Oklahoma City at Denver 8:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - Sure Oklahoma City has won the past two games but Denver has covered three straight and are at home and getting points. That seems so attractive when you have Jokic and Murray a streak shoot both at home. The question to me is maturity, does Oklahoma City who has shown the best balance and talent all season long and have yet to show the ability to handle the big game pressure…But, the pressure here isn’t as great as they will still have a Game 7 at home if they should fall short. The pressure is on the Nuggets who face elimination. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

New York at Boston 7:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Knicks - The Celtics are in a bad spot (DUH) as the trail New York 3-1 in the series and as we all know they will be without their superstar Jayson Tatum (yes he is truly one) the rest of the way. Boston is one of the deepest teams in the NBA and they have played without Tatum a number of times with much success and are 9-2 in games without him. The Knicks have trailed by double digits at one time or another in all four games but have not been able to maintain the leads down the stretch. The strangest thing about the Knicks is that they are still undefeated on the road winning all five games outright. The Celtics will man-up here and extend the series. Take BOSTON!

Denver at Oklahoma City 9:39 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - I have been saying for months now that 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic is not even a ‘basketball player’… now of course that is silly but my goodness, he doesn’t move or jump but he does take up a lot of space, a lot of space and he can shoot and pass and rebound…ah, okay, I guess he’s a basketball player! But, one basketball player is no match for five thoroughbreds or lets make that 10 Thunder’s that run the floor and will easily be able to create space from that huge orb. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Boston at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics - So, what do ya think? Boston swept the season series 4-0 by average margin of 16.7 PPG per victory, in the playoffs Game 1 they had a 27 point lead and Game 2 they had a 20 point lead and they routed the Knicks by 22 points in Game 3 at MSG. In spite of all that the Knicks lead the series 2-1 and understand that this may be the most important game of the series. I expect a stronger Thibodeau inspired defensive intensity. Take NEW YORK!

Cleveland at Indiana 6:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers - It appears to me that the media is going to make this a game between Indiana’s (most over-rated voted by the players) Tyrese Haliburton and Cleveland’s prolific scorer Donovan Mitchell. So far the Pacers are up 2-1 and Mitachell is on the rise scoring 40 and 43 points in the past two games while Haliburton had just four points in Friday’s home loss. The Cavaliers’ Hunter, Mobley and Garland were questionable on Friday and all played and made contributions, they won’t catch the Pacers again. Tyrese rebounds and…take INDIANA!

Minnesota at Golden State 8:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Timberwolves - Well, it looks like the NVA got this one right as Number 7 seed Golden State will host No. 5 seed Minnesota and the stats and trends couldn’t be ant closer. Both clubs have won 54 games and both squads have lost 44 games ATS with the Warriors having posted one more point spread win. The Timberwolves have won 28 road games and State has won 27 home games. No curry…no problem as Warriors are 8-4 SU in playoff games without the sharpshooter. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Oklahoma City at Denver 10:00 ET

Nuggets (-+ over Thunder - We all got to see the real Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 as they won their second playoff game by 40 points or more. With the best scoring average and best defensive average the Thunder had the larger average margin of victory that ant other team in NBA history. I keep hearing that the are still too young but they have depth and talent and have plenty of confidence. Denver of course has who many consider the best player in basketball the 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic and a supporting cast that plays much better at home. The Nuggets have Playoff and Championship experience while OKC has yet to win anything in the postseason. The Nuggets will use their Mile High experience to their advantage. Take DENVER!

Cleveland at Indiana 7:30 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers - Do you or anyone else expect to see Cleveland a team that won 64 regular season games (3 more than Boston) and is the Number One seed in the Eastern Conference lose two home games in open the playoffs. Both the Pacers and Cavaliers have mirror records at 32-11 with Cleveland in the road and Indiana at home. So, shouldn’t this game be closer to a pick-em. But, it will still be hard to take the Pacers here and I’m sure the ‘public’ and even the Vegas ‘pros’ will lay the Cavaliers. To be truthful, there is so much action coming in on the Cavs that I believe there is a good chance that they could win by less than three points. Cleveland is hurting with Garland, Mobley and Hunter all still questionable. Take INDIANA!

Golden State at Minnesota 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Warriors- These two combatants have met five times this season with Minnesota taking their first meeting and Golden State won two days later and the following four meetings including Game 1 of this series. But, at least one thing aside from Jimmy Butler is different this time around as Stephen Curry will be out for at least a week. Surprisingly enough the Warriors are 8-3 in playoff games without Curry since coming into the league in 2009. The Wolves’ Anthony Edwards has had tow poor playoff games in-a-row and I expect him to break out tonight. Take MINNESOTA!

Denver at Oklahoma City 9:30 ET

Thunder (-) over Nuggets - Is it experience? Are the Thunder too young and still a year away…we will know real soon.! Oklahoma City dropped two-in-a-row just twice during the regular season and have dropped Game-One as the Nuggets with 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic getting another Triple-double rallied from a 13-point 4th quarter deficit for the upset win. I am worried about Russel WestBRICK who seems to have new life. Thunder rebound and take this one going away. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!  

New York at Boston 7:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Knicks - It took five tries buy the New York Knicks finally defeated the Boston Celtics and it was actually their third win(only wins) in Boston in their last 11 meetings overall. The Celtics can use the Kristaps Porzingis excuse as he was injured early but it is more like the Beantowners shot just 15 of 60 from 3-point range. in the third quarter of Game One the Celtics had a 20-point lead but took 16 three-point shots and only one two-point field goal attempts. New York got what the wanted and that is at least one win on the road. Take BOSTON!

Golden State at Minnesota 9:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Warriors - Minnesota wen the first meeting of the season between these two and two days later the Warriors returned the favor and won the next two meetings as well. But,before that stretch, the  T’woves had won the five previous meetings. Because the NBA is totally F’d up the No. six seed will be hosting the No. 7 seed I will explain later why it is way wrong). The No. 1 seed Oklahoma City is playing th2 No. 4 seed Denver. Which means that Minny gained a huge advantage over the Thunder by drawing the No. 7 seed Golden State (this could never happen in the NFL or NCAA tourneys). Playing against the lower seed who is coming off a seven game series Minny take advantage of the seeding. The wolves were no more than a 3-point home favorite against GS this season and now in the playoffs…take MINNESOTA!

