Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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05-23-18 | Cavs v. Celtics +1 | Top | 83-96 | Win | 100 | 24 h 31 m | Show |
NBA Conference Finals Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston over Cleveland at 8:35 pm et on Wednesday. This has been the classic homer series so far and I don't see that trend reversing on Wednesday night in Boston. Everyone is quick to write off the Celtics after back-to-back losses in Cleveland, just as they were quick to write off the Cavs following the first two games in Boston. There are those suddenly questioning Celtics head coach Brad Stevens' decisions and his ability to make the necessary adjustments against Lebron James and company. I'm not buying into any of it. The Celtics have been a completely different team on their home floor in these playoffs, and really all season long. Boston is an impressive 36-14 SU at home this season while the Cavs are just a .500 team on the road. I like the fact that the Celtics didn't fold the tent after a miserable first quarter on Monday in Cleveland, outscoring the Cavs in each of the next three quarters in an eventual nine-point loss. I don't believe they'll be intimidated or crumble under the pressure in Game 5. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-22-18 | Rockets +8.5 v. Warriors | 95-92 | Win | 100 | 24 h 2 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston plus the points over Golden State at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday. I'll grab the generous helping of points with the Rockets in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals on Tuesday night in Oakland. Houston put forth a miserable effort in Game 3, unable to build on what was certainly a strong performance in a blowout win in Game 2. Now it's up to the Rockets to come up with some answers and I do expect them to show up. Whether that leads to an outright win remains to be seen, but I do think the Rockets are going to stay inside the lofty pointspread here, noting that the Warriors remain a losing bet on the season at 41-53-1 ATS. Stay aware of the status of Andre Iguodala for the Warriors as he may be forced to miss Tuesday's game due to injury, which would obviously be a key absence. I'll make this play on the Rockets assuming he's good to go, however. Take Houston (10*). |
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05-21-18 | Celtics v. Cavs UNDER 207 | 102-111 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Boston and Cleveland at 8:35 pm et on Monday. We missed the mark with the 'over' in Game 3 of this series on Saturday night but I won't hesitate to switch gears and back the 'under' on Monday as we're starting to see a real 'under' trend build for both teams. Obviously the first three games of this series have now gone 'under' and so have five of the Celtics last six games overall and four of the Cavs last five. Five of six meetings between these two games have stayed 'under' the total this season. All three games in this series have been decided by double-digit margins. Game 2 was the most competitive but even that contest couldn't get 'over' the total thanks to fourth quarter scoring lapses from both teams. This is clearly a pivotal game in this series as we'll see what kind of fight the Celtics show after getting their first taste of adversity. I'm expecting gritty performances from both teams. Take the under (10*). |
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05-20-18 | Rockets v. Warriors OVER 226 | 85-126 | Loss | -105 | 47 h 42 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Golden State at 8:05 pm et on Sunday. I certainly don't see the Rockets backing down as this series shifts to Oakland for Game 3 on Sunday night. With that being said, I also look for the Warriors to force the issue here, and perform much better than they did in Game 2 of this series on Wednesday night. Note that the lone regular season meeting here at Oracle Arena resulted in a 122-121 Rockets victory on the opening night of the regular season. We're dealing with the highest total in this playoff series so far, but I believe the number can and will go even higher as the series progresses. There will be spots to play the 'under' but this isn't one of them in my opinion. Take the over (10*). |
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05-19-18 | Celtics +6.5 v. Cavs | 86-116 | Loss | -109 | 35 h 21 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston plus the points over Cleveland at 8:35 pm et on Saturday. While the Cavs are certainly capable of getting back in this series and holding serve on their home court, I don't expect to see the Celtics back down, even with a 2-0 lead in their back pocket. The Cavs, even when at their best, have had a tendency to let teams hang around, or even creep back in late in the game - particularly at home - and I expect a similar story to unfold on Saturday night in Cleveland. Both teams had an extremely tough time making shots in the fourth quarter in Game 2 on Tuesday. Boston gave Cleveland every opportunity to get back in the game but the Cavs essentially stood around watching Lebron try to do it all (when they weren't doing that they were hoisting up ill-advised threes). Still, Cleveland couldn't take advantage. The Cavs are being given a lot of respect by the oddsmakers here, and perhaps rightfully so given their pedigree. I'm just not sure they'll have an easy time winning by margin. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-19-18 | Celtics v. Cavs OVER 205 | 86-116 | Loss | -105 | 35 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Boston and Cleveland at 8:35 pm et on Saturday. We missed the mark with the 'over' in Game 2 of this series on Tuesday night as neither team could find any offensive consistency in the fourth quarter, ultimately ruining what looked like an easy, rocking chair winner after three quarters. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play as the series shifts to Cleveland, however. I fully expect to see the Celtics to continue to attack, albeit with some wiser shot selection than we saw in the fourth quarter in Game 2. The Cavs could have easily gotten back into that game were it not for some dreadful fourth quarter shooting and shot selection of their own on that night. Look for them to do a much better job of getting to the basket and forcing the issue rather than hoisting up desperation three-pointers the way they did late in Game 2. The Cavs will also need to stop standing around and watching Lebron James. I don't see that being as much of an issue here at home in Game 3. Regardless whether this is a tight game or a lopsided affair, I believe we'll see plenty of scoring all the way through. Take the over (10*). |
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05-16-18 | Warriors v. Rockets UNDER 225 | 105-127 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 8 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Golden State and Houston at 9:05 pm et on Wednesday. I'll back the 'under' in Houston on Wednesday night as the Rockets try to even things up with the Warriors in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals. The Rockets can play a lot better defensively than they did in Game 1 on Monday night. Houston simply had no answers for the Warriors offense, particularly in the second half as Kevin Durant paced the charge with 37 points. Meanwhile, the Warriors did just about as good as you could expect as far as containing the Rockets goes, giving up 41 points to James Harden but holding the team to just under 46% shooting and 13 made threes. I'm really not sure how many adjustments Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni can make heading into this one. The Warriors are a better defensive team than most give them credit for, noting that they've held the opposition to 44.5% shooting this season. While Golden State is more than capable of prevailing in a track meet with Houston, I'm not sure it is all that eager to get involved in such a contest with a 1-0 series lead in its back pocket. Take the under (10*). |
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05-16-18 | Warriors v. Rockets -1 | 105-127 | Win | 100 | 6 h 10 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston minus the points over Golden State at 9:05 pm et on Wednesday. I'm going to add the Rockets to my ticket on Wednesday night. It's amazing how perspectives change after just one game in a series. Leading up to this one, most expected a long, hard-fought series between arguably the two best teams in the NBA. After the Warriors prevailed in Game 1, a lot of folks are calling for a sweep. I don't expect it to be that easy for Golden State. Houston didn't bring its 'A' game on Monday night. There's no question about that. Of course, neither did the Warriors. With that being said, I do expect the Rockets to lay it all on the line in Game 2 on Wednesday, with a long layoff coming before the series resumes in Oakland on Sunday night. I don't believe the Rockets confidence was shaken by that double-digit loss in Game 1. They need to use home court to their advantage to make this a series. Look for them to do just that on Wednesday. Take Houston (10*). |
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05-15-18 | Cavs v. Celtics OVER 202.5 | Top | 94-107 | Loss | -110 | 32 h 15 m | Show |
NBA Conference Finals Total of the Year. My selection is on the ‘over’ between Cleveland and Boston at 8:30 pm et on Tuesday. The Cavs were essentially run out of the building in Game 1 of this series in Boston on Sunday afternoon (we won with the Celtics), scoring only 35 first half points en route to a 108-83 beatdown at the hands of the Celtics. While I’m not sure the Cavs make the complete turnaround and win Game 2, I am confident we’ll see them put forth a much stronger offensive showing. Lebron James certainly said all of the right things after that Game 1 blowout and I believed much of what he said in that he’s not one bit concerned by one loss. Look for a big game out of Lebron on Tuesday night as he takes advantage of what I consider an average Celtics defense. On the flip side, Boston continues to impress, getting offensive contributions from everywhere on the floor. Despite getting only 17 points combined from Terry Rozier and Marcus Smart, the C’s still managed to easily eclipse the 100-point mark on Sunday. There’s little reason to expect much of a letdown here. Brad Stevens continues to prove himself as one of the league’s best coaches and I’m confident he’ll make a few adjustments to keep the offense flowing on Tuesday night. We’re dealing with a lower posted total than we saw in the series opener, but I believe it’s the wrong move. Expect a competitive, relatively high-scoring affair on Tuesday. Take the over (10*). |
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05-14-18 | Warriors v. Rockets -1 | 119-106 | Loss | -100 | 24 h 59 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston over Golden State at 9:05 pm et on Monday. Home court means something in the NBA Playoffs, especially in the latter stages - that's an understatement. The Rockets have certainly been dominant here at home this season, going 39-8 SU. We saw them take their game to another level against the Jazz last round. Save for a complete letdown in Game 2, they were the vastly superior team, toying with the Jazz at times. Here, they'll face a much tougher challenge and while I'm not about to predict the Rockets to win the series, I do believe they'll play with a real sense of urgency on Monday night, perhaps a little moreso than the Warriors who have been here before. The Rockets took two of three meetings in this series during the regular season, most recently prevailing by a 116-108 score here at home back in January. In that game, the guy I believe will be the x-factor in Monday's contest, Eric Gordon of the Rockets connected on just 2-of-14 shots, and went 0-for-9 from beyond the arc in a six-point performance. I look for much better things out of the super sixth man on Monday night. We've heard so much about the 'Hamptons Five' leading up to this series. For at least one game, I look for the duo of Harden and Paul to one-up that unit. Take Houston (10*). |
