At 8:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (513) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (514) in Game Seven of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Indiana (64-39) forced a climactic Game Seven to determine the NBA champion with a 108-91 upset victory as a 5.5-point underdog on Thursday. Oklahoma City (82-22) had won the last two games in this series before dropping Game Six.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: It is not as if the Pacers shot the lights out in Game Five. They missed their first eight shots in the game — and their final 41.3% field goal percentage was the worst shooting mark in their last seven contests. Head coach Rick Carlisle’s defensive game plan was sound — and the Thunder did not look up to the task to close the series out. Indiana has played 11 of their last 18 road games Under the Total after a straight-up win at home — and they have played 11 of their last 18 road games Under the Total after an upset victory. Tyrese Haliburton deserves credit for gutting out in Game Six — but he was not his usual self as he scored 14 points on 5 of 12 shooting and only got to the free throw line once in his 22:52 minutes. His injury has been described as one that would require seven to days of rest if it was in the regular season. I think it is fair to assume Haliburton will not be close to 100% for Game Seven. The Pacers have an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 109.7 on the road in this series —  even with Haliburton at full strength in two of those games — far below their Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 115.4 during the regular season. What Carlisle will emphasize to his team to once again limit turnovers — they only turned the ball over 10 times which led to just 13 points for the Thunder. If Oklahoma City is not scoring points on the fast break nor making their 3-pointers, they become a mediocre half-court scoring team. They entered the fourth quarter with three made shots from behind the arc in 20 shot attempts before improving to a 27% clip for the game from distance with an 8 of 30 mark (after nailing 5 of their final 10 shots from behind the arc in garbage time). The Thunder only scored nine points for a 13:54 minute stretch in the middle of the game — and that explains Indiana taking a 30-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. Indiana is doing a great job of taking away their 3-point opportunities. OKC only took 16 shots from behind the arc in Game Four — and they made just three of those shots. While I was not expecting another 18.8% effort from 3-point land in Game Six, I certainly did not expect Oklahoma City to nail 14 of their 32 shots from behind the arc for a 43.8% clip. Those were the most made 3s for the Thunder in the entire series. They also enjoyed an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 121.4 which was their highest in the series. But in Game Six, Oklahoma City made only 41.9% of their shots which was their worst shooting effort in their last five games. Even worse, their Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 90.1 was their worst performance of the season — and their turnover rate of 20.8% of their possessions was the worst of the entire season. The Thunder turned the ball over 21 times which resulted in 19 points for the Pacers — and that is not likely to happen again which will impact Indiana’s scoring opportunities. And while I don’t the Thunder are destined for another season-low offensive effort, I do think the Pacers have done a few things to neutralize their scoring attack. Oklahoma City’s analytics-driven scoring attack that ranked third in the league in the regular season by scoring 119.2 points per 100 adjusted possessions has not been the same in the postseason where they are scoring 114.4 points per 100 adjusted possessions, which would fall to 11th in the NBA if applied to the regular season. Much of this decline comes from their drop in 3-point shooting. After leading the NBA in the regular season by nailing 37.4% of their shots from behind the arc, they rank 13th of the 16 playoff teams with a 34.8% mark from 3-point range. What is also striking is Oklahoma City’s decreased reliance on shooting 3s. After averaging 38.8 shots per game from behind the arc in the regular season, they are taking 34.8 shots per game from 3-point range in the postseason. In this series, they are only taking 27.7 shots per game from distance and trending strongly in the south direction in that category. Credit goes to the Indiana defense which is doing a great job in swarming defenders to push the Thunder away from the 3-point line. After ranking ninth in the NBA in opponent 3-point shot attempts per game, the Pacers rank sixth in the postseason by surrendering only 33.5 shots from behind the arc per game — and they rank fifth in the playoffs with their opponents making only 34.1% of these shots.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma City has a 222-204 Over mark in the 426 games with Mark Daigneault as their head coach including a 55-48 Over clip this season — but those trends flip in the postseason as they have 19 of their 33 playoff games Under the Total with Daigneault including four of their six postseason games when the series was tied. In Carlsile’s 12 games in the NBA Finals he has coached in his career going back to his championship with the Dallas Mavericks, 8 of those games finished Under the Total. 10* NBA Indiana-Oklahoma City ABC-TV O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (513) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (514). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (511) and the Indiana Pacers (512) in Game Six of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (82-21) took a 3-2 series lead with a 120-109 victory against the Pacers as a 9-point favorite on Monday. Indiana (63-39) has lost three of the last four games in this series.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Game Sixes in the NBA Finals have finished Over the Total in 7 of the last 10 occasions since 2005 — but the Over then drops to 7-5 since 2003. On the other hand, the Under is on a 27-13-1 run in the NBA Finals including an 11-2 streak despite Game Five finishing Over the Total. We were on the wrong end of that one. I was persuaded to expect a lower-scoring game in large part because of the negative trends with the Thunder regarding their 3-point shooting. They only too 16 shots from behind the arc in Game Five — and they made just three of those shots. While I was not expecting another 18.8% effort from 3-point land in Game Six, I certainly did not expect Oklahoma City to nail 14 of their 32 shots from behind the arc for a 43.8% clip. Those were the most made 3s for the Thunder in the entire series. They also enjoyed an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 121.4 which was their highest in the series. I expect some regression in that category especially on the road where they have only made 13 of their 38 shots from behind the arc in this series for a 34.2% mark. It remains the case for Oklahoma City that their analytics-driven scoring attack that ranked third in the league in the regular season by scoring 119.2 points per 100 adjusted possessions has not been the same in the postseason where they are scoring 115.6 points per 100 adjusted possessions, which would fall to tenth in the NBA if applied to the regular season. Much of this decline comes from their drop in 3-point shooting. After leading the NBA in the regular season by nailing 37.4% of their shots from behind the arc, they rank 13th of the 16 playoff teams with a 34.4% mark from 3-point range. What is also striking is Oklahoma City’s decreased reliance on shooting 3s. After averaging 38.8 shots per game from behind the arc in the regular season, they are taking 35.0 shots per game from 3-point range in the postseason. In this series, they are only taking 28.5 shots per game from distance and trending strongly in the south direction in that category. Credit goes to the Indiana defense which is doing a great job in swarming defenders to push the Thunder away from the 3-point line. After ranking ninth in the NBA in opponent 3-point shot attempts per game, the Pacers rank sixth in the postseason by surrendering only 33.7 shots from behind the arc per game — and they rank sixth in the playoffs with their opponents making only 34.4% of these shots. OKC only generated 109.5 adjusted points per 100 possessions in Games Three and Four on the road in Indiana in this series. They have also played 9 of their 14 playoff games on the road Under the Total — and they have played 9 of their last 15 road games Under the Total against teams winning 60-70% of their games. For Indiana, the right calf injury to Tyrese Haliburton is potentially devastating. In the regular season, they scored -9.7 fewer adjusted points per 100 possession when Haliburton was off the court. In the playoffs, they are scoring -14.0 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions when he is off the court. On defense, the Pacers surrendered -4.7 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions in the regular season. In the playoffs, that flips slightly with them giving up +0.7 more adjusted points per 100 possessions when he is off the court. If Haliburton plays but is limited, his loss of effectiveness will probably hurt his offensive performance more than his ability to still play solid defense. He is their leading scorer — and don’t underestimate his 9.2 Assists-Per-Game average. Indiana has played 11 of their last 17 home games Under the Total against teams from the Western Conference.

