Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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01-10-24 | 76ers +2.5 v. Hawks | 132-139 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on Philadelphia plus the points over Atlanta at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday. The 76ers had a brutal back-to-back set at home against New York and Utah last Friday and Saturday. The absence of Joel Embiid has certainly hurt their cause but this is still a team that has enough talent to hang, even without their big man. They got caught trying to do too much on Saturday against the Jazz, hoisting up an uncharacteristic 104 field goal attempts in the 120-109 loss. I think we'll see a much more composed 76ers squad on Wednesday as they come off a much-needed three-day break. They'll certainly get their opportunities against a Hawks team that has allowed more than 90 field goal attempts in four straight and six of their last seven games. Of their last 11 opponents, nine have knocked down at least 43 field goals. Only three of Philadelphia's last 15 foes have made good on 43 or more field goals. The Hawks can score with the best of them but despite hoisting up more than 90 field goal attempts in five straight games, they've connected on 42 or fewer field goals in three of those contests. Note that the 76ers are 5-1 ATS in their last six games following consecutive upset losses, as is the case here. They're also 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games following a double-digit home loss. The Hawks on the other hand are just 33-41 ATS in their last 74 games as a home favorite and 18-26 ATS in their last 44 contests when seeking revenge for a double-digit loss against an opponent, which is the situation here. Take Philadelphia (8*). |
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01-09-24 | Raptors v. Lakers OVER 233.5 | Top | 131-132 | Win | 100 | 16 h 54 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Toronto and Los Angeles at 10:40 pm et on Tuesday. While few are paying much attention, the Raptors have gone on an offensive tear lately, knocking down 44 or more field goals in six of their last eight games with the 'over' cashing at a 6-2 clip over that stretch. The Lakers were fortunate to catch the Clippers on an off shooting night on Sunday as they allowed 91 field goal attempts but the Clips could only make good on 36 of them. While the Lakers have generally been able to slow down the opposition this season, we've seen a bit of a sputter lately as two of their last three foes have hoisted up more than 90 field goal attempts. The Raptors don't always play fast but they're definitely making the most of their scoring opportunities right now and I like the rhythm they're in having played every second night going back to December 30th. On the flip side, you would have to go back 11 games to find the last time Toronto held an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals. Of their last 10 opponents, seven have knocked down at least 43 field goals. Their last two foes have reached the 100 mark in terms of field goal attempts. For the Lakers, this will be their fourth straight home game and I expect them to come out with plenty of energy following an off day on Monday. While Sunday's game against the Clippers did stay 'under' the total, the Lakers haven't produced consecutive 'under' results since a four-game streak from December 2nd to 9th. Take the over (10*). |
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01-08-24 | Suns +6.5 v. Clippers | 111-138 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Los Angeles at 10:40 pm et on Monday. The Suns dropped a 121-115 home decision against the Grizzlies last night as they essentially folded the tent in the fourth quarter and let Memphis off the hook. That doesn't change the fact that Phoenix has been playing better lately, particularly from an offensive standpoint. Note that the Suns have knocked down 44 or more field goals in five of their last seven games. They'll head to Los Angeles on Monday to face a Clippers squad that is fresh off a 106-103 loss to the Lakers last night. While Los Angeles has been stacking wins, you can almost sense a downturn coming. The Clippers offense has stagnated somewhat, making good on 42 or fewer field goals in five of their last seven contests. Of course, there was a 131-point outburst against these same Suns in Phoenix last week but I think the Clips will be hard-pressed to repeat that performance in this back-to-back spot. Note that the road team has gone 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings in this series. I noted that Phoenix's offense has been trending up and you could argue it has played better defensive basketball on the road compared to at home this season, allowing just a shade under 112 points per game which is around two points per game fewer than its overall season average. Take Phoenix (8*). |
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01-08-24 | Celtics v. Pacers +4 | 131-133 | Win | 100 | 11 h 52 m | Show | |
My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Boston at 7:10 pm et on Monday. The Celtics had little trouble disposing of the Pacers on this floor two nights ago. I expect a different story to unfold in Monday's rematch. Indiana was in a difficult spot on Saturday as it poured in 150 points in a rout of the Hawks the night previous, using up much of what it had in the tank. Boston on the other hand shifted into cruise control relatively early in a victory over the Jazz one night earlier. It's also worth noting that Saturday's affair was a revenge spot for the C's after they dropped a 122-112 decision in Indiana in early December. The shoe is on the other foot here. Note that the Pacers are 31-22 ATS in their last 53 games when seeking revenge for a double-digit loss against an opponent, as is the case here. Indiana is also 22-15 ATS in its last 37 contests as a home underdog six points or less. The Celtics on the other hand are a miserable 11-22 ATS in their last 33 games following consecutive ATS wins as favorites. They're also just 13-18 ATS in their last 31 contests after holding their last two opponents to 105 points or less, which is the situation here. Take Indiana (8*). |
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01-07-24 | Clippers v. Lakers +5 | 103-106 | Win | 100 | 14 h 37 m | Show | |
My selection is on the Lakers plus the points over the Clippers at 9:40 pm et on Sunday. These two teams appear headed in opposite directions right now with the Clippers having won five games in a row SU and four straight ATS while the Lakers have dropped four straight contests including three in a row ATS. We'll grab all the points we can get with the underdog Lakers on Sunday, however, as I see this as a favorable spot. The Lakers have been home since the turn of the New Year but have nothing to show for it, dropping back-to-back games against the Heat and Grizzlies at Crypto.com Arena. It's been quite a slide since winning the inaugural in-season tournament but there is an opportunity here to start turning things around as this is only the third game of a five-game homestand. The Clippers are probably feeling pretty good about themselves after opening their current road trip with wins in Phoenix and New Orleans. This is where things get a little tricky as they'll play against the Lakers tonight before hosting the Suns tomorrow. Note that the Clippers are a long-term 61-98 ATS when coming off consecutive ATS wins as a favorite, as is the case here. They're also 39-69 ATS when coming off four or more consecutive ATS victories. Meanwhile, the Lakers are 32-25 ATS in their last 57 games following a double-digit loss and 61-47 ATS in their last 108 contests following an ATS defeat. Take the Lakers (8*). |
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01-05-24 | Heat v. Suns UNDER 229.5 | 97-113 | Win | 100 | 14 h 23 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and Phoenix at 9:10 pm et on Friday. The Heat are coming off a lopsided win in upset fashion over the Lakers two nights ago. In that contest, they scored 100 or more points for the 12th straight game, extending their season long streak. Note that their previous longest such streak lasted just nine games. Of course, in today's NBA perhaps that's not such an accomplishment but for a team like the Heat, which I consider to be rather limited offensively, not to mention one that doesn't play at an incredibly fast pace, it's worth noting. The Suns do figure to test the Heat offense here, noting that Phoenix has held five straight and 13 of its last 15 opponents to 44 or fewer made field goals. Also of note, the Suns have limited five of their last eight opponents to 87 or fewer field goal attempts. On the flip side, most expected the Suns to be one of the league's most explosive offensive teams with the additions of Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. Both have dealt with injuries, however, and have been in and out of the lineup. As a result, the Suns have been lukewarm offensively. They've knocked down 42 or fewer field goals in back-to-back and 16 of their last 20 games overall. In fact, Phoenix has had a tough enough time getting shots off let alone making good on them, hoisting up 82 or fewer field goal attempts in four of its last five contests. Note that the 'under' is 7-3 in the Heat's last 10 games following a road win and 9-5 in their last 14 contests after an ATS victory. Meanwhile, the 'under' is 8-4 in the Suns last 12 games after giving up 130 or more points in their previous contest, as is the case here. The 'under' is also 42-34 in Phoenix's last 76 games following a loss. Take the under (8*). |
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01-03-24 | Pelicans v. Wolves UNDER 223.5 | Top | 117-106 | Win | 100 | 14 h 50 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between New Orleans and Minnesota at 8:10 pm et on Wednesday. This will be the fourth meeting already this season between these two teams and we're inexplicably working with the highest total of the bunch. It is worth noting the 'over' has cashed in all three previous matchups this season. I expect a different story to unfold on Wednesday. The Timberwolves were already one of the slowest paced teams in the league this season but they've taken it to another level lately, hoisting up an unheard of (by today's NBA standards) 76 field goal attempts or fewer in each of their last four games. They've also held four of their last five opponents to 40 or fewer made field goals. The Pelicans have gotten off 88 or fewer field goal attempts in six of their last seven games. On the flip side they've held the opposition to just 35, 39, 36, 39 and 35 made field goals over their last five contests. Note that the 'under' is a long-term 45-28 with the Pelicans checking in as a road underdog. Meanwhile, the 'under' has gone 35-21 in the Timberwolves last 56 home games with the total set at 220 points or higher. Take the under (10*). |
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01-02-24 | Celtics v. Thunder +3 | Top | 123-127 | Win | 100 | 24 h 2 m | Show |
Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Oklahoma City plus the points over Boston at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday. It seems as though the Thunder still aren't being treated like an elite team in the betting marketplace. Here, they're installed as a home underdog against the Celtics, despite playing some of their best basketball of the season - a red hot 7-1 SU and ATS over their last eight games. While Oklahoma City is gaining a reputation for being an outstanding offensive team, and for good reason, I've been even more impressed by its defensive play. Note that the Thunder have allowed just three of their last seven opponents to knock down 40+ field goals. In stark contrast, the Celtics have allowed 40+ made field goals in seven straight and 13 of their last 14 contests. Both teams come in following an off day on Monday. The difference I see here is that Boston will be playing in its sixth different city since December 19th while Oklahoma City has only had to leave home for a single game (in Denver) over that same period. Finally, we'll note that the Celtics are a long-term 95-126 ATS when coming off a double-digit road win, as is the case here. Take Oklahoma City (10*). |
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01-01-24 | Mavs v. Jazz +3.5 | 90-127 | Win | 100 | 24 h 5 m | Show | |
My selection is on Utah plus the points over Dallas at 9:10 pm et on Monday. Sometimes you have to ride the streaks and right now the Jazz are on a heater having reeled off five straight ATS victories. They'll look to avoid a fourth straight defeat at the hands of the Mavericks on Monday, noting that Dallas hasn't won four consecutive matchups in this season since 2013-15. The Mavs have been wildly inconsistent this season and I can't help but feel they're in for a letdown following Saturday's upset win over the Warriors in San Francisco. Note that they're just 18-35 ATS in their last 53 games following a win. Utah rallied for a 117-109 victory over the Heat at home on Saturday. The Jazz have gone an incredible 20-5 ATS in their last 25 games as a home underdog. They're also 8-1 ATS when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent this season. Take Utah (8*). |
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12-31-23 | Magic +5.5 v. Suns | 107-112 | Win | 100 | 24 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on Orlando plus the points over Phoenix at 8:10 pm et on Sunday. The Suns have delivered back-to-back blowout wins over the fast-fading Rockets and Hornets. I look for them to come back to Earth as they host the Magic on Sunday. Orlando has shaken off a recent slump to deliver three wins in its last four games SU and four in its last five ATS. Note that the underdog has gone 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings in this series. The Magic are 52-38 ATS in their last 90 games as an underdog of between 3.5 and 9.5 points. Meanwhile, the Suns are 15-28 ATS in their last 43 games off a double-digit home victory. Take Orlando (8*). |
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12-29-23 | Hornets v. Suns UNDER 234.5 | 119-133 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 9 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Charlotte and Phoenix at 9:10 pm et on Friday. It sounds like Bradley Beal will take the floor for the Suns on Friday and that has given this total a bump. It generally takes two teams to topple a total this high, however, and this is a miserable spot for the road-weary Hornets. Charlotte got drummed again last night, allowing 130+ points in a game where the Lakers simply couldn't miss (they shot 52-of-97 from the field). Note that the Hornets have now been held to 43 or fewer made field goals in eight of their last nine games. Meanwhile, Phoenix has allowed 44 or fewer made field goals in an incredible 14 of its last 17 contests. On the flip side, the Suns went off two nights ago in Houston, connecting on 47-of-82 field goal attempts. While I'm not saying that performance is necessarily a one-off, I also don't think it's sustainable. Note that the 'under' is 44-32 in the Suns last 76 home games with a total set at 230 points or higher, as is the case here. The 'under' is also a long-term 47-41 in Phoenix's last 88 home games as a favorite of 12.5 points or more. Take the under (8*). |
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12-29-23 | Bucks v. Cavs +5.5 | 119-111 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 49 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland plus the points over Milwaukee at 7:40 pm et on Friday. The Cavaliers have gone through their ups and downs this season but have battled harder than most teams on their way to an 18-13 record. The needle is most definitely pointed up right now as they've gone 8-2-1 ATS over their last 11 games and draw a statement game at home against the Bucks on Friday. Milwaukee dismantled Brooklyn 144-122 two nights ago. We'll fade it off that win and cover as a double-digit favorite, however. Note that the Bucks are 13-26 ATS in their last 39 games after scoring 120 points or more in three straight games, as is the case here. They're also a long-term 96-102 ATS when coming off a double-digit road victory. Meanwhile, the Cavs are 15-9 ATS in their last 24 games off an upset win, which is the situation here following Wednesday's victory in Dallas. They're also a long-term 51-42 ATS when coming off consecutive road wins. The home team has dominated this particular series lately, taking six straight meetings both SU and ATS. Take Cleveland (8*). |