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05-13-18 | Cavs v. Celtics +2 | 83-108 | Win | 100 | 19 h 36 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston plus the points over Cleveland at 3:35 pm et on Sunday. The Cavs haven't been a great road team by any means this season, going 24-22 SU. They did sweep both games in Toronto last round, but I expect them to face a lot more resistance against the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. Boston has been playing with house money for much of the season, really since losing Gordon Hayward and then Kyrie Irving. This is very much a team that has played with a 'nothing to lose' mentality in the playoffs, and it has certainly served them well. Note that Boston is a perfect 7-0 SU and ATS at home in the postseason. The C's will certainly be up for this matchup. They held their own against the Cavaliers during the regular season, going 1-2 SU but 2-1 ATS. With that being said, a 121-99 home loss to the Cavs suffered back in February won't be far from their minds. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-09-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +1 | 112-114 | Win | 102 | 14 h 35 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston over Philadelphia at 8 pm et on Wednesday. Despite the 76ers delivering a convincing win in Game 4 of this series in Philadelphia, most bettors are lining up to back the Celtics here as the series shifts back to Boston. While I'm not a big fan of being on the same side as the betting majority, it doesn't mean they're always wrong. In this case, I do believe they have it right. The Celtics have been terrific at home this season, going 33-14 SU. We saw just how much they feed off the home crowd back in Game 2 of this series after they fell behind big early in the game only to rally and win. Boston certainly doesn't want to give Philadelphia any more life than it already has. I'm confident we'll see Celtics head coach Brad Stevens make the necessary adjustments. We certainly didn't see Boston put forth its best effort in its first shot at eliminating the Sixers but the Celts make up for it here. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-08-18 | Pelicans v. Warriors OVER 226.5 | Top | 104-113 | Loss | -105 | 26 h 38 m | Show |
NBA Second Round Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between New Orleans and Golden State at 10:35 pm et on Tuesday. The Pelicans quite simply couldn't knock down their shots in Game 4 of this series and the Warriors rolled to an easy victory as a result (we won with Golden State and the 'under'). I won't hesitate to switch gears and back the 'over' in this elimination game on Tuesday night. There's reason for the Pelicans to be confident heading into this one as they've scored at least 115 points in five of eight meetings between these two teams this season. The Warriors came out with the right level of intensity in Game 4 on Sunday, but that was coming off a 19-point drubbing just two nights earlier. Here, I'm not sure they manhandle the Pelicans right out of the gate in quite the same way. On the flip side, there's little reason to think that New Orleans can slow an offensive juggernaut like the Warriors on the road. Golden State has scored 120, 123 and 121 points in its last three home games against the Pelicans. Take the over (10*). |
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05-07-18 | Raptors v. Cavs UNDER 214 | 93-128 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 15 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Toronto and Cleveland at 8:35 pm et on Monday. We won with the 'under' in Game 3 of this series on Saturday night and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play on Monday. The Raptors gave the Cavs their best shot on Saturday, or at least they didn't quit, battling back in the fourth quarter before falling on another Lebron James buzzer-beater. For much of Saturday's game the Raptors couldn't get anything going offensively. DeMar DeRozan was a non-factor and while he should play better on Monday night, I'm still not sure it's enough for the Raptors to hang around and inflict a great deal of damage offensively. The Cavs were on top of their game offensively in Game 3 and pretty much have been since the opening tip of this series. But again, I'm not sure they need to turn in an explosive offensively performance in this one. It's a win and move on situation and I look for the Cavs to put forth a clean effort. Take the under (10*). |
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05-07-18 | Celtics +6.5 v. 76ers | 92-103 | Loss | -102 | 22 h 50 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston plus the points over Philadelphia at 6:05 pm et on Monday. Maybe the Celtics come out flat and get their doors blown off on Monday night but I see this one playing out differently. Boston has a chance to put away the 76ers and get some much-needed rest before an anticipated showdown with the Cavs and I look for it to take full advantage. Celtics head coach Brad Stevens has coached circles around 76ers boss Brett Brown. The 76ers seem to be having a tough time figuring things out with Joel Embiid back in the lineup and have looked nothing like the poised squad that disposed of the Heat in round one of the playoffs. Now with their backs against the wall I have no doubt that the 76ers will show up, but I simply believe they're laying too many points in this matchup. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-06-18 | Rockets -5 v. Jazz | 100-87 | Win | 100 | 12 h 55 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston minus the points over Utah at 8:05 pm et on Sunday. We won with the Rockets in Game 3 of this series and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with Houston in Game 4 on Sunday night in Salt Lake City. I can't help but think that the Jazz's victory in Game 2 in Houston had more to do with the Rockets not bringing the proper level of compete than it did anything Utah was able to do gameplan-wise. The Rockets came out with a lot more intensity in Game 3 and blew the doors off the Jazz with only a late run making things look a little more respectable than it actually was. The common line of thinking is that the Jazz will make the necessary adjustments and get back in this series on Sunday, but I'm not so sure. Take Houston (10*). |
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05-06-18 | Warriors -6 v. Pelicans | 118-92 | Win | 100 | 8 h 32 m | Show | |
My selection is on Golden State minus the points over New Orleans at 3:35 pm et on Sunday. The Pelicans shot the lights out on their way to a Game 3 victory on Friday night. I look for the Warriors to answer back with a better defensive performance on Sunday, while also shooting better themselves after knocking down less than 40% of their shots last time out. We're being asked to lay a considerable price here, but we're backing the superior squad in a strong motivational spot. Expect a quality road game from the defending champs on their way to a win and cover. Take Golden State (10*). |
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05-06-18 | Warriors v. Pelicans UNDER 231 | 118-92 | Win | 100 | 7 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Golden State and New Orleans at 3:35 pm et on Sunday. The 'over' has cashed in four of the Pelicans last five games overall but only two of those contests went 'over' the number we're working with this afternoon. I expect to see the Warriors do a much better job defending the perimeter after allowing the Pelicans to knock down 14-of-31 shots from beyond the arc on Friday. On the flip side, it's essentially another must-win situation for New Orleans and I'm confident we will see them keep the Warriors offense in check for stretches in this one, even if they're not able to stay within arm's length for 48 minutes. Take the under (10*). |
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05-05-18 | Raptors v. Cavs UNDER 216 | 103-105 | Win | 100 | 23 h 20 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘under’ between Toronto and Cleveland at 8:30 pm et on Saturday. We didn’t see a great deal of defense from either team in the first two games of this series, although Game 1 was poised to go ‘under’ the total before chances of that were ruined by overtime (we had the ‘under’ in that game). This is it for the Raptors. They desperately need a win on Saturday night as they’re not going to dig themselves out of an 0-3 hole against Lebron and co. With that being said, I do expect to see more pushback from the Raps defensively here. A lot of the shots the Cavs knocked down as they pulled away from the Raps on Thursday came with a high degree of difficulty. Don’t count on them making all of those shots again on Saturday. Cleveland will undoubtedly get a boost from playing back at home, but that should help them defensively as well. Nothing will come easy for the Raps as they try to claw their way back into the series and that lends itself to a lower-scoring contest on Saturday night. Take the under (10*). |
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05-05-18 | Raptors +4.5 v. Cavs | 103-105 | Win | 100 | 23 h 20 m | Show | |
My selection is on Toronto plus the points over Cleveland at 8:30 pm et on Saturday. The Raptors came unglued over the course of Game 2 of this series on Thursday, after falling in an opener that truly could have gone either way two nights earlier. While I don’t believe the Raps can actually win this series, I do think we’ll see them make things at least a little bit interesting with their most complete effort of the series on Saturday night. Yes, Lebron clearly has Toronto’s number but there’s no question that’s been factored into this line. The betting public will be quick to jump all over the Cavs as they return home with a 2-0 stranglehold on this series but I believe we’re getting solid value with the Raps in an underdog role, carrying a ‘nothing to lose’ mentality on Saturday night. Take Toronto (10*). |
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05-05-18 | Celtics v. 76ers UNDER 206.5 | 101-98 | Win | 100 | 20 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘under’ between Boston and Philadelphia at 5 pm et on Saturday. The first two games of this series have gone ‘over’ the total and that’s been the norm in all four second round playoff series’ so far. I expect to see a bit of a shift on Saturday, however, as this series moves to Philadelphia for Game 3. The 76ers are down 2-0 in the series but they’re not about to throw in the towel. A wise man once said a series doesn’t truly begin until the home team loses (or something to that effect). Here, I look for a determined effort from the 76ers as they do a much better job of defending the perimeter and preventing all of those easy Celtics looks that we saw in the first two games of the series. On the flip side, I think what you see is what you get from the 76ers offense. Ben Simmons is likely to play better, but I do still believe they’re in tough against a scrappy Celtics defense. Boston will continue to pester Philadelphia’s go-to guys and keep the score within reason in this matchup. Take the under (10*). |
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05-04-18 | Rockets -3.5 v. Jazz | 113-92 | Win | 100 | 26 h 59 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston minus the points over Utah at 10:30 pm et on Friday. The Rockets got off to a miserable start in Game 2 on Wednesday night, showing very little life and very much looking like a team that thought it would be able to sleepwalk its way to a series sweep. The Jazz pushed back and despite relaxing a bit and letting the Rockets back in the game in the third quarter, ultimately pulled away for a decisive victory to even the series at one game apiece. Now the series shifts to Salt Lake City and I expect the Rockets to come out with a lot more fire, and certainly put forth a more inspired effort. I can’t help but think this line would have been a little higher had Houston rolled to another victory in Game 2. Instead we’re looking at a short number to back what will undoubtedly be a highly-motivated Rockets squad that has shifted its attention back to the Jazz following the Game 2 wake-up call. Take Houston (10*). |
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05-03-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +4 | 103-108 | Win | 100 | 24 h 32 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston plus the points over Philadelphia at 8:35 pm et on Thursday. The Celtics continue to get no respect from the betting marketplace as they once again find themselves in the underdog role on Thursday night. I can't help but feel that's just the way they like it. The home team has gone a perfect 8-0 SU in all Celtics game in these playoffs and I see that trend continuing here. The 76ers have enjoyed a tremendous season, not just SU but ATS as well. With that being said I didn't have them advancing past the Celtics at the onset of this series. Their time will come - just not sure this is the year. Boston is brimming with confidence right now and while most expect Philadelphia to bounce back, I believe the 76ers will have a tough time winning, let alone covering the spread. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-02-18 | Jazz v. Rockets -11 | 116-108 | Loss | -101 | 23 h 48 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston minus the points over Utah at 8:05 pm et on Wednesday. I believe it's highly unlikely that the Jazz are going to hold the Rockets to 110 points again on Wednesday night. I'm also not convinced that Utah can improve much offensively. Expect another lopsided result in favor of the Rockets in Game 2. Of course, Houston has had Utah's number this season, going a perfect 5-0 SU and ATS. The Rockets were able to shift into cruise control in the opener of this series on Sunday. While they can expect to get more of a challenge from the Jazz, I believe it's only a matter of time before Houston once again pulls away. The Jazz have exceeded most expectations reaching the second round of the playoffs. But that's as far as they go. Take Houston (10*). |