FINAL TAKE: I am not smart enough to guess as to how head coach Rick Carlisle will respond to the challenge of playing this game with best player far from 100%. I suspect his game management will strive to somehow keep this game competitive so they can perhaps steal the game late in front of their home crowd — and emphasizing defense seems integral to that strategy. In the 11 games he has coached in his NBA career going back to his championship with the Dallas Mavericks, 7 of those games finished Under the Total. 8* NBA Oklahoma City-Indiana ABC-TV O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (511) and the Indiana Pacers (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (509) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (510) in Game Five of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Indiana (63-38) has lost two of their last three games after their 111-104 loss at home to the Thunder as a 6-point underdog on Friday. Oklahoma City (81-21) evened this series at 2-2 with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: This has been a lower-scoring series than expected — and I think the books and/or the market continue to be too slow to react. Granted, Game One of this series saw the Total in the 231-point range — but that was largely based on regular season numbers that do not seem nearly as applicable now in June, especially in a Game Five of a championship series that is tied at two games apiece. Three of the four games in this series have finished Under the Total with the only Over resulting from 230 combined points. The other three games of this series have seen 221, 223, and 215 combined points scored — all below the number set for Game Five. For Oklahoma City, the analytics-driven scoring attack that ranked third in the league in the regular season by scoring 119.2 points per 100 adjusted possessions has not been the same in the postseason where they are scoring 115.3 points per 100 adjusted possessions, which would fall to tenth in the NBA if applied to the regular season. Much of this decline comes from their drop in 3-point shooting. After leading the NBA in the regular season by nailing 37.4% of their shots from behind the arc, they rank 13th of the 16 playoff teams with a 34.0% mark from 3-point range. No one embodies this step back in production more for the Thunder than Chet Holmgren who may be playing through an injury at this point of the season. After shooting 49.0% from the field with a 37.9% clip from behind the arc in the regular season, he is only making 30.1% of his 3s in the postseason. In this series, Holmgren is hitting only 40.9% of his shots and has made only 1 of his 11 attempts from distance. What is also striking is Oklahoma City’s decreased reliance on shooting 3s. After averaging 38.8 shots per game from behind the arc in the regular season, they are taking 35.2 shots per game from 3-point range in the postseason. In this series, they are only taking 26.6 shots per game from distance and trending strongly in the south direction in that category. After taking 30 and 36 shots from behind the arc in Games One and Two, they only took 22 shots from 3-point land in Game Three before bottoming out with a 3 of 16 performance on Friday. Credit goes to the Indiana defense which is doing a great job in swarming defenders to push the Thunder away from the 3-point line. After ranking ninth in the NBA in opponent 3-point shot attempts per game, the Pacers rank sixth in the postseason by surrendering only 33.8 shots from behind the arc per game — and they rank fifth in the playoffs with their opponents making only 33.9% of these shots. Oklahoma City pulled out Game Four by outscoring Indiana by +14 points in the paint. They also got to the line 38 times and converted on 34 of those shots — led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who made all ten of his free throw attempts. The Thunder got some friendly whistles in Game Four — and that is not likely to play out the same in Game Five. It is telling that OKC has generated only 109.5 adjusted points per 100 possessions in the last two games of this series. What should continue is the Thunder’s outstanding play on the other end of the court. After leading the league with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 106.6, they have been even better in the postseason with a 105.7 mark. They have held their playoff opponents to 43.5% shooting which has resulted in just 107.0 Points-Per-Game. Head coach Mark Daigneault’s fourth quarter adjustment on Friday was to shift Lu Dortz on to the primary Indiana ball-handler — and that helped to limit the Pacers to just 17 points in the final 12 minutes. Oklahoma City has played 23 of their last 37 home games Under the Total after a win on the road. They have played 18 of their 31 playoff games Under the Total since Daigneault took over — and they have played 4 of those 5 playoff games Under the Total when the series was tied. Indiana has played 4 of their last 6 road games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. Another reason that the Thunder’s scoring is down is because the Pacers are not giving them as many fast break scoring opportunities in transition off of turnovers where OKC thrives. After turning the ball over 24 times in Game One, Indiana has just 15, 13, and 15 turnovers in the last three games. Head coach Rick Carlisle has done a fantastic job in forcing the Thunder into being a half-court offense that is not shooting 3s. Maybe Oklahoma City can still win the championship with that approach and win two more games like they won Game Four — but that is not the formula for games to see 220 or more combined points. Granted, Carlisle will want his team to continue to push the pace to wear out what is becoming a shorter Thunder rotation. But Indiana only scored 109 PPG in the first two games of this series at Oklahoma City which is more than six points below their 115.1 PPG scoring average in the postseason. Role players tend to not shoot as well in hostile environments — especially in the playoffs — so getting another 27-point effort from Benjamin Mathurin as he did in Game Three at home or even Obi Toppin’s 17 points in Game Four at home is probably not in the cards to help out Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam.

FINAL TAKE: In Carlisle’s head coaching career, his teams have played 16 of their 24 Game Fives of a playoff series Under the Total — including all three games with Indiana when playing on the road. Carlisle’s teams have also played 19 of their 32 playoff games Under the Total when the series was tied — and his teams have played 7 of their 10 games Under the Total in the NBA Finals. 25* NBA Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (509) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (510). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (555) and the Indiana Pacers (556) in Game Six of the Eastern Conference finals. THE SITUATION: New York (61-38) has won two of the last three games in this series after their 111-94 victory at home as a 4.5-point favorite on Thursday. Indiana (60-36) still leads this series by a 3-2 margin.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Knicks’ head coach Tom Thibodeau initially thought it would be a good idea to embrace the Pacers' fast pace and run up-and-down the court with them in this series. They lost Game One in overtime by a 138-135 score. But after dropping the first two games at home in this series, Thibodeau has finally come around to the notion that he needs the Knicks cannot simply try to outscore Indiana to win this series but that his team will have to do some things on defense. He expanded his rotation by getting Delon Wright and Landry Shamet into the mix — they both have played at least 20 combined minutes in the last three contests after neither played in Game Two and Wright was on the court for just 26 seconds in Game One. Wright and Shamet are both solid contributors on the defensive end of the floor who do not offer much offensively. But Thibodeau needs them out there to not exhaust his top-seven man rotation — and he is desperate for defensive help with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns on the court together since they were getting torched with Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 150.0 when playing together in the first two games of this series. Thibodeau also inserted Mitchell Robinson in the starting lineup for Josh Hart in Game Three to switch the rotations up to get more defense on the court when Brunson and Towns are playing together. The defensive adjustments continued in Game Five with the Knicks (finally) picking up on Tyrese Haliburton closer to half court to offer more harassment against him and coax him to pass the rock. Haliburton only took seven shots on Thursday with just two of them coming from behind the arc. New York is also more aggressively defending Haliburton after made shots on the offensive end of the court to stop Indiana from responding quickly by pushing the ball up the court. The Knicks held the Pacers to 40.5% shooting and just a 33.3% mark from behind the arc as they continue to find schematic answers for what Indiana wants to do with the ball in their hands. And Thibodeau seems to appreciate that a slower pace better serves his team’s interests. New York has held Indiana to 100 and 94 points in two of the last three games in this series — and two of the last three games have seen just 205 and 206 combined points scored. The Under is 3-1 in the last 4 games in this series. Thibodeau’s teams have played 8 of their 13 playoff games Under the Total when trailing in the series including three of the four games as head coach of the Knicks. New York made 49.4% of their shots on Thursday which was their best shooting effort since Game One of this series. But don’t underestimate this Pacers defense that ranked ninth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency since January 1st through the end of the regular season. Haliburton should play better after his off-night. But Aaron Nesmith playing through an ankle injury may continue to be limited offensively after missing seven of his eighth shots from the field in Game Five. Indiana has played 4 of their last 6 games at home Under the Total when playing a team winning 60-70% of their games.