Indiana at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Pacers -  The question here is are the Pacers satisfied going home with a 1-1 split. We know Cleveland doesn’t want to be down 0-2 blowing a pair of games at home and having to going to Indiana. But, the Cavs have physical problems with a trio of players who are hurting of which we can expect the return of Darius Garland and a better shooting night from Donovan Mitchell (1 of 11 from three and 11 for 30 overall. Take CLEVELAND!

New York at Boston 7:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics - New York who has had one of their best seasons in recent years has shown a huge flaw. The Knicks failed to defeat any of the NBA’s top three teams even once going 0-12 SU against Boston, Cleveland and Oklahoma City. Boston has been to the conference title game three straight times while New York has not been to the finals in 25 years. But, the post-season is a fresh start for the Knicks as they have not met in the post-season since 2013 and the Celtics have won four of the seven times that they have meet in the playoffs. This time the Knicks get off to a quick series start. Take NEW YORK!

Golden State at Houston 8:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Rockets- From the moment Golden State picked up Jimmy Butler they were transformed into a real threat in the West. When Curry is doing his thing and Green is playing his style Butler fits in perfectly and the Warriors will used their big game experience against a youthful but talented Houston squad. The Rockets came on strong in the second half of the season last year but failed to make the playoffs. They took a huge step this season and probably a bigger one next year but the season ends tonight. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Indiana at Cleveland 6:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers - What should be a great series has the No. 1 offense owned by Cleveland faces the Indiana Pacers who have managed to win five of the last eight meetings between the two including the last two this past April. The Cavaliers swept Miami in their opening round of playoff action and covered all but one game missing by a bucket but their final game of the regular season was a loss at home to these same Pacers who have now won 8-of-10. I expect more of the same. Take INDIANA!

LA Clippers at Denver 7:30 ET

Clippers (+) over Nuggets -The ‘sharps’ in Las Vegas were all over LA for the series and have pretty much had them every game. But, now facing a game seven in Denver the Clippers are now the underdog after being favored game four the last time in Mile High. Thus, all the series money which came heavily on the the Clippers will be balanced by ‘action’ on the Nuggets. LA has a history of playoff failures and the Nuggets know how to win around three-time MVP Jokic but the surprise here will be the pay of James Harden. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Houston at Golden State 9:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - I keep hearing that Houston is a year away from being capable of winning a playoff series while Golden State may be one year away from retirement. The Warriors took Game 5 off in the series as they were a no-show and sat their aging stars for more than half the game. This team of veterans has been in this position before after laying down and losing by 39-points in the 2022 playoffs the rebounded to eliminate Memphis when they returned home. But, this Rockets club has spring in their legs and will give the Warriors all that they can handle here. Take HOUSTON!

New York at Detroit 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Pistons - This has been the most exciting of the playoff series to date along with the West playoff series between the LA Clippers and Denver. From the start the Piston have been given a puncher's chance of winning this series and they are giving New York all that they can handle. The road team has won four of the five games in this series and the Pistons have lost nine straight playoff games at home and haven’t posted a home playoff victory since 2008. The best goes on…take NEW YORK!

Minnesota at LA Lakers 10:00 ET

Lakers over Timberwolves - We keep hearing how impressive the LA Clippers’ have been the last month of the regular and post season winning 19 of their past 21. Minnesota has also been impressive of late and are 20-5 the past 60 days and have won five of seven meeting with the Lakers. Anthony Edwards has proven to be the equal of either of the Lakers superstars James and Doncic. LA need a three game win streak or be eliminated from the playoff. Lakers use their experience to survive tonight. Take LAKERS!

Milwaukee at Indiana 6:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Pacers - Things can’t look any worse for Milwaukee as they trail the Pacers 3-1 in this best of seven series and will be without Damian Lillard not only for this game but most likely for next season as well. Indiana ran away from the Bucks in Game 4 shooting over 60% and having assists on 36 of 50 baskets made. Former MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo can be dominate and needs to be tonight. Take MILWAUKEE!

Houston at Golden State 10:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - Golden State was trailing the Rockets by 13-points and were without Jimmy Butler in Game 3 when Stephen Curry decided to take over and scored 21 second half points as the Warriors stormed back for the 104-93 victory. Houston has now dropped five of their past six games with only two wins since April 4th and both have come against the Warriors. The Rockets were 5-games better this season, remembering that Butler was a last edition after the All-star game. Take HOUSTON!

Boston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Celtics - Last time out Boston was supposed to be without Jayson Tatum but he showed up and it was Jrue Holiday that took the day off. The Celtics held a 10-point half-time lead but scored just 11 points in the third quarter and Orlando caught them thinking of their next golf game. The Magic believe that they can play with this team as they have split their last 10 meetings. Take ORLANDO!

LA Lakers at Minnesota 3:30 ET

Timberwolves (-) over Lakers - I have seen this before and I don’t know if you realize that you have seen it before. Byt, instead of having one player (Lebron James) controlling the ball while four others standing around while the Lakers are on offense, they still have four people standing around but the have two players different players control the ball as Luka Doncic has got to get his share of the glory. Two great stars do not necessarily a winner make. Shooting wolves has the confidence to bust the Lakers again. Take MINNESOTA!

New York at Detroit 1:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Pistons - After getting beat at home in Game 2 most were saying that the Knicks needed to win at least one game in Detroit and they were expect them to be able to do it. Oh yes, the Knicks came through with a 118-116 win as a favorite of -1.5. The Pistons trailed most of that game and only a late push made it close. The ‘Motor City’ boys out-played NY the first seven quarters until the Knicks woke up and since it has been…take NEW YORK!

Houston at Golden State 8:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Warriors - Yesterday I felt that I had to wait for some vital and useful information could get to me and it paid off with the Megabucks winner with Orlando over Boston. Saturday, it’s all in already with our Megabucks release for Saturday. The Jimmy Butler scare just gives the Warriors the excuse they will need. Still. Jimmy Playoffs when he wants can be tough enough to gut it out and for short to the young springing legs of Rockets. Take HOUSTON!