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05-01-18 | Cavs v. Raptors UNDER 215 | 113-112 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 46 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Cleveland and Toronto at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday. Despite Indiana pushing the pace for much of the series, we still saw the 'under' cash in five of the Cavs seven games in the opening round. The 'over' came through in the final two games of that series, only after the oddsmakers made considerable adjustments to the total. Here in Game 1 of this much anticipated showdown between the Cavs and Raptors I don't expect Lebron James to find the going nearly as easy as it was in Game 7 against the Pacers. Despite dealing with muscle cramps, Lebron still managed to have his way with Indiana but will face a significant challenge against the Raptors on Tuesday. On the flip side, the Raptors are likely to face more resistance than they saw against the Wizards. Save for Games 3 and 4 in Washington, when Toronto simply didn't bring its 'A' game, the Raptors were able to cruise past the Wizards, scoring at will at times. We've seen some high-scoring affairs between the Raps and Cavs this season but I expect to see a different type of contest play out in the series opener. Take the under (10*). |
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04-30-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +3.5 | 101-117 | Win | 100 | 23 h 30 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston plus the points over Philadelphia at 8:05 pm et on Monday. Just feels like the wrong team is favored in this matchup, largely due to the circumstances by which the two teams got this point. The 76ers rolled past the Heat, facing little resistance along the way. Meanwhile, the Celtics were pushed to the limit by the Bucks, needing a big second half effort in Game 7 at home on Saturday night to advance. This has the makings of another long series and I certainly expect to see the 76ers hang tough in games played here in Beantown. With that being said, I don't believe the Celtics are getting any respect at all with this pointspread in the opener. Boston has faced a ton of adversity this season and so it should be comfortable entering this series as the underdog. Take Boston (10*). |
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04-29-18 | Pacers v. Cavs -5.5 | 101-105 | Loss | -105 | 16 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland minus the points over Indiana at 1:05 pm et on Sunday. Despite the fact that the Pacers have looked like the better team for much of this series, I have no problem with laying the points with the Cavs on Sunday afternoon. It comes as a surprise to most that we're seeing a seventh and deciding game in this series. Most thought the Cavs would roll past the Pacers but that has been far from the case. Keep in mind, Cleveland checked in as seven and eight-point favorites in the first two games in this series. Now we've seen the line drop to a more reasonable number, but in a must-win situation, I expect the Cavs will come to play. We won with the Pacers on Friday night, as that spot certainly favored the home team with their backs against the wall. Maybe the Cavs don't deserve to win this series, but I'm confident that Lebron James will have his squad ready. We're being asked to lay a reasonable number with what I still feel is the superior team. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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04-28-18 | Bucks v. Celtics -4.5 | Top | 96-112 | Win | 100 | 34 h 23 m | Show |
NBA First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston minus the points over Milwaukee at 8:05 pm et on Saturday. We won with the Bucks in Game 6 of this series on Thursday night as they ultimately pulled away for a convincing win, sending the series back to Boston for a seventh and deciding game on Saturday. I won't hesitate to switch gears and back the Celtics in this one, however, as it's now Brad Stevens turn to make the necessary adjustments and Boston's opportunity to defend its home floor, as it has throughout this series, and advance to the second round. Home court advantage is of course what the Celtics fought for all season, and it has certainly paid off in this series, with the home side winning all six contests. I think the fact that things have tightened up considerably does favor the Celtics here. We saw the Bucks struggle to score in Game 5 in Boston, managing only 87 points and I expect to see a similar story unfold here. Even in Game 6, it took a huge effort from Giannis Antetokounmpo with 31 points and 14 rebounds to secure a Bucks victory. In that must-win situation for Milwaukee, Boston showed plenty of fight, pulling with a bucket with just over seven minutes left in the fourth quarter. The Bucks ultimately had the greater will to win and prevailed, but here I believe we'll see that role belong to the Celtics. Expect Boston to bring its best effort of the series on Saturday night. Take Boston (10*). |
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04-27-18 | Cavs v. Pacers | 87-121 | Win | 100 | 23 h 52 m | Show | |
My selection is on Indiana over Cleveland at 8:05 pm et on Friday. There's no reason for the Pacers to wave the white flag after dropping a tough one on Lebron James' last second heroics in Game 5. Indiana has been an excellent home team all season long, and even when the Pacers didn't bring their 'A' game back in Game 4 at home, they still only lost by four points. Look for the Pacers to make a last stand so to speak and force a seventh and deciding game in Cleveland where really anything can happen. Indiana has been right there with the heavily favored Cavs throughout this series and nothing changes on Friday night. Take Indiana (10*). |
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04-26-18 | Celtics v. Bucks -4.5 | 86-97 | Win | 100 | 11 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on Milwaukee minus the points over Boston at 8:05 pm et on Thursday. The Celtics took back control of this series and pushed the Bucks to the brink of elimination with a 92-87 victory in Game 5 of this series but I look for Milwaukee to answer back on its home floor on Thursday night. Celtics coach Brad Stevens made all the right moves last game, including inserting rookie Semi Ojeleye into the starting lineup to help defensively against Giannis Antetokounmpo. Of course, the return of Marcus Smart also gave the Celtics a big lift in a game they needed to win. With that being said, the margin of victory was still just five points. The home team has won all five games in this series so far, and while a few of those could have gone either way, each team has also recorded a blowout win on its home floor. While I'm not certain we'll see a blowout here, I do believe we'll see the Bucks make the necessary adjustments and force a seventh and deciding game in Boston. Take Milwaukee (10*). |
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04-25-18 | Jazz v. Thunder -3.5 | 99-107 | Win | 100 | 25 h 47 m | Show | |
My selection is on Oklahoma City minus the points over Utah at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday. The Jazz will be looking to close out the Thunder in what would be a surprising result to most. I'm not convinced the Thunder can get all the way back in this series, but I do expect them to take a stand on their home floor on Wednesday night. Keep in mind, the Jazz are just 21-22 on the road this season while Oklahoma City has a decided home court edge having gone 28-15 here at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Russell Westbrook talked a good game following Game 3 of this series but wasn't able to follow it up with his performance on the floor in Game 4. Look for him to make amends as he helps guide the Thunder to a win and cover on Wednesday. Take Oklahoma City (10*). |
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04-24-18 | Heat v. 76ers -10 | 91-104 | Win | 100 | 24 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over Miami at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday. The Heat put up a good fight at home in Game 4 of this series but now that they're down 3-1, I don't see them making a big final stand in Philadelphia on Tuesday night. The Heat have actually shown a tendency to fold the tent in this series, losing a pair of games by 27 and 20 points. The 76ers have certainly been a force at home this season, going 31-11 SU while outscoring the opposition by right around nine points per contest. Meanwhile, the Heat are six games under .500 on the road and simply don't score enough to keep up with what will surely be a highly-motivated 76ers squad on Tuesday night. Take Philadelphia (10*). |
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04-23-18 | Rockets -5.5 v. Wolves | 119-100 | Win | 100 | 23 h 3 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston minus the points over Minnesota at 8:05 pm et on Monday. The Rockets were set back on their heels in Game 3 of this series on Saturday night as the T'Wolves ran them out of the building in a 121-105 victory. I believe the shoe will be on the other foot on Monday, however, as Houston aims to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the series. Note that the Rockets had won eight straight meetings in this series prior to Saturday's contest. The T'Wolves have gone 2-1 ATS in this playoff series so far to snap a four-game ATS winning streak by the Rockets. Houston didn't bring the proper levels of focus and intensity to Saturday's game, but it will here. Take Houston (10*). |
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04-22-18 | Cavs v. Pacers | 104-100 | Win | 100 | 23 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland over Indiana at 8:35 pm et on Sunday. The Cavs may be down in this series but I'm not about to count out a Lebron James-led team, certainly not in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs. The Cavs by no means played their best game on Friday night, but they were still right there, losing by only a basket. While the pressure should rest squarely on the Cavs shoulders heading into this one, I actually believe it might be the Pacers that come out a little tight now that they've regained the series lead. It's not a must-win situation for Cleveland but it certainly can't afford to give the Pacers any more confidence at this stage of the series. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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04-21-18 | 76ers v. Heat UNDER 215 | 106-102 | Win | 100 | 6 h 20 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Miami at 2:35 pm et on Saturday. We've seen three consecutive high-scoring affairs to open this series but I'm looking for the defenses to settle in a little bit on Saturday afternoon in Miami. The 76ers welcomed Joel Embiid back to the lineup in Game 3 and didn't miss a beat, putting up 128 points in a victory. I do believe we may see a misstep from the 76ers in this matchup on Saturday, however, as the Heat will certainly bring more intensity than we saw on Thursday. Note that the two regular season meetings here in Miami totaled only 203 and 207 points. Take the under (10*). |
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04-20-18 | Raptors v. Wizards UNDER 218 | 103-122 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Toronto and Washington at 8:05 pm et on Friday. I'll back the 'under' in Washington on Friday night. The Raptors have controlled this series from the opening tipoff, taking both games in Toronto before the scene shifts to Washington. We've missed the mark with the 'under' so far in this series but I won't hesitate to go back to the well here as I expect to see both teams step up their defensive game in what becomes the pivotal game of the series to date. The Wizards need to pick up the intensity at the defensive end of the floor first and foremost after offering no resistance at all in the first two games. I'm confident they'll do just that back at home, and Toronto will follow suit. Take the under (10*). |
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04-18-18 | Pacers v. Cavs -7.5 | 97-100 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 16 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland minus the points over Indiana at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday. I've long supported the angle that the SU winner generally covers the spread (and vice versa) in games involving Lebron James-led teams in the playoffs. In other words, pick the SU winner and you usually have the ATS winner as well. The Pacers not only covered the number in Game 1 of this series but they won outright as well. Now I look for the Cavs to return the favor after having a couple of days to stew on that ugly result. There's no question we're being asked to lay a rather steep number here considering how good the Pacers looked on Sunday, but I believe the line is warranted. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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04-17-18 | Pelicans v. Blazers -6 | 111-102 | Loss | -110 | 15 h 53 m | Show | |