FINAL TAKE: In the last 57 games in the NBA Conference Finals with the Total set at 216.5 or higher, 34 of these games finished Under the Total. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (555) and the Indiana Pacers (556). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (549) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (550) in Game Five of the Western Conference finals. THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (78-19) has won four of their last five games after their 128-126 victory on the road against the Timberwolves as a 3-point favorite on Monday. Minnesota (58-38) trails in this series by a 3-1 margin.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Thunder nailed 50.5% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last nine contests. They also made 16 of their 37 (43%) shots from behind the arc. Oklahoma City has played 16 of their last 24 games Under the Total after a win by six points or less including seven of those 10 games this season. They have also played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a win against a fellow Northwest Division rival including five of those six games played at home. Minnesota played their worst defensive game in their last 16 contests by allowing the Thunder to make 50.5% of their shots. These two teams have played the last three games in this series Over the Total — but the Timberwolves have played 14 of their last 17 games Over the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row including seven of those nine games this season. They have also played 8 of their last 10 road games Over the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row including four of those five games this season. Minnesota shot 57.3% and 51.2% in their two games at home in this series — and they nailed 18 of their 41 shots (44%) from behind the arc in Game Four. But on the road in Game One and Two of this series, the Timberwolves only made 34.9% and 41.4% of their shots from the field. The Thunder should certainly play better on defense back at home where they are holding their opponents to 43.4% shooting including a 34.2% clip from behind the arc which has resulted in just 106.3 Points-Per-Game. The Timberwolves have played 5 of their 7 road games in the postseason Under the Total. They have also played 9 of their last 14 road games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. And in their last 4 playoff games when facing elimination, they have played 3 of these games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 16 of their last 25 games Under the Total when playing with revenge including nine of those 14 games this season. After three straight Overs in this series and a Game Four when both teams shot 50% or better from the field and 40% or better from behind the arc, expect a lower-scoring game. 25* NBA  Conference Finals Total of the Year with  Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (549) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (550). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (539) and the New York Knicks (540) in Game Two of the Eastern Conference finals. THE SITUATION: Indiana (58-34) has won three games in a row and seven of their last eight contests after their 138-135 overtime upset victory as a 4.5-point underdog on Wednesday. New York (59-36) has lost two of their last three games.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Indiana wants to push the pace — not only is that who they are but an edge they have in this series is their bench depth against a Knicks team that usually has only a seven-man rotation. New York obliged as the score was flying Over the 225 or so total for Game One even before the wild finish and then overtime. The game went into overtime after a 125-125 score after regulation. The Knicks looked gassed in the waning moments of the fourth quarter — they blew a 14-point lead with just two minutes left. The Pacers ranked seventh in the regular season in pace of play. They scored 125 points in regulation despite Tyrese Haliburton missing three of his five open shots from behind the arc (when the closest defender was four to six feet away from him) and four of his six wide-open shots from behind the arc (when the closest defender was six feet or farther away from him). He only converted on 4 of his 12 shots from downtown despite 11 of those 12 shots being deemed open or wide-open. Indiana has played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total after scoring 136 or more points in their last game. They stay on the road where they have played 16 of their last 23 games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 13 of their last 20 road games Over the Total with the Total set in the 220s. They have also played 7 straight road games Over the Total against teams winning 60-70% of their games. Additionally, Indiana has played 7 of their 10 games in the playoffs this year Over the Total — and they have played 5 of their last 7 playoff games Over the Total when leading in the series. They have also played 5 straight Game Twos Over the Total under head coach Rick Carlisle. It’s a head-scratcher why New York head coach Tom Thibodeau thought it was a good idea to try to beat the Pacers at their own game by engaging at the blistering pace in Game One. You would think he would want to slow things down now — but handicapping how a head coach will react can be a Fool’s errand. He does want his team to attack in transition. And slowing down this Pacers team is easier said than done. The Knicks are still going to get to the free throw line after making 28 of their 40 shots from the charity stripe on Wednesday. Jalen Brunson got to the line 14 times himself — and his ability to draw fouls and score points when the clock is not ticking will continue. So too will continue Karl-Anthony Towns taking advantage of Myles Turner. Towns scored 35 points on 11 of 17 shooting with 10 of those points coming against Turner on 5 of 6 shooting. Turner has a long history of failing to slow down KAT. New York has played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total after scoring 136 or more points. They have played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a loss by six points or less — and they have played 10 of their last 16 games Over the Total after a loss at home. They have played 8 of their last 13 games at home in the playoffs Over the Total — and they have played 17 of their last 25 home games Over the Total after playing their last game at home.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total against each other. 10* NBA Indiana-New York TNT O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (539) and the New York Knicks (540). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (527) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (528) in Game One of their Western Conference finals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (57-35) has won four games in a row after their 121-110 victory against Golden State as a 9.5-point favorite to close out that series in five games last Wednesday. Oklahoma City (75-18) has won three of their last four games after their 125-93 win against Denver in the seventh game of that series as an 8.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Since December 7th, the Timberwolves have been one of the best offensive teams in the league by generating 117.9 points per 100 possessions. They come into this game with fresh legs after nailing 62.8% of their shots to overwhelm the Warriors to end that series. Now they travel to Oklahoma City where they have played 10 of their last 14 games Over the Total. They have also played 5 of their last 7 road games Over the Total as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. Additionally, Minnesota has played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total against teams who are winning 70% or more of their games including four of those five games played on the road. And while the Thunder are outscoring their opponents by +12.7 Points-Per-Game, the Timberwolves have played 19 of their last 28 games Over the Total against teams who are outscoring their opponents by +3.0 or more PPG. Minnesota will not be intimidated by the moment after facing Dallas in the Western Conference finals last season — and 4 of those 5 games finished Over the Total. Oklahoma City has played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total at home after winning at home by 20 or more points in their last contest. They have also played 15 of their last 24 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 100 points in their last contest. Additionally, the Thunder have played 9 of their last 12 home games Over the Total when playing for no more than the sixth time in the last 14 days (their series with Denver began on May 5th). They have also played 16 off their 21 home games Over the Total when playing for the second time in five days (and there were two days between Game Six and Game Seven against the Nuggets). The Thunder are a great defensive team — but they play at a fast pace fueled by their desire to get out in transition where they are scoring 27.2 Points-Per-Game in this postseason. They are also leading all teams in the playoffs by forcing turnovers in 17.6% of their opponent’s possessions — and the T-Wolves are vulnerable in this department as they rank 13th of all 16 playoff teams by turning the ball over in 15.8% of their possessions. Oklahoma City ranks third in the playoffs by scoring 117.0 points per 100 possessions. The Thunder have played 18 of their last 24 home games Over the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. They have also played 9 of their last 13 home games Over the Total when facing a team that is winning 60-70% of their games.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams split their two regular season games with Minnesota upsetting Oklahoma City in their building the last time they played on February 24th by a 131-128 score as an 11.5-point underdog. The Thunder have played 11 of their last 15 home games Over the Total when playing with revenge. 10* NBA Minnesota-Oklahoma City ESPN O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (527) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (509) and the New York Knicks (510) in Game Six of their Eastern Conference semifinal series. THE SITUATION: Boston (67-25) has won two of their last three games after their 127-102 victory at home as a 5-point favorite on Wednesday. New York (58-35) can still close out this series tonight with their 3-2 series lead.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Without Jayson Tatum who is out a year after suffering an Achilles injury in Game Four, the Celtics made 52.4% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last five games. They also converted on 22 of their 49 shots (45%) shots from behind the arc. But Boston has then played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a win against a fellow Atlantic Division rival at home. They have also played 8 of their last 10 games on the road Under the Total after a victory against a division opponent. Now they go back on the road where they have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 11 of their last 17 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. Furthermore, the Celtics have played 8 of their last 12 road games Under the Total in the postseason. They are scoring 108.2 Points-Per-Game in these playoffs which is -7.2 fewer PPG below their season average. Boston has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total with the Total set from 200 to 209.5. They have also played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total when trailing in the series. New York played their worst defensive game in their last 13 contests by allowing the Celtics to make 52.4% of their shots. The Knicks have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total after a loss on the road. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a loss on the road by 20 or more points. They return home where they have played 9 of their last 14 home games Under the Total against teams who are winning 70% or more of their games.

FINAL TAKE: New York has played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total when avenging a loss of 20 or more points including five of those eight games played on the road. 10* NBA Boston-New York ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (509) and the New York Knicks (510). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (507) and the Denver Nuggets (508) in Game Six of their Western Conference semifinal series. THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (74-17) has won three of their last four games after their 112-105 win at home against the Nuggets as a 10-point favorite on Tuesday. Denver (56-37) looks to stave off elimination trailing 3-2 in this best-of-seven series.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Thunder lead the NBA in the regular season with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 106.6 — and they have been even better in the postseason with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 101.1. They are holding their playoff opponents to 40.8% shooting which has resulted in just 103.6 Points-Per-Game. But Oklahoma City is scoring -4.0 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions in the postseason — and that still accounts for two outlier performances when they scored 131 points in their opening game against Memphis last round and Game Two in this series against Denver when they scored 149 points. Like with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics, these 3-point-reliant teams are seeing their efficiency from behind the arc decline in the postseason. While the Thunder made 36.7% of their 3-pointers in the regular season, they are only making 31.8% of their shots from behind the arc in the playoffs. Oklahoma City has played 16 of their last 23 games Under the Total after a win by six points or less including nine of those 12 games played on the road. They have also played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total on the road after a win against a fellow Northwest Division opponent. Furthermore, the Thunder have played 8 of their last 13 road games Under the Total when favored by six points or less. And in their last 10 road games against teams winning 60-70% of their games, they have played 7 of these games Under the Total. The Nuggets played their worst defensive game in the last three games in this series by allowing Oklahoma City to make 50% of their shots. After shooting 50% from the field in the regular season, Denver is making only 45.2% of their shots in the playoffs which is resulting in 107.4 PPG which is -11.8 PPG below their average in the regular season. But they are also surrendering -5.1 PPG in the postseason while playing at a slower pace. The Nuggets have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total after a straight-up loss to a divisional rival. They have also played 7 of their last 11 home games Under the Total against teams winning 70% or more of their games. Additionally, Denver has played 10 of their last 13 home games Under the Total in the postseason — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games in the second round of the playoffs.