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12-28-23 | Heat v. Warriors UNDER 228.5 | Top | 114-102 | Win | 100 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Thursday. The Heat saw their most recent game on Christmas Night sneak 'over' the total as they outlasted the 76ers on their home floor. Note that Miami has still held nine of its last 10 opponents to 42 or fewer made field goals. On the flip side, you would have to go back five games to find the last time the Heat connected on more than 41 field goals. The 'under' is 17-6 in the Warriors last 23 home games when playing on two of more days' rest, as is the case here. They covered but lost 120-114 in Denver on Christmas. Golden State has held seven of its last eight opponents to 45 or fewer made field goals and its last two foes to just 38 and 40 made field goals. Take the under (10*). |
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12-28-23 | Jazz v. Pelicans -8 | 105-112 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on New Orleans minus the points over Utah at 8:10 pm et on Thursday. The Pelicans have dropped consecutive games but draw a favorable matchup to get back on track on Thursday against the Jazz. New Orleans recent losses haven't been for lack of trying. The Pelicans have still held eight straight opponents to 42 or fewer made field goals. In stark contrast, the Jazz have allowed their last four opponents to knock down 45, 43, 44 and 45 field goals. Note that Utah is 15-29 ATS in its last 44 games after winning three of its last four contests, as is the case here, while New Orleans checks in 21-8 ATS in its last 29 home games after losing four of five of its last six games. The home team has reeled off four consecutive SU and ATS wins in this series. Take New Orleans (8*). |
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12-27-23 | Suns v. Rockets UNDER 225.5 | Top | 129-113 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 51 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Houston at 8:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Rockets were involved in a relatively high-scoring game last night but what else would you expect against the Pacers. Houston ended up hoisting up an uncharacteristic 97 field goal attempts in that game, largely due to the fact it was playing from behind much of the way. I expect a different game script to unfold against the struggling Suns on Wednesday. While Phoenix has had a tough time winning games it has continued to limit its opponents' opportunities, allowing fewer than 90 field goal attempts in five of its last six and nine of its last 14 games. On the flip side, the Suns have knocked down 42 or fewer field goals in 14 of their last 15 contests. Houston limited Indiana to only 82 field goal attempts last night but the Pacers quite simply shot the lights out, as it often does. The Rockets have been incredibly stingy at home this season, holding the opposition to an average of just 36-of-86 shooting from the field. Houston has seen the 'under' cash in 17 of its last 23 games as a home underdog of six points or less. Take the under (10*). |
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12-26-23 | Hornets v. Clippers UNDER 228.5 | 104-113 | Win | 100 | 15 h 21 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Charlotte and Los Angeles at 10:40 pm et on Tuesday. The Clippers are coming off back-to-back dreadful defensive efforts against the Thunder and Celtics but this looks like an ideal 'get right' matchup against the Hornets on Tuesday. Note that Charlotte has made good on fewer than 40 field goals in three of its last four games. The last time these two teams squared off was just over a year ago and on that night, the Clips held the Hornets to 37-of-92 from the field. Los Angeles will look to get going again offensively against a Charlotte squad that has at least been able to slow its opponents' pace. The Hornets have allowed 88 or fewer field goal attempts in nine of their last 13 games. With the Clips averaging only 87 FG attempts per contest at home this season, I'm not convinced the pace will get this one to the posted total. Take the under (8*). |
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12-25-23 | 76ers v. Heat UNDER 226.5 | Top | 113-119 | Loss | -110 | 32 h 31 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Miami at 8:10 pm et on Monday. The Heat's four-game 'over' streak came to an end last time out against Atlanta while Philadelphia enters Monday's contest riding a two-game 'over' streak. I'm anticipating a lower-scoring affair than most in this Christmas Night matchup. Note that the 76ers remain an elite defensive team. They've held eight straight and 11 of their last 12 opponents to 42 or fewer made field goals - that's an accomplishment by today's NBA standards. Miami can also hold its own defensively having allowed 42 or fewer made field goals in four straight and eight of its last nine games. Add in the fact that the Heat have been scuffing their heels offensively, knocking down just 41, 40 and 40 field goals over their last three contests but check into this one in a near pk'em range and you can understand why I'm favoring the 'under' in Miami on Monday. Take the under (10*). |
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12-23-23 | Magic +1.5 v. Pacers | 117-110 | Win | 100 | 12 h 56 m | Show | |
My selection is on Orlando plus the points over Indiana at 7:10 pm et on Saturday. Both of these teams are struggling right now with the Magic having lost four games in a row and the Pacers coming off five losses in their last six games. The Magic should bring confidence into this game knowing that they've already defeated Indiana by double-digits on this floor earlier this season while they've also held each of their last two opponents to 40 or fewer made field goals. In fact, they've held four of their last six foes to 40 or fewer made field goals with only the Celtics (twice) breaking through that level. Everyone scores on Indiana with the Pacers having allowed at least 43 made field goals in 12 straight contests. Note that Orlando is 30-22 ATS in its last 52 games after losing three of its last four games ATS while Indiana has gone a long-term 58-82 ATS in its last 140 contests when seeking revenge for a double-digit home loss against an opponent. Take Orlando (8*). |
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12-22-23 | Suns v. Kings UNDER 244.5 | Top | 105-120 | Win | 100 | 15 h 43 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Sacramento at 10:10 pm et on Friday. On paper, this sets up as a track meet as both teams are brimming with offensive talent. However, a closer look leads me to believe we're in for a lower-scoring affair than most are anticipating. Note that Phoenix generally plays at a fairly methodical pace (by today's NBA standards). Last time out, the Suns did hoist up 94 field goal attempts as they were trying to rally against the Blazers in an eventual defeat. Prior to that, Phoenix had gotten off 90 or fewer field goal attempts in eight straight games. On the flip side, the Suns continue to play well defensively despite having little to show for it in the win column. Phoenix has held seven of its last eight opponents to 42 or fewer made field goals. The Kings obviously pose a stiff challenge but the Suns did hold them to 114 points on 42-of-92 shooting in their most recent meeting on December 8th. Sacramento clearly got caught looking past an undermanned Celtics team that was playing the second of back-to-backs two nights ago, allowing Boston to knock down a whopping 51 field goals in the blowout loss. Prior to that, the Kings had held six straight foes to 44 or fewer made field goals. The fact that Sacramento took the first matchup between these teams this season is notable as the 'under' is 26-14 in the Suns last 40 games when seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored 110 or more points. Take the under (10*). |
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12-21-23 | Clippers v. Thunder -4.5 | Top | 115-134 | Win | 100 | 14 h 5 m | Show |
Non-Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Oklahoma City minus the points over Los Angeles at 8:10 pm et on Thursday. Tough spot for the Clippers here as they play the second of back-to-backs after reeling off consecutive wins to open their three-game road trip. In fact, they've won nine straight games overall and five in a row ATS. They played on consecutive nights only once over that stretch and that was at home against Sacramento. The Thunder have been home and cool since Monday, when they rolled to a 19-point win over the Grizzlies. They won't take the floor again until they host the Lakers on Saturday. You could argue that no team is healthier than the Thunder right now and only the Timberwolves own a better record in the Western Conference. The Clippers could understandably be caught looking ahead to a four-game homestand that will begin on Saturday against Boston and take them all the way into the New Year. Note that the home team has gone 10-1 in the last 11 meetings in this series. While we are being asked to lay a considerable number of points with Oklahoma City on this occasion, I believe the line is warranted. Take Oklahoma City (10*). |
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12-20-23 | Knicks v. Nets +1.5 | 121-102 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 44 m | Show | |
My selection is on Brooklyn plus the points over New York at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday. The Nets didn't have a great road trip, going 1-4 SU and ATS including three straight defeats to close it out. I look for them to bounce back on Wednesday as they host the rival Knicks, who make the long trip from Los Angeles following a 1-1 split against the Clippers and Lakers. New York's defensive play has left a lot to be desired lately as it has allowed nine straight opponents to make good on at least 42 field goals. It's been a similar story for the Nets lately but now they're back home where they've held the opposition to an average of 40 made field goals per contest this season. In fact, only one of their last six foes here at home has managed to knock down more than 40 field goals. Home court certainly mattered in this series last season with the host winning all four meetings both SU and ATS. Note that the underdog is 6-4 ATS in the last 10 matchups between these two teams. Take Brooklyn (8*). |
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12-20-23 | Wolves v. 76ers -3 | Top | 113-127 | Win | 100 | 24 h 37 m | Show |
Revenge Game of the Year. My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over Minnesota at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Timberwolves used up a lot of what they had in the tank rallying for Monday's come-from-behind win in Miami - their third straight victory. I look for them to come up short on Wednesday as they stay on the road to face the 76ers. Philadelphia dropped a 108-104 decision against the Bulls on Monday, falling as a double-digit favorite. The 76ers are in a revenge spot here after losing 112-99 in Minnesota back in November. That's notable as they're an impressive 29-11 ATS in their last 40 games played when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent. They're also 34-19 ATS in their last 53 games as a home favorite. Meanwhile, Minnesota checks in 1-9 ATS in its last 10 games after winning five or six of its last seven games ATS, as is the case here. Take Philadelphia (10*). |
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12-19-23 | Spurs v. Bucks OVER 249.5 | 119-132 | Win | 100 | 12 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between San Antonio and Milwaukee at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday. The Spurs enter this game riding a three-game 'over' streak while the 'over' has cashed in each of the Bucks last four contests. I expect more of the same on Tuesday. San Antonio had an off shooting night at home against New Orleans on Sunday, connecting on just 40-of-94 field goal attempts. It still scored 110 points. While facing the Bucks may appear to be a difficult challenge, Milwaukee hasn't exactly been an elite defensive team - far from it, in fact. The Bucks check in having allowed nine straight and 13 of their last 14 opponents to knock down at least 43 field goals. Of course, that's mattered little as the Bucks offense is on a torrid pace having connected on 44 or more field goals in 14 of their last 16 games. The Spurs have risen up defensively on occasion this season but are giving up an average of 44 made field goals per game on the road, despite the opposition attempting an average of only 88. Note that the 'over' is a long-term 210-156 with the Spurs coming off a double-digit loss, as is the case here. The Bucks have seen the 'over' go 10-1 in their last 11 December home games with those contests totalling an average of 250.3 points. Milwaukee will continue its homestand with a game against the Magic on Thursday so there's no reason to think it will keep anything in reserve here. Take the over (8*). |
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12-18-23 | Bulls v. 76ers UNDER 230 | Top | 108-104 | Win | 100 | 23 h 15 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Chicago and Philadelphia at 7:10 pm et on Monday. The Bulls are coming off consecutive high-scoring games against the Heat in Miami but I look for a different story to unfold as they continue their road trip in Philadelphia on Monday. Note that Chicago still held Miami to just 83 field goal attempts last time out. The Heat quite simply shot the lights out. The Bulls have limited five straight opponents to 86 or fewer field goal attempts. The 76ers are in terrific defensive form right now having held four straight opponents to fewer than 40 made field goals. While they are currently red hot offensively, it's worth noting that Chicago had their number last season, limiting them to 40 or fewer made field goals in all four matchups. The 'under' is 13-3 in the 76ers last 16 games when coming off four straight victories by 10 points or more, as is the case here. Take the under (10*). |
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12-16-23 | Bulls v. Heat UNDER 217 | Top | 116-118 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Chicago and Miami at 8:10 pm et on Saturday. The Bulls have incredibly held 24 of their 26 opponents to 90 field goal attempts or less this season. That's quite an accomplishment by today's NBA standards. The first game of this two-game set in Miami was actually high-scoring, resulting in 240 total points. I expect a much different story to unfold on Saturday. The Bulls have been performing well offensively in Zach LaVine's absence. They knocked down 45 field goals in Thursday's win over the Heat. With that being said, they're just one game removed from connecting on only 36 field goals in Denver. The Heat have been held to exactly 37 made field goals in three of their last four contests. They're unlikely to push the pace against the Bulls, noting they've gotten off fewer than 90 field goal attempts in 19 of their last 20 games. Thursday's game snapped a streak of five straight contests in which Miami had held the opposition to 87 FG attempts or fewer. Finally, we'll note that the 'under' is 26-13 in the Bulls last 39 road games following an 'over' result. Take the under (10*). |
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12-15-23 | Rockets v. Grizzlies UNDER 212 | 103-96 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Houston and Memphis at 8:10 pm et on Friday. This is a rematch of the Rockets 117-104 win at home two nights ago. Houston continues to get it done, riding a four-game SU and ATS winning streak, despite a rather limited offense that has made good on 40 or fewer field goals in five straight contests. Defensively, Houston has been on point, limiting 10 of its last 12 opponents to 40 or fewer made field goals with its last two foes knocking down only 31 and 35 field goals. Jaren Jackson picked up the offensive slack in Desmond Bane's absence in Houston, pouring in 44 points. It remains to be seen whether Bane will return on Friday but if he does, we can anticipate Johnson taking a bit of a backseat offensively so that essentially results in status-quo in terms of point production. The Grizzlies have gotten off 90 or fewer field goal attempts in nine of their last 10 games. The only time they topped that mark they hoisted up 91 FG attempts in a 116-point performance against the lowly Pistons. Defensively, Memphis has held Houston to 40 and 39 made field goals in two previous meetings this season and has limited the opposition to just 82 FG attempts per game here at home. Note that the 'under' is 18-7 in Memphis' last 25 games following consecutive losses, as is the case here. Take the under (8*). |