My selection is on Portland minus the points over New Orleans at 10:35 pm et on Tuesday. We stayed away from the opener of this series, which featured a rather surprising result with the Pelicans winning in a relatively low-scoring affair. I will get involved in Game 2 as I'm confident we'll see the Blazers bounce back and defend home court before the series shifts to New Orleans. Portland couldn't have played much worse than it did in the series opener, almost seeming surprised by the Pelicans defensive tenacity. Of course you can't really blame them after New Orleans gave up points in bunches throughout the regular season. While the Pelicans are saying all the right things leading up to this one as they try not to ease up after stealing the opener, I can't help but think that mission accomplished mentality sinks in just a little bit, enough for the Blazers to bring their 'A' game and deliver a decisive victory on Tuesday night. Take Portland (10*). |
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04-17-18 | Wizards v. Raptors UNDER 215 | 119-130 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday. We missed the mark with the 'under' in the opener of this series on Saturday as the Raptors rode a barrage of three-pointers to a 114-106 victory. It was an admittedly sloppy performance from the Wizards defensively, one that I expect them to clean up a bit on Game 2 on Tuesday night. On the flip side, the Raptors didn't do a great job of containing the Wizards dynamic duo of John Wall and Bradley Beal - Wall in particular, as he scored 23 points and added 15 assists. Look for the Raps to do a better job of matching the Wizards speed on Tuesday night. Take the under (10*). |
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04-16-18 | Heat v. 76ers OVER 215 | Top | 113-103 | Win | 100 | 23 h 21 m | Show |
NBA First Round Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Miami and Philadelphia at 8:05 pm et on Monday. I really like the way this total sets up on Monday night. We saw 233 total points in the series opener on Saturday with the 76ers facing little resistance en route to a 130-point performance. For their part, the Heat looked various shades of awful, struggling to knock down shots for much of the game. Yet, they still managed to score 103 points. I certainly expect to see the Heat improve offensively on Monday night but I'm not convinced they can do anything to slow down Ben Simmons and the 76ers offense. Philadelphia won't get center Joel Embiid back for this game and that actually works well for our purposes with the 'over'. The scoring will die down a bit as this series progresses, especially if the 76ers have to adjust to bringing Embiid back in the lineup but that won't happen on Monday. Take the over (10*). |
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04-15-18 | Wolves v. Rockets -11 | 101-104 | Loss | -108 | 13 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on Houston minus the points over Minnesota at 9:05 pm et on Sunday. I'll lay the points with the Rockets on Sunday night as they begin their quest to ultimately dethrone the Warriors in the Western Conference. Minnesota battled hard in the final week of the season to eke into the playoffs, thanks to an overtime win over Denver on the final night of the regular season. I'm not sure they'll be able to keep that momentum going here though as they struggled mightily against the Rockets throughout the season, dropping all four meetings with the closest of those losses coming by nine points on their home floor. The Rockets have dropped the cash in six of their last seven games overall heading into the playoffs but that was of little consequence as they were just looking to stay healthy. This is certainly a favorable matchup for Houston and I look for it to make a statement right out of the gates. Take Houston (10*). |
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04-14-18 | Wizards v. Raptors UNDER 211 | 106-114 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 12 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and Toronto at 5:35 pm et on Saturday. I'll back the 'under' at Air Canada Centre on Saturday evening. The Wizards easily disposed of the Raptors in four games three years ago, the last time these two teams met up in the playoffs. Obviously both teams are in much different places now with the Raptors heavily favored to return the favor. I'm not sure that we're going to see a track meet right out of the gates. The Wizards didn't exactly finish the regular season with a full head of steam, while the Raptors playoff history, particularly early in the postseason leaves a lot to be desired. Look for the Raptors to do a fine job of locking down on the Wizards this time around. If this were the regular season this total might look a little low, but in a playoff game between two familiar foes, I expect to see some defense. Take the under (10*). |
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04-09-18 | Pelicans v. Clippers +6.5 | Top | 113-100 | Loss | -107 | 26 h 48 m | Show |
NBA Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over New Orleans at 10:35 pm et on Monday. The Pelicans are coming off a huge upset win in Oakland on Saturday night, beating the Warriors to improve their playoff standing. I look for them to stumble on Monday, however, as they head to Los Angeles to take on the Clippers. L.A. has dropped back-to-back games and four of its last five contests overall. The Clips are out of the playoff hunt but should relish playing the role of spoiler on Monday night. We're being given a considerable cushion with the home underdog in this spot and I believe they have a shot at the outright victory. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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04-07-18 | Pelicans v. Warriors OVER 225.5 | 126-120 | Win | 100 | 12 h 54 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between New Orleans and Golden State at 8:35 pm et on Saturday. I'm anticipating a track meet in Oakland on Saturday night. The Pelicans are battling for their playoff lives and fresh off a 122-point performance in Phoenix I'm confident they'll be able to get out and run again in this matchup. Meanwhile, the Warriors are coming off a loss in Indiana and should have little trouble bouncing back against a porous Pelicans defense on Saturday night. We're dealing with a high total in this matchup, but it's certainly warranted. Take the over (10*). |
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04-05-18 | Wolves v. Nuggets OVER 224.5 | 96-100 | Loss | -105 | 16 h 14 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Denver at 10:35 pm et on Thursday. I'll back the 'over' in Denver on Thursday night. I'm not sure where the defense is going to come from in this matchup. Keep in mind, the most recent meeting between these two teams finished up 128-125 in favor of Minnesota back in late December. The T'Wolves have been struggling a bit offensively of late but should bounce back against a porous Nuggets defense on Thursday. Denver, meanwhile, continues to roll along having put up 100 points or more in every game going back to March 19th. The Nuggets have scored over 120 points on four different occasions over that stretch. Expect a track meet in the late game on Thursday night. Take the over (10*). |
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04-03-18 | Raptors v. Cavs -1 | 106-112 | Win | 100 | 22 h 25 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland minus the points over Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday. The Cavs have dropped just one game since St. Patrick's Day while the Raptors have played arguably their worst and most inconsistent basketball of the season since that date. It's going to take quite an effort for the Raps to come away victorious in Cleveland on Tuesday. I'm just not sure they have enough in the tank right now to prevail. The Cavs are brimming with confidence. They can make another big statement against one of the teams they're going to have to contend with in order to earn another trip to the Finals in June. At this stage of the season, I simply feel that Cleveland is the superior team and playing at home, I look for it to hold serve. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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04-01-18 | Thunder v. Pelicans +1 | 109-104 | Loss | -102 | 21 h 53 m | Show | |
My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Oklahoma City at 6:05 pm et on Sunday. I'll back the Pelicans on Sunday evening as they aim to end their three-game losing streak against the Thunder. New Orleans may have dropped three straight games coming in but there's really no shame in that skid as those losses came against the Rockets, Blazers and Cavs - three of the league's best teams. They'll face another tough test here, but I'm confident they'll be up for it. Note that the Thunder have also lost three straight games, including a tough one-point setback against the Nuggets last time out. In fact, their last three losses have come by a combined margin of only eight points. Nothing is going their way right now and I look for their woes to continue in the Big Easy. Take New Orleans (10*). |
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03-30-18 | Clippers +6 v. Blazers | 96-105 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 15 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Portland at 10:35 pm et on Friday. The Clippers have won three games in a row and I don't think we'll see them simply roll over in Portland on Friday night. The Blazers have dropped three of their last five games overall including a shocking loss in Memphis last time out. Portland simply isn't an elite team, even if many were ready to buy in a couple of weeks ago. This game is nothing more than a toss-up as far as I'm concerned. I'll gladly grab all the points I can get with the underdog Clips. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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03-28-18 | Cavs v. Hornets +1.5 | 118-105 | Loss | -103 | 22 h 50 m | Show | |
My selection is on Charlotte plus the points over Cleveland at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday. I don't expect the Hornets to back down from the challenge posted by the Cavaliers on Wednesday night in Charlotte. The Hornets come into this game riding a four-game winning streak while the Cavs are in a tough spot having played in an emotional contest in Miami last night. This will be Cleveland's third game (in three different cities) in the last four nights. All the Hornets really have to hang their hat on at this point is playing the spoiler role against playoff-bound opponents. I don't think there's any question they'll be up for this contest. Take Charlotte (10*). |
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03-27-18 | Blazers v. Pelicans OVER 221.5 | 107-103 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 46 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Portland and New Orleans at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday. We missed the mark with the 'over' in the Blazers last game, a narrow victory over the Thunder in Oklahoma City on Sunday night. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play on Tuesday, however, as the Blazers continue their trip in New Orleans. Portland may be a little road weary but it catches a break facing a weak defensive squad in the Pelicans here. On the flip side, New Orleans will want to use this as a measuring stick game and I certainly don't expect it to hold anything back. Both of these teams are accustomed to getting involved in track meets and I expect nothing different in this spot. Take the over (10*). |
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03-26-18 | Nuggets v. 76ers OVER 223 | 104-123 | Win | 100 | 23 h 59 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Denver and Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Monday. I'll back the 'over' in Philadelphia on Monday night. The last meeting between these two teams came in late December and feels like an eternity ago now. That contest totaled just 209 points, which helps keep this total in check. A lot has changed for both squads and both come in playing with confidence and ready to get out and run. Simply put, don't count on a lot of hard-nosed defensive play in this contest. The 76ers have scored at least 118 points in five of six games during their current winning streak. Look for them to set the pace again in this one, and for the Nuggets to follow suit. Take the over (10*). |
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03-25-18 | Blazers v. Thunder OVER 216 | Top | 108-105 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 5 m | Show |
NBA Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Portland and Oklahoma City at 7:05 pm et on Sunday. I'll back the 'over' in Oklahoma City on Sunday night. Neither team is coming off a tremendous offensive effort, but I expect both to respond positively in this key late season Western Conference showdown. Both teams have certainly been putting up big points in recent weeks, and throughout the season. Yet, the last time they met back on March 3rd we saw only 208 total points in an eight-point Blazers victory. That's a big reason why this total hasn't gotten to an unreasonable level. Prior to being held to just 100 points last time out, the Blazers had scored at least 111 points in six of their last seven games. Meanwhile, the Thunder have scored just 100 and 105 points in their last two contests, but had put up 119, 121 and 132 points in their previous three. Take the over (10*). |