FINAL TAKE: The Thunder have played 12 of their last 18 playoff games Under the Total including seven of those nine games played on the road. They have also played 4 of their last 5 road games Under the Total in the second round of the playoffs. 25* NBA Northwest Division Total of the Year is with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (507) and the Denver Nuggets (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:05 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (577) and the Golden State Warriors (578) in Game Four of their Western Conference semifinal series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (55-35) has won five of their last six games after their 102-97 victory as a 5.5-point favorite on Saturday. Golden State (54-39) has lost the last two games of this series to fall behind by a 2-1 margin.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Minnesota continues to play outstanding defense in the postseason as they held the Warriors to just 43.2% shooting on Saturday. They are holding their opponents to the playoffs to just 43.3% shooting which is resulting in 98.9 Points-Per-Game. After ranking sixth in the NBA in the regular season in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, they are third in that metric in the postseason while surrendering -4.2 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions. But the Timberwolves are making only 44.3% of their shots in the playoffs which is resulting in only 105.5 PPG. Minnesota has played all 4 of their games in the postseason Under the Total. They have also played 8 of their last 11 road games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 of their last 9 road games Under the Total after a win by six points or less. Additionally, the T-Wolves have played 10 of their last 13 road games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days (Minnesota closed out their first-round series with the Lakers on April 30th). Golden State only managed 97 points despite getting 33 points from Jimmy Butler and a surprising 30 points from Jonathan Kuminga. Frankly, they were not a dynamic scoring team even with Stephen Curry leading the way. In their two games since his hamstring injury in Game One, the Warriors have posted an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency number of 100.0. For comparison's sake, Washington was last in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and that number was 105.8. With Butler on the court in this series, they are registering an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 104.7 — below the Wizards in the regular season. The loss of Curry is devastating — the Warriors had an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 105.0 in the regular season when he was off the court which was -13.4 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions than when he was on the court. But on the other hand, Golden State had an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 105.1 in the regular season when Curry was off the court which was -7.2 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions than when he was on the court. In their last five games in the playoffs, the Warriors are holding their opponents to 43.9% shooting which is resulting in 102.2 PPG. But they are only making 43.0% of their shots in their last five games which has resulted in just 99.8 PPG. Golden State has played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss at home — and they have played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total after losing two or more games in a row. They have also played 12 of their last 19 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in their last game including seven of those 11 games played at home. Furthermore, the Warriors have played 5 of their last 6 home games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: In the 19 playoff games under head coach Steve Kerr when Golden State was trailing in the series, they have played 13 of those games Under the Total. 25* NBA 2nd Round Playoff Total of the Year is with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (577) and the Golden State Warriors (578). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (569) and the Golden State Warriors (570) in Game Three of their Western Conference semifinal series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (54-35) has won four of their last five games after their 117-93 victory at home against the Warriors in Game Two of this series on Thursday. Golden State (54-38) had won two games in a row before that loss.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves shot 50.6% from the field on Thursday which was their best shooting effort in their last six contests. But their half-court offense can bog down — they are only making 44.4% of their shots in the postseason which is resulting in just 106.0 Points-Per-Game. Minnesota has played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a win by 20 or more points including four of those five games played on the road. Golden State’s offense was ineffective without Stephen Curry in Game Two as they only made 44.7% of their shots. Jimmy Butler does not look 100% due to the pelvic injury he suffered last round — he only scored 18 points. But the Warriors should play better defense back at home as the 50.6% shooting clip for the T-Wolves was their worst defensive effort in their last four contests. Golden State has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a loss by 20 or more points. They have also played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points. Additionally, they have played 8 of their last 13 games at home Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Warriors have played 6 of their last 9 games at home Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. 10* NBA Minnesota-Golden State ABC-TV O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (569) and the Golden State Warriors (570). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:05 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (553) and the Boston Celtics (554) in Game One of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (55-33) advanced to the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs by defeating the Pistons on the road in Detroit by a 116-113 score as a 1.5-point underdog last Thursday. Boston (65-22) has won six of their last seven games after taking care of Orlando in five games with their 120-89 victory against Orlando as an 11-point favorite last Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Knicks have 13 of their last 21 games Over the Total after pulling off an upset victory including eight of those 12 games played on the road. They have also played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total when playing with three or more days of rest — and they have played 13 of their last 22 games Over the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. New York’s strength is their scoring attack — but they only rank 15th in the league with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 113.7. That may spell trouble against this Celtics offense that ranks second in the NBA with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 119.4 this season. Under head coach Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks have played 4 of their 6 opening games of a new playoff series Over the Total. Boston has played 11 of their 18 games under head coach Joe Mazzula Over the Total when playing with three or more days of rest. They closed out their series with the Magic by holding them to 37.5% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last 33 games. They also enjoyed their best shooting performance of the season by nailing 56.6% of their shots. I do not expect regression on the offensive end of the court after dealing with the outstanding Orlando defense that ranked second in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. The Celtics return home where they have played 18 of their 27 games Over the Total with the total set in the 210s with Mazzula as their head coach — and they have played five of their last seven home games Over the Total with the Total set from 210 to 219.5. And while the Knicks are outscoring their opponents by +4.0 Points-Per-Game, Boston has played 7 of their last 9 home games Over the Total against teams who are outscoring their opens by +3.0 or more PPG.

FINAL TAKE: The Over was 3-1 in the four meetings between these two teams this season after the Celtics’ 119-117 upset win at New York as a 1-point underdog on April 8th. All four games saw at least 223 combined points scored — and that was the lone Under with that Total set at 232. The Knicks have played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total when avenging a loss at home — and they have played 10 of their last 15 games on the road Over the Total when avenging an upset loss at home. 10* NBA Monday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (553) and the Boston Celtics (554). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:05 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (529) and the Golden State Warriors (530) in Game Six of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Houston (54-33) extended this series to a sixth game with their 131-116 victory at home against the Warriors as a 4-point favorite on Wednesday. Golden State (52-36) had won two games in a row but still can close things out given their 3-2 lead in the series.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: After shooting only 44.3%  and scoring 101.8 Points-Per-Game in the first four games of this series, the Rockets’ offense exploded with a 55.1% shooting clip on Wednesday in what was the best shooting effort in their last 12 games. They have only enjoyed a better shooting percentage five times this season — and they have scored more than 131 points just seven times this season. They nailed 13 of their 30 shots from behind the arc — and that 43% shooting slip from 3-point range was well above their 35.4% clip with 3-pointers this season. I am expecting a visit from the Regression Gods. As it is, Houston has played 14 of their last 23 games Under the Total after scoring 111 or more points in their last game. They have also played 10 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. The Rockets go back on the road, where they have played 12 of their last 20 games under the total against teams that have won 51-60% of their games. Head coach Ime Udoka has seen his teams play 17 of their 29 games in the postseason finish Under the Total including four of their five games when facing elimination in the series. The 131 points that Golden State surrendered is tied for the fourth most points they have given up all season. They have only let five opponents shoot better than 55.1% from the field all season. Head coach Steve Kerr should tighten things up on defense tonight. After the All-Star break, his team ranked third in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency to close out the regular season. The Warriors have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss. They return home where they have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total. Additionally, Golden State has played 13 of their last 22 games Under the Total against teams winning 60-70% of their games. And while the Rockets outrebound their opponents by +6.0 Rebounds-Per-Game, the Warriors have played 12 of their last 18 games Under the Total against teams who are outrebounding their opponents by +3.0 or more RPG. Despite the Over on Wednesday, these two teams have played 11 of their last 17 meetings Under the Total including five of the last seven games played on Golden State’s home court.

FINAL TAKE: The Warriors have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after allowing 126 or more points in their last game. They have also played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total after playing a game where they allowed their opponent to make 52.4% or more of their shots from the field. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Houston Rockets (529) and the Golden State Warriors (530). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:35 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (579) and the Miami Heat (580) in Game Four of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals Series. THE SITUATION: Cleveland (67-18) took a commanding 3-0 lead in this series with their 124-87 win against the Heat as a 5-point road favorite on Saturday. Miami (39-48) has lost three games in a row as they look to stave off elimination tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers nailed 53.5% of their shots on Saturday which was the best shooting effort in their last 13 contests. Cleveland now attempts to close out this series on the road where they have played 10 of their last 14 games Under the Total in April including four straight games this month. They have also played 10 of their last 15 road games Under the Total against teams who are winning 40-49% of their games. Additionally, the Cavaliers have played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total in the opening round of the playoffs including five of those last six games on the road. And in their last 4 games on the road when leading in a playoff series, they have played 3 of those games Under the Total. Miami played their worst defensive game in their last 20 contests by allowing the Cavs to make 53.5% of their shots. The Heat should play better on defense tonight — but they just lack options when it comes to the other end of the court. Miami is scoring only 99.7 Points-Per-Game in this series. The Heat have played 7 of their last 8 games at home Under the Total when playing for the second time in five days — and they have played 9 of their last 12 games at home when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. They stay at home where they have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points — and they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total at home as an underdog in the 3.5 to 9.5. point range. Miami has also played 4 straight Unders at home in the playoffs.