LA Lakers at Minnesota 9:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Timberwolves - The Lakers used their experience in their huge recovery in Game 2 after getting dominated t the Timberwolves in Game 1 getting routed 117-95 and it wasn’t even that close. The Lakers play the kind of defense that can throw the Minnesota shooting of their timing and shot making and their slow deliberate style will frustrate the younger Wolves. Take LA LAKERS!

Boston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Celtics - I have been waiting a little longer before posting during this year’s NBA Playoffs as the vital information continues to come right up till game time. Tonight we are all aware that Jayson Tatum is out but Boston has so much depth it doesn’t affect the overall team play. The odds makers have made their adjustments and the ‘public’ isn’t distracted they still support the NBA Champs. The Magic have enough at home to take this one down the the final buzzer…take ORLANDO!

Denver at LA CLIPPERS 10:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers -  I understand that Los Angeles has out-played the Nuggets both game and return home 1-1 instead of 2-0. The public and even the ‘smarties who do this for a living have been all over the Clippers since they closed the season winning 13 of 14 with their lone loss by 2-points to Oklahoma City. Denver has had a bit of chaos of late with both the General Manager and head coach were shown the door three days before the season ended. The move does not seem to have hurt the Nuggets and we will know more later tonight. Take DENVER!

Oklahoma City at Memphis 9:30 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Thunder - As I stated before I don’t believe like so many others that the Oklahoma City is a year away from winning it all but I don’t thing so their time may be here now! They have won the first toe games by 51 and 19 points and have won the past 11 meetings between the two combatants. Memphis has been an impostor all season long, and even when they were seed No. 2 before their late season swoon. But, if the Grizzlies have any professionalism at all they will show up here and take this one down to the final buzzer. Take MEMPHIS!

New York at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Knicks - I have been hearing it from the moment this match-up as made that the Knicks would struggle against the Pistons. So, I am not so surprised that the Motor City Kids came up big but it was the non appearance of Karl-Anthony towns where posted just 10 points and six rebounds. The ‘sharps’ and wiseguys are waiting for the highest number possible and the ‘public’ is star New York struck! Take DETROIT!

Cincinnati at Miami 1:10 ET

Marlins over Reds - It’s been going on for awhile now with the Reds being in the spotlight because of the exciting players that they have in their line up. The trouble is it seems that when they do some of their amazing feats they spend a week replaying high-lights on MLB instead of making new high-lights. The Reds average 1.2 more runs per game than they allow and they are two games under .500. Miami surrenders 0.8 more runs then they score and they have as many wins as do the Reds. Cincy’s Brady Singer (3-0, 3.80 ERA) and he has been very fortunate and he will be up against the Marlins’ best who has struggled, Sandy Alcantara (2-1, 7.27) who is 2-3 with a 3.03 ERA in seven starts lifetime against Cincinnati.. The beat goes on…take MIAMI!

Memphis at Oklahoma City 7:30 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Thunder - I have no doubts that Oklahoma City is not a year away as many say as I believe they are the best in the NBA right now. Now, even when you are the best you don’t win every game and after a 51-point blowout win over Memphis the Thunder are very confident. The Grizzlies starters shot just 25% for the game as they dropped their 10th straight to KC and are just 1-9 ATS. But, when a professional club ls loses the way the did in Game 1 they suck it up as professionals to avoid another embarrassing display. Take MEMPHIS!

LA Clippers at Denver 10:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers - This series without a doubt has created the most interest among the bettors and professionals in Las Vegas. The buzz had the ‘sharps’ taking Los Angeles for the series and the line flipped to the Clippers being favored. Game 1 saw Denver who opened a 4-or-5 point favorite were bet down to -2.5 and post a non-cover win. LA seemed a bit despondent after their defeat and well they should be after blowing a double-digit lead. The Clippers have dropped the last three meetings and are now 20-22 SU on the road and a mighty 30-11 when playing as hosts. Take DENVER!

Minnesota at LA Lakers 8:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Lakers - This seems like a cheap price to lay if you like the Lakers as up until now for the most part Minnesota has been under valued the entire season and managed to win 49 games. These two split the season series each holding serve on their respective home floors. This contest truly has Hall of Fame superstars with James, Doncic and Edwards and it should be a teat to watch and come down to the buzzer. Take MINNESOTA!

LA Clippers at Denver 3:30 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers - When I saw this match up I instantly like Los Angeles for a c variety of reasons and then I see an onslaught of opinions in Las Vegas among professional bettors and radio touts and not a word or opinion on Denver. I was beginning to have second thoughts but for the most part this is going to be a Joe’s versus Pro’s game where the betting public will have the Nuggets and ‘sharp’ (supposed) money will be on the Clippers. They have flipped the series series from Denver as the favorite to Los Angeles even and laying a price. It does scare me a bit but, Books will need Clippers and so will I. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Milwaukee at Indinna 1:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Bucks - This Game 1 of this series between No. 5 Milwaukee and No. 4 Indiana has the Pacers a strong favorite against a team that is playing their best basketball of the year to close the season. The Bucks closed the season with eight straight wins and were 7-1 ATS down the stretch, unfortunately for them Damian Lillard will remain sidelined. Antetokounmpo can not be stopped but there are nine others on the floor and they include the Pacers’ Tyrese Haliberton. Take INDIANA!

Dallas at Memphis 9:30 ET

Grizzlies (-) over Mavericks - I had trouble pulling the trigger on this one originally because of Ja Morant and his lack of maturity but there is no doubting his abilities. Dallas has had quite a year after making it to the NBA Finals last season the are a beat up No. 10 seed that pulled an upset over Sacramento who was in even worse shape than the Mavericks. But their time is up. Take MEMPHIS!

Miami at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Hawks over Heat - Orlando who finished first in the SE Division was seeded 7th and needed a over which got defeating Atlanta two days after losing to the Hawks. With that win the Magic advanced and the Hawks return to Georgia and host the winning Heat who scorched Chicago. These two met four times this season and the home team is 4-0 both SU and ATS. After what we all saw in Miami’s Megabucks win a blowout over the Bulls, while the Hawks were grounded by their own actions with Trae Young getting tossed. Home teams rule…take ATLANTA!