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03-25-18 | Clippers +8 v. Raptors | 117-106 | Win | 100 | 10 h 25 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Toronto at 6:05 pm et on Sunday. The Raptors suffered a tough loss in Cleveland earlier in the week but did bounce back with a narrow victory over Brooklyn on Friday. That close call against the lowly Nets tells me the Raps weren't quite over that loss to the Cavs, and now with another sneaky-tough matchup on deck against the Clippers on Sunday, I'm not anticipating a dominating victory on Sunday evening. The Clips have dropped five of their last six games overall, coming at the most inopportune time. They can end this road trip with a 2-2 split though and I believe that will be motivation enough for them to at least stick around against the sleep-walking Raptors on Sunday evening. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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03-21-18 | Wizards +5 v. Spurs | 90-98 | Loss | -108 | 25 h 2 m | Show | |
My selection is on Washington plus the points over San Antonio at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday. I'll grab the points with the Wizards as they catch the Spurs in a letdown spot following a double-digit win over the undermanned Warriors on Monday night. San Antonio won that game in a rout - at least that's what the final score would seem to indicate. However, the fact is, the Warriors stuck around for three quarters in that contests, and the Spurs couldn't even break 90 points. The Wizards come into this game off of back-to-back wins and I believe they'll consider this to be a winnable contest as well. Take Washington (10*). |
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03-21-18 | Wizards v. Spurs OVER 203.5 | 90-98 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 56 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and San Antonio at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday. I'll back the 'over' in San Antonio on Wednesday night. The Wizards have scored north of 100 points in six straight games and I believe they'll be able to bait the Spurs into a high-scoring affair on Wednesday as well. San Antonio is coming off a sloppy game against the undermanned Warriors on Monday night, scoring just 89 points in an eventual victory. The Spurs did hold the Warriors to only 75 points but Golden State was missing Curry, Durant and Thompson among others. Here, the Spurs won't be so fortunate. I'm expecting both offenses to show up in this one. Take the over (10*). |
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03-20-18 | Rockets v. Blazers +4.5 | Top | 115-111 | Win | 100 | 26 h 42 m | Show |
NBA Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Portland plus the points over Houston at 10:35 pm et on Tuesday. Solid value with the underdog Blazers on Tuesday night as they'll undoubtedly be up for a showdown against the Rockets. Much has been made of Houston's winning ways but Portland has been just as hot lately, reeling off 13 consecutive victories. I don't expect the Blazers to back down in the face of a serious challenge on Tuesday. Houston survived a wild one in Minnesota on Sunday night, ultimately winning by a 129-120 score. James Harden was banged-up in that contest but stayed in and guided the first place Rockets to yet another win. I simply feel that things will get tougher on Tuesday night and I'm not sure Houston should be laying as many points as it is given it will be playing its third game in four nights on the road and undoubtedly peeking ahead to a five-game homestand that waits on deck. Take Portland (10*). |
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03-19-18 | Warriors v. Spurs OVER 206 | 75-89 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Golden State and San Antonio at 9:35 pm et on Monday. I'll back the 'over' in San Antonio on Monday night. The Warriors are of course without a number of key cogs, including Steph Curry, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson. They still managed to put up 120+ points last time out, however, cruising past the Suns in Phoenix on Saturday. While I'm not sure they'll be able to keep up with the Spurs for four quarters on Monday night, I'm also not sure that San Antonio warrants being in such a steep pointspread range. With that being said, I am confident we'll see a high-scoring affair between these two Western Conference rivals. The Spurs have reeled off three straight wins, scoring 117 points against a quality T'Wolves squad last time out. They're not likely to ease up on the Warriors as I expect to see them push the pace at every opportunity. Take the over (10*). |
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03-14-18 | Heat v. Kings +6.5 | 119-123 | Win | 100 | 14 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Miami at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday. The Heat have dropped eight consecutive games on the road and I'm not sure they belong in this price range against a Kings squad that has been at the very least playing competitive basketball lately. Sacramento comes in off of back-to-back losses but that's the first time it has dropped consecutive games since a five-game losing skid in late February. It's worth noting that the Kings last two losses came on the road, and in those games they still managed to score over 100 points. Miami continues to battle for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference but this is precisely the type of matchup that should draw motivation from the lottery-bound Kings. Maybe the Heat bust out of their road slump but I'm not convinced they'll be able to win by margin. Take Sacramento (10*). |
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03-14-18 | Bucks v. Magic +8.5 | 117-126 | Win | 100 | 11 h 20 m | Show | |
My selection is on Orlando plus the points over Milwaukee at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday. We won with the Bucks on Monday as they rolled to a blowout win in Memphis. I won't hesitate to switch gears on Wednesday, however, as Milwaukee rounds out its brief two-game road trip with a stop in Orlando. The Magic will have no shortage of motivation following a disappointing five-game road trip that saw them go winless - book-ended by a pair of blowout losses including a 36-point beatdown at the hands of the Spurs on Tuesday. While this is a tough back-to-back spot for Orlando, that has certainly been factored into this line. Note that the Bucks won by only seven points in the most recent matchup between these two teams back on February 10th. Milwaukee checks into this one just 4-6 over its last 10 contests. Take Orlando (10*). |
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03-13-18 | Clippers -6 v. Bulls | 112-106 | Push | 0 | 23 h 19 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Chicago at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday. The Clippers are coming off a missed ATS cover against the Magic at home but that came on the heels of a big double-digit victory over Lebron and the Cavs. Here, I look for L.A. to have little trouble getting past the lowly Bulls in Chicago. The Clippers have played well with little fanfare this season. With Chris Paul and Blake Griffin out of the picture, the Clips are light on star power, but that seems to actually work in their favor. I don't think we'll see them overlook the Bulls on Tuesday night as they can ill afford to slip up in the middle of the Western Conference playoff hunt. We're being asked to lay a reasonable number with the Clips here. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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03-12-18 | Bucks -7 v. Grizzlies | 121-103 | Win | 100 | 23 h 11 m | Show | |
My selection is on Milwaukee minus the points over Memphis at 8:05 pm et on Monday. The Grizzlies are an absolute mess right now, having dropped 17 games in a row. There's really no end to this tank in sight and I certainly don't expect the playoff-hungry Bucks to lay down for them on Monday night. I actually feel this line could be closer to double-digits with the Grizzlies fresh off a 34-point loss to the Mavs on Saturday night. Maybe Memphis sticks around for a while in this one, but it should only be a matter of time before Milwaukee exerts its will. Take Milwaukee (10*). |
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03-11-18 | Rockets v. Mavs +12.5 | 105-82 | Loss | -100 | 22 h 58 m | Show | |
My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Houston at 7:05 pm et on Sunday. The Rockets saw their long winning streak come to an end in Toronto on Friday night and while they may bounce back with a win here, I'm not convinced they win by margin. Houston is leading the Western Conference for now, but I'm not sure that's how things will stand once the regular season comes to a close. Simply put, I believe the Rockets are laying too many points in this spot. Everyone is gunning for the Rockets right now, and while the Mavs are in full-on tank mode, I expect them to put forth a competitive effort on Sunday afternoon at home. Take Dallas (10*). |
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03-10-18 | Wizards v. Heat UNDER 207 | 102-129 | Loss | -121 | 10 h 6 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and Miami at 7:35 pm et on Saturday. I don't think anything will come easy for the Wizards on Saturday night in Miami. The Heat have played their best basketball of the season since re-acquiring Dwyane Wade and are fresh off a big home win over the 76ers on Thursday night (we won with Miami in that contest). I certainly don't expect the Heat to back down from Saturday's challenge against an uneven Wizards squad. On the flip side, I'm not sure that the Heat are quite as efficient offensively as they looked in the second half against the 76ers. Look for them to suffer some offensive regression in this matchup. In what should be a tightly-contested affair, I'll back the 'under' on Saturday night. Take the under (10*). |
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03-09-18 | Cavs +1.5 v. Clippers | 102-116 | Loss | -105 | 17 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland plus the points over Los Angeles at 10:35 pm et on Friday. Lebron James pretty much single-handedly lifted the Cavs to victory over the Nuggets in a revenge spot in Denver two nights ago and I believe that was the type of performance that can send Cleveland on a bit of a run during this western road swing. There's no question Cleveland has been playing inconsistent ball lately, but can we say any more of the Clippers. They've had a few nice victories in recent weeks but have also fallen when stepping up in class against the Warriors and Rockets, and most recently suffered a 121-116 home loss at the hands of the Pelicans. This is a key game for Cleveland to keep the positive momentum building off back-to-back wins and I'm confident Lebron and co. will make the most of the opportunity. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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03-09-18 | Rockets v. Raptors +2.5 | 105-108 | Win | 100 | 13 h 21 m | Show | |
My selection is on Toronto plus the points over Houston at 7:35 pm et on Friday. Not a lot of respect is being given to the Raptors in this spot, despite their league-best home record and the fact that they sit atop the Eastern Conference. Yes, the Rockets look unbeatable right now, having reeled off 17 straight victories. But they're not invincible by any means. Keep in mind, Toronto has already defeated Houston once this season, on the road no less. There's no question that will add to the Rockets motivation here, but I still believe the Raps can hang with the best in the west, especially given their current form. Toronto got more of a challenge than it probably expected from the Pistons in Detroit on Wednesday but ultimately found a way to win thanks to DeMar DeRozan's late-game heroics. That performance serves as a nice catapult into this showdown. All eyes will be fixed on the Air Canada Centre on Friday night and I don't expect the Raptors to disappoint. Take Toronto (10*). |
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03-09-18 | Rockets v. Raptors OVER 220 | Top | 105-108 | Loss | -107 | 13 h 28 m | Show |
NBA Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Toronto at 7:35 pm et on Friday. The Rockets are coming off a relatively low-scoring game, by their own standards, in Milwaukee on Wednesday night but I expect a return to form on Friday as they square off against the East-leading Raptors in Toronto. The Raptors aren't going to back down from the challenge at hand, as they come in playing some of their best basketball of the season. The last time they faced a real step-up game on their home floor they fell against the Warriors so you can be sure they'll be up for this one. I don't think we'll see the Raps shy away from a potential track meet here either. Unlike previous years, Toronto has the scoring depth to keep up with a team like the Rockets. This has the potential to be one of the most entertaining games of the season and we'll grab a piece of the 'over' at what I would consider a reasonable number. Take the over (10*). |