FINAL TAKE: Miami has played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total when avenging a loss by 20 or more points. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (579) and the Miami Heat (580). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 p.m. ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (555) and the Milwaukee Bucks (556) in Game Three of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Indiana (52-32) has won nine of their last ten games after a 123-115 victory at home against the Bucks as a 4-point favorite on Tuesday. Milwaukee (49-36) had won eight games in a row before falling behind 0-2 in this series.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Pacers shot 50.6% from the field on Tuesday to take the second game of this series. Indiana has played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total when playing for the second time in five days. Now they go on the road where they have played 12 of their last 18 games Over the Total as an underdog. They have also played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total as an underdog from 3.5 to 9.5 points — and they have played 8 of their last 12 road games Over the Total as an underdog in that range. Additionally, the Pacers have played 13 of their last 17 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning record. Milwaukee got Damian Lillard back on the court after he was out for a lengthy period of time with an injury — but he only converted 4 of 13 shots from the field and just 2 of his 8 shots from behind the arc en route to 14 points. He should play better tonight now that he has knocked some of the rust off. The Bucks have played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total when playing with two days of rest. As it is, they are nailing 50.1% of their shots in their last five games which is resulting in 122.8 Points-Per-Game. But they are also letting their last five opponents make 48.0% of their shots which is resulting in 120.6 PPG. Milwaukee has played 13 of their last 18 games at home Over the Total — and they have played 22 of their last 32 home games Over the Total when favored. They have also played  21 of their last 21 games Over the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points including 14 of those 19 games played at home. They have played 10 of their last 13 home games Over the Total when favored by six points or less. And in their last 5 home games against teams winning 60-70% of their games, they have played 4 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Bucks have played 15 of their last 23 opportunities for revenge Over the Total. 25* NBA Central Division Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (555) and the Milwaukee Bucks (556). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (545) and the Memphis Grizzlies (546) in Game Three of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (70-15) took a 2-0 lead in this series with their 118-99 victory as a 14.5-point favorite on Tuesday. Memphis (49-37) has lost five of their last seven games.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Grizzlies managed to hold the Thunder to just 43.3% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last eight contests. Their play on defense remains inconsistent since Tuomas Iiasalo took over as the interim head coach in late March. In the 13 games he has been the head coach, Memphis has surrendered at least 117 points eight times — and they have given up 131 or more points in four of those contests. Perhaps more importantly to get back into this series, the Grizzlies have to shoot better than the 42.9% they shot on Tuesday. That was an improvement over their 34.4% field goal percentage in Game One of this series. Returning home should help where they are making 49.0% of their shots which is resulting in 123.4 Points-Per-Game. The Grizzlies have played 7 of their last 11 home games Over the Total after losing on the road in their last game. They have played 4 straight Overs on their home court since Iiasalo took over — and they have played 7 of their last 9 home games Over the Total with the Total set in the 220s. Additionally, Memphis has played 22 of their last 32 games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 12 of their last 18 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Oklahoma City has played 14 of their last 23 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 100 points in their last game. The Thunder have played three straight Unders — but they have played 25 of their last 36 games Over the Total after playing three or more Unders in a row under head coach Mark Daigneault including 10 Unders in those last 13 situations. Oklahoma City is making 48.0% of their shots this season which is resulting in 120.1 PPG — and they have nailed 48.7% of their shots in their last five games which has resulted in 126.8 PPG. The Thunder have played 14 of their last 23 road games Over the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Grizzlies have played 15 of their last 23 games Over the Total when avenging a loss. 25* NBA Thursday TNT Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (545) and the Memphis Grizzlies (546). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (523) and the Denver Nuggets (524) in Game Two of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (50-33) had been on an eight-game winning streak before their 112-110 loss in overtime as a 3-point road underdog on Saturday. Denver (51-32) has won four games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets allowed the Clippers to make 50% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last nine games. After four games under interim head coach David Adelman, some interesting trends are beginning to emerge. He replaced Michael Malone because the team was slumping and not seeming to listen to his messages any longer. The effort on defense seems to have improved. In their four games with Adelman leading the way, Denver ranks 13th in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency which is an improvement over their season ranking of 22nd. They are surrendering -2.5 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions in these four games versus the entire season. The 20 turnovers they forced in Game One of this series speak to their improved work rate on that end of the court. The Nuggets have not given up more than 116 points in their last four games — and their last three opponents have scored just 109, 110, and 111 points. But the efficiency on offense has dropped a bit despite Adelman having the reputation of being a bright offensive-minded coach. Despite ranking fourth in the league in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency this season, they drop to 16th in their last four games while scoring -5.9 fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions during that span. I’m not sure if Adelman has called for changes to help the play on defense or if this is just noise from a small sample size — but it does make me reconsider Over plays with the Nuggets. Denver has played 5 of their last 8 home games Under the Total when playing for the second time in five days — and they have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. The Under is 2-2 in Adelman’s four games as a head coach — but both of their games played at home were Unders. The Nuggets have played 7 of their last 8 home games Under the Total in the playoffs including four straight Unders in the first round of the postseason. They have also played 5 of their last 8 home games Under the Total when leading in a playoff series. Los Angeles has played 10 of their last 15 road games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. The Clippers held the Nuggets to just 43.6% shooting on Saturday which is a feat they can continue since they rank second in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. Los Angeles has played 7 of their last 9 road games Under the Total against teams winning 60-70% of their games. Additionally, they have played 11 of their last 16 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range including eight of those 11 games played on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Clippers have played 7 of their last 10 road games Under the Total against teams from the Northwest Division — and the Nuggets have played 17 of their last 21 games Under the Total against teams from the Pacific Division. 10* NBA Monday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (523) and the Denver Nuggets (524). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (515) and the Houston Rockets (516) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Golden State (49-34) has won eight of their last 11 games after their 121-116 win against Memphis as a 6.5-point favorite in their Play-In Tournament game on Tuesday. Houston (52-30) has lost three games in a row after their 126-111 loss at home to Denver as a 6.5-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Warriors rank seventh in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — but since the All-Star break, they have risen to third in that metric thanks to the acquisition of Jimmy Butler. They have held their last five opponents to 46.0% shooting which has resulted in just 107.0 Points-Per-Game. This is Golden State’s fourth game since April 11th — and they have played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total when rested and playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. They have also played 8 of their last 11 games on the road Under the Total when listed as an underdog of up to six points — and they have played 6 of their last 9 road games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. The Rockets outrebound their opponents by +6.0 Rebounds-Per-Game — and the Warriors have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total against teams who outrebound their opponents by +3.0 or more RPG including four of those five games played on the road. Houston has played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total at home after a straight-up win at home. This is just their fifth game in the last two days — and they have played 13 of their last 19 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the sixth time in the last 14 days. The Rockets are an elite defensive team that imposes their will from a very physical style of play. Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, and Tari Eason are elite defensive talents. Houston ranks fourth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they rank 10th in steals, 11th in deflections, and 13th in blocks. On their home court, they are limiting their guests to 44.9% shooting which is resulting in just 107.5 PPG. The Rockets have played 5 of their last 8 games at home Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams just played on April 6th in a game that had a playoff atmosphere since seeding in the Western Conference remained very much at stake. Houston pulled off a 106-96 upset victory as a 5-point underdog on the road — and Golden State has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total when avenging an upset loss. 25* NBA Sunday TNT Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (515) and the Houston Rockets (516). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (507) and the Los Angeles Lakers (508) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (49-33) has won three games in a row as well as eight of their last nine contests after their 116-105 victory against Utah as a 23-point favorite last Sunday. Los Angeles (50-32) had won two games in a row before their 109-81 loss at Portland as a 5.5-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Led by rim protector Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves are one of the best defensive teams in the NBA. They rank sixth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they improve to fifth in that category when playing on the road. They also play at the sixth-slowest pace in the league by averaging only 97.95 possessions per game. With the week off while the Play-In Tournament took place, they will begin this series rested and ready. Minnesota has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total on the road when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total on the road when playing with three or more days of rest. They have also played 5 of their 7 games this month Under the Total. The Timberwolves lost in the Western Conference Finals to Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks last postseason — and head coach Chris Finch has had almost a year to reconsider how to defend against Doncic if given the opportunity again. Doncic torched the T-Wolves by scoring 32.4 Points-Per-Game while nailing 43.4% of the 10.6 shots from behind the arc he averaged in that series. But Minnesota should be in a better position to defend Doncic this year since the Lakers lack the size that Dallas had in that series. The Timberwolves should defend Doncic coming off the pick-and-roll better this time — and Gobert should have more free reign to protect the rim. Since joining the Lakers, Doncic is not attacking the rim as much as he did with the Mavericks — and his shooting percentage has dropped from 46.4% with Dallas this season to 43.8% with Los Angeles. The addition of Doncic has not made a significant impact on their efficiency on offense. Since the All-Star break, they are only scoring +0.7 more adjusted points per 100 possessions than their season average. Trading away Anthony Davis has contributed to the Lakers becoming a mostly jump-shooting team. They rank only 17th in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency when playing at home since the All-Star Break. Trading Davis for Doncic has not impacted Los Angeles' play on defense — they are surrendering -0.2. fewer adjusted points per 100 possessions since the All-Star break when compared to their season-long Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. At home, the Lakers rank tied for ninth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. The Lakers have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing with three or more days of rest. They have also played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. Additionally, they have played 6 of their last 7 home games Under the Total after a straight-up loss on the road. Los Angeles also plays at the 11th slowest pace in the NBA — so this should be a lower-scoring game.

FINAL TAKE: Only 213 combined points were scored in the last meeting between these two teams in a 111-102 victory for the Lakers at home at Crypto.com Arena. Minnesota has played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on the road — and they have played 8 of their last 12 road games Under the Total when playing with revenge. 25* NBA Saturday Night ABC-TV Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (507) and the Los Angeles Lakers (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (577) and the Orlando Magic (578) in the NBA Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: Atlanta (40-42) has won three games in a row after their 117-105 upset victory against Orlando as a 3.5-point underdog on Sunday. Orlando (41-41) saw their five-game winning streak snapped with that loss on the final day of the regular season.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The line is telling us a lot for this game since it is just the third game all season for the Hawks when the Total was below the 220 mark. Since Quin Snyder took over as their head coach, Atlanta has only had 5 games on the road with the Total set in the 210s — and 4 of those games finished Under the Total. The Hawks are not a good defensive team — they allow their opponents to make 48.2% of their shots which is resulting in 119.3 Points-Per-Game that they are giving up. But much of their issues on defense is simply an issue of effort as their group prefers to try to win shootouts. Look for their effort and energy on defense to be better now that they are in the postseason — and they have been playing better on that end of the court lately. They have held their last five opponents to 46.2% shooting which has resulted in 115.4 PPG which is -3.9 fewer PPG than their season average. They allowed the Magic to make 45.5% of their shots on Sunday which was the worst defensive effort in their last three games. Atlanta has played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total on the road after pulling off an upset victory. Orlando has played 13 of their last 21 games Under the Total after losing at home in their last game. They have also played all 5 of their games Under the Total after an upset loss to a fellow Southeast Division rival since Jamahl Mosely took over as their head coach. The Magic are an outstanding defensive team that ranks second in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they also rank second in that metric since the beginning of March. They also lead the league in defensive rebounding and second in second-chance points allowed per 100 possessions. Orlando has played 20 of their last 33 games at home Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s. The Hawks score 118.2 PPG — and the Magic have played 22 of their last 29 games Under the Total against teams who score 116 or more PPG. Orlando has also played 20 of their last 30 games Under the Total against teams who are giving up 116 or more PPG.