Miami at Chicago 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Bulls - It is kinda difficult to gauge what is going on the the Chicago Bulls as they got rid of their most productive players at the trade deadline and are actually playing better. The Bulls have now won three in a row and six of seven while Miami who also made some trades at the deadline are another story. The Heat come into this affair having   dropped four of their last six and were 0-3 SU and ATS in the three meetings this season. But, it is said that defense wins championships and not that either of these two will be playing the the ring but the South Beach crew is ranked No. 7 while the Bulls defense is ranked No. 28 allowing 119.4 PPG. Take MIAMI!

Denver at Houston 3:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Nuggets - The line of though here is that Houston is locked into the No. 2 seed behind Oklahoma City and Denver guarantees itself a home series with a win. But, the Nuggets are in a bit of turmoil when you consider that they fired their general manager and head coach four days ago…4 days. The Joker keeps posting these incredible numbers and he was actually accused of lifting more than three inches off the floor. Take HOUSTON!

Detroit at Milwaukee 1:00 ET

Pistons (-) over Bucks - He,y didn’t these two play a couple of days ago in Detroit with the Pistons favorites and they were soundly defeated by these same Bucks. So, now the Pistons are even bigger favorite in America’s brewery town and have lost 12 straight in the series and 24 of the past 25 meetings. (man, I know the Pistons have been down in recent years but…wow really). The Motor City boys have dropped 3-of-4 and will be all in to approach the playoff in a positive manor. But, for the veteran playoff team like the Bucks it is a different story as the ‘Greek Freak’ probably won’t ever show up at the arena much less dress up for the locked in Bucks. Take DETROIT! 

Houston at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Lakers (-) over Rockets - The Lakers are trying to secure the number 3 spot In the NBA west playoff seeding.while Houston is locked in the number 2 spot win or lose he rest of the way out. LA returns home after a three game trip and close the season The Rockets won the first  two meetings at home but the Lakers won and covered at home 2-weeks ago and will even the series here. The Rockets did not use their mainstay players last time out against New Orleans and I expect more of the same. Take LA LAKERS!

Cleveland at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Cavaliers - I am thinking that this line with New York favored is by double-digits is about the most outrageous misnomer that I have seen yet. Think of this Cleveland is not only 3-0 against New York this season but they covered all three up too  a minus 10.5-point favorites. The Cavaliers margin of victory in those three meeting was by 22 points but the ‘under’ is 1-9 in the last 10 battles. The Cavs have clinched the number one spot in the East and this is the second of back-to-back games I don’t expect much effort or evening playing time to those of importance. Take NEW YORK!

Milwaukee at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (-) over Bucks - How about this for a strange number posted on this game as Detroit has been installed as a strong favorite and yet they have lost 11 straight games to Milwaukee and 23 of the pat 24 meetings. The Pistons can finish with the fifth seed if they can defeat the Bucks in each of their final two games which are back-to-back on Friday and Saturday. If Milwaukee can manage to win one of these encounters they will maintain the fifth playoff seed. But, tonight it is the Pistons. Take DETROIT!

Minnesota at Memphis 9:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Grizzlies - Although both of these squads have winning records the past few weeks it looks as though they are willing to fall to the Play-in tournament.  It wasn’t long ago that Memphis was riding high and second to Oklahoma City in the West while Minnesota managed to blow a 24-point lead with 9:44 to play and lost by seven at Milwaukee. the Grizzlies hold a 1-game lead over the T’wolves and can finish as high as 5th if they win their remaining three games. Minny can finish 3rd if they win out and they had a 5-game win streak working when entered Milwaukee. Take MINNESOTA!

Cleveland at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Cavaliers - This is one of those season ending ‘give a-ways’ like we saw last night with the Magic and Clippers. Line that are so out of whack that you feel compelled to make the sucker bet. Indiana being this big a favorite tells me that Cleveland is locked into their playoff position and will be on cruise control. The Pacers have won their last four games and in the last meeting in Indiana the Cavaliers were 8-point favorites and won by 10 and now they are 9,5-point underdogs, a 17.5-point swing…it is not a mistake. Take INDIANA!

Houston at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers over Rockets - Houston has defeated the LA Clippers the last four times they have met including three wins this season. The Rockets have covered the past six meetings and the Clippers have not covered a meeting in Los Angeles since January 2023. Both clubs are on the upswing with Houston having won their last three and six of seven while the Clippers have won their last five games and seven of the past eight. The Clippers are 29-11 at home and will cover this inflated number. Take LA CLIPPERS!

LA Lakers at Dallas 7:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Lakers - Los Angeles just split a pair of contests played in Oklahoma City with the Thunder gaining a measure of revenge by winning the second of the back-to-back games last night. At least the Lakers had a day off before the second match-up whereas tonight it is back-to-back games on consecutive nights. But, the real storyline here is the return for the first time of Luca Doncic returning the Dallas for the first time since being traded by the Mavericks to Los Angeles. Anthony Davis will also be playing for the first time against his former teammates as he sat out injured the last time these two clubs met back in February a 107-99 in LA. Davis has missed 23 games since being sent to Dallas but will be ready tonight. Take DALLAS!

Boston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (-) over Celtics - This is either the biggest ‘sucker’ play in the NBA this season or there is something ‘really, really out of order’ here. Boston who is 40 games over .500 (actually 39) are a large underdog at Orlando to a Magic team that is one-game under .500. Think of this Boston has won their last three and 9-of-10 and eight straight road games while Orlando is fighting for a true playoff berth and not play-in status. The Celtics road record is 33-7 and the Magic are just 21-19 at home and this is their final home game of the season. This ‘price’ is way out of line. This is BOGUS! Take ORLANDO!