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03-08-18 | 76ers v. Heat +1 | 99-108 | Win | 100 | 11 h 42 m | Show | |
My selection is on Miami plus the points over Philadelphia at 7:35 pm et on Thursday. There's no question the Heat were given an emotional boost following the acquisition of Dwyane Wade. Even their recent losses have mostly been tight save for a blowout defeat at the hands of the Lakers. Here, I look for Miami to bounce back from another close loss in Washington as it hosts the 76ers on Thursday night. Philadelphia is fresh off a blowout road win over the Hornets which was just what the doctor ordered following a big blown opportunity in Milwaukee. I simply feel that the 76ers have been too inconsistent to trust lately, and believe the wrong team is favored in this spot. Take Miami (10*). |
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03-07-18 | Raptors v. Pistons +5.5 | 121-119 | Win | 100 | 23 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on Detroit plus the points over Toronto at 8:05 pm et on Wednesday. I'll grab all the points I can get with the Pistons as they host the Raptors on Wednesday night. Toronto had its hands full with the lowly Hawks last night, proving it will be no cake walk for the Raps down the stretch. Now Toronto hits the road on no rest to face a Pistons squad that just got embarrassed in Cleveland on Monday. I certainly expect to see Detroit play with some pride in this spot. Note that the Pistons were also embarrassed in Toronto the last time these two teams squared off. They'll have more than enough motivation on their side to hang tough with the Raps in this spot. Take Detroit (10*). |
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03-06-18 | Rockets v. Thunder OVER 222.5 | 122-112 | Win | 100 | 24 h 60 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Oklahoma City at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday. As long as the oddsmakers continue to dangle relatively low totals in games involving the Rockets we'll continue to play the 'over'. We won with that play in Saturday's wild back-and-forth affair between Houston and Boston and I won't hesitate to go back to the well as the Rockets hit the road to challenge the Thunder on Tuesday. The Rockets play at such a ridiculous pace and hoist up so many three-point attempts, it takes an awfully sloppy performance to keep a game 'under' the total, regardless how high the number is. I certainly don't expect to see the Thunder back down in this one. Look for another wild, high-scoring affair between two of the Western Conference's best teams. Take the over (10*). |
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03-05-18 | Pistons +7 v. Cavs | 90-112 | Loss | -105 | 22 h 22 m | Show | |
My selection is on Detroit plus the points over Cleveland at 7:05 pm et on Monday. The Cavs got a bit of a boost from their trade deadline shakeup but the shine seems to have worn off as they've now dropped back-to-back games and four of their last six overall. They'll be facing a highly-motivated Pistons squad on Monday night as Detroit has dropped the first two games of its current road trip. Note that the Pistons did take the most recent meeting in this series, scoring 125 points in the process back on January 30th. While the Cavs should bounce back with a win in this spot, I'm not sure they'll be able to pull away to cover the lofty pointspread. Take Detroit (10*). |
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03-04-18 | 76ers -1 v. Bucks | 110-118 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 2 m | Show | |
My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over Milwaukee at 8:05 pm et on Sunday. These two teams are heading in opposite directions right now and I'm not convinced the Bucks can pick themselves up off the mat against the 76ers on Sunday night. Milwaukee doesn't own a considerable home court advantage as far as I'm concerned. I like the fact that the 76ers didn't let down their guard after that upset win in Cleveland on Thursday night, following it up with a 110-99 win over Charlotte on Friday. Meanwhile, the Bucks have lost four games in a row with three of those losses coming at home. Milwaukee will turn it around at some point but right now, I just don't think the Bucks are good enough. Solid value with the visiting 76ers here. Take Philadelphia (10*). |
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03-03-18 | Celtics v. Rockets OVER 216.5 | Top | 120-123 | Win | 100 | 24 h 57 m | Show |
NBA Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Boston and Houston at 8:35 pm et on Saturday. I'll back the 'over' in Houston on Saturday night. The Rockets are somewhat surprisingly coming off back-to-back relatively low-scoring affairs. I look for a different story to unfold on Saturday, however. The Celtics put up north of 130 points in their last game - a rout of the Hornets at home. Having won four games in a row, I don't believe they'll miss a beat here. Keep in mind, the Rockets have won a whopping 14 games in a row so they're obviously the 'hunted' at this point. They're also brimming with confidence and certainly won't back down from the Celtics. Look for this to be a highly-competitive matchup, with the final score soaring 'over' the total. Take the over (10*). |
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03-02-18 | Knicks +9.5 v. Clippers | 105-128 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 29 m | Show | |
My selection is on New York plus the points over Los Angeles at 10:35 pm et on Friday. The Clippers have been playing over their heads lately as far as I'm concerned, with only three losses in their last 10 games. They did get shown up on their home floor against the Rockets on Wednesday, and while they might be able to bounce back with a win here, I simply feel they're being asked to lay too many points. The Knicks have dropped back-to-back games but those came against the Celtics and Warriors - two NBA title contenders. That, the Clippers are not. Having been idle since February 26th, look for the Knicks to come out rested and ready for this game. Take New York (10*). |
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03-01-18 | 76ers v. Cavs UNDER 223 | 108-97 | Win | 100 | 24 h 41 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Cleveland at 8:05 pm et on Thursday. I'll keep my analysis short and sweet for this play on Thursday night. The Cavs are coming off a predictably high-scoring game against the Nets on Tuesday - a game that was closer than most expected. Here, I look for Cleveland to set the tone with a stronger defensive effort, catching the 76ers in a tough spot, a little road weary off a gut-wrenching loss in Miami on Tuesday night. I don't anticipate seeing peak efforts offensively in this particular spot, yet we're dealing with a very high posted total. Take the under (10*). |
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02-28-18 | Pelicans +5 v. Spurs | 121-116 | Win | 100 | 24 h 18 m | Show | |
My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over San Antonio at 8:35 pm et on Wednesday. I'll grab all the points I can get with the Pelicans on Wednesday night as they travel to face a Spurs squad that is coming off a surprising rout of the Cavs in Cleveland on Sunday. Keep in mind, that win snapped a four-game losing skid for the Spurs. They have still dropped six of their last eight games overall. Meanwhile, the Pelicans have won six games in a row and are absolutely rolling offensively right now. That's not to say the Spurs won't be able to slow them down on Wednesday night, but this is a big measuring stick game for the Pelicans and I don't expect them to roll over in the face of a tough challenge. Take New Orleans (10*). |
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02-28-18 | Pelicans v. Spurs UNDER 219.5 | Top | 121-116 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 14 m | Show |
NBA Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between New Orleans and San Antonio at 8:35 pm et on Wednesday. The Pelicans have been absolutely rolling offensively over the course of their six-game winning streak but I do expect them to face some resistance against the Spurs on Wednesday night. That's not to say they can't hang tough in this game, or even keep their winning streak going, but I think we're going to see a different pace of play than the breakneck one they've settled into lately. The Spurs are coming off a big blowout win in Cleveland on Sunday afternoon, snapping a four-game losing streak in the process. Note that they had been struggling mightily defensively, but that performance against the Cavs, allowing only 94 points, should give them a bit of a shot in the arm. Look for a tightly-contested affair all the way on Wednesday night. Take the under (10*). |
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02-28-18 | Bucks +2 v. Pistons | 87-110 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 54 m | Show | |
My selection is on Milwaukee plus the points over Detroit at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday. The Bucks are listed as the underdog here due in large part to playing a hard-fought game against the Wizards last night. I don't believe that has much bearing on tonight's outcome, however, and it's certainly worth noting that Milwaukee ended up losing that contest. I look for the Bucks to bounce back in this spot. The Pistons have just one win over their last seven games and that came at home against the lowly Hawks. This is a team that certainly looks like it has hit a wall after a brief burst following the Blake Griffin acquisition. Off a blowout loss in Toronto I'm not sure they pick themselves up off the mat here. Take Milwaukee (10*). |
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02-27-18 | Kings +12 v. Blazers | Top | 99-116 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 8 m | Show |
NBA Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Portland at 10:05 pm et on Tuesday. The Kings essentially played one bad quarter at home against the T'Wolves last night, and ultimately lost by 18 points (we missed with Sacramento in that contest). That won't discourage me from going back to the well with the Kings on Tuesday, however, as we're getting even more value as they head out on the road to face the Blazers. Portland comes in off three consecutive wins, which all started with a big home victory over the Warriors. In other words, there's a good chance the Blazers look past the lowly Kings here, especially considering they'll host a much better team, the aforementioned T'Wolves on Thursday night. Off four straight losses (only one of those came by more than nine points), look for the Kings to show some pride and hang tough in the Pacific Northwest on Tuesday. Take Sacramento (10*). |
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02-26-18 | Wolves v. Kings +6 | 118-100 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 57 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Minnesota at 10:05 pm et on Monday. The Kings have lost three games in a row, including a 113-108 setback against the Lakers on Saturday night but they catch the T'Wolves in a favorable spot on Monday as Minnesota is 'fat and happy' off a blowout win over the Bulls on Saturday night but still hasn't posted consecutive wins since defeating the Bucks and Pelicans in a three-night stretch in the first week of February. It would be easy for the young T'Wolves to look past the Kings to back-to-back games in Portland and Utah later this week. Look for Sacramento to surprise on Monday night. Take Sacramento (10*). |
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02-25-18 | Rockets v. Nuggets OVER 228 | 119-114 | Win | 100 | 13 h 39 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Denver at 8:05 pm et on Sunday. We missed the mark with the 'over' in the Rockets last game, a win over the T'Wolves on Friday night at home. That game wasn't ultimately as competitive as I thought it would be, and as a result wasn't able to get up and over the lofty total. I expect a different story to unfold on Sunday night in Denver, however. The Rockets are certainly coming off a strong offensive showing and I don't expect them to miss a beat here but they'll without question face a challenge from a strong Nuggets offense that won't back down on its home floor. We're dealing with an even higher total than we saw on Friday, but it's warranted in this case. Take the over (10*). |
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02-23-18 | Wolves v. Rockets OVER 225.5 | 102-120 | Loss | -108 | 23 h 53 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Houston at 8:05 pm et on Friday. No need to get too carried away with my analysis of this play. The fact is, both of these teams want to push the pace at every opportunity and it's unlikely we see much in the way of defense on Friday night. The last time they met on February 13th, the Rockets rolled to an 18-point victory. I expect a more competitive affair on Friday night and that lends itself to an even higher-scoring contest as far as I'm concerned. Yes, we're dealing with a high posted total but it's warranted in this case. Take the over (10*). |