FINAL TAKE: I don’t want to read too much into Sunday’s game between these teams since nothing was at stake and both head coaches rested their key starters. But the Magic did allow Atlanta to make 53.4% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 17 games. I expect Mosley to use that effort to refocus the defensive commitment of his team tonight. In the 11 games in his tenure when Orlando was avenging an upset loss on the road, 9 of those games finished Under the Total. 25* NBA Southeast Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (577) and the Orlando Magic (578). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (569) and the Golden State Warriors (570). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (49-32) has won seven straight games after their 101-100 victory at Sacramento as a 7.5-point favorite on Friday. Golden State (48-33) has won two of their last three games after their 103-86 victory at Portland as a 15.5-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: On the final day of the NBA regular season, this is the contest that has the most at stake for both teams as the winner clinches a spot in the top six in the Western Conference playoffs and avoids the play-in tournament. The Clippers have raised their level of play on the defensive end of the court. Los Angeles leads the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in their last 15 games. They have not allowed more than 106 points in five of their last seven games — and four of those opponents did not score more than 100 points. Their last five opponents have scored just 105.8 Points-Per-Game. The Clippers have played 12 of their last 18 games on the road Under the Total after a straight-up win. They have also played 12 of their last 18 games Under the Total on the road as an underdog — and they have played 7 of their last 10 road games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. Golden State leads the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency since they picked up Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline. They have not allowed more than 106 points in four of their last five games as well as six of their last nine contests. They have held their last five opponents to 45.4% shooting which has resulted in 101.0 PPG. The Warriors have played 6 of their last 8 home games Under the Total after a straight-up win on the road. They return home where they have played 9 of their last 13 home games Under the Total — and they have played 11 of their last 17 home games Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Golden State has played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total against who are winning 60-75% of their games including six of those nine games played at home. The Clippers have played 12 of their last 19 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. 25* NBA Pacific Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (569) and the Golden State Warriors (570). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Memphis Grizzlies (527) and the Denver Nuggets (528). THE SITUATION: Memphis (47-33) saw their three-game winning streak snapped in a 141-125 loss at home to Minnesota last night. Denver (48-32) ended their four-game losing streak with a 124-116 victory at Sacramento as a 4.5-point favorite on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Grizzlies have played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total when playing for the second time in the last two days. This is their third game since Tuesday — and they have played 7 of their last 8 road games Over the Total when playing for the third time in four days. They will be without Brandon Clarke tonight who is out the rest of the season with a knee injury. Memphis loses a little when he is off the court as their Adjusted Offensive Efficiency drops from 116.5 adjusted points per 100 possessions to 115.5 adjusted points per 100 possessions — but the defense suffers even more. The Grizzlies have a 108.2 Adjusted Defensive Efficiency with Clarke on the court — and they allow +4.6 more adjusted points per 100 possessions when he is off the court. Memphis goes back on the road where they have played 16 of their last 19 games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 9 of their last 11 road games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. They have played 20 of their last 31 road games Over the Total with the Total set in the 230s. And while the Nuggets are outrebounding their opponents by +4.0 Rebounds-Per-Game, the Grizzlies have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams who are outrebounding their opponents by +3.0 or more RPG. Denver is surrendering 117.0 Points-Per-Game this season — and Memphis has played 13 of their last 20 games Over the Total against teams who give up 116 or more PPG including six of those eight games played on the road. Denver held the Kings to 46.7% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last three games. It was the first game since ownership fired both head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth yesterday. Assistant head coach David Adelman takes over as the interim head coach for the rest of the regular season and their postseason run. Adelman is considered the architect of the Nuggets’ offensive attack. He is replacing Malone because the players stopped responding to their veteran head coach’s messages. There were a few subtle changes in the Nuggets’ approach against Sacramento. Nikola Jokic was empowered to take more of a leadership role in huddles regarding who the offense would operate. Adelman also played Jalen Pickett for more than 31 minutes — and while he scored 18 points, he was targeted by the Kings on the defensive end of the court. Adelman also only had Russell Westbrook on the court for 16:45 minutes despite him being one of their best defensive players. Denver lacks the personnel to play significantly better right now — and it does not help that Jamal Murray remains questionable with his hamstring injury. The Nuggets have allowed their last five opponents to make 46.9% of their shots which is resulting in 122.4 PPG. Denver has played 26 of their 40 games Over the Total this season — and they have played 10 of their 14 home games Over the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. The Grizzlies are allowing 117.1 PPG this season — and the Nuggets have played 13 of their last 18 games Over the Total against teams who are giving up 116 or more PPG including six of those nine games at home. And while Memphis is scoring 121.7 PPG, Denver has played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total against teams who are scoring 116 or more PPG.

FINAL TAKE: The Nuggets won the last meeting between these two teams by a 122-110 score as a 6-point underdog at Memphis on November 19th — and the Grizzlies have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing with revenge from an upset loss. 10* NBA Friday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Memphis Grizzlies (527) and the Denver Nuggets (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (569) and the Sacramento Kings (570). THE SITUATION: Denver (47-32) has lost four games in a row after their 125-120 loss against Indiana as a 6-point favorite on Sunday. Sacramento (39-40) has won three games in a row after their 127-117 upset victory at Detroit as a 6-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets have suffered four straight upset losses — and that prompted ownership to fire both head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth yesterday. Assistant head coach David Adelman takes over as the interim head coach for the rest of the regular season and their postseason run. Bettors have jumped on Denver with the Nuggets opening as a 1.5-point road favorite but now pushed up to a 4.5-point road favorite. The bump after a head coach firing in the NBA has not been a reliable angle for several years now. Instead, I expect the reaction by the Denver players to help the Over. Adelman is considered the architect of the Nuggets’ offensive attack. He is replacing Malone because the players stopped responding to their veteran head coach’s messages. The personality of this team when facing adversity is to play higher-scoring games — so that is how I expect them to respond to the coaching change with Adelman tweaking the offensive schematics. Denver has played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after losing two games in a row. They have played 5 of their last 7 games on the road Over the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three or more games in a row. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total on the road when playing with two days of rest. The Nuggets’ offense has been operating at a high level. In their loss to the Pacers, they made 53.8% of their shots which was still their second-lowest field goal percentage in their last six games. The problem has been the play on defense. Denver has played 22 of their last 30 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record including nine of those 12 games played on the road. They have also played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total against teams winning 40-49% of their games including all three of those games played on the road. Jamal Murray has been downgraded to doubtful due to the hamstring injury that has kept him on the shelf recently. But the Kings have posted both Keegan Murray and Malik Monk as doubtful to injuries as well — and the loss of Monk, in particular, takes away one of their best interior defenders. Sacramento has allowed nine of their last 17 opponents to make at least 51.9% of their shots. But after nailing 53.7% of their shots against Cleveland, they converted on 51.6% of their shots against the Pistons on Monday. The Kings have played 4 of their last 5 home games Over the Total after a win on the road. They have covered the point spread in three straight games — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after covering the point spread in three or more games in a row. This is their third game since Sunday — and they have played 9 of their last 12 home games Over the Total when playing for the third time in four days. Sacramento returns home where they have played 6 of their last 8 home games Over the Total as an underdog. The Nuggets are outscoring their opponents by +3.6 Points-Per-Game — and the Kings have played 7 of their last 10 home games Over the Total against teams who are outscoring their opponents by +3.0 or more PPG. And in their last 18 games against teams who are winning 51-60% of their games, Sacramento has played 12 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Kings have played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points — and Denver has played 8 of their last 13 road games Over the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (569) and the Sacramento Kings (570). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (553) and the Phoenix Suns (554). THE SITUATION: Golden State (46-32) had won five games in a row before their 106-96 upset loss at home against Houston as a 5-point favorite on Sunday. Phoenix (35-43) has lost six games in a row after their 112-98 loss at New York against the Knicks as a 9.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr needs his team to get back to playing better defense after the Rockets made 48.4% of their shots against them. That came on the heels of Denver nailing 54.1% of their shots in their previous game. Golden State still ranks sixth in the NBA in their last 15 games in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. With Gary Payton II back in the mix after getting injured along with Jimmy Butler’s defensive commitment and an increase of playing time of Kevon Looney, the Warriors have several good defensive players to complement Draymond Green who is playing at his Defensive Player of the Year level right now. Golden State has played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a loss at home. They have also played 12 of their last 17 games Under the Total after suffering an upset loss including eight of those ten games played at home. The Warriors have also played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in their last game. Phoenix only made 42.4% of their shots on Sunday as they continue to struggle to make baskets with Kevin Durant injured. He has missed the last three games — and the Suns have only scored 201 combined points in their last two games. Bradley Beal has played those last two games since returning from his injury — but after going 0-7 from the field and scoring one point on Friday against Boston, he only scored 16 points against the Knicks as he does not appear healthy enough to take on being the team’s primary scorer. They are scoring only 108.4 Points-Per-Game in their last five games which is -5.6 PPG below their season average. Phoenix has played 7 of their last 10 games at home Under the Total after losing on the road in their last game. After playing their last three games on the road, they return back home where they have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total after playing their last three games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Suns have played 16 of their last 23 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 8 of their last 12 home games Under the Total against teams winning 51-60% of their games. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (553) and the Phoenix Suns (554). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (527) and the Denver Nuggets (528). THE SITUATION: Indiana (46-31) has won three games in a row after their 140-112 win against Utah as a 17-point favorite on Friday. Denver (47-31) has suffered three-straight upset losses after their 118-104 upset loss at Golden State as a 1-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Pacers held the Jazz to 37.5% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last eight games. Indiana has played 5 of their last 8 road games Over the Total after scoring at least 136 points in their last game. Now after finishing up their three-game home stand, they go back on the road where they have played 11 of their last 17 games Over the Total. They have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after playing three or more straight games at home. They have played 6 of their last 7 road games Over the Total as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. They have also played 17 of their last 27 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record including eleven of those fifteen games played on the road. The Pacers will not have the defensive services of Pascal Siakam tonight who is out with an elbow injury. Denver made 54.1% of their shots against the Warriors which was actually the second-lowest shooting percentage for them in their last five games. Jamal Murray is questionable to play with a hamstring injury — but he has missed the previous four games and the Nuggets still made at least 54.1% of their shots in three of those contests. Denver has played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after an upset loss as a road favorite. They have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after losing two gamers in a row — and they have played 5 of their last 8 games Over the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three or more games in a row. They return home where they have played 25 of their last 39 games Over the Total — and they have played 10 of their last 14 home games Over the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. Furthermore, the Nuggets have played 14 of their last 18 games at home Over the Total with the Total set in the 230s.