Toronto at Brooklyn 3:30 ET

Nets (+) over Raptors - If you ever need proof that the points are the equalizer just take a look at the straight up and ATS records of these two also-rans. Brooklyn is 25-52 straight up and yet are a winner against the number going 42-35 ATS. It is much of the same when looking at Toronto who is 28-50 SU but have a winning ATS record of 46-31 (15 games above .500). The Nets are in great position and do not to lay down to improve their draft position because they already have a 9% chance of winning the NBA lottery but they also have three other No. 1 daft picks from trades with Milwaukee, Phoenix and the NY Knicks. The Raptors rapped the Nets two weeks ago and lead the season series 2-1 but it will even it self today. Take BROOKLYN!

Memphis at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Grizzlies - The talk surrounding this battle is more about actions on he court other than the play. Ja Morant is at it again, his finger pointing gun actions have the league up in arms (not like the one Ja carries). Memphis is reeling having lost 7 of 9 and not only are they losing on the floor but they lost their coach as well as the Grizzlies slide from the No. 2 seed in the west behind Oklahoma City to their current seeding tied for the fifth spot with the Clippers and Minnesota. Detroit clinch a playoff berth last time out and they are not satisfied after setting franchise record for losses in 2023-24. Memphis has won the past eight meetings and are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 encounters. They have met once this season back in November but the teams have moved in different directions since. The Pistons have moved up to No. 3 in defense and are 29-16 since the New Year. Take DETROIT!

Oklahoma City at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Thunder - I don’t know if you new this but, I just realized that Houston had not been to the playoffs in five seasons. Last year was sort of a coming out party for the Rockets but this season they broke through and are currently the No. 2 seed in the West. They have won 13 of the past 15 games but have dropped 3-of-4 to Oklahoma City. I love the Thunder and will have a heart in my throat watching this one as they have won 18 of 19 and I will not be surprised I they win it ALL (most experts believe they are too raw...yeah raw TALENT)! They ranked No. 3 on offense and No. 1 on defense, but you can’t win ‘em all. Take HOUSTON!

Detroit at Toronto 7:30 ET

Pistons (-) over Raptors - Believe it or not I think the Pistons are a threat in the NBA East in make it to the conference finals. Detroit who has dropped their last two games are in the Playoffs with a win tonight after having the worst season in franchise history. Toronto is having a horrible season straight up, but have been one of the most profitable clubs when playing with the points and are 46-30 ATS. The Raptors has lost the past five meetings including three wins this season and are 1-4 ATS in those five meetings. With incentive the Piston will run on all cylinders and rout the Raptors. Take DETROIT!

Golden State at L.A. Lakers 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Lakers - These two California rivals have played three times this season with Los Angeles winning all three match ups covering all three meetings. Golden State had previously won the prior three meetings and covered the number in all of those. Both Golden State and the Lakers made moves at the trade deadline that improved their odds on winning it all. Jimmy Butler was added to the Warriors lineup and Luca Doncic to the Lakers and both trades have proven to upgrade both clubs to championship level. Right now both of these clubs would meet in the NBA playoffs in the first round and the Warriors especially want to enter that series off of a positive win. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Atlanta at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (-) over Hawks - Dallas has won the last three meetings between these two combatants including a 129-119 win Thanksgiving weekend in Atlanta. Currently, the Hawks are two games ahead of Miami for a play-in spot and 2.5 games over Chicago. The Mavericks who started March 1-9 but have now won four of their last six and have Anthony Davis in uniform for the sixth time since being traded from the Lakers for Luca Doncic. The Mavs have not quit on the season despite being hit with a rash of injuries his year. The Hawks have dropped 3-of-4 and fall short once again tonight. Take DALLAS!

Minnesota at Denver 10:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets - Upon review of the series between these two it was surprising to see that Minnesota has won the past five meetings outright and went 4-1 ATS in the process. Denver will be playing their fourth straight game at home having won the last two but are just 3-11 ATS in their past 14 games overall. The T’wolves are a half-game behind Golden State for the sixth seed looking to avoid the NBA play-in. Minny took out the Nuggets in last years playoffs and seem to have Denver’s number. Take MINNESOTA!

LA Clippers at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Clippers - Orlando who holds the eighth spot in the NBA playoff hunt after winning their fourth game in their last five tries after romping over Sacramento 121-91 on Saturday. The Clippers dropped their contest against Cleveland Sunday and are now in the eighth playoff spot in the Western Conference. LA despite that loss are 8-1 ATS in their last nine games overall. Both are in need and LA posted a win over the Magic back in November and Orlando will even the series here. Take ORLANDO!

Houston at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Suns (+) over Rockets - Phoenix has dropped their last two games and sit in 11th in the NBA playoff hunt that takes the top 10 to qualify. Houston has been hot and have won 11 of their past 12 and are 2nd in the Western Conference and trail OKC by double-digits but are a game and a half ahead of Denver. The pressure is on the Suns and they should shine bright tonight. Take PHOENIX!

Portland at New York 6:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Knicks - The Knicks continue to play winning basketball despite losing their leading scorer and assists man Jalen Brunson to a sprained ankle and has not played in over three weeks. Portland has dropped three straight but have been off since Thursday at Sacramento where they got wasted. The Trailblazers are 4-games behind Dallas for the 10th spot but losses to Cleveland and Boston have dimmed their chances. The loss to the Kings was one of most lopsided losses of the season for the Blazers and they look to rebound like true professionals would. Take PORTLAND!

Dallas at Chicago 8:00 ET

Mavericks (+) over Bulls - Chicago is off of an improbably win on Thursday defeating the Lakers with half court buzzer beater after trailing by five points  with :12 second left in the game. The Bulls who have won nine of their last 11. Dallas is currently two games below .500 which is really not all that bad when considering the injuries that have plagued them. But, the Mavericks have not quit and are still in a battle with Phoenix and Sacramento. Anthony Davis has been a great addition (lost luca Doncic) and they are totally different when he plays. He is suppose to play tonight. Take DALLAS!

New York at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Bucks - The series between these two flipped the scenario two years ago when the Knicks broke a nine game losing streak to Milwaukee and have won the past four meetings including a pair of wins this season. The Bucks and Knicks are both facing injuries with Milwaukee having Damien Lillard on the shelf along with a questionable Antetoounmpo while New York is without their leading scorer and spark plug Jalen Brunson. Karl-Anthony Towns can and will control inside the paint. Take NEW YORK!