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12-15-23 | Magic +6 v. Celtics | 111-128 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 25 m | Show | |
My selection is on Orlando plus the points over Boston at 7:40 pm et on Friday. In an odd scheduling quirk, the Magic enter this tilt in Boston well-rested following three off days (they last played on Monday at home against Cleveland). The Celtics have played twice since then, including last night as they were forced to use up much of what they had in the tank holding off a late push from the Cavaliers. This certainly isn't a favorable matchup at the best of times for Boston as Orlando has won each of the last four meetings, including two straight matchups here in Beantown. Note that the Celtics are 0-11 ATS in their last 11 home games when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent, as is the case here after they dropped a 113-96 decision in Orlando on November 24th. Meanwhile, the Magic are 31-16 ATS in their last 47 games when priced as an underdog of between 3.5 and 9.5 points, as is the case here. Take Orlando (8*). |
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12-14-23 | Wolves +2.5 v. Mavs | 119-101 | Win | 100 | 14 h 11 m | Show | |
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12-14-23 | Wolves v. Mavs UNDER 229.5 | Top | 119-101 | Win | 100 | 14 h 3 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Minnesota and Dallas at 8:40 pm et on Thursday. I'll admit my first reaction was to grab the points with the Timberwolves in this game as they look to bounce back following Monday's lopsided defeat in New Orleans. After taking a deeper look, I think the better play is on the 'under' on Thursday night in Dallas. Minnesota has really clamped down defensively in recent games, holding six of its last seven opponents to 40 or fewer made field goals. In three meetings with the Mavericks last season, the T'Wolves held them to just 84, 75 and 76 field goal attempts. Dallas is no better-suited to take advantage of Minnesota here with a number of key contributors either sidelined or banged-up. I do like the fact that both teams come in rested with the T'Wolves idle since Monday and the Mavs having last played on Tuesday here at home against the Lakers. While Minnesota has been rolling, it hasn't necessarily been blowing the doors off the opposition, knocking down 44 or fewer field goals in 15 consecutive games. While the 'over' has gone 8-3 in its 11 road games this season, those contests have averaged just 226.6 total points. Take the under (10*). |
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12-13-23 | Nets +2.5 v. Suns | 116-112 | Win | 100 | 13 h 53 m | Show | |
My selection is on Brooklyn plus the points over Phoenix at 9:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Nets didn't get this road trip off to the start they had hoped for, dropping a 13-point decision in Sacramento on Sunday. I look for them to get back on track on Wednesday, however, as they have a major rest advantage against a Suns squad that looked like it used everything it had in the tank in last night's thrilling win over the Warriors. Brooklyn has quietly been one of the best bets in the league this season, going 16-5-1 ATS. Few have paid much attention but the Nets check in sporting a winning record with Sunday's defeat in Sacramento marking just their second loss in their last eight contests. Note that the Nets are a long-term 70-39 ATS against Pacific Division opponents and 8-1 ATS when coming off a loss this season. Take Brooklyn (8*). |
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12-13-23 | Pacers v. Bucks -6 | Top | 126-140 | Win | 100 | 24 h 1 m | Show |
Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Milwaukee minus the points over Indiana at 8:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Bucks have obviously had this game circled since dropping an ugly one against the Pacers in the in-season tournament semi-final round last week. In fact, Indiana has taken both previous matchups between these two teams this season. Neither of those games were played in Milwaukee, however. The Bucks are 11-1 at home this season while the Pacers have given up just shy of 132 points per game on the road. Note that the Bucks are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 home games as a favorite of six points or less. Meanwhile, Indiana is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 games following a victory over a division opponent, as is the case here. Milwaukee is a long-term 27-20 ATS when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent as a favorite and 24-19 ATS in its last 43 games following consecutive ATS defeats, which is also the situation here. Take Milwaukee (10*). |
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12-12-23 | Nuggets v. Bulls +7.5 | Top | 114-106 | Loss | -108 | 12 h 14 m | Show |
Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Denver at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday. The Bulls have quietly reeled off five straight ATS victories, including last night's near-miss in a four-point overtime loss in Milwaukee. Yes, Chicago is missing some key contributors, including Zach LaVine but others like Demar Derozan and Coby White have more than picked up the slack. This isn't a team that is going to get blown out often as it has held an incredible 20 of its last 21 opponents to 44 or fewer made field goals. While the Nuggets are an excellent defensive team in their own right, they've yielded more than 44 made field goals twice in their last six games alone. Denver did deliver a win and cover in Atlanta last night but that only served to snap a three-game SU and ATS losing streak. Note that the Nuggets are long-term losers playing the second of back-to-back nights having gone 210-258 ATS going all the way back to 1996. Denver did take the first meeting between these two teams by a 123-101 score in the Mile High City back in November. It hasn't won consecutive matchups with the Bulls since 2021, going 2-3 SU in the last five meetings. Prior to a 126-103 win in Chicago last November, Denver hadn't won a game at the United Center by more than six points since 2018. Take Chicago (10*). |
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12-11-23 | Cavs v. Magic -2 | 94-104 | Win | 100 | 23 h 45 m | Show | |
My selection is on Orlando minus the points over Cleveland at 7:10 pm et on Monday. We'll fade the Cavaliers off Friday's road win over the Heat. Orlando is off to a terrific 15-7 start this season but just snapped a two-game skid with Friday's rout of the lowly Pistons. This is a quick revenge spot for the Magic after they suffered a 10-point loss in Cleveland last week. The Cavs are fresh off consecutive ATS wins but it's worth noting that marks their longest ATS winning streak this season. They're 0-2 ATS following back-to-back ATS wins this season, missing covers by 32 and 20 points in those two contests. Note that Orlando is 32-20 ATS in its last 52 home games. Take Orlando (8*). |
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12-09-23 | Pacers +4.5 v. Lakers | 109-123 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 11 m | Show | |
My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Los Angeles at 8:30 pm et on Saturday. The underdog has gone an incredible 8-0-1 ATS in the last nine meetings in this series and I believe the Pacers are well-positioned to keep that run going on Saturday. The Lakers impressed in the semi-final round two nights ago, blasting New Orleans by a whopping 44 points. Indiana might have been even more impressive, dominating the Bucks in a 128-119 victory. The Lakers have now held three straight opponents to 37 or fewer made field goals but I think there's a good chance the Pacers overwhelm them with their offense here, noting that Indiana has knocked down 42 or more field goals in an incredible 17 straight games. The Lakers have reached that number of higher just twice in their last six games. Note that Los Angeles is a long-term 37-57 ATS when coming off an ATS victory and a woeful 5-15 ATS in its last 20 contests after winning four of its last five games ATS, as is the case here. Take Indiana (8*). |
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12-08-23 | Kings -1.5 v. Suns | 114-106 | Win | 100 | 14 h 9 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento minus the points over Phoenix at 9:10 pm et on Friday. The Kings have an extra day of rest advantage here after they bowed out of the in-season tournament with a disappointing home loss against the Pelicans on Monday. They've now lost four of their last seven games but I like their chances of bouncing back against the Suns on Friday. Phoenix is 1-3 SU and 0-4 ATS over its last four contests. Bradley Beal has yet to make much of a contribution at all due to injury while Kevin Durant is now sidelined as well. Durant's absence has obviously been factored into the line but as a whole, the Suns have struggled offensively, knocking down fewer than 40 field goals in four straight games. Note that the Kings are 17-4 ATS in their last 21 games following a home defeat and have proven to be road warriors, going 35-19 ATS in their last 54 contests away from home. The Suns are 23-28 ATS in their last 51 games as an underdog and 2-6 ATS in their last eight contests as a home underdog of six points or less. Take Sacramento (8*). |
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12-08-23 | Cavs -0.5 v. Heat | 111-99 | Win | 100 | 24 h 22 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland minus the points over Miami at 8:10 pm et on Friday. Just a simple fade of the Heat off their 'upset' win in Toronto on Wednesday. Miami hasn't exactly been blowing the opposition off the floor at home this season, going 5-3 in South Beach but an even 119.2 points apiece in terms of scoring average. Note that the Heat are just 27-40 ATS in their last 67 games following a SU win and 19-34 ATS in their last 53 contests coming off an ATS victory. The Cavaliers got off to a slow start this season but have since gone 8-3 over their last 11 games including an impressive double-digit victory over the upstart Magic on Wednesday. Letdowns haven't really been a problem for the Cavs as they're 35-23 ATS in their last 58 games following a double-digit victory. Also note that Cleveland will be seeking revenge for a 33-point home loss against Miami suffered back in November. Note that the Cavs have gone a perfect 2-0 ATS the only two times they've been in a similar revenge spot over the last two seasons. Take Cleveland (8*). |
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12-08-23 | Knicks +7.5 v. Celtics | Top | 123-133 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New York plus the points over Boston at 7:40 pm et on Friday. The Knicks have played just once since last Friday as they got drilled by the Bucks in the quarter-final round of the in-season tournament on Monday. Milwaukee simply couldn't miss in that game, shooting a blistering 60% from the field. I'm confident we'll see the scrappy Knicks respond in this divisional road contest on Friday. They're set up well having gone a long-term 71-44 ATS when coming off a game in which the opposition shot 55% or better from the field. This is a revenge spot for the Knicks as well after they suffered a lopsided 16-point defeat in Boston back in November. Note that New York checks in 6-5 on the road this season where it has outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.3 points. Boston has dropped the cash in consecutive games and is just 2-7 ATS over its last nine contests. It's difficult to cover these lofty spreads when you're playing as loose as the Celtics are defensively. They've allowed 90 or more field goal attempts in six of their last eight games. Take New York (10*). |
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12-07-23 | Pelicans v. Lakers -1.5 | 89-133 | Win | 100 | 13 h 43 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over New Orleans at 9 pm et on Thursday. The Lakers aren't likely to be competing for the Larry O'Brien Trophy in June but they do have a good chance to take the inaugural in-season tournament title in Las Vegas. Los Angeles checks in 10-4 over its last 14 games but did survive a comeback scare against the Suns in the quarter-final round. New Orleans on the other hand got an incredible performance from Brandon Ingram to surge past the Kings two nights ago. The Pelicans have been shooting the lights out but are playing with a rather slim margin for error in my opinion as they've gotten off 88, 78, 85, 82 and 87 field goal attempts over their last five contests. The Lakers can play some defense having held three of their last four and five of their last eight foes to 40 or fewer made field goals. Note that New Orleans is 9-25 ATS in its last 34 games played away from home following a double-digit upset win, as is the case here. Take Los Angeles (8*). |
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12-06-23 | 76ers -9.5 v. Wizards | 131-126 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over Washington at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday. The 76ers are coming off consecutive losses but essentially played with their 'B' squad last time out against Boston (and still managed to cover the spread). Here, we should see Philadelphia back at full strength (or close to it) following a four-day layoff. To say Wizards opponents have been stuffing the boxscore would be an understatement. They've allowed 43 or more made field goals in 10 straight games with three opponents knocking down more than 50 field goals over that stretch. I worry about their offense in this particular spot against an elite 76ers defense (and a rested one at that). Note that Washington scored 120 or more points in each of its last three games but all of those came on the road. Interestingly, the Wiz have averaged just 112.9 points per game at home this season, nearly four points per game below their season scoring average. Philadelphia has held its last three opponents to 83 or fewer field goal attempts with only one of those foes managing to break 40 made field goals. On the road this season, the Sixers have employed a smothering defense, yielding just 40-of-85 shooting on average. Even in a game where Philadelphia didn't bring the proper level of defensive intensity against the Wizards back on November 6th (it allowed Washington to make good on 49-of-96 field goal attempts) it will won by 18 points. Take Philadelphia (8*). |
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12-05-23 | Suns v. Lakers UNDER 228.5 | Top | 103-106 | Win | 100 | 26 h 51 m | Show |
Pacific Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Los Angeles at 10 pm et on Tuesday. I just don't see the sort of track meet developing that most are expecting as the Suns and Lakers do battle in the quarter-final round of the in-season tournament on Tuesday. The Lakers have already taken the first two meetings between these teams this season and if the Suns want to change the outcome here, they'll likely have to win ugly, noting they've knocked down fewer than 40 field goals in five of their last six games. The good news is, the Lakers don't figure to really push the pace. They've hoisted up 90 or fewer field goal attempts in an incredible 18 straight games. They've managed to connect on more than 40 field goals just once in their last four contests and that came against the hapless Pistons. Note that the 'under' is a long-term 123-93 in Lakers home games with the total set at 220 points or higher. The 'under' is also a long-term 33-23 with the Suns seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored 110 or more points, as is the case here. Take the under (10*). |