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02-22-18 | Clippers +11 v. Warriors | 127-134 | Win | 100 | 27 h 40 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Golden State at 10:35 pm et on Thursday. I think there's a common misconception that the Clippers were waving the white flag when they dealt Blake Griffin to the Pistons. The fact is, the Clips have actually played better since trading Griffin and having already defeated the Warriors in Oakland this season, I believe they're undervalued in this spot. The Warriors simply haven't been a good bet this season and while they'll certainly be highly-motivated to come out of the All-Star break with a win after going into it with a loss in Portland, I'm not convinced they'll be able to cover this lofty pointspread. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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02-22-18 | Wizards v. Cavs OVER 220.5 | Top | 110-103 | Loss | -107 | 25 h 36 m | Show |
NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Cleveland at 8:05 pm et on Thursday. I'll back the 'over' in Cleveland on Thursday night. Both of these teams went into the All-Star break firing on all cylinders offensively. It remains to be seen whether the break costs them their positive momentum but I'm willing to bet both pick up right where they left off and we see a track meet on Thursday night. The Wizards have actually been pushing the pace even more since losing John Wall to injury with Bradley Beal really stepping up in his absence. On the flip side, the Cavs have looked like a completely different team since their flurry of trade deadline deals. Count on an entertaining affair on Thursday. Take the over (10*). |
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02-22-18 | 76ers v. Bulls +5.5 | 116-115 | Win | 100 | 24 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Philadelphia at 8:05 pm et on Thursday. I'll grab the points with the Bulls on Thursday night in Chicago. The 76ers went into the All-Star break having won five games in a row. However, I'm not sure how the break will serve this young squad. In fact, I expect it to have a negative effect as they come out of the break with a game they're expected to win in Chicago. The Bulls are certainly in a downturn but they did head into the break having split their last four contests and will be looking for something to hang their hat on as they head down the stretch. The 76ers are the best rebounding team in the NBA but the Bulls actually aren't far behind in that department. I look for Chicago to hang tough on the boards in this matchup as well and it's certainly worth noting that the 76ers rank 30th, yes 30th, in the league in turnovers per game while the Bulls check in sixth. Take Chicago (10*). |
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02-18-18 | Team LeBron -2.5 v. Team Stephen | 148-145 | Win | 100 | 11 h 13 m | Show | |
My selection is on Team LeBron minus the points over Team Stephen at 8 pm et on Sunday. I'll lay the short number with Team LeBron in Sunday's NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles. This game became a little bit bigger, or perhaps I should say became put under a bit larger spotlight following the headlines made by a little-known news anchor calling out LeBron James for his political statements, telling him to 'shut up and dribble' in the process. The bottom line is, I'm anticipating a spirited affair here on Sunday night in L.A. and I'm confident we'll see LeBron James play with a little extra fire than we might normally see in such a contest. On top of that, I simply feel that the oddsmakers have got it right installing Team LeBron as a short favorite here as I simply believe LBJ has the better squad. I rarely get involved in All-Star contests, but will take a shot here. Take Team LeBron (10*). |
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02-15-18 | Nuggets v. Bucks -3 | 134-123 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 60 m | Show | |
My selection is on Milwaukee minus the points over Denver at 8:05 pm et on Thursday. I'll lay the points with the Nuggets on Thursday night. Denver is coming off back-to-back wins, with its most recent coming at home against the Spurs. Now it hits the road where it has gone a miserable 1-7 SU over its last eight games. Milwaukee has won back-to-back games even if those results were a little closer than it would have liked against the Magic and Hawks. Note that the Bucks enter this contest riding a five-game winning streak on their home floor. Take Milwaukee (10*). |
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02-14-18 | Warriors v. Blazers OVER 225.5 | 117-123 | Win | 100 | 11 h 10 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Golden State and Portland at 10:35 pm et on Wednesday. I really feel that this play comes down to whether you think the Blazers show up or not. I believe they will coming off an ugly home loss to the Jazz on Sunday. Portland certainly won't be short on motivation having dropped the last seven meetings in this series. And the pointspread really says it all as the Warriors are only laying a few buckets in this matchup. Golden State ran up the score against the lowly Suns on Monday night, scoring 129 points in a 46-point rout. I don't think they'll face a great deal of resistance against the Blazers defense on this night. We're dealing with a high posted total, but it's warranted. Take the over (10*). |
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02-14-18 | Wizards v. Knicks +5 | 118-113 | Push | 0 | 22 h 25 m | Show | |
My selection is on New York plus the points over Washington at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday. The Wizards haven't been a great bet this season and while the Knicks may be in full on tank mode right now, I still expect them to hang around and show some pride against Washington on Wednesday. Keep in mind, the Wizards are coming off a road win in Chicago. Prior to that they had lost back-to-back games so it's not as if they're rolling along. The Knicks haven't won in what seems like an eternity but they're back home following a three-game road trip and have to consider this a winnable contest. The first meeting between these two teams this season was no contest as the Wizards rolled to a 121-103 win at home. Different venue. Different result. Take New York (10*). |
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02-13-18 | Heat v. Raptors OVER 207 | 112-115 | Win | 100 | 22 h 25 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Miami and Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday. I'll back the 'over' in Toronto on Tuesday night. The Heat are coming off a low-scoring affair at home against the Bucks on Friday, with Goran Dragic hitting just 1-of-11 shots in that contest. Expect a bounce-back offensively here, but I'm not sure Miami will have any answers for a rolling Raptors offense. Toronto absolutely blew the doors off of Charlotte on Sunday afternoon and should have little trouble keeping it rolling back at home, where it averages nearly 113 points per game this season. The Heat are averaging over 100 points per contest on the road themselves and they won't back down in this matchup. Take the over (10*). |
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02-11-18 | Cavs v. Celtics -4.5 | 121-99 | Loss | -107 | 8 h 58 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston minus the points over Cleveland at 3:35 pm et on Sunday. Big bounce-back spot for the Celtics here as they stay home following Friday's tough loss to the Pacers to host the new-look Cavs. Cleveland may end up being stronger following its trade deadline flurry but it's not going to happen overnight. Expect some growing pains as the Cavs work their new pieces into the mix. This will be an emotional day at the Garden with the Celtics retiring Paul Pierce's number. Expect the Celtics to show up and prove why they're the top contender in the Eastern Conference. Take Boston (10*). |
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02-10-18 | Nuggets v. Suns +7.5 | 123-113 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 11 m | Show | |
My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Denver at 9:05 pm et on Saturday. Quick turnaround for the Nuggets here after getting their doors blown off in Houston last night. Not sure this is the easy layup the betting marketplace is anticipating as the lowly Suns aren't going to draw a great deal of motivation from Denver. Phoenix should be able to get out and run in this game, and ultimately stay within arm's reach of an overvalued Nuggets squad. Take Phoenix (10*). |
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02-09-18 | Bucks +1.5 v. Heat | 85-91 | Loss | -103 | 12 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on Milwaukee plus the points over Miami at 8:05 pm et on Friday. I like the Bucks to add to the Heat woes on Friday night. Miami is coming off another loss, this time at the hands of the Rockets, on Wednesday night. Things won't get any easier as the Heat prepare to host a Bucks squad that will be looking for revenge after suffering a narrow loss the last time these two teams met. Miami made a splash at the trade deadline, adding veteran Dwyane Wade for a second go-round with the team. So it will likely be an emotional night in South Beach on Friday, but I'm not sure that Wade's presence will be enough. The Bucks are the superior squad, and they're playing better basketball right now. Take Milwaukee (10*). |
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02-08-18 | Mavs +12.5 v. Warriors | 103-121 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Golden State at 10:35 pm et on Thursday. The Mavs have dropped nine of their last 11 games overall but they were competitive in many of those losses and I look for them to put forth another strong effort in Oakland on Thursday night. This will wrap up a four-game road trip for Dallas, and it has only one win to its credit on the jaunt so far. Meanwhile, the Warriors come in off rare back-to-back losses leaving most bettors to believe they'll bounce back in a big way here. I'm not so sure as they simply haven't been playing close to their best basketball lately. It would be easy to overlook the Mavs here noting that the Warriors will host the Spurs on Saturday night. We're being given a generous helping of points to work with. Take Dallas (10*). |
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02-07-18 | Wolves v. Cavs +4 | 138-140 | Win | 100 | 12 h 12 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland plus the points over Minnesota at 8:05 pm et on Wednesday. It's time to 'buy low' with the Cavs following last night's embarrassing meltdown at the hands of the Magic in Orlando. This line has everything to do with the dire straights Lebron and co. appear to be in right now but I do see this as a good spot for Cleveland to step up and play with some pride against one of the league's emerging elite teams in the T'Wolves. Minnesota has notched back-to-back victories but both of those came at home. Note that they've dropped four games in a row on the road. And of course Cleveland certainly remembers at a 28-point beatdown it suffered at the hands of the T'Wolves in Minnesota back in early January. Despite their recent struggles, having dropped three of their last four games, the Cavs are still a top three team in the Eastern Conference and have to realize the importance of getting a win here before heading out on the road for three games. Note that Cleveland has won three of its last four games at home. In this rare opportunity to grab points with the Cavs at home, we'll give them a shot. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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02-07-18 | Rockets v. Heat +5 | Top | 109-101 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 22 m | Show |
NBA Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Miami plus the points over Houston at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday. The Rockets are playing exceptionally well right now and check in to tonight's game in Miami a perfect 3-0 on their current road trip. The problem here is, they're in a back-to-back spot following a game that drew a little more energy out of them than they probably would have liked last night in Brooklyn. Meanwhile, the Heat have lost four straight games although three of those losses came on the road. They were stunned by the Magic in a 111-109 home loss on Monday which should only provide them with a little extra motivation, not that they need it, against an elite opponent on Wednesday. While Miami has a day off tomorrow before another home game on Friday against Milwaukee, the Rockets will have an eye on a return home where they'll host the Nuggets and Mavs on Friday and Sunday, respectively. While I would like to be grabbing a couple more points with the Heat in this spot, I still feel they warrant a step-up play in an underdog role given the situation. Take Miami (10*). |
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02-07-18 | Nets +9.5 v. Pistons | 106-115 | Win | 100 | 11 h 18 m | Show | |