Atlanta at Miami 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Heat - Atlanta had won seven of nine games before the were routed by Houston although the Hawks did get the the money with a 4th quarter back door cover (trailed by 25 points) and have now covered their last four games. Miami, has won the last two outings after losing 10 straight with the last win a Megabucks victory over Golden State. The Heat have reached their limit winning twice and now get over taken by the Hawks. Take ATLANTA!

Boston at Phoenix 10 :00 ET

Suns (+) over Celtics - When I saw Jason Tatum go down with an ankle injury Monday night, I thought that Boston should be happy if he is able to return 100% by the playoffs. He is questionable tonight and I guess the injury isn’t as bad as it looked to me and is not that bad after all. But, even with Porzingis back the Celtics who have won their last six might not be able to put it together against Phoenix who has won their last four games making a playoff push after a disappointing season. The Suns have dropped the last two meetings and 4-of-5 but the last time they played each other was over a year ago. Suns are hot and will burn Boston. Take PHOENIX RISING!

LA Lakers at Indiana 7:00 ET

Lakers over Pacers - So, how's that working out for you…the LA Lakers have dropped three straight and seven of 10 as a two-man team of James and Doncic isn’t enough. To be fair, LeBron has been out and Luca hasn’t hit his stride since coming off of injury after being traded to Los Angeles. Still, Indiana trails the Lakers by 1-game overall on the year, although they play in different conferences. The Lakers won as a plus 4.5-point home dog 124-117 in only meeting this season six weeks ago in LA. That was without James and Doncic, both will play tonight. Take LOS ANGELES LAKERS!

LA Clippers at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (-) over Clippers - The LA Clippers had won 8-of-9 games before falling to Oklahoma City 103-101 Sunday and have won the last two meetings with the Knicks and 4-of-5 past meetings. New York has won their last two outings at home and go for the ‘Hat Trick’ tonight as a small underdog. Although New York is without leading sorer Jalen Brunson they have enough balance and depth to over come the Clipper at home. Take NEW YORK!

Atlanta at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (-z) over Hawks- This battle will pit the best assets of each club against each other.  Atlanta has used it’s 5th ranked offensive that has shot 55.3% from the field in its last three games while Houston who just had a nine-game winning streak end Sunday have the league’s No. 5 ranked defense. The Hawks are off their win Sunday against Philadelphia who stopped playing defense months ago will find getting shots off will be a little more difficult against the Rockets defense. Take HOUSTON!

Golden State at Miami 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Warriors - It has been bad; no, not even as bad as my NBA selections the previous week, it has been even worse for Miami who broke a 10-game losing streak Sunday, finally winning a professional game over Charlotte (18) who is third from the bottom in wins just ahead of Washington (15) and Utah (16). Now, ‘Jimmy ‘Playoffs’ Butler once a Heat All-Star, forced a trade and ended up with the Warriors and they immediately went on a tear, winning 16 of 19 with Butler in the lineup. In their only meetings this season the first week of January in California, Miami defeated Golden State 114-98 getting 8.5-points and Butler was sidelined before the trade. After seven straight home games over 17 days the Warriors lost on the road at Atlanta 124-115 on Saturday. Take MIAMI!   

Orlando at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Magic - The pressure is off the Magic as they delivered as our Megabucks winning release on Monday and now there will be a natural letdown after defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 118-106 as 4-point underdog last night. Charlotte returns home after a two game losing trip and have dropped 4-of-5. Orlando has won the last three meetings all this season and eight of nine encounters overall. Take CHARLOTTE!

Boston at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Celtics - It is always a tough call when looking to played against the NBA Champion Boston Celtics although they are just 32-38 ATS on the season.  This is just the second meeting of the season between these two with the Kings pulling off an outright upset as a 11-point underdog 114-97 in Boston in early January. The Celtics had won the five previous meetings and enter this fray on a five-game win streak and winner of nine of 10, while the Kings have dropped 7-of-10. The Kings have fallen out of the secured playoff position and need this game in the worst way. Take SACRAMENTO!

Chicago at Denver 9:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Nuggets - Denver posted an outright win at Houston Sunday 116-111 as a 7-point underdog ending a 4-game road trip raising their record to 9-8 since the All-star break. Nikola Jokic who missed the entire road grip and will again be missing tonight. The Bulls have won five of their last seven road games and defeated the Nuggets 129-121 as a 9-point dogs at home two months ago. They are ready to do it again. Take CHICAGO!

LA Lakers at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Lakers - Talk of highs and lows of a NBA season, they were no more on display then with the Lakers last two outings. Los Angeles scored a season low 89 points on Thursday against Milwaukee and allowed a season high in points (146) scored on Saturday by Chicago. The latter was the final of a five game home stand. This is the second meeting between these two since November in LA where the Magic posted a 119-118 upset win as a 5-point underdog. Lebron James has returned to action and the Lakers have dropped six of their last nine. Take ORLANDO!  

Oklahoma City at LA Clippers 9:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Thunder - They are getting down to crunch time as the regular NBA season winds down and teams are jockeying for playoff position. Oklahoma City who last year had the best regular season record in the West is doing it again and have won 12 of the past 13 games while the Clippers have won eight of their last nine. The LA Clippers who played three months without Kawhi Leonard have been given a shot in the arm with his return. The Thunder is 3-0 versus the Clippers this season and 8-2 SU the last 10 meetings going 7-2-1 ATS. The Clippers are 38-31 ATS on the season and are now better equipped to deal with OKC. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Denver at Houston 7:00 ET

Rockets (-) over Nuggets - Houston is 2-hgames ahead of Denver in the standings and they have won five of the last six meetings including a win at Denver when the were favorites on the road in Denver. Now, the Rockets are the largest favorite in this series in years and that is a telling tale. The Nuggets are just 8-8 since the All-star break and has dropped three of four and have a one game lead over Memphis for the fourth seed in the West. The Nuggets will be without 30time MVP Nikola Jokic and that enough for me. Take HOUSTON!

