at Cleveland as 3-point favorites.  There's value on the Pacers are only 2.5-point home favorites to the Chicago Bulls tonight.  The Pacers rank 1st in offensive efficiency and 3rd in pace through two games.

The Bulls are 1-2 SU & 0-3 ATS this season with their lone win coming by a single point in OT at home against the Raptors where they needed a late comeback just to force OT.  The Bulls lost 104-124 as 2.5-point home favorites to OKC and 102-118 as 2.5-point road favorites at Detroit.  This is a bad Chicago team relying on a bunch of veterans that are pair their primes.  There's not much to like about this team, and Billy Donovan may be the first coach fired.

Indiana went 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in its final three meetings with Chicago last season.  The Bulls are 6-17 ATS in their last 23 games following a road loss.  Indiana is 17-7 ATS in its last 24 games when playing just its 2nd game in 5 days.  Bet the Pacers Monday.

15* Lakers/Kings NBA Late-Night BAILOUT on Sacramento -2.5

Getting the Sacramento Kings as a short home favorite over the Los Angeles Lakers is a discount.  The Lakers were blasted by the Nuggets 119-107 on the road in their opener.  They needed a big 4th quarter comeback to beat the Suns 100-95 at home despite the Suns being without both Devin Booker and Bradley Beal.  The Lakers aren't hitting on all cylinders in the early going, and we'll fade them here today with LeBron James on a minutes restriction early.

The Sacramento Kings brought back 10 players that won the Pacific Division and took the Warriors to 7 games in the playoffs last year.  They brought back all five starters.  They are healthy to start the season and blasted Utah 130-114 on the road in their opener.  Now we get the chance to 'buy low' on the Kings after losing 114-122 at home to the Warriors last time out.  They simply hat an off shooting night at 43.6% while the Warriors were on fire at 55.2%.  The Lakers don't shoot it like the Warriors do.

The Kings went 3-1 SU & 3-1 ATS against the Lakers last season with their lone loss coming by 2 points, and all three wins coming by 5 points or more.  The Kings are 15-4 ATS in their last 19 games following a home loss.  Bet the Kings Sunday.

15* NBA Sunday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +4.5

I like backing teams early in the season with a lot of chemistry.  The Oklahoma City Thunder have the best young nucleus in the entire NBA.  They made the play-in round last year and are in line for bigger things this year.

The Thunder returned four starters and get a healthy Chet Holmgren at center this season.  They have key holdovers coming off the bench, plus add rookie Cason Wallace to the mix.  This is basically the same team as last year except with the additions of Holmgren and Wallace.  

They're off to a good start with a dominant 124-104 win at Chicago as 2.5-point road dogs in the opener and a 108-105 win at Cleveland as 2.5-point road dogs.  Now the Thunder get their home opener and have some of the best fans in the NBA.  You know they are going to turn out to support this team with the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets coming to town Sunday.

I think the Nuggets are being overvalued due to winning the title and are going to be fighting a championship hangover early in the season.  They were able to escape with a win over the Lakers in the opener with a big 4th quarter, and also escaped with a 108-104 win at Memphis as 5.5-point road favorites.  Memphis is way down early in the season without JA Morant while missing a few other guys to key injuries.  This will be Denver's toughest test of the young season by far.

The Thunder are 31-12 ATS in their last 43 games after allowing 105 points or less.  The Thunder are 6-2 ATS in their last eight meetings with the Nuggets.  Bet the Thunder Sunday.