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12-04-23 | Pelicans v. Kings -4 | 127-117 | Loss | -110 | 37 h 13 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento minus the points over New Orleans at 10 pm et on Monday. New Orleans has lost three straight games, both SU and ATS, on the road and is a miserable 1-6 in its last seven contests away from home. The Kings should relish the opportunity to face the Pelicans here in the in-season tournament quarter-final round as it gives them a shot at revenge after dropping a pair of games in New Orleans earlier in the campaign. Sacramento is a different team now, healthy and able to hang with the league's elite, as we saw on Saturday against Denver. Noting that the Kings are 14-4 ATS in their last 18 games after losing four or five of their last six games ATS, as is the case here, we'll confidently back them tonight. Take Sacramento (8*). |
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12-02-23 | Rockets v. Lakers -5 | 97-107 | Win | 100 | 24 h 13 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Houston at 10:40 pm et on Saturday. I like the Lakers to bounce back following Thursday's no-show in Oklahoma City. The Rockets had the wind taken out of their sails in a double-digit loss in Denver on Wednesday. Houston is now an even 8-8 on the season following consecutive losses to open this road trip. Note that the Rockets are now 14-27 ATS in their last 41 games as a road underdog, outscored by an average margin of 12.2 points in that situation. I believe there's still considerable regression in order for Houston as it is off to a better start to the season than most anticipated. The Lakers have been a mixed bag, but playing at home with rest and with a difficult matchup against the Suns on deck, I look for them to prevail here. Take Los Angeles (8*). |
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12-01-23 | Knicks +1.5 v. Raptors | 119-106 | Win | 100 | 24 h 30 m | Show | |
My selection is on New York plus the points over Toronto at 7:40 pm et on Friday. We're able to back the Knicks at a discount here thanks to them playing last night at home against Detroit. The trip to Toronto is anything but gruelling and I won't hesitate to fade the Raptors off Wednesday's win over the Suns. Toronto has strung together three straight home victories after starting the campaign with four losses in its first four games at Scotiabank Arena. Still, the Raptors are a losing team on the season at 9-10 and they'll be in tough here as they look for a third straight win over the Knicks for the first time since 2021-22. New York is a long-term winner on the road at 35-20 ATS in its last 55 contests in enemy territory. After this game the Knicks will have three days off before wrapping up this two-game road trip with a difficult game in Milwaukee. Look for New York to 'empty the tank' on Friday. Take New York (8*). |
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11-30-23 | Clippers v. Warriors -5 | 114-120 | Win | 100 | 13 h 8 m | Show | |
My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Los Angeles at 10:10 pm et on Thursday. Last night in Sacramento, the Clippers laid waste to the same Kings that just defeated the Warriors two nights ago. I expect the shoe to be on the other foot on Thursday as Golden State has the rest advantage. The Warriors are just 3-6 at home this season but I would certainly anticipate them turning that record around sooner rather than later. Note that despite last night's win, the Clippers remain just 3-6 on the road. Golden State is 21-8 in its last 29 home games after losing three of its last four contests ATS, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 9.6 points on average in that situation. The Warriors are also 27-14 ATS in their last 41 home games when listed as a favorite of six points or less. Take Golden State (8*). |
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11-29-23 | Jazz v. Grizzlies -4 | 91-105 | Win | 100 | 14 h 37 m | Show | |
My selection is on Memphis minus the points over Utah at 8:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Grizzlies are mired in an incredible shooting slump, knocking down 37 or fewer field goals in each of their last four games - all losses (1-3 ATS). Of course, they've also faced a tough schedule over that stretch, going up against the Celtics, Rockets (who are much improved defensively), Suns and Timberwolves. The good news is, the Jazz will come knocking on Wednesday and Utah has been one of the league's worst defensive teams this season. The Jazz check in having allowed five of their last six opponents to make good on 44 or more field goals. On the flip side, Utah has connected on 38 or fewer field goals itself in four consecutive games. This is a double-revenge spot for the Grizzlies after the Jazz took each of the first two meetings this season. Also note that this is a critical spot for Memphis to bag a victory as it will head out on the road for a difficult back-to-back set in Dallas and Phoenix next. Take Memphis (8*). |
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11-28-23 | Warriors v. Kings -2 | Top | 123-124 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 7 m | Show |
Pacific Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Sacramento minus the points over Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Tuesday. The Kings enter this game with double-revenge on their minds having dropped both previous matchups with the Warriors this season. That comes on the heels of a hard-fought seven-game series last April. There has really been little separating these two teams, noting the most recent matchup went right down to the wire with the Warriors prevailing by a single point in San Francisco on November 1st. Since then, the Kings have gotten healthier with De'Aaron Fox returning to the lineup. They snapped a two-game slide with a dominant 124-111 win over the red hot Timberwolves in Minnesota on Friday. The Warriors are coming off a less impressive victory (but non-cover) at home against the rebuilding Spurs on Saturday. Note that Golden State is mired in an 0-7-1 ATS slide. I think their better opportunity to snap out of that funk comes on Thursday night at home against the Clippers. Here, we'll note that the Warriors are just 10-22 ATS in their last 32 road games following a win. Take Sacramento (10*). |
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11-27-23 | Pelicans -3.5 v. Jazz | 112-114 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 30 m | Show | |
My selection is on New Orleans minus the points over Utah at 9:10 pm et on Monday. The Jazz took the opener of this two-game set in Utah on Saturday but I look for the Pelicans to answer back on Monday. Utah snapped a four-game losing streak with that victory. Despite the win, it remains in a bit of a funk offensively having knocked down 38 or fewer field goals in three straight contests. New Orleans entered Saturday's game on a 5-1 SU and 6-0 ATS run. The Pelicans had made good on more than 40 field goals in seven straight contests prior to Saturday's poor performance. They also enter Monday's game having held three of their last four opponents to 38 or fewer made field goals. Take New Orleans (8*). |
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11-25-23 | 76ers v. Thunder +1.5 | 127-123 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on Oklahoma City plus the points over Philadelphia at 5:10 pm et on Saturday. As much as I hate to fade the 76ers coming off a loss, there’s just too much upside to ignore with the 11-4 Thunder. I think this is a bit of a tough spot for Philadelphia to get up for in an early start on Saturday, even coming off that double-digit defeat in Minnesota. While the Thunder’s offense may grab the headlines, their defense has been on point as they check in ranked top-five in the league in defensive rating. That matched up with a top-five scoring offense is tough to beat. Take Oklahoma City (8*). |
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11-24-23 | Spurs v. Warriors -10.5 | 112-118 | Loss | -107 | 26 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on Golden State minus the points over San Antonio at 10:10 pm et on Friday. This is a big spot for the Warriors as they look to start to turn things around after yet another loss suffered two nights ago in Phoenix. Golden State checks in a miserable 0-6-1 ATS over its last seven games but is favored by double-digits for a reason here, at least in my opinion. After Friday's game the Warriors will have three days off - they certainly don't want to spend that time stewing over another poor performance. San Antonio is coming off an ATS victory over the Clippers on Wednesday but that was of little consolation as it dropped its 10th game in a row SU. The Spurs offense has run dry, knocking down fewer than 40 field goals in four of their last five games. The future may be bright in San Antonio, but this continues to be a trying 23-24 campaign. Note that the Warriors check in a perfect 8-0 ATS in their last eight home games following a loss to a division opponent, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 17.9 points in that situation. Golden State is also 17-5 ATS in its last 22 home games after losing five or six of its last seven games ATS, which is also the situation here. Take Golden State (8*). |
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11-22-23 | Mavs -1.5 v. Lakers | Top | 104-101 | Win | 100 | 17 h 34 m | Show |
Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Dallas minus the points over Los Angeles at 10:40 pm et on Wednesday. The Lakers ran away with last night's lopsided win over the Jazz on this same floor but should find the going much tougher on Wednesday as they host a rested Mavericks squad. Dallas checks in off consecutive losses but those came on back-to-back nights against two of the league's best teams in the Bucks (on the road) and the Kings (at home). The shoe is on the other foot this time around as they enter this game on two days' rest while the Lakers expended plenty of energy running the Jazz off the court on Tuesday. Add in the fact that it's the eve of Thanksgiving and Los Angeles will likely have one eye on a four-game road trip that starts on Saturday in Cleveland and I believe it's advantage Mavs on Wednesday night. Take Dallas (10*). |
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11-21-23 | Pacers +4.5 v. Hawks | Top | 157-152 | Win | 100 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Atlanta at 7:40 pm et on Tuesday. The Hawks haven't been able to get out of their own way lately, off to an 0-2 start to their current homestand and 2-4 SU and 1-5 ATS over their last six games overall. Everything has seemingly been a grind for them as they've lacked offensive flow, getting off fewer than 90 field goal attempts in each of their last five contests. The Pacers came out rusty against the Magic on Sunday and perhaps that was to be expected following a four-day layoff. They dug themselves a massive 34-point halftime deficit against Orlando before rallying to make things respectable in the second half. Still, it was a loss so they'll be looking to bounce back here, noting they've gone a perfect 3-0 following their last three defeats. For what it's worth, the Pacers remain undefeated in the in-season tournament so they'll be looking to get a step closer to Las Vegas on Tuesday. Take Indiana (10*). |
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11-20-23 | Rockets v. Warriors -7.5 | 116-121 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Houston at 10:10 pm et on Monday. The Rockets have reeled off an incredible eight straight ATS victories but are in a tough spot here, playing their third game in four nights off a hard-fought one-point loss against the Lakers in Los Angeles last night. Golden State has lost six straight games and is 0-4-1 ATS over its last five contests. It should be happy to be facing the Rockets on Monday, however, noting that the Warriors outlasted Houston 106-95 on the road back in late October. Note that Golden State is 28-9 ATS in its last 37 home games after giving up 130 or more points in its previous contest, as is the case here. Take Golden State (8*). |
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11-19-23 | Magic v. Pacers -4.5 | 128-116 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 13 m | Show | |
My selection is on Indiana minus the points over Orlando at 5:10 pm et on Sunday. I like the spot for the Pacers here as they return to the court for the first time since Tuesday to host a Magic squad that should be fat and happy off consecutive wins in Chicago. Indiana has incredibly knocked down at least 44 field goals in eight straight games. Contrast that with the slow-paced Magic, who have had a tough enough time getting an ample number of shots off let alone knocking them down, connecting on 38 or fewer field goals in four straight games entering Sunday's contest. Of course, that is by design as the Magic are one of the league's better defensive teams. I simply feel they'll have a tough time keeping pace against a fresh-legged Pacers squad as they wrap up their four-game in six-night road trip on Sunday. Take Indiana (8*). |
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11-17-23 | Rockets v. Clippers -6 | 100-106 | Push | 0 | 14 h 21 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Houston at 10:40 pm et on Friday. The Rockets have been one of the biggest surprises of the early season. Since starting 0-3 they've reeled off six straight wins, both SU and ATS. It is worth noting that all six of those wins came at home. They'll hit the road following a four-day layoff on Friday. The Clippers are at the opposite end of the spectrum, riding a six-game losing streak, going 1-5 ATS over that stretch. They have faced a pretty brutal recent schedule, however, but are in better position here at home following two days off to figure things out. The good news is, their issues are correctable as they simply haven't been knocking down their shots. I like the spot here before they're off for two more days prior to a two-game set in San Antonio. Take Los Angeles (8*). |
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11-15-23 | Kings +1.5 v. Lakers | 125-110 | Win | 100 | 13 h 58 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Los Angeles at 10:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Kings have bounced back to deliver three straight wins following a three-game losing streak but all three of those victories came at home. I think they've had this six-game road trip circled on their calendar since an embarrassing two-game stop in Houston in which they were blown out just over a week ago. The Lakers check in to play the second of back-to-back nights after posting a blowout win over Memphis last night. Los Angeles has now won three games in a row although it went just 2-1 ATS over that stretch and has yet to deliver consecutive ATS victories this season. That's nothing new as Los Angeles is just 35-52 in its last 87 games after recording an ATS win, outscored by an average margin of 3.0 points in that situation. There's no intimidation factor favoring the Lakers here as the Kings are 4-1 against them since the start of last season including a perfect 2-0 mark here in Los Angeles. Take Sacramento (8*). |
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11-15-23 | Wolves v. Suns -5.5 | Top | 115-133 | Win | 100 | 25 h 23 m | Show |
Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Minnesota at 9:10 pm et on Wednesday. I really like the way this spot sets up for the reeling Suns as they catch the Timberwolves playing on the second of back-to-back nights. Phoenix has lost consecutive games, both SU and ATS, and is just 1-5-1 ATS over its last seven contests. With that being said, it is expected to get back some reinforcements on Wednesday, including Devin Booker. It also has the benefit of having been idle since Sunday's double-digit home loss to the Thunder. The Suns are 6-1 SU and 5-1-1 ATS in seven meetings between these two teams in Phoenix since the start of the 21-22 season. Also note that they're 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games after scoring less than 100 points in their previous game, as is the case here. Take Phoenix (10*). |
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11-15-23 | Knicks -1 v. Hawks | 116-114 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show | |
My selection is on New York minus the points over Atlanta at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday. The Knicks were humbled by the Celtics two nights ago in Boston. They'll be happy to be in Atlanta on Wednesday, where they've had plenty of success in recent years, going 4-1 SU in their last five matchups here. New York is a long-term 63-44 against Atlanta and is in a favorable spot here, waiting for the Hawks to return home after they managed to win (and cover) in Detroit without Trae Young last night. He'll likely be back in the Hawks lineup on Wednesday - regardless, I like the Knicks to bounce back. Take New York (8*). |