San Antonio at Toronto 6:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Raptors - A pair of NBA bottom feeders meet in Toronto where the Raptors return from a four-game west coast trip dropping their last three. San Antonio has won their last two games and of course are without the big guy Victor Wembanayama for the first time since the New Year. The Spurs make it a three in-a-row for the first time since November when they had a full roster. Take SAN ANTONIOI!

Golen State at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Warriors - These two met back in November before Thanksgiving and Golden State as a 7.5-point home favorite won 120-97. Atlanta had won six of the previous nine meetings and have won five of their past seven games. The Warriors are now 16-3 since the Jimmy Butler trade but will be without their great shooting guard Stephen Curry who turned an ankle. The Hawks have won the last five meetings at home and get it done agin today. Take ATLANTA!

Milwaukee at Los Angeles 10:30 ET

Bucks (+) over Lakers - Milwaukee has been terribly inconsistent this season and the ATS record proves it out as they are 33-34-2 ATS on the year. These two clubs met a week ago in Milwaukee and the Bucks route LA 126-106 and the Lakers are looking for a turn-about but it might not happen. After dropping four straight the Lakers have won their last three games including a revenge win over Denver last time out. LA has been without LeBron James for the past six game and the line shows it. Take MILWAUKEE!

Toronto at Golden State 10:00 ET

Warriors (-) over Raptors - Golden State started the season by winning 14 of their first 16 games and then hit a three month lull which ended with the acquision of Jimmy Butler. Now, 40-29 the Warriors had sunk to a game under .500 before his arrival. Toronto on the other hand has been bad all season and are just 8-25 on the road although they are a beefy 41-27-1 ATS on the year. But, the Raptors were beaten by 40-points last time out on the road to Phoenix and are playing their fourth straight road game. This ‘price’ is huge as no other line has been greater than -8 in their last 10 meetings going back to 2020. Toronto has had over 30 different starting lineups and it doesn’t matter which one they start tonight. Take GOLDEN STATE

Cleveland at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Cavaliers - Cleveland still has the best record in the NBA although they lost for the second time after having won 16 games in-a-row and have now dropped their last two outings. Most believe that the Cavaliers will not lose their season high third game in a row but they have sorta of let their ‘mojo’ slide nearing the end the the long NBA regular season. This is the first meeting of the year and the Kings have won 3 of the previous 4 encounters. The points are worth taking here! Take SACRAMENTO!  

Memphis at Portland 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Grizzlies - This will be the third meeting of the season between these combatants  although the first two meetings were played in early November with the Grizzlies winning and covering both games. Portland may have 13 less wins than Memphis but the are head of them when it come to point spread results as the Blazers are ten games to the plus on the season. Ja Morent will miss his third straight game for the Griz and the Trailblazers will take advantage. Take PORTLAND!

Houston at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Rockets - The Magic are on a mission and this is to end opponents winning streaks. Orlando just knocked off Cleveland 108-103 on Sunday who was on their second 16 game winning streak of the season and look forward to taking down Houston tonight who is on their season long win streak of seven games. The Magic are 5-games under .500 and for the most play that is because of their play without Paolo Banchero who was injured for an extended period of time. He’s back and the No. 1 overall draft selection makes a difference. Take ORLANDO!

Cleveland at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Clippers (+) over Cavaliers - Believe it or not this is the first meeting of the season between these two with the next one coming in Cleveland. The Cavaliers just had their second 16 game winning streak this season come to an end last time out falling to Orlando at home. Most ‘players’ will think first that they will rebound in this match up but, the Clippers are starting to play ball and have won six of seven. This is the first of a five game west coast road trip and will be facing a former coach in Tyronn Lue. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Denver at Golden State 10;00 ET

Warriors(-) over Nuggets - My goodness have you seen what these two clubs do when playing each other. To my surprise (maybe you were aware of this) Denver has defeated the Warriors eight straight times including their lone clash this season with the Warriors getting the cash going 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings. After their East coast trip the Warriors have won four straight at home and this makes five…take GOLDEN STATE!

Memphis at Sacraamento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Grizzlies - This match up seems a bit off to me as Sacramento has dropped four straight games three of which were on the road  while Memphis has won five of their past six with their lone loss coming at the hands of the Cavaliers. Although they are racking up wins the Grizzlies are just 2-8 ATS in the last 10 games. Theses two have split a pair of home wins and covers against each other but the Kings have won five of the past six meetings. Take SACRAMENTO!

Miami at New York 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Knicks - Miami and New York are both off of losses but the difference is that the Heat have lost seven in a row while the Knicks only dropped their last time out to Golden State. The Heat are of course without Jimmy Butler and New York will be without their leading scorer in Jalen Brunson. The Knicks average 116.7 points per game with him in the line up but just 109 PPG without him I the lineup. Take MIAMI!

Toronto at Portland 6:00 ET

Blazers (-) over Raptors - Either Portland is back or Toronto is falling by the wayside. A couple of weeks back the Trailblazers were the hottest team in the NBA alone with Cleveland. But, Portland couldn’t keep up the pace and the Cavaliers have now won what 17-in-a-row. This price seem a bit strong to me and the Raptors seem too appealing. Portland has won seven of the past nine meetings and believe it or not this is the first time they are playing each other this season. Blazers are 16-16 at home while the Raptors are a dreadful 8-23 on the road. To press on about how strange this line is think of the fact that Toronto has won three straight and 6-of-7 going 6-1 ATS while the Blazers have lost their last five. So, what do ya think? This line as a good friend in the handicapping business says “It don’t make sense.”  Take PORTLAND!

New Orleans at San Antonio 8:30 ET

Pelicans (-) over Spurs - Does this make any sense at all where New Orleans who is 6-27 SU on the road is favored over a team with 11 less losses and is 16-16 SU at home. The Pelicans have won the last two meetings and covered 3-0 in their three meetings this season. part of the problem for San Antonio is that their two most productive players De’Aaron// Fox and Victor Wembanyama is out for the rest of the season. The Pelicans have dropped five of six while the Spurs have dropped four of five and still are alive in the ‘play-in’ race while the Pel’s have already been eliminated from any chance of postseason play. Take NEW ORLEANS!