My selection is on Brooklyn plus the points over Detroit at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday. The Nets find themselves in a tough spot on paper on Wednesday night as they fell short in a track meet at home against the Rockets on Tuesday and now have to hit the road in a quick turnaround to face the surging Pistons. I simply feel Detroit is being given a little too much respect from the oddsmakers in this spot, however. Yes, the Pistons have won four games in a row but only one of those victories came in true blowout fashion, and two of them came by four points or less. It would be easy for Detroit to overlook the lowly Nets in this matchup, noting that those four wins in a row have all come on their current homestand. The Nets have lost three games in a row and seven of their last eight overall so they'll obviously be highly-motivated to get back in the win column tonight. With a three-game homestand on deck they could certainly use a shot in the arm in the form of an upset victory over the Pistons. While I'm not about to call for the outright win, I will grab all the points I can get with Brooklyn in this spot. Take Brooklyn (10*). |
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02-06-18 | Rockets v. Nets OVER 218 | 123-113 | Win | 100 | 23 h 14 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Brooklyn at 7:35 pm et on Tuesday. The Rockets are in a clear letdown spot after cruising to a 32-point rout of the Cavaliers on Saturday night. While they may let down their guard defensively and allow the Nets to hang around in this contest, I don't believe we'll see Houston let up one bit offensively, where they've obviously been extremely consistent this season. The Nets have lost back-to-back games after opening their current homestand with an impressive 116-108 win over the 76ers. This is precisely the type of spot where Brooklyn tends to show up and surprise the opposition. I'm not all that interested in grabbing the points but will call for a high-scoring track meet at Barclay's Center. Take the over (10*). |
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02-03-18 | Warriors -5 v. Nuggets | 108-115 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 11 m | Show | |
My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Denver at 9:05 pm et on Saturday. The Nuggets are coming off a thrilling last second win over the Thunder on Thursday night but now comes the letdown against the league's best team, the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors certainly haven't been a good bet lately and they come into this game in a tough back-to-back spot after playing in Sacramento on Friday night. However, with that 30-point beatdown at the hands of the Jazz earlier in the week still fresh in their minds, I look for their best effort in Denver on Saturday. It's not as if the Nuggets have been rolling along lately, save for that victory over the Thunder two nights ago. They do check in an impressive 20-7 SU at home but the Warriors have been slightly better on the road. Take Golden State (10*). |
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02-02-18 | Jazz v. Suns +5.5 | 129-97 | Loss | -107 | 25 h 36 m | Show | |
My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Utah at 9:05 pm et on Friday. A simple fade of the Jazz here off of their stunning 30-point rout of the Warriors. The Suns aren't playing bad basketball right now, and come off a home win over the Mavs, not to mention a day of rest. I see this as a favorable spot for Phoenix to catch Utah flat-footed, and we're being given a generous helping of points to work with. Take Phoenix (10*). |
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01-31-18 | Heat v. Cavs -3 | 89-91 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 58 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland minus the points over Miami at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday. I'll lay the points with the Cavs in this spot. We're getting a favorable line here as the Cavs are playing the second of back-to-back nights. It does appear, however, that they have turned the corner, particularly at the offensive end of the floor, and they host a Heat squad that has simply been treading water lately. It's worth noting that the last time Miami faced Cleveland, it entered the game playing well, having won three in a row. It had that streak halted, dropping a 108-97 decision. Not an ideal scheduling spot for the Cavs by any means, but I like their chances on their home floor. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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Sean Murphy NBA Picks
Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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05-23-18 | Cavs v. Celtics +1 | Top | 83-96 | Win | 100 | 24 h 31 m | Show |
05-22-18 | Rockets +8.5 v. Warriors | 95-92 | Win | 100 | 24 h 2 m | Show | |
05-21-18 | Celtics v. Cavs UNDER 207 | 102-111 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 33 m | Show | |
05-20-18 | Rockets v. Warriors OVER 226 | 85-126 | Loss | -105 | 47 h 42 m | Show | |
05-19-18 | Celtics +6.5 v. Cavs | 86-116 | Loss | -109 | 35 h 21 m | Show | |
05-19-18 | Celtics v. Cavs OVER 205 | 86-116 | Loss | -105 | 35 h 17 m | Show | |
05-16-18 | Warriors v. Rockets UNDER 225 | 105-127 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 8 m | Show | |
05-16-18 | Warriors v. Rockets -1 | 105-127 | Win | 100 | 6 h 10 m | Show | |
05-15-18 | Cavs v. Celtics OVER 202.5 | Top | 94-107 | Loss | -110 | 32 h 15 m | Show |
05-14-18 | Warriors v. Rockets -1 | 119-106 | Loss | -100 | 24 h 59 m | Show | |
05-13-18 | Cavs v. Celtics +2 | 83-108 | Win | 100 | 19 h 36 m | Show | |
05-09-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +1 | 112-114 | Win | 102 | 14 h 35 m | Show | |
05-08-18 | Pelicans v. Warriors OVER 226.5 | Top | 104-113 | Loss | -105 | 26 h 38 m | Show |
05-07-18 | Raptors v. Cavs UNDER 214 | 93-128 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 15 m | Show | |
05-07-18 | Celtics +6.5 v. 76ers | 92-103 | Loss | -102 | 22 h 50 m | Show | |
05-06-18 | Rockets -5 v. Jazz | 100-87 | Win | 100 | 12 h 55 m | Show | |
05-06-18 | Warriors -6 v. Pelicans | 118-92 | Win | 100 | 8 h 32 m | Show | |
05-06-18 | Warriors v. Pelicans UNDER 231 | 118-92 | Win | 100 | 7 h 28 m | Show | |
05-05-18 | Raptors v. Cavs UNDER 216 | 103-105 | Win | 100 | 23 h 20 m | Show | |
05-05-18 | Raptors +4.5 v. Cavs | 103-105 | Win | 100 | 23 h 20 m | Show | |
05-05-18 | Celtics v. 76ers UNDER 206.5 | 101-98 | Win | 100 | 20 h 51 m | Show | |
05-04-18 | Rockets -3.5 v. Jazz | 113-92 | Win | 100 | 26 h 59 m | Show | |
05-03-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +4 | 103-108 | Win | 100 | 24 h 32 m | Show | |
05-02-18 | Jazz v. Rockets -11 | 116-108 | Loss | -101 | 23 h 48 m | Show | |
05-01-18 | Cavs v. Raptors UNDER 215 | 113-112 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 46 m | Show | |
04-30-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +3.5 | 101-117 | Win | 100 | 23 h 30 m | Show | |
04-29-18 | Pacers v. Cavs -5.5 | 101-105 | Loss | -105 | 16 h 28 m | Show | |
04-28-18 | Bucks v. Celtics -4.5 | Top | 96-112 | Win | 100 | 34 h 23 m | Show |
04-27-18 | Cavs v. Pacers | 87-121 | Win | 100 | 23 h 52 m | Show | |
04-26-18 | Celtics v. Bucks -4.5 | 86-97 | Win | 100 | 11 h 24 m | Show | |
04-25-18 | Jazz v. Thunder -3.5 | 99-107 | Win | 100 | 25 h 47 m | Show | |
04-24-18 | Heat v. 76ers -10 | 91-104 | Win | 100 | 24 h 31 m | Show | |
04-23-18 | Rockets -5.5 v. Wolves | 119-100 | Win | 100 | 23 h 3 m | Show | |
04-22-18 | Cavs v. Pacers | 104-100 | Win | 100 | 23 h 26 m | Show | |
04-21-18 | 76ers v. Heat UNDER 215 | 106-102 | Win | 100 | 6 h 20 m | Show | |
04-20-18 | Raptors v. Wizards UNDER 218 | 103-122 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 26 m | Show | |
04-18-18 | Pacers v. Cavs -7.5 | 97-100 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 16 m | Show | |
04-17-18 | Pelicans v. Blazers -6 | 111-102 | Loss | -110 | 15 h 53 m | Show | |
04-17-18 | Wizards v. Raptors UNDER 215 | 119-130 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 24 m | Show | |
04-16-18 | Heat v. 76ers OVER 215 | Top | 113-103 | Win | 100 | 23 h 21 m | Show |
04-15-18 | Wolves v. Rockets -11 | 101-104 | Loss | -108 | 13 h 24 m | Show | |
04-14-18 | Wizards v. Raptors UNDER 211 | 106-114 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 12 m | Show | |
04-09-18 | Pelicans v. Clippers +6.5 | Top | 113-100 | Loss | -107 | 26 h 48 m | Show |
04-07-18 | Pelicans v. Warriors OVER 225.5 | 126-120 | Win | 100 | 12 h 54 m | Show | |
04-05-18 | Wolves v. Nuggets OVER 224.5 | 96-100 | Loss | -105 | 16 h 14 m | Show | |
04-03-18 | Raptors v. Cavs -1 | 106-112 | Win | 100 | 22 h 25 m | Show | |
04-01-18 | Thunder v. Pelicans +1 | 109-104 | Loss | -102 | 21 h 53 m | Show | |
03-30-18 | Clippers +6 v. Blazers | 96-105 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 15 m | Show | |
03-28-18 | Cavs v. Hornets +1.5 | 118-105 | Loss | -103 | 22 h 50 m | Show | |
03-27-18 | Blazers v. Pelicans OVER 221.5 | 107-103 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 46 m | Show | |
03-26-18 | Nuggets v. 76ers OVER 223 | 104-123 | Win | 100 | 23 h 59 m | Show | |
03-25-18 | Blazers v. Thunder OVER 216 | Top | 108-105 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 5 m | Show |
03-25-18 | Clippers +8 v. Raptors | 117-106 | Win | 100 | 10 h 25 m | Show | |
03-21-18 | Wizards +5 v. Spurs | 90-98 | Loss | -108 | 25 h 2 m | Show | |
03-21-18 | Wizards v. Spurs OVER 203.5 | 90-98 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 56 m | Show | |
03-20-18 | Rockets v. Blazers +4.5 | Top | 115-111 | Win | 100 | 26 h 42 m | Show |
03-19-18 | Warriors v. Spurs OVER 206 | 75-89 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 17 m | Show | |
03-14-18 | Heat v. Kings +6.5 | 119-123 | Win | 100 | 14 h 26 m | Show | |
03-14-18 | Bucks v. Magic +8.5 | 117-126 | Win | 100 | 11 h 20 m | Show | |
03-13-18 | Clippers -6 v. Bulls | 112-106 | Push | 0 | 23 h 19 m | Show | |
03-12-18 | Bucks -7 v. Grizzlies | 121-103 | Win | 100 | 23 h 11 m | Show | |
03-11-18 | Rockets v. Mavs +12.5 | 105-82 | Loss | -100 | 22 h 58 m | Show | |
03-10-18 | Wizards v. Heat UNDER 207 | 102-129 | Loss | -121 | 10 h 6 m | Show | |
03-09-18 | Cavs +1.5 v. Clippers | 102-116 | Loss | -105 | 17 h 33 m | Show | |
03-09-18 | Rockets v. Raptors +2.5 | 105-108 | Win | 100 | 13 h 21 m | Show | |
03-09-18 | Rockets v. Raptors OVER 220 | Top | 105-108 | Loss | -107 | 13 h 28 m | Show |
03-08-18 | 76ers v. Heat +1 | 99-108 | Win | 100 | 11 h 42 m | Show | |
03-07-18 | Raptors v. Pistons +5.5 | 121-119 | Win | 100 | 23 h 28 m | Show | |
03-06-18 | Rockets v. Thunder OVER 222.5 | 122-112 | Win | 100 | 24 h 60 m | Show | |
03-05-18 | Pistons +7 v. Cavs | 90-112 | Loss | -105 | 22 h 22 m | Show | |
03-04-18 | 76ers -1 v. Bucks | 110-118 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 2 m | Show | |
03-03-18 | Celtics v. Rockets OVER 216.5 | Top | 120-123 | Win | 100 | 24 h 57 m | Show |
03-02-18 | Knicks +9.5 v. Clippers | 105-128 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 29 m | Show | |
03-01-18 | 76ers v. Cavs UNDER 223 | 108-97 | Win | 100 | 24 h 41 m | Show | |
02-28-18 | Pelicans +5 v. Spurs | 121-116 | Win | 100 | 24 h 18 m | Show | |
02-28-18 | Pelicans v. Spurs UNDER 219.5 | Top | 121-116 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 14 m | Show |
02-28-18 | Bucks +2 v. Pistons | 87-110 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 54 m | Show | |
02-27-18 | Kings +12 v. Blazers | Top | 99-116 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 8 m | Show |
02-26-18 | Wolves v. Kings +6 | 118-100 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 57 m | Show | |
02-25-18 | Rockets v. Nuggets OVER 228 | 119-114 | Win | 100 | 13 h 39 m | Show | |
02-23-18 | Wolves v. Rockets OVER 225.5 | 102-120 | Loss | -108 | 23 h 53 m | Show | |
02-22-18 | Clippers +11 v. Warriors | 127-134 | Win | 100 | 27 h 40 m | Show | |
02-22-18 | Wizards v. Cavs OVER 220.5 | Top | 110-103 | Loss | -107 | 25 h 36 m | Show |
02-22-18 | 76ers v. Bulls +5.5 | 116-115 | Win | 100 | 24 h 17 m | Show | |
02-18-18 | Team LeBron -2.5 v. Team Stephen | 148-145 | Win | 100 | 11 h 13 m | Show | |
02-15-18 | Nuggets v. Bucks -3 | 134-123 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 60 m | Show | |
02-14-18 | Warriors v. Blazers OVER 225.5 | 117-123 | Win | 100 | 11 h 10 m | Show | |
02-14-18 | Wizards v. Knicks +5 | 118-113 | Push | 0 | 22 h 25 m | Show | |
02-13-18 | Heat v. Raptors OVER 207 | 112-115 | Win | 100 | 22 h 25 m | Show | |
02-11-18 | Cavs v. Celtics -4.5 | 121-99 | Loss | -107 | 8 h 58 m | Show | |
02-10-18 | Nuggets v. Suns +7.5 | 123-113 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 11 m | Show | |
02-09-18 | Bucks +1.5 v. Heat | 85-91 | Loss | -103 | 12 h 33 m | Show | |
02-08-18 | Mavs +12.5 v. Warriors | 103-121 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 33 m | Show | |
02-07-18 | Wolves v. Cavs +4 | 138-140 | Win | 100 | 12 h 12 m | Show | |
02-07-18 | Rockets v. Heat +5 | Top | 109-101 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 22 m | Show |
02-07-18 | Nets +9.5 v. Pistons | 106-115 | Win | 100 | 11 h 18 m | Show | |
02-06-18 | Rockets v. Nets OVER 218 | 123-113 | Win | 100 | 23 h 14 m | Show | |
02-03-18 | Warriors -5 v. Nuggets | 108-115 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 11 m | Show | |
02-02-18 | Jazz v. Suns +5.5 | 129-97 | Loss | -107 | 25 h 36 m | Show | |
01-31-18 | Heat v. Cavs -3 | 89-91 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 58 m | Show |