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11-14-23 | Wolves v. Warriors -1.5 | 104-101 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Minnesota at 10:10 pm et on Tuesday. With Steph Curry added to the injury report for the Warriors we've seen this line plummet. I'm willing to get behind Golden State regardless whether Curry is able to play or not on Tuesday. I think the Warriors problems right now are fixable. They've lost four of their last five contests as they've quite simply lost their shooting touch, knocking down 37 or fewer field goals in four of those games. It's been precisely the opposite for the Timberwolves, who have won six straight contests, making good on at least 43 field goals in each of their last five games. Interestingly, Minnesota has gotten off 87 or fewer field goal attempts in six straight contests, meaning it is playing with a relatively small margin for error. I look for the Warriors to clamp down here, noting that they're 14-3 ATS in their last 17 home games after losing four or five of their last six games, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the T'Wolves are 6-18 ATS in their last 24 road games after covering the spread in at least five straight contests, which is also the situation here. Take Golden State (8*). |
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11-14-23 | Mavs v. Pelicans UNDER 240 | 110-131 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 36 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Dallas and New Orleans at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday. Any time we get what I consider to be a quality team playing at home on a long losing streak, I'm going to take a long look at the 'under'. That's the case on Tuesday as the Pelicans look to snap their five-game SU and ATS losing skid and earn some quick revenge after dropping a 136-124 decision at home against these same Mavericks on Sunday. The Pelicans got baited into a track meet in that game, ultimately hoisting up 92 field goal attempts in the double-digit loss. When New Orleans was enjoying success during a 4-1 start to the campaign, it was playing at a far more methodical pace, attempting 87 or fewer field goals in three of its first five contests. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 17-5 the last 22 times New Orleans has come off six or seven losses in its last eight games, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of just 213.5 points in that situation. While the Mavs are coming off consecutive wins, they can't be pleased with their defensive play having allowed 127, 126 and 124 points over their last three contests. Note that the 'under' has gone 12-4 in their last 16 games following a road victory by 10 points or more. Take the under (8*). |
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11-12-23 | Heat v. Spurs +2 | 118-113 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 19 m | Show | |
My selection is on San Antonio plus the points over Miami at 7:10 pm et on Sunday. The Spurs have really been struggling defensively but they earn a reprieve of sorts on Sunday as they host the Heat playing in a back-to-back spot and not exactly setting the court on fire offensively. Miami has knocked down 41 or fewer field goals in eight of nine games this season, only managing to eclipse that mark in a win (but non-cover) against Washington. The Spurs check in playing well offensively, having made good on 43 or more field goals in five of their last six contests. San Antonio does figure to put some pressure on a Miami team playing on no rest, noting that the Spurs have hoisted up at least 90 field goal attempts in six straight games. While the Spurs have lost four games in a row we do know they're capable of better as they swept a two-game road set against the Suns and defeated an improved Rockets team here at home. Take San Antonio (8*). |
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11-10-23 | Thunder v. Kings +2.5 | 98-105 | Win | 100 | 15 h 20 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Oklahoma City at 10:10 pm et on Friday. The Kings struggled again but still managed to snap their three-game losing streak with an overtime victory over the Blazers at home on Wednesday. They'll have the benefit of staying at home as they host the Thunder on Friday night. For whatever reason, Sacramento has had Oklahoma City's number in recent years, taking six straight meetings in this series going back to December of 2021. While we often like backing the Thunder in an underdog role, that's not the case on Friday as they check in as a rare road favorite following consecutive wins (and covers) at home. Wednesday's ATS defeat may have been the last straw for some Kings bettors but we'll go the other way and call for them to snap their three-game ATS skid on Friday night. Take Sacramento (8*). |
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11-10-23 | Lakers v. Suns OVER 222.5 | 122-119 | Win | 100 | 15 h 12 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Los Angeles and Phoenix at 10:10 pm et on Friday. The first matchup between these two teams this season was low-scoring as the Lakers defeated the Suns 100-95 in Los Angeles. I expect a different story to unfold in Friday's rematch in the desert. As usual, the Lakers have had no interest in slowing down opposing teams, allowing six of eight opponents to hoist up more than 90 field goal attempts this season. You'd be hard-pressed to find a team playing worse defensive basketball right now with Los Angeles having allowed 47, 46, 41 and 51 made field goals over its last four contests. It's been a similar story for the Suns. They've allowed five of six opponents to get off more than 90 field goal attempts since facing the Lakers on October 26th. Each of their last five opponents have knocked down at least 42 field goals. Take the over (8*). |
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11-10-23 | Hornets +2.5 v. Wizards | Top | 124-117 | Win | 100 | 13 h 33 m | Show |
Southeast Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Charlotte plus the points over Washington at 7:10 pm et on Friday. This is a quick revenge spot for the Hornets after they dropped a 132-116 decision as 2.5-point home favorites against the Wizards two nights ago. I like Charlotte's chances of rebounding here. Note that the Wizards are an awful defensive team, allowing 126.9 points per game on a blistering 51.7% shooting this season. The only reason they were able to outlast the Hornets on Wednesday was that Charlotte didn't take care of the basketball, turning it over a season-high 20 times. Note that Washington is a long-term 169-213 ATS when coming off an outright win as an underdog. The Wizards are also in a classic fade spot of mine as they return home on just one day of rest following a road trip that lasted four games or longer. Take Charlotte (10*). |
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11-09-23 | Hawks v. Magic UNDER 233 | 120-119 | Loss | -110 | 15 h 21 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and Orlando at 9:40 pm et on Thursday. The oddsmakers are projecting a track meet between these two teams in Mexico City on Thursday but I don't see it unfolding that way. The Magic have gotten off to a 4-3 start to the campaign thanks to a stout defense that has held all seven opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. That has come at the expense of their offense at times as they've played a fairly methodical style (by today's NBA standards), making good on 40 or fewer field goals in five of seven contests. Atlanta plays no such tough defense but I do think we see it shy away from an up-and-down affair here after falling short in precisely that type of contest last time out in Oklahoma City. Following a red hot five-game shooting stretch, Atlanta knocked down just 38-of-102 field goal attempts against the Thunder. Note that the 'under' is a perfect 10-0 in the Magic's last 10 road games following a home loss and 50-32 in their last 82 contests following an ATS defeat. These NBA games played in Mexico City have had a tendency to be lower-scoring with last year's matchup between the Heat and Spurs producing 212 total points. Prior to that the Spurs and Suns combined to score 218 points in 2019. The Magic played a pair of games here in 2018 with those contests reaching 188 and 185 points. Take the under (8*). |
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11-08-23 | Warriors v. Nuggets -3 | 105-108 | Push | 0 | 27 h 35 m | Show | |
My selection is on Denver minus the points over Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Warriors have undoubtedly had this matchup circled since dropping all three meetings with the Nuggets last season. I'm not sure it matters. Denver overcame a miserable first half against New Orleans on Monday before unloading in the final 24 minutes in a runaway 134-116 victory. It's been that kind of start to the campaign for Denver as it has very much looked like the team to beat in the Western Conference. The Warriors have covered a ton of ground in the early going this season with their current road trip already taking them to Oklahoma City, Cleveland, Detroit and now Denver. In fact, this will be Golden State's ninth game in the last 13 nights, in nine different cities. The Nuggets on the other hand have been home and cool since November 3rd and following Wednesday's contest will enjoy three off days before a game in Houston on Sunday. Note that Denver is a long-term 137-101 ATS when playing at home off consecutive home games, as is the case here. Take Denver (8*). |
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11-08-23 | Lakers -2.5 v. Rockets | 94-128 | Loss | -115 | 25 h 47 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Houston at 8:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Rockets laid waste to the Kings over the last two games and are now 3-1 on their current six-game homestand. Keep in mind, this is a team that started the campaign with three straight losses, both SU and ATS. Note that Houston is a long-term 103-136 ATS when coming off three straight ATS victories, as is the case here. The Lakers have dropped the first two games on their current road trip, most recently falling just one point short in Miami on Monday. The finale of this trip will come against a revenge-minded Suns squad in Phoenix on Friday so if they want to salvage something positive, this would appear to be the spot. Take Los Angeles (8*). |
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11-06-23 | Pelicans +6 v. Nuggets | 116-134 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Denver at 9:10 pm et on Monday. The Pelicans are coming off an 18-point rout at the hands of the red hot Hawks on Saturday. While this doesn't look like an ideal bounce-back spot on paper as they head out on the road to face the defending champion Nuggets, it's worth noting that they hung with Denver in four meetings last season, going 2-2 with the two defeats coming by a combined 10 points. Denver is a perfect 2-0 SU and ATS on its current homestand, marking its first ATS winning streak this season. While New Orleans will be without C.J. McCollum for an indefinite period of time due to a lung issue, Denver could be without oft-injured Jamal Murray as he deals with a knee injury. The Pelicans are just 2-2 ATS at home this season but a perfect 2-0 ATS on the road and I look for them to run that record to 3-0 on Monday. Take New Orleans (8*). |
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11-05-23 | Grizzlies -2.5 v. Blazers | Top | 112-100 | Win | 100 | 25 h 34 m | Show |
Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Memphis minus the points over Portland at 9:10 pm et on Sunday. The upstart Blazers are coming off three straight wins, both SU and ATS, including an overtime victory over these same Grizzlies on Friday. I look for Memphis to answer back and notch its first victory of the campaign in Sunday's rematch. Memphis actually outshot Portland by a considerable margin on Friday but couldn't overcome a 36-13 discrepancy in terms of free throw attempts. That should even out in Sunday's contest. Note that the Grizzlies are 36-19 ATS in their last 55 games when seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored at least 110 points, as is the case here. The Blazers are a long-term 43-67 ATS in an underdog role and 7-18 ATS in their last 25 contests as a home underdog of six points or less, outscored by an average margin of 7.0 points in that situation. Take Memphis (10*). |
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11-03-23 | Mavs v. Nuggets OVER 226.5 | Top | 114-125 | Win | 100 | 15 h 56 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Dallas and Denver at 10:10 pm et on Friday. The Nuggets have reeled off five straight 'under' results to open the season but I think we have a catalyst for change in play as they come off their first defeat of the campaign in Minnesota two nights ago. Denver had an off night shooting the basketball against the T'Wolves, knocking down just 38-of-96 field goal attempts. Prior to that, the Nuggets had made good on more than 40 field goals in all four games, topping out at a whopping 53 made field goals in a win in Oklahoma City. On the flip side, Denver has been terrific defensively but does figure to get tested here. Dallas has knocked down 47, 44 and 42 field goals in its first three games before being held to just 37 in a slow-paced game against the Bulls. Keep in mind, the Mavericks still scored 114 points in that most recent contest and a slower-paced affair was to be expected against Chicago. Defensively, the Mavs warts have yet to be exposed thanks to their strong offensive production. They've actually allowed all four opponents to make good on 42 or more field goals this season and the Nuggets ripped them for a blistering 88-of-162 (54.3%) shooting in two meetings in Denver last season. Take the over (10*). |
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11-02-23 | Magic v. Jazz | 115-113 | Win | 100 | 15 h 4 m | Show | |
My selection is on Orlando minus the points over Utah at 9 pm et on Thursday. I really like the way this play sets up as the Magic got a chance to scout the Jazz first hand last night (Utah played Memphis) following a winless two-game stop-over in Los Angeles. I'm of the belief that Orlando has a chance to be a good, if not great team this season but so far it has managed only two wins in four games. The Magic should have a little extra chip on their shoulder on Thursday after they dropped both meetings between these two teams last season including a narrow four-point defeat here in Salt Lake City. Note that Orlando has generally gotten stronger as road trips have gone on in recent years, posting a 17-6 ATS mark in its last 23 road contests following consecutive games played away from home, as is the case here. Take Orlando (8*). |
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11-01-23 | Kings +7.5 v. Warriors | 101-102 | Win | 100 | 14 h 11 m | Show | |
My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Warriors are off to a perfect 4-0 start to the season after staging an 'upset' road win in New Orleans on Monday. That concluded a perfect 3-0 trip for Golden State, which began with a victory over the same Kings they'll face back home on Wednesday. I like Sacramento's chances of exacting some early season revenge as it looks to improve on its 2-1 start to the campaign. Remember, the Kings proved they could hang with the Warriors in the first round of last April's playoffs, pushing them to seven games. Sacramento won't have the services of De'Aaron Fox for an extended period of time but that's been more than factored into this line in my opinion. Take Sacramento (8*). |
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11-01-23 | Nuggets v. Wolves +3.5 | Top | 89-110 | Win | 100 | 12 h 59 m | Show |
Northwest Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Minnesota plus the points over Denver at 8:10 pm et on Wednesday. This spot sets up beautifully for the home underdog Timberwolves as they look to bring an end to the defending-champion Nuggets' perfect 4-0 start to the season. Minnesota checks in off an 'upset' road loss in Atlanta s it was crushed by 14 points on Monday. Of course, that was a letdown spot for the T'Wolves as they were fresh off a 16-point home win over the Heat two nights earlier. There's a playoff revenge angle in play here after Denver ousted Minnesota in five games in the opening round last April. That was after the T'Wolves managed to take both regular season meetings here in Minnesota. Note that Denver is a long-term 142-183 ATS when playing on the road off consecutive victories. In Minnesota's last 172 home games following an upset defeat it has outscored the opposition by an average margin of 3.5 points. Take Minnesota (10*). |