FINAL TAKE: Denver has played 21 of their last 29 games Over the Total against teams from the Eastern Conference including 12 of those 14 games played at home. Indiana has played 9 of their last 14 road games Over the Total against teams from the Western Conference. 10* NBA Sunday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (527) and the Denver Nuggets (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (571) and the San Antonio Spurs (572). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (61-15) has won five of their last six games after their 124-105 victory against New York as a 10-point favorite on Wednesday. San Antonio (32-44) snapped their five-game losing streak with their 113-106 upset victory at Denver as a 2-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers held the Knicks to 44.4% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last three games. Despite that effort, their last five opponents have made 44.1% of their shots against them which has resulted in 117.4 Points-Per-Game which is +5.2 PPG above their season average. They also are making 50.2% of their shots in those last five games which has resulted in 123.8 PPG. Cleveland has played 20 of their last 31 games Over the Total including 10 of those 15 games played on the road. They go back on the road where they have played 25 of their last 37 games Over the Total — and they have played 13 of their last 20 games Over the Total on the road with the Total set at 230 or higher. Furthermore, the Cavaliers have played 24 of their 28 games this season Over the Total against teams from the Western Conference. San Antonio held the Nuggets to just 39.6% shooting on Wednesday which was the best defensive effort in their last six contests. Despite that surprising effort, they have allowed their last five opponents to make 47.9% of their shots which has resulted in 123.0 PPG. Playing without their best defensive player Victor Wembanyama who is out the season due to injury, defensive performances like that are likely to be rare outliers. The Spurs have played 9 of their last 12 games on the road Over the Total when playing for the third time in the last four days. They have played 20 of their last 32 games Over the Total when the Total is set at 230 or higher including 12 of those 16 games played at home. They also also played 18 of their last 27 games Over the Total against teams from the Eastern Conference including nine of those 12 games played at home. This is just the third game at home this season for the Spurs when they were an underdog getting 12.5 or more points — both of those two previous games finished Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Cavaliers lead the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and while San Antonio is making 46.5% of their shots this season, Cleveland has played 29 of their last 39 games Over the Total against teams who are making 46% or more of their shots including 15 of those 18 games played on the road. 10* NBA Friday Night O/U Discounted Deal with the Over the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (571) and the San Antonio Spurs (572). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (511) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (512). THE SITUATION: Chicago (33-41) saw their four-game winning streak snapped in a 120-119 upset loss at home against Dallas as a 2.5-point favorite on Saturday. Oklahoma City (62-13) has won nine games in a row after their 132-111 victory against Indiana as a 9-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Bulls held the Mavericks to 46.5% shooting which is just below their 46.7% opponent’s field goal percentage for the season — but it was also the best defensive effort in that metric in their last five games. They rank 24th in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. Chicago is making 50.9% of their shots in their last five games which is resulting in 128.2 Points-Per-Game — that is +10.8 PPG above their season average. They rank fourth in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in those last five contests. The Bulls have played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total on the road — and they have also played 19 of their 31 games on the road this season Over the Total. Additionally, they have played 10 of their last 14 games on the road Over the Total against teams from the Western Conference. Oklahoma City has played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a win at home by 20 or more points. They are making 48.7% of their shots at home which is resulting in 122.6 PPG. In their last five games, they are nailing 50.0% of their shots which is resulting in 124.4 PPG. Overall this season, they rank fourth in the league in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. The Thunder have played 9 of their last 12 games at home Over the Total with the Total set at 230 or higher. They have also played 9 of their last 13 home games Over the Total against teams from the Western Conference. Furthermore, they have played 13 of their last 21 games at home Over the Total when favored by double-digits.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma City won the last meeting between these two teams on October 26th by a 114-94 score on October 26th. The Bulls have played 12 of their last 19 games on the road Over the Total when playing with revenge. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (511) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (557) and the Denver Nuggets (558). THE SITUATION: Chicago (31-40) has won three of their last four games after their 146-115 upset victory in Los Angeles against the Lakers as a 9.5-point underdog on Saturday. Denver (45-27) snapped their two-game losing streak with a 116-111 victory at Houston as a 7-point underdog yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets held the Rockets to 43.8% shooting in what was the best defensive effort in their last 16 games. Their last five opponents are still making 49.1% of their shots against them. Denver nailed 50.6% of their shots in the win despite being without Nikola Jokic for the fourth straight game due to an ankle injury. They have shot 50% or better from the field in four of their last six contests. The Nuggets have played 3 of those 4 games without Jokic Over the Total. They have also played 9 of their last 14 games Over the Total when playing without a day of rest including five of those seven games played at home. Additionally, Denver has played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after an upset victory — and they have played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total after a win by six points or less. The Nuggets return home after their four-game road trip where they have played 22 of their last 34 games Over the Total. This is their sixth game since March 15th — and they have played 15 of their last 18 home games Over the Total when playing for the sixth or mortise in the last ten days. Furthermore, Denver has played 21 of their last 27 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record including 12 of those 15 games played at home. They have played 19 of their last 27 games Over the Total against teams from the Eastern Conference including 10 of those twelve games at home. Chicago has scored at least 120 points in three straight games — and they have made at least 52.3% of their shots from the field in those three games. Over that stretch, they are making 55.1% of their shots. In their last five games, they are making 50.9% of their shots which has resulted in 124.0 Points-Per-Game which is +6.9 PPG above their season average. The Bulls have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after scoring 136 or more points in their last game. They complete their six-game road trip tonight playing for the third time since Thursday — and they have played 5 straight Overs when playing on the road for the third time in five days. Chicago has played 14 of their last 22 road games Over the Total as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points. They have played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total against teams winning 60-70% of their games. They have also played 17 of their last 25 games Over the Total in non-conference play including nine of those thirteen games played on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Bulls play at the third-fastest pace in the NBA while the Nuggets play at the sixth-fastest tempo — and this may explain why these two teams have played 8 of their last 9 meetings in Denver Over the Total. 10* NBA Monday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (557) and the Denver Nuggets (558). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (543) and the Denver Nuggets (544). THE SITUATION: Sacramento (32-28) has won four games in a row after their 122-98 victory on the road at Dallas as a 2.5-point favorite on Monday. Denver (39-22) has lost two of their last three games after their 110-103 loss at Boston as a 5.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Kings made 52% of their shots against the Mavericks on Monday — they are shooting 52.1% of their shots from the field in their last five games while making at least 50.6% of their shots in each of those games. Now they travel to Denver to face a Nuggets team that makes 50.8% of their shots on the season — and Sacramento has played 11 of their last 16 games on the road Over the Total against teams who are making at least 45% of their shots. Additionally, the Kings have played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total as an underdog. They have also played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points — and five of those Overs came when they were on the road. Denver has played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss on the road. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing with two days of rest. They return home where they are making 50.8% of their shots which is resulting in 122.8 Points-Per-Game. The Nuggets have played 19 of their last 29 games Over the Total at home. They have also played 10 of their last 16 home games Over the Total with the Total set at 230 or higher. The Kings are making 47.8% of their shots this season — and Denver has played 10 of their last 13 home games Over the Total against teams who are making 46% or more of their shots. And while Sacramento allows their opponents to make 46.6% of their shots this season, the Nuggets have played 12 of their last 17 home games Over the Total against teams who are allowing their opponents to make 46% or more of their shots.

FINAL TAKE: The Kings have played 19 of their last 28 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 10 of their last 16 games on the road Over the Total against teams with a winning record. The Nuggets have played 6 of their last 9 games at home Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage in the 51-60% range. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (543) and the Denver Nuggets (544). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (541) and the Memphis Grizzlies (542). THE SITUATION: New York (38-20) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 110-105 win at home against Philadelphia as a 10-point favorite on Wednesday. Memphis (38-20) has won two of their last three games after a 151-148 win against Phoenix as an 8-point favorite on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKLE OVER THE TOTAL: Despite holding the 76ers to 44.3% shooting, New York has still allowed their last five opponents to make 48.8% of their shots which has resulted in 124.8 Points-Per-Game. The Knicks have played 14 of their last 20 games Over the Total after a straight-up win at home. They have also played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after beating a fellow Atlantic Division rival. They go back on the road where they are making 49.3% of their shots which has resulted in 117.7 PPG. New York has played 16 of their last 26 games Over the Total on the road. They have also played 4 straight Overs on the road as an underdog or pick ‘em. And while the Grizzlies are making 48.3% of their shots which is resulting in 123.3 PPG, the Knicks have played 6 of their last 9 road games Over the Total against teams who are generating 116 or more PPG — and they have played 18 of their last 29 games Over the Total against teams who are making 46% or more of their shots. New York has also played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total against teams who are winning 60-75% of their shots. Memphis has allowed their last five opponents to make 48.5% of their shots which has resulted in 127.2 PPG. The Grizzlies have played 15 of their last 21 games Over the Total after a straight-up win at home -- and they have played 8 of their last 10 games at home Over the Total after a straight-up win at home. They have played 9 straight Overs after a win by six points or less. And in their last 10 games when playing with two days of rest, they have played 7 of these games Over the Total. Memphis stays at home where they are making 49.1% of their shots which is resulting in 124.4 PPG. The Grizzlies have played 10 of their last 13 games at home Over the Total after playing their previous game at home. They have played 7 of their last 11 home games Over the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. Against teams from the Eastern Conference, Memphis has played 17 of their last 22 games Over the Total — and they have played 9 of their last 10 games at home Over the Total in non-conference play. Additionally, the Grizzlies have played 16 of their last 25 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams winning 60-75% of their games.