New York at Golden State 8:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Warriors - Ten days ago these two met in Madison Square Garden where Stephen Curry at on one of his shooting displays that turned New York into her personal show. The Knicks who missed selection Curry out of Davidson by one draft spot they have been bemoaning that ever since. Golden State has won six straight games and are 13-2 since the Jimmy Butler trade while the Knicks are 2-2 on their west coast swing with this being their final stop. In the last meeting Karl-Anthony Towns was out and he has returned but it appears that Jalen Brunson who turned an ankle and is questionable. Still, it is NEW YORK!

Oklahoma City at Detroit 7:000 ET

Pistons (+) over Thunder - It has been over a year since these two met last January and Detroit managed a win in their worst season as a franchise and they have gone 8-2 ATS in the past 1- meets as well. OKC is off a huge win at Boston and have won eight of their last nine while the Pistons last time out fell to this year’s worst team in the league to the Wizards. The Thunder have a 12-game lead over Western Conference and surely be the No. 1 seed as they were last season.  Take DETROIT…& good luck!

Cleveland at Memphis 8:00 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Cavaliers - Cleveland is on their second 15-game win streak of the season after defeating the Celtics in Boston and have the NBA’s best record. Memphis after sleep walking through most of the season have now won four straight after a four-game slide. What I see in this match up is that the last time these two met in Memphis the Grizzlies were an 8.5 underdog and now with the Cavaliers on the 15 game win streak they come up a 2-point favorite. Something just doesn’t seem right. Take MEMPHIS!

Orlando at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Magic - Orlando has won the last six meetings including a win back in November and are 8-2 in the past 10 meetings. But, the Magic have dropped six of seven and have one win in the past 21 days. New Orleans hasn’t  on the road and the Pelicans are 12-21 at home. been any better of late dropping five of the last six but are off of  win over the LA Clippers. With the return of Zion Williamson the Pelicans actually become a force. This game should be near a pick-em as Orlando is 12-20 on the road and New Orleans is 12-20 at home. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Minnesota at Denver 10:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets - There are trends that happen in sports that are difficult to understand and Minnesota has defeated Denver four straight times including twice this season once in opening week and again late January. Both games were at home for the winners but they have surprised me with their grit and of course Anthony Edwards who is honestly as good as anybody (well he could be he’s so young). T’wolves have won their last five going 4-1 ATS and the Nuggets have won 3-of-4 but are 1-4 ATS in their last five and just 3-7 in past 10 although they have won 14 of 18. Still, take…MINNESOTA!

Phoenix at Houston 8:00 ET

Suns (+) over Rockets - Houston has won 40 games and have been a great money team all season and have won their last three on the heels of a three game win streak, with a pair of those wins over lowly New Orleans. Although Phoenix has covered their last four they have won just three of nine. This is the Suns four straight road game and the price is short…too short. Take PHOENIX!

Minnesota at Denver 10:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets - There are trends that happen in sports that are difficult to understand and Minnesota has defeated Denver four straight times including twice this season once in opening week and again late January. Both games were at home for the winners but they have surprised me with their grit and of course Anthony Edwards who is honestly as good as anybody (well he could be he’s so young). T’wolves have won their last five going 4-1 ATS and the Nuggets have won 3-of-4 but are 1-4 ATS in their last five and just 3-7 in past 10 although they have won 14 of 18. Still, take…MINNESOTA!

Orlando at Houston 8:00 ET

Magic (+) over Rockets - Theses two last met a year ago in April with Houston posting a 118-106 win at home as a 3-point underdog after having lost three of the four previous meetings. The Rockets have won six of eight home games. Orlando posted a 111-109 win over Milwaukee on Saturday ending a five game losing streak. In a season that the Magic have had all of their four top scorers missed at least 20 games but, they still are in playoff contention. Take ORLANDO!

Phoenix at Dallas 3:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Suns - Dallas who played in the NBA Finals last year finds themselves a demoralized club as their top talent has been either traded or injured and they have dropped their lat five games and seven of their past eight. Phoenix is probably the single most disappointing team in the NBA this season and have won just tree of their last 10 games. The Suns posted a pair of early season wins over the Mavericks winning the last meeting in December. The Mav’s even the series. Take DALLAS!

Indiana at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Pacers - This is the second of back-to-back meetings between these two with Atlanta ending a five game series losing streak with a 124-118 victory on Thursday. The Hawks are still alive for the play-in tournament as the eighth seed and they have finish in the play-in the past three seasons. Indiana currently would be without a home court advantage if the don’t improve from the fifth playoff spot to at least the four spot needing to pass Milwaukee. Take ATLANTA!

Phoenix at Denver 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Nuggets - The collapse of the Phoenix Suns this season is a total surprise to almost all of ’us’ as most were thinking that the combination of Durant, Beal and Booker would produce more winners. Denver is battling for the second seed for the NBA Playoffs while the Suns are fighting for their playoff lives as they still are on the outside looking in with 20 games left in the regular season. Nuggets who have won two of three meetings this season including a win at Phoenix on Feb. 8 and the Suns even it season series here. Take PHOENIX!

Portland at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Blazers (+) over Thunder - Oklahoma City has dominated the series between these two winning the last 15 meetings including three wins this season. The Thunder have won five straight, seven of eight and 14 of 16 and are 24-7 as hosts including 19-9-2 ATS at home. On the year they are 51-11 and are exactly one full game behind Cleveland for the NBA’s best record. Portland who has been a major surprise by turning their season around and had won five of six on the road before falling to Boston last time out. Considering who is rated what this line in way too low and it appears to me the ‘Books’ want to suck you in with OKC but with this line the odds makers are telling us that these two would be a Pick-em on a neutral site. It ‘don’t make sense.’ Take PORTLAND!

Utah at Toronto 7:30 ET

Jazz (+) over Raptors - Utah has just 15 wins on the season and are just 7-23 on the road but for some reason have had their way head-to-head against Toronto. The Jazz who have lost 10 straight on the road have won the past four meetings and seven of the last eight including two wins and covers this season. The Raptors had dropped five of six before winning a pair at Orlando and just hate facing the Jazz. The beat goes on…take UTAH!