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11-01-23 | Wizards +8.5 v. Hawks | 121-130 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 49 m | Show | |
My selection is on Washington plus the points over Atlanta at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday. The Wizards got drilled by 19 points last time out but that was against an elite Celtics squad that has come storming out of the gates this season. Here, I think Washington is catching Atlanta in a prime letdown spot with the Hawks fresh off consecutive double-digit wins to even their record at 2-2 on the season. Atlanta checks in a woeful 12-27 ATS in its last 39 games following an ATS win and 6-19 ATS in its last 25 contests after a home victory. The Hawks are also just 8-20 ATS in their last 28 games following an outright underdog victory, which is the situation here after their home win over the Timberwolves as 2.5-point underdogs. Take Washington (8*). |
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11-01-23 | Bucks v. Raptors UNDER 224.5 | 111-130 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Milwaukee and Toronto at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday. The Bucks are coming off a high-scoring game against the Heat on Monday. I expect a different story to unfold as they head to Toronto on Wednesday. The Raptors have lost three games in a row but there issues have been at the offensive end of the floor. They've actually seen the 'under' go 3-1 in their four games this season and they've held the opposition to 94, 104, 114 and 99 points. The Bucks have gotten off 82, 86 and 87 field goal attempts through three games so they're not exactly playing at a frenetic pace. They shot the lights out against the Heat on Monday but will be hard-pressed to do so on the road against the Raptors here. Toronto has allowed just one of four opponents to knock down more than 38 field goals this season. Note that the 'under' is 18-8 in the Bucks last 26 road games when coming off an ATS victory. Take the under (8*). |
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10-31-23 | Spurs v. Suns OVER 226.5 | 115-114 | Win | 100 | 16 h 43 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between San Antonio and Phoenix at 10 pm et on Tuesday. The betting market continues to have a tough time figuring out the Suns as they continue on without Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Kevin Durant got plenty of help from his supporting cast in Phoenix's 126-104 rout of Utah on Saturday. The Suns draw another mouth-watering matchup on Tuesday as they host the Spurs, who just got dominated by a 123-83 score against the Clippers in Los Angeles on Sunday. There are going to be plenty of growing pains for this San Antonio squad. The Spurs have employed a matador-like defense through three games, allowing 47, 52 and 47 made field goals (to their credit the middle game was aided by overtime). I do think we see a bounce-back of sorts from the Spurs offense on Tuesday after they connected on just 30-of-80 field goal attempts on Sunday. Phoenix has held all three of its opponents to 40 or fewer made field goals this season yet has still given up 100 or more points in every contest. Note that the 'over' is a long-term 136-102 with the Spurs playing on the road after scoring 90 points or less in their previous game. Take the over (8*). |
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10-31-23 | Knicks v. Cavs OVER 214.5 | 109-91 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 56 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between New York and Cleveland at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday. The 'under' cashed in all five games in last April's playoff series between these two teams. The Knicks also enter this contest off an incredibly low-scoring game against New Orleans on Saturday. With that being said, the contrarian in me believes we're in for a higher-scoring game than expected on Tuesday. Cleveland has been playing at a fast pace, hoisting up 94, 92 and 99 field goal attempts through three games. While Darius Garland remains sidelined, there's a chance Donovan Mitchell could return on Tuesday after sitting out the second of back-to-backs on Saturday. The Knicks have also played at a reasonably quick tempo, getting off 90 or more field goal attempts in all three games. Note that the 'over' is 30-18 in the Knicks last 48 games as a favorite including 1-0 this season. The 'over' also cashed in both regular season meetings between these two teams in 22-23. Take the over (8*). |
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10-30-23 | Warriors v. Pelicans -3 | 130-102 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 60 m | Show | |
My selection is on New Orleans minus the points over Golden State at 8:10 pm et on Monday. The Warriors picked up their second straight victory last night in Houston but now face a difficult three-in-four spot on the road against the revenge-minded Pelicans (Golden State took the last two meetings last season). New Orleans was idle on Sunday after improving to 2-0 on the season with a nine-point win over the Knicks on Saturday. Note that the Warriors had a tough enough time just getting shots off against the Rockets last night, attempting only 81 field goals (and making just 35 of them) in the victory. The Pelicans have allowed each of their first two opponents to hoist up 90 or more field goal attempts but have defended well, allowing just 38 and 33 makes in those two contests. On the flip side, New Orleans has made good on exactly 40 field goals in consecutive games despite playing at a reasonably slow pace. Here, we'll note that Golden State checks in a woeful 4-13 ATS in its last 17 games as a road underdog of six points or less, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 8.9 points in that situation. Take New Orleans (8*). |
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10-29-23 | Spurs v. Clippers -8.5 | 83-123 | Win | 100 | 13 h 41 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over San Antonio at 9:10 pm et on Sunday. The Spurs picked up their first win of the Victor Wembanyama era by way of overtime at home against the Rockets two nights ago, but they needed overtime to get it. San Antonio has played about as well as you could expect offensively, knocking down exactly 46 field goals in each contest. The problem is, the Spurs also allowed a whopping 47 and 52 made field goals in those two games and now they hit the road for the first time to face a Clippers squad that will be in a foul mood after dropping a two-point decision as a road favorite in Utah on Friday. The Clippers have actually been about as efficient as any team in the league offensively through two games, shooting better than 52% from the field. They figure to go off here, noting they scored 113, 119, 131 and 138 points in four matchups in this series last season. The Spurs check in a woeful 14-27 ATS in their last 41 games as a road underdog. Take Los Angeles (8*). |
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10-28-23 | Bulls -1 v. Pistons | 102-118 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 12 m | Show | |
My selection is on Chicago minus the points over Detroit at 7:10 pm et on Saturday. The Raptors let the Bulls off the hook last night as Chicago blew a big second quarter lead, trailed by a wide margin late before tying it up on a parade to the free throw line and ultimately winning by a single point in overtime. Off that shaky performance, I look for a much sharper four quarter effort from the Bulls on Saturday in Detroit. The Pistons won outright as 4.5-point underdogs in Charlotte last night - their second straight ATS win to open the campaign. Detroit's first two opponents struggled to knock down their shots but I'm willing to chalk that up more as early season rust rather than the Pistons defensive prowess. Chicago has owned this series in Motown in recent years and I look for it to continue its dominance here. Take Chicago (8*). |
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10-27-23 | Clippers v. Jazz +3.5 | Top | 118-120 | Win | 100 | 25 h 32 m | Show |
Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Utah plus the points over Los Angeles at 9:40 pm et on Friday. I really like the way this play sets up as bettors overreact to season-opening results from these two teams. The Clippers turned in a near-flawless performance but that was at home against what projects to be one of the league's worst teams in the Blazers. Meanwhile, the Jazz dropped a lopsided decision at home but that was against one of the league's true up-and-coming teams in the Kings. I look for the script to flip on Friday night, noting that Utah is a long-term 42-14 straight-up at home against Los Angeles including four straight wins going back to the start of the 2021-22 season. This is one of those tough one-game road trips for the Clippers, in altitude no less, before they return home for winnable games against the Spurs and Magic on Sunday and Tuesday. Should the Jazz fall again here, they'll be starting at a very tough start with a two-game trip to Phoenix and Denver on deck. Take Utah (10*). |
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10-27-23 | Raptors v. Bulls -2 | 103-104 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on Chicago minus the points over Toronto at 8:10 pm et on Friday. I like the bounce-back spot for the Bulls on Friday as they look to split their season-opening two-game homestand after dropping their first game by 20 points against Oklahoma City. The Thunder quite simply shot the lights out in that game. Chicago actually held Oklahoma City to only 82 field goal attempts but it made good on 45 of them. If the Bulls can limit the pace again here they should be in good shape, noting the Raptors knocked down just 36-of-90 field goal attempts in their three-point win over Minnesota on Wednesday. In that contest, the Raptors allowed the Timberwolves to hoist up a whopping 101 FG attempts. Needless to say, Minnesota didn't make the most of its opportunities, connecting on only 34. The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings in this series with the Bulls being the lone team to grab the cash on the road (in the most recent matchup between these teams last April) over that stretch. Here, we'll note that Chicago is 26-14 ATS when playing consecutive home games over the last two seasons and 35-19 ATS in the role of home favorite over the last three seasons. Toronto is a woeful 10-24 ATS after holding its previous opponent to 100 points or less over the last three seasons. Take Chicago (8*). |
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10-26-23 | Suns v. Lakers OVER 229 | Top | 95-100 | Loss | -109 | 26 h 8 m | Show |
Pacific Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Phoenix and Los Angeles at 10 pm et on Thursday. Both of these teams saw their respective season openers stay 'under' the total but I expect a different story to unfold as the Suns and Lakers match up in Los Angeles on Thursday. The Suns actually allowed Golden State to get off a whopping 101 field goal attempts on Tuesday but the Warriors couldn't make the most of their opportunities, knocking down only 36 of those attempts in a four-point loss. Meanwhile, Phoenix played with pace (95 field goal attempts) and shot reasonably well (42 made field goals), even with key offseason acquisition Bradley Beal sidelined (he's questionable to play on Thursday as well). The Lakers limited Denver to just 91 FG attempts on Tuesday but the Nuggets had little trouble against L.A.'s sieve-like defense, connecting on 48 of those shot attempts. I did come away impressed with the Lakers ability to at least match the Nuggets tempo (91 FG attempts). They simply had an off night shooting - something I expect them to rectify in their home-opener on Thursday. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 17-5 with the Suns coming off a victory over a division opponent over the last three seasons, resulting in an average total of 233.5 points in that situation. Take the over (10*). |
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10-25-23 | Hawks -2.5 v. Hornets | 110-116 | Loss | -115 | 35 h 12 m | Show | |
My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over New Orleans at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday. When it comes to most sports, I don't put a great deal of stock into preseason results. I generally make an exception when it comes to the NBA, however. There's more of a tendency to see regular rotations, even if the starters aren't playing regular minutes, and we can get a feel for the way teams will play once the regular season commences. Here, we'll lay the points with the Hawks as they open their campaign against the Hornets in Charlotte. Atlanta had a productive preseason, going 3-2 while limiting opponents to 86, 89, 81, 83 and 86 field goal attempts. The Hornets on the other hand got off 93, 94, 88 and 88 FG attempts in their four preseason contests but knocked down 37 or fewer of those attempts in three of those games. In fact, the only game where they were able to get anything going offensively they were facing Oklahoma City's 'B' squad (Charlotte used most of its regular starters and shot 52% from the field and still won by only two points). Atlanta does enter this game with 'double revenge' having dropped its last two meetings with Charlotte last season. Note that the Hornets haven't won three straight matchups in this series since posting five straight victories over the Hawks from 2017 to 2018. Take Atlanta (8*). |
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10-24-23 | Suns v. Warriors OVER 232 | 108-104 | Loss | -110 | 131 h 11 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Phoenix and Golden State at 10 pm et on Tuesday. When it comes to most sports, I don't put a great deal of stock into preseason results. I generally make an exception when it comes to the NBA, however. There's more of a tendency to see regular rotations, even if the starters aren't playing regular minutes, and we can get a feel for the way teams will play once the regular season commences. With that being said, through the first four games of the preseason, Suns opponents have been 'filling it up'. In games against the Pistons, Nuggets and Trail Blazers (twice), Phoenix yielded 46, 43, 42 and 41 made field goals in regulation time. That was despite only one of those opponents reaching 90 or more field goal attempts. The Warriors do figure to push the pace on the Suns in their home opener on Tuesday. Save for a game against the Kings in which Steph Curry and Chris Paul sat out, they've looked sharp in the preseason, knocking down 45+ field goals in three of four contests. Phoenix has given its new-look, star-studded starting five enough run in the preseason to lead me to believe we won't see a great deal of rust on Tuesday. In last year's four meetings in this series, the Suns made good on 47, 44, 41 and 46 field goals. Of note, they still put up 125 points in the game where they 'only' knocked down 41 shots. Take the over (8*). |
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06-12-23 | Heat v. Nuggets UNDER 209.5 | Top | 89-94 | Win | 100 | 14 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and Denver at 8:30 pm et on Monday. This series has taken a low-scoring tone for the most part with three of the first four games staying 'under' the total. As I've noted in my analysis of the last two contests, Miami hasn't been able to break through the offensive ceiling against Denver this season, making good on 39, 39, 39, 38, 34 and 35 field goals in six matchups. On the flip side, the Heat have held an incredible 20 straight opponents to 43 or fewer made field goals. In this series, Miami has limited Denver to 40, 39, 41 and 39 made field goals. There are still plenty of bettors chasing the 'over' in this series and as a result the oddsmakers can only set this number so low. It's not low enough in my opinion, noting that the 'under' is 16-7 with the Heat coming off a game in which they scored 100 points or less this season and 14-6 with the Nuggets following five consecutive games in which they shot 47% or better from the field, which is also the situation here. Take the under (10*). |
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06-09-23 | Nuggets v. Heat UNDER 211.5 | 108-95 | Win | 100 | 13 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Denver and Miami at 8:30 pm et on Friday. We'll stick with the program on Friday and back the 'under' as the Nuggets carry their 2-1 series lead into Game 4 of The Finals in Miami. The Heat have yet to show they can break through their offensive ceiling against Denver this season, knocking down 39, 39, 39, 38 and 34 field goals in five meetings. On the flip side, however, Miami has limited an incredible 19 straight opponents to 43 or fewer made field goals. You would have to go back five games to find the last time the Nuggets made good on more than 41 field goals. Here, we'll note again that Denver has seen the 'under' go 21-9 after shooting 50% or better from the field in consecutive games this season, as is the case here. The 'under' is also 15-7 with the Heat coming off a game in which they scored 100 points or less this season. Take the under (8*). |
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06-07-23 | Nuggets v. Heat UNDER 214.5 | Top | 109-94 | Win | 100 | 13 h 15 m | Show |
Finals Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Denver and Miami at 8:30 pm et on Wednesday. While the Heat did outlast the Nuggets 111-108 in Game 2 of this series, they still failed to break through the offensive ceiling, connecting on only 38 field goals in another relatively slow-paced affair. Note that Miami has now knocked down 39, 39, 39 and 38 field goals in four meetings with the Nuggets this season. On the flip side, the Heat have now held an incredible 18 straight opponents to 43 or fewer made field goals. They've limited six straight and 10 of their last 11 foes to 84 or fewer field goal attempts. The Heat exploded for 17 made three-pointers in Game 2 but I'm not anticipating a repeat performance here, noting that the Nuggets have held opponents to an average of 12 made threes per contest on the road this season. The 'under' is 20-9 with Denver coming off consecutive games in which it shot 50% or better from the field, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the 'under' has gone a long-term 129-96 with the Heat playing at home on two or more days' rest, which is also the situation here. Take the under (10*). |
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06-04-23 | Heat v. Nuggets -8.5 | 111-108 | Loss | -108 | 12 h 6 m | Show | |
My selection is on Denver minus the points over Miami at 8 pm et on Sunday. I'm not sure that Game 2 of this series sets up all that much differently than Game 1, which was won by the Nuggets by a score of 104-93. As I noted in my analysis of that contest, this isn't a favorable matchup for the Heat, particularly from an offensive standpoint. Miami's offensive ceiling appears to be fairly low, noting that it has not knocked down an identical 39 field goals in all three meetings with the Nuggets this season. In Game 1, the Heat actually got off a whopping 96 field goal attempts. I expect to see Denver tighten things up considerably from a defensive standpoint here. On the flip side, the Nuggets made good on 45 and 44 field goals in the two regular season matchups between these two teams but connected on 'only' 40 in Game 1. That was on just 79 FG attempts, however. This line may seem steep until you realize that Denver has outscored opponents by an average margin of 10.1 points this season. Much like in Game 1, we'll again note that the Heat are 0-11 ATS after holding consecutive opponents to 105 points or less this season, as is the case here. Take Denver (8*). |
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06-01-23 | Heat v. Nuggets -8.5 | 93-104 | Win | 100 | 14 h 42 m | Show | |
My selection is on Denver minus the points over Miami at 8:30 pm et on Thursday. I'll lay the points with the Nuggets in Game 1 of The Finals on Thursday. Miami of course checks in off an incredible seven-game series against the Celtics, going 5-2 ATS along the way. Note that the Heat were contained offensively for the most part in the latter stages of that series, knocking down 42 or fewer field goals in each of the final four games. I feel Miami's offensive ceiling in this particular matchup with the Nuggets is rather low, noting that it made good on an identical 39 field goals in each of two regular season meetings. In fact, the Heat have knocked down 40 or fewer field goals nine of the last 10 matchups in this series. Denver on the other hand has made good on 42 or more field goals in six straight meetings and 45 or more twice over that stretch. While this line may seem steep, it's worth noting that the Nuggets are outscoring opponents by 10.1 points on average. Also note that the Heat are 0-10 ATS this season when coming off consecutive games in which they held the opposition to 105 points or fewer, as is the case here. Take Denver (8*). |
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05-29-23 | Heat v. Celtics UNDER 203.5 | 103-84 | Win | 100 | 23 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and Boston at 8:30 pm et on Monday. We won with the 'under' on Saturday and we'll come right back with the same play in Game 7 of this series on Monday. The pace has slowed considerably in this series over the last few games and there's little reason to expect anything different here. Note that Miami has now held 15 straight opponents to 43 or fewer made field goals. Meanwhile, Boston has been limited to 43 or fewer made field goals in 12 straight contests. The 'under' is now a perfect 9-0 with the Celtics facing elimination over the last two seasons with that situation producing an average total of just 199.1 points. Take the under (8*). |
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05-27-23 | Celtics v. Heat UNDER 210.5 | 104-103 | Win | 100 | 14 h 60 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Boston and Miami at 8:30 pm et on Saturday. We've seen a major shift in this series, not only with the Celtics winning the last two games, but from a pace perspective. Game 4 saw the Celtics get off 84 field goal attempts while Miami managed to hoist up only 78. In Game 5, Miami got off only 79 field goal attempts with Boston attempting 79. Of course, the Celtics have shot a blistering 51.2% and 50.6% over the last two contests to get back in the series. I do expect a response from the Heat defensively here after Boston shot the lights out from beyond the arc in Game 5. On the flip side, we'll note that the 'under' is now a perfect 8-0 with the Celtics facing elimination in the playoffs over the last two seasons, allowing only 93.1 points per game in the process. That situation has produced an average total of just 198.1 points. Boston has now been held to 43 or fewer made field goals in 11 straight games while Miami has held the opposition to 43 or fewer made field goals in an incredible 14 consecutive contests. Take the under (8*). |
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05-25-23 | Heat +8.5 v. Celtics | Top | 97-110 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 43 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Miami plus the points over Boston at 8:30 pm et on Thursday. As much as I'd like to see this series get extended (more basketball is always a good thing), I think there's a good chance we see the Heat close the Celtics out on Thursday. Incredibly, the ATS winner has won straight-up in 31 straight meetings in this series so a sprinkle on the Heat moneyline could be well worth your while. Regardless, we'll grab the generous helping of points with the underdog Heat here as the series shifts back to Boston for Game 5. Miami is on an incredible run right now having not lost consecutive games since a three-game skid from March 25th to 29th. The Heat have really locked in defensively, holding each of their last 13 opponents to 43 or fewer made field goals. On the flip side, the Celtics have made good on 43 or fewer field goals in 10 straight contests. I don't believe Boston's offensive ceiling is all that high in this particular matchup, noting that it has topped out at 46 made field goals against Miami this season and that came in a game where the Heat were without Jimmy Butler. Even in Game 4 two nights ago, when the Celtics brought their 'A' game, performing about as well as you could expect at both ends of the floor, they still won by 'only' 17 points, noting that the margin was 15 points before a meaningless bucket on the C's final possession. For its part, Miami couldn't have played much worse, connecting on just 34-of-78 field goal attempts. Here, we'll note that the Heat are 40-25 ATS as an underdog over the last two seasons, actually managing to outscore the opposition by an average margin of 0.4 points in that situation. Meanwhile, the Celtics are a long-term 91-123 ATS when coming off a double-digit road victory. Take Miami (10*). |
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05-23-23 | Celtics v. Heat UNDER 216.5 | Top | 116-99 | Win | 100 | 13 h 12 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Finals Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Boston and Miami at 8:30 pm et on Tuesday. Game 3 ultimately sailed 'over' the total thanks in large part to the lopsided nature of that contest. The game was actually well on track to stay 'under' the total until the floodgates opened in the final eight minutes or so of the fourth quarter. While most expect the Celtics to roll over on Tuesday, I do think we'll see them show some fight and that ultimately projects to a much tighter affair than we saw on Sunday. While the Heat did allow 98 field goal attempts in Sunday's victory, the Celtics could only connect on 39 of them. On the flip side, Miami shot the lights out, making good on 46-of-81 field goal attempts. I would anticipate seeing a similar tempo from the Heat here, noting that they've gotten off 88 or fewer field goal attempts in 12 of their last 15 contests. While the Celtics haven't lived up to expectations defensively this season, and allowed 46 made field goals in Game 3 of this series on Sunday, it is worth noting that they haven't allowed 46 or more successful FG attempts in consecutive games since November 30th and December 2nd and that was the only occasion in which they did all season. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is a long-term 103-64 with the Heat coming off a game in which they shot 55% or better from the field, as is the case here. The 'under' is also 205-159 with Miami checking in off a win by 15 points or more. Take the under (10*). |
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05-22-23 | Nuggets v. Lakers -3 | Top | 113-111 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 53 m | Show |
Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Denver at 8:30 pm et on Monday. After watching the Celtics roll over in embarrassing fashion last night, few are probably expecting much from the Lakers as they face elimination at the hands of the Nuggets on Monday. I actually think we will see some fight from Los Angeles here, noting that it has been competitive for the most part in this series and is in line for a strong bounce-back performance offensively following consecutive subpar showings. The Lakers have made good on just 36 and 38 field goals in their last two games and that's notable as they've been held to fewer than 40 made field goals in consecutive games just four times previously this season, averaging 41 made field goals in their next contest. While the Lakers have now lost three games in a row they haven't suffered a four-game losing streak since back in December. They've also been terrific in these playoffs following an ATS defeat, reeling off five straight ATS wins in that situation entering Monday's contest. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have now won five games in a row - their longest win streak since reeling off nine straight victories back in January. Denver is just 5-13 ATS when playing on the road following consecutive wins this season, outscored by an average margin of 5.6 points in that situation. The Nuggets are also 9-18 ATS when coming off three or more consecutive victories this season. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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05-21-23 | Celtics v. Heat UNDER 214 | 102-128 | Loss | -110 | 36 h 4 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Boston and Miami at 8:30 pm et on Sunday. The first two games in this series have both gone 'over' the total but I look for a different story to unfold as the scene shifts to Miami for Game 3 on Sunday. Note that the Heat haven't been involved in three consecutive 'over' results since their first round series against the up-tempo Bucks. The pace wasn't necessarily there for an 'over' result in either of the first two games in this series. Game 1 saw the Heat and Celtics get off 85 and 81 field goal attempts, respectively. In Game 2, the Heat picked up the pace thanks to trailing by double-digits for stretches, hoisting up 92 field goal attempts. The Celtics were once again stymied, getting off only 79 FG attempts. The Heat have now held five straight opponents to 81 or fewer FG attempts. Meanwhile, Game 2 sticks out as an anomaly for the Celtics defensively as they've limited seven of their last nine foes to fewer than 90 FG attempts. The last time they allowed 90 or more FG attempts in a game they followed it up by allowing only 79 in their next contest. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 25-14 with the Celtics installed as a road favorite of six points or less over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Take the under (8*). |
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05-21-23 | Celtics -3 v. Heat | Top | 102-128 | Loss | -110 | 36 h 15 m | Show |
Conference Finals Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston minus the points over Miami at 8:30 pm et on Sunday. The Celtics have dug themselves an 0-2 hole in this series but I don't think they're about to hit the panic button just yet. After all, there's no real intimidation factor in play as they head to Miami, where they've gone 5-2 in seven meetings since the start of last season including three double-digit victories. The fact that Boston has dropped consecutive games both SU and ATS is notable as it hasn't lost three straight contests since March 3rd to 6th. To find the last time the Celtics dropped the cash in more than two straight games you would have to go back to February 27th to March 5th when they lost four in a row ATS. The Heat have now won four straight meetings in this series. That's their longest winning streak in this matchup since way back in 2004. Here, we'll note that Boston is 12-2 ATS when coming off consecutive outright defeats as a favorite over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by an impressive average margin of 11.2 points in that situation. The C's are also a long-term 145-109 ATS when playing on the road seeking revenge for consecutive losses against an opponent. Meanwhile, the Heat are 13-27 ATS off an ATS victory this season and 9-18 ATS when coming off consecutive SU wins. Take Boston (10*). |
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05-19-23 | Heat v. Celtics -8.5 | 111-105 | Loss | -110 | 37 h 56 m | Show | |
My selection is on Boston minus the points over Miami at 8:30 pm et on Friday. The Heat pulled off a stunner in Game 1 to steal home court advantage and at the very least a split in the first two games here in Boston. Incredibly, the ATS winner has now won the last 28 meetings in this series straight-up including 13 outright underdog victories. I look for that trend to continue on Friday but with the Celtics coming out on the winning end this time around. It certainly appeared as if the Celtics thought the Heat would simply roll over and concede Game 1 after Boston took control late in the first half to build a nine-point halftime lead. Instead, the Heat came out on fire in the third quarter, took control of the game and cruised the rest of the way. Note that Miami knocked down 46 field goals in the victory. We haven't seen it connect on 46 or more field goals in consecutive games since November 30th and December 2nd (oddly enough both games were against Boston) so we can count on some offensive regression here. The Celtics have now dropped three straight meetings in this series (both SU and ATS) and that's notable as they haven't lost four straight matchups against Miami since 2004. Here, we'll note that the Heat are just 8-18 ATS when coming off consecutive wins this season, as is the case here, while the Celtics are 19-9 ATS when coming off an upset loss at home over the last two seasons. Take Boston (8*). |
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05-18-23 | Lakers v. Nuggets UNDER 227 | Top | 103-108 | Win | 100 | 31 h 3 m | Show |
Conference Finals Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Los Angeles and Denver at 8:30 pm et on Thursday. These two teams went off for 258 combined points in Game 1 of this series on Tuesday. In my analysis prior to that contest I noted that the Lakers offensive ceiling would be considerably higher against the Nuggets (or had proven to be) than it was against the Warriors last round, with a similar floor. Los Angeles essentially hit that ceiling, or came awfully close, in the series-opener. In Game 2, I anticipate some regression with the Lakers likely falling closer to that typical 'floor' production level in this particular matchup. By that I mean Los Angeles had made good on 41 or fewer field goals in two of four regular season meetings in this series. The Lakers pace in Game 1 certainly wasn't indicative of the 126 points they ended up scoring as they actually got off only 84 field goal attempts in the contest. In fact, the Nuggets have now held four straight and 10 of their last 13 opponents to 88 or fewer field goal attempts. The Lakers, meanwhile, haven't gotten off more than 87 field goal attempts in a game since Game 2 against the Warriors last round (they scored a series-low 100 points in that contest). While the Nuggets hoisted up 91 FG attempts on Tuesday that type of up-tempo performance has been the exception rather than the rule. Generally-speaking, it's not easy to speed up Denver. To find the last time the Nuggets got off 90 or more FG attempts in consecutive games you would have to go back to March 31st and April 2nd and both of those contests actually stayed 'under' the total with Denver scoring just 93 and 112 points. After shooting the lights out in consecutive games going back to the series-clincher against the Suns last round, I'm anticipating some regression from the Nuggets here offensively. Keep in mind, in four regular season meetings between these two teams, Denver knocked down 'only' 42, 41, 39 and 46 field goals, scoring 122 points in the latter outlier performance in which they got off a whopping 99 FG attempts in early January (that game still totalled 'only' 231 points). Take the under (10*). Finally, we'll note that while the Lakers average 116.6 points per game overall this season, that number drops to 114.9 ppg when coming off consecutive ATS wins (22-game sample size), as is the case here. The Nuggets average 116.0 ppg this season with that scoring average dropping to 113.7 ppg when coming off three or more consecutive wins, which is also the situation here. Take the under (10*). |
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05-17-23 | Heat +8.5 v. Celtics | 123-116 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show | |
My selection is on Miami plus the points over Boston at 8:30 pm et on Wednesday. I'm just not buying what the oddsmakers are selling with the Celtics laying a generous helping of points in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final on Wednesday. The Heat enter this game off consecutive ATS defeats - their longest ATS losing skid since dropping the cash in three straight games from March 25th to 29th. Prior to that you would have to go back to February 13th to 25th - spanning across the All-Star break - to find a previous occasion where Miami lost more than two games in a row ATS. Meanwhile, the Celtics have covered the spread in consecutive games. They haven't strung together more than two ATS wins in a row since a six-game ATS winning streak that stretched from the last two games of the regular season into their opening round mismatch with the Hawks. I don't believe Boston's offensive ceiling is all that high in this particular matchup. The Celtics topped out at 46 made field goals in four regular season matchups between these two teams and that performance came in a game where the Heat were missing Jimmy Butler back in late-November (Boston won that game by 13 points). In fact, the C's have knocked down 43 or fewer field goals in 11 of the last 12 meetings in this series. That's not to say the Heat have lit it up from the field in this matchup, however, I do feel there's a path for Miami to effectively shorten this game, noting that it checks in having limited the Knicks to 86 or fewer field goal attempts in five of six games last round. The Celtics have been a more up-tempo team than we've been accustomed to seeing as a whole this season, but enter this series having hoisted up fewer than 90 field goal attempts in 12 of their last 16 contests. Finally, we'll note that the Celtics are just 9-21 ATS when coming off consecutive ATS victories as a favorite over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.8 points on average in that situation. Take Miami (8*). |
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05-16-23 | Lakers v. Nuggets OVER 222.5 | 126-132 | Win | 100 | 13 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Los Angeles and Denver at 8:30 pm et on Tuesday. The oddsmakers did a good job of setting totals in the Lakers previous series against the Warriors with five of the six games finishing within 4.5 points of the closing total. We saw the totals edge lower as that series went on and here in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals we're seeing a significantly lower total than we saw in Game 1 against the Warriors. With all of that being said, I don't believe the shift is warranted. Last round I talked on numerous occasions about how the Lakers had a solid floor in terms of scoring production against the Warriors but not all that high of a ceiling. I believe we're dealing with a different set of circumstances here against the Nuggets, noting that Los Angeles has knocked down 40 or more field goals in six straight meetings in this series but has also shown the ability to break out, making good on 46 or more field goals in three of those six contests. On the flip side, Denver has knocked down more than 40 field goals in six of the last seven matchups in this series, making good on 46 or more in four of those contests. The Nuggets are in excellent form off a series against Phoenix in which they connected on 42 or more field goals in five of six games. The Lakers continue to afford their opponents a ton of scoring opportunities having allowed more than 90 field goal attempts in nine of their last 10 games. While Los Angeles' offense did get bogged down a bit as the series went on against Golden State, that will happen when you're playing every other day over a 10-day stretch. Note that the Lakers have played on three or more days' rest, as is the case here, on four previous occasions this season (not including their season-opener) and have knocked down 43, 42, 49 and 43 field goals in those four contests, producing an average point total of 124.3 points in that situation. Take the over (8*). |
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Sean Murphy NBA Picks
Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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01-10-24 | 76ers +2.5 v. Hawks | 132-139 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 28 m | Show | |
01-09-24 | Raptors v. Lakers OVER 233.5 | Top | 131-132 | Win | 100 | 16 h 54 m | Show |
01-08-24 | Suns +6.5 v. Clippers | 111-138 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 38 m | Show | |
01-08-24 | Celtics v. Pacers +4 | 131-133 | Win | 100 | 11 h 52 m | Show | |
01-07-24 | Clippers v. Lakers +5 | 103-106 | Win | 100 | 14 h 37 m | Show | |
01-05-24 | Heat v. Suns UNDER 229.5 | 97-113 | Win | 100 | 14 h 23 m | Show | |
01-03-24 | Pelicans v. Wolves UNDER 223.5 | Top | 117-106 | Win | 100 | 14 h 50 m | Show |
01-02-24 | Celtics v. Thunder +3 | Top | 123-127 | Win | 100 | 24 h 2 m | Show |
01-01-24 | Mavs v. Jazz +3.5 | 90-127 | Win | 100 | 24 h 5 m | Show | |
12-31-23 | Magic +5.5 v. Suns | 107-112 | Win | 100 | 24 h 33 m | Show | |
12-29-23 | Hornets v. Suns UNDER 234.5 | 119-133 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 9 m | Show | |
12-29-23 | Bucks v. Cavs +5.5 | 119-111 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 49 m | Show | |
12-28-23 | Heat v. Warriors UNDER 228.5 | Top | 114-102 | Win | 100 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
12-28-23 | Jazz v. Pelicans -8 | 105-112 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 51 m | Show | |
12-27-23 | Suns v. Rockets UNDER 225.5 | Top | 129-113 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 51 m | Show |
12-26-23 | Hornets v. Clippers UNDER 228.5 | 104-113 | Win | 100 | 15 h 21 m | Show | |
12-25-23 | 76ers v. Heat UNDER 226.5 | Top | 113-119 | Loss | -110 | 32 h 31 m | Show |
12-23-23 | Magic +1.5 v. Pacers | 117-110 | Win | 100 | 12 h 56 m | Show | |
12-22-23 | Suns v. Kings UNDER 244.5 | Top | 105-120 | Win | 100 | 15 h 43 m | Show |
12-21-23 | Clippers v. Thunder -4.5 | Top | 115-134 | Win | 100 | 14 h 5 m | Show |
12-20-23 | Knicks v. Nets +1.5 | 121-102 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 44 m | Show | |
12-20-23 | Wolves v. 76ers -3 | Top | 113-127 | Win | 100 | 24 h 37 m | Show |
12-19-23 | Spurs v. Bucks OVER 249.5 | 119-132 | Win | 100 | 12 h 33 m | Show | |
12-18-23 | Bulls v. 76ers UNDER 230 | Top | 108-104 | Win | 100 | 23 h 15 m | Show |
12-16-23 | Bulls v. Heat UNDER 217 | Top | 116-118 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
12-15-23 | Rockets v. Grizzlies UNDER 212 | 103-96 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show | |
12-15-23 | Magic +6 v. Celtics | 111-128 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 25 m | Show | |
12-14-23 | Wolves +2.5 v. Mavs | 119-101 | Win | 100 | 14 h 11 m | Show | |
12-14-23 | Wolves v. Mavs UNDER 229.5 | Top | 119-101 | Win | 100 | 14 h 3 m | Show |
12-13-23 | Nets +2.5 v. Suns | 116-112 | Win | 100 | 13 h 53 m | Show | |
12-13-23 | Pacers v. Bucks -6 | Top | 126-140 | Win | 100 | 24 h 1 m | Show |
12-12-23 | Nuggets v. Bulls +7.5 | Top | 114-106 | Loss | -108 | 12 h 14 m | Show |
12-11-23 | Cavs v. Magic -2 | 94-104 | Win | 100 | 23 h 45 m | Show | |
12-09-23 | Pacers +4.5 v. Lakers | 109-123 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 11 m | Show | |
12-08-23 | Kings -1.5 v. Suns | 114-106 | Win | 100 | 14 h 9 m | Show | |
12-08-23 | Cavs -0.5 v. Heat | 111-99 | Win | 100 | 24 h 22 m | Show | |
12-08-23 | Knicks +7.5 v. Celtics | Top | 123-133 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
12-07-23 | Pelicans v. Lakers -1.5 | 89-133 | Win | 100 | 13 h 43 m | Show | |
12-06-23 | 76ers -9.5 v. Wizards | 131-126 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 28 m | Show | |
12-05-23 | Suns v. Lakers UNDER 228.5 | Top | 103-106 | Win | 100 | 26 h 51 m | Show |
12-04-23 | Pelicans v. Kings -4 | 127-117 | Loss | -110 | 37 h 13 m | Show | |
12-02-23 | Rockets v. Lakers -5 | 97-107 | Win | 100 | 24 h 13 m | Show | |
12-01-23 | Knicks +1.5 v. Raptors | 119-106 | Win | 100 | 24 h 30 m | Show | |
11-30-23 | Clippers v. Warriors -5 | 114-120 | Win | 100 | 13 h 8 m | Show | |
11-29-23 | Jazz v. Grizzlies -4 | 91-105 | Win | 100 | 14 h 37 m | Show | |
11-28-23 | Warriors v. Kings -2 | Top | 123-124 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 7 m | Show |
11-27-23 | Pelicans -3.5 v. Jazz | 112-114 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 30 m | Show | |
11-25-23 | 76ers v. Thunder +1.5 | 127-123 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 26 m | Show | |
11-24-23 | Spurs v. Warriors -10.5 | 112-118 | Loss | -107 | 26 h 31 m | Show | |
11-22-23 | Mavs -1.5 v. Lakers | Top | 104-101 | Win | 100 | 17 h 34 m | Show |
11-21-23 | Pacers +4.5 v. Hawks | Top | 157-152 | Win | 100 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
11-20-23 | Rockets v. Warriors -7.5 | 116-121 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 51 m | Show | |
11-19-23 | Magic v. Pacers -4.5 | 128-116 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 13 m | Show | |
11-17-23 | Rockets v. Clippers -6 | 100-106 | Push | 0 | 14 h 21 m | Show | |
11-15-23 | Kings +1.5 v. Lakers | 125-110 | Win | 100 | 13 h 58 m | Show | |
11-15-23 | Wolves v. Suns -5.5 | Top | 115-133 | Win | 100 | 25 h 23 m | Show |
11-15-23 | Knicks -1 v. Hawks | 116-114 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show | |
11-14-23 | Wolves v. Warriors -1.5 | 104-101 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 26 m | Show | |
11-14-23 | Mavs v. Pelicans UNDER 240 | 110-131 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 36 m | Show | |
11-12-23 | Heat v. Spurs +2 | 118-113 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 19 m | Show | |
11-10-23 | Thunder v. Kings +2.5 | 98-105 | Win | 100 | 15 h 20 m | Show | |
11-10-23 | Lakers v. Suns OVER 222.5 | 122-119 | Win | 100 | 15 h 12 m | Show | |
11-10-23 | Hornets +2.5 v. Wizards | Top | 124-117 | Win | 100 | 13 h 33 m | Show |
11-09-23 | Hawks v. Magic UNDER 233 | 120-119 | Loss | -110 | 15 h 21 m | Show | |
11-08-23 | Warriors v. Nuggets -3 | 105-108 | Push | 0 | 27 h 35 m | Show | |
11-08-23 | Lakers -2.5 v. Rockets | 94-128 | Loss | -115 | 25 h 47 m | Show | |
11-06-23 | Pelicans +6 v. Nuggets | 116-134 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 24 m | Show | |
11-05-23 | Grizzlies -2.5 v. Blazers | Top | 112-100 | Win | 100 | 25 h 34 m | Show |
11-03-23 | Mavs v. Nuggets OVER 226.5 | Top | 114-125 | Win | 100 | 15 h 56 m | Show |
11-02-23 | Magic v. Jazz | 115-113 | Win | 100 | 15 h 4 m | Show | |
11-01-23 | Kings +7.5 v. Warriors | 101-102 | Win | 100 | 14 h 11 m | Show | |
11-01-23 | Nuggets v. Wolves +3.5 | Top | 89-110 | Win | 100 | 12 h 59 m | Show |
11-01-23 | Wizards +8.5 v. Hawks | 121-130 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 49 m | Show | |
11-01-23 | Bucks v. Raptors UNDER 224.5 | 111-130 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 51 m | Show | |
10-31-23 | Spurs v. Suns OVER 226.5 | 115-114 | Win | 100 | 16 h 43 m | Show | |
10-31-23 | Knicks v. Cavs OVER 214.5 | 109-91 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 56 m | Show | |
10-30-23 | Warriors v. Pelicans -3 | 130-102 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 60 m | Show | |
10-29-23 | Spurs v. Clippers -8.5 | 83-123 | Win | 100 | 13 h 41 m | Show | |
10-28-23 | Bulls -1 v. Pistons | 102-118 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 12 m | Show | |
10-27-23 | Clippers v. Jazz +3.5 | Top | 118-120 | Win | 100 | 25 h 32 m | Show |
10-27-23 | Raptors v. Bulls -2 | 103-104 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 31 m | Show | |
10-26-23 | Suns v. Lakers OVER 229 | Top | 95-100 | Loss | -109 | 26 h 8 m | Show |
10-25-23 | Hawks -2.5 v. Hornets | 110-116 | Loss | -115 | 35 h 12 m | Show | |
10-24-23 | Suns v. Warriors OVER 232 | 108-104 | Loss | -110 | 131 h 11 m | Show | |
06-12-23 | Heat v. Nuggets UNDER 209.5 | Top | 89-94 | Win | 100 | 14 h 34 m | Show |
06-09-23 | Nuggets v. Heat UNDER 211.5 | 108-95 | Win | 100 | 13 h 38 m | Show | |
06-07-23 | Nuggets v. Heat UNDER 214.5 | Top | 109-94 | Win | 100 | 13 h 15 m | Show |
06-04-23 | Heat v. Nuggets -8.5 | 111-108 | Loss | -108 | 12 h 6 m | Show | |
06-01-23 | Heat v. Nuggets -8.5 | 93-104 | Win | 100 | 14 h 42 m | Show | |
05-29-23 | Heat v. Celtics UNDER 203.5 | 103-84 | Win | 100 | 23 h 33 m | Show | |
05-27-23 | Celtics v. Heat UNDER 210.5 | 104-103 | Win | 100 | 14 h 60 m | Show | |
05-25-23 | Heat +8.5 v. Celtics | Top | 97-110 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 43 m | Show |
05-23-23 | Celtics v. Heat UNDER 216.5 | Top | 116-99 | Win | 100 | 13 h 12 m | Show |
05-22-23 | Nuggets v. Lakers -3 | Top | 113-111 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 53 m | Show |
05-21-23 | Celtics v. Heat UNDER 214 | 102-128 | Loss | -110 | 36 h 4 m | Show | |
05-21-23 | Celtics -3 v. Heat | Top | 102-128 | Loss | -110 | 36 h 15 m | Show |
05-19-23 | Heat v. Celtics -8.5 | 111-105 | Loss | -110 | 37 h 56 m | Show | |
05-18-23 | Lakers v. Nuggets UNDER 227 | Top | 103-108 | Win | 100 | 31 h 3 m | Show |
05-17-23 | Heat +8.5 v. Celtics | 123-116 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show | |
05-16-23 | Lakers v. Nuggets OVER 222.5 | 126-132 | Win | 100 | 13 h 28 m | Show |