FINAL TAKE: The Grizzlies want to avenge a 143-106 victory on the road against the Knicks on January 27th. Memphis has played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total when playing with revenge from a loss on the road — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total when avenging a loss by 20 or more points. 10* NBA Friday Night O/U Discounted Deal with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (541) and the Memphis Grizzlies (542). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (505) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (506). THE SITUATION: New York (37-18) has won three games in a row after their 113-111 win against Chicago as an 11.5-point favorite last night. Cleveland (45-10) has won nine of their last ten games after a 110-97 victory at Brooklyn as a 13-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Knicks only made 43.0% of their shots last night which was the worst shooting effort in their last three games and second lowest in their last 11 contests. But they also held the Bulls to a 39.8% field goal percentage which was the best defensive effort in their last ten contests. Josh Hart is doubtful and O.G. Anunoby is questionable tonight — and while they are both solid two-way players, their potential absence on defense takes away two of their better defenders. As it is, New York has played 13 of their last 19 games Over the Total after a straight-up win at home. They have also played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total when playing the second game in two days. They go back on the road where they have played 15 of their last 24 games Over the Total — and they have played 4 straight road games Over the Total as an underdog or as a pick ‘em. They have played 6 straight games Over the Total as an underdog. Cleveland only made 42.6% of their shots last night which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games and second-worst in their last 12 contests. But they also held the Nets to 40% shooting in what was tied for their best defensive performance in their last four contests. The Cavaliers have played 13 of their last 17 games Over the Total after a straight-up win on the road. They have also played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing the second game in back-to-back days. They return home where they have played 18 of their last 29 games Over the Total — and they have played 9 of their last 14 games at home Over the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Knicks want to avenge a 110-104 upset loss at home against the Cavaliers as a 3-point favorite back on October 28th. New York has played 12 of their last 19 games Over the Total when playing with revenge — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total when avenging a loss at home to their opponent. 8* NBA New York-Cleveland ESPN O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (505) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (505) and the Atlanta Hawks (506). THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (28-22) snapped a four-game losing streak with a 112-102 victory at Charlotte as a 10.5-point favorite on Wednesday. Atlanta (23-28) has lost nine of their last ten games after their 126-125 loss at home against San Antonio as a 4.5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Bucks held the Hornets to just 43.2% shooting from the field which was the best defensive effort in their last five games. That performance was an outlier as Milwaukee has allowed their last five opponents to make 48.8% of their shots which has resulted in 125.6 Points-Per-Game which is +13.7 PPG above their season average. The defensive chemistry of this team has been disrupted after trading away Kris Middleton. They did bring in Kyle Kuzma in that three-way deal but he is a game-time decision tonight. The Bucks have played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after winning their previous game on the road. This is their eighth game in the last two weeks — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing for the eighth or more time in the last 14 days. They have also played 7 of their last 8 road games Over the Total when favored by up to six points. Atlanta traded away one of their best defensive players this week with DeAndre Hunter dealt away. Bogan Bogdanovich was also traded away — and Caris LeVert is a game-time decision after he was acquired this week. But the season-ending injury has impacted the Hawks' defensive play as they have allowed their last five opponents to make 52.5% of their shots which has resulted in 125.0 PPG which is +5.8 PPG above their season average. The Spurs made 50.5% of their shots against them on Wednesday which was actually the best defensive effort for Atlanta in their last five games. And after making 51.9% of their shots against Detroit on Monday, they nailed 52.7% of their shots against San Antonio on Wednesday. Atlanta has played four straight Overs — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row. They have played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total at home. And while this is their eighth game in the last two weeks, they have played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total when playing for the eighth or more time in the last 14 days. They stay at home where they have played 15 of their last 23 games Over the Total. They have also played 11 of their last 17 home games Over the Total with the Total set at 230 or higher.

FINAL TAKE: The Hawks are attempting to avenge a 110-102 loss in Milwaukee against the Bucks on December 14th — and they have played 21 of their last 28 games Over the Total when playing with revenge on their minds. They have also played 11 of their last 15 games Over the Total when avenging a loss on the road. 10* NBA Friday Daily O/U Discounted Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (505) and the Atlanta Hawks (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (561) and the San Antonio Spurs (562). THE SITUATION: Miami (23-23) saw their two-game winning streak snapped in a 126-106 loss to Cleveland as a 6-point underdog on Wednesday. San Antonio (21-24) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 144-118 win against Milwaukee as a 2-point underdog on last night.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Heat are once again playing with Jimmy Butler who got himself suspended again for blowing off another practice. That divorce is imminent with him making trade demands. Miami plays at a much faster pace without him since his offense is dependent on slowing things down to post up in the half court offense. In the Heat’s six games without Butler with the Total set at 223.5 or higher this season, the game finished Over the Total 5 times. Miami has allowed at least 116 points in four of their last five games — and their opponents are making 47.1% of their shots during that span which is resulting in 116.6 Points-Per-Game which is +5.9 PPG above their season defensive average. The Heat have played 6 of their last 9 road games Over the Total with the Total set in the 220s. They have played 7 of their last 8 road games Over the Total as an underdog of up to six points. They have played 13 of their last 18 games Over the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range including four of their last five games Over the Total when playing on the road. Additionally, they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total against teams winning 40-49% of their games. San Antonio scored at least 140 points for the second time in their last four games with their win against the Bucks last night. They held Milwaukee to 43.0% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last 12 contests. The Spurs have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after an upset victory. This is their third game since Wednesday — and they have played 4 of their last 5 home games Over the Total when playing for the third time in four days. And while they have played nine straight Overs in a row, they have then played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row. They are making 49.0% of their shots in their last five games which has resulted in 121.0 PPG. But they are allowing their last five opponents to nail 49.1% of their shots which has resulted in 124.0 PPG. San Antonio stays at home where they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total when favored — and they have played 4 of their last 5 home games Over the Total when favored by six points or less.

FINAL TAKE: The Spurs are allowing 119.5 PPG against Eastern Conference opponents while making 47.1% of their shots to score 118.0 PPG in t hose contests. San Antonio has played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total in non-conference play including four straight Overs when playing at home. 10* NBA Saturday Night O/U Discounted Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (561) and the San Antonio Spurs (562). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (533) and the Charlotte Hornets (534). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (27-20) has won three of their last four games after their 128-116 win at San Antonio as a 3.5-point favorite on Wednesday. Charlotte (12-32) has lost two games in a row as well as four of their last five contests after a 104-83 upset loss at home against Brooklyn as a 1-point favorite on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Hornets shot a season-low 33.7% from the field against the Nets. While I often consider low shooting efforts like that simply an outlier due for a visit from the Regression Gods, in this case, I suspect it is a canary in the coal mine given the injuries that this team is enduring right now. Brandon Miller is already out the season with a wrist injury — he was scoring 21.0 Points-Per-Game. Now LeMelo Ball is out with an ankle injury — he is scoring 28.2 PPG and adding another 7.3 Assists-Per-Game. To compound matters, Mark Williams is also out with a foot injury which takes away his 15.5 PPG scoring average. The Hornets simply lack reliable scoring threats. Charlotte has played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in their last game. They have played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a loss at home. The Hornets stay at home where they are only making 42.1% of their shots which is resulting in 105.7 PPG — but they play solid defense on their home court by holding their opponents to just 108.7 PPG. They have played 18 of their last 23 home games Under the Total — and they have played 8 straight Unders at home against teams with a winning record. Additionally, Charlotte has played 25 of their last 38 games Under the Total as an underdog. Los Angeles nailed 52.7% of their shots against the Spurs which was the best shooting effort in their last six games. They also allowed San Antonio to make 48.3% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last six contests. The Clippers have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up win on the road. This is their third straight game on the road since Monday — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when playing for the third time on the road in five days. On the road, Los Angeles is scoring only 108.5 PPG — and they have played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total on the road. The Hornets are getting outscored by -5.0 PPG this season — and the Clippers have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total against teams getting outscored by -3.0 or more PPG.  

FINAL TAKE: In 13 games, the Clippers are holding their Eastern Conference opponents to just 42.2% shooting which is resulting in 101.8 PPG. They have played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total in non-conference play. The Hornets have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total against teams from the Western Conference — and they have played 7 straight Unders at home in non-conference action. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (533) and the Charlotte Hornets (534). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (575) and the Golden State Warriors (576). THE SITUATION: Chicago (19-25) snapped a five-game losing streak with a 112-99 upset victory as a 6.5-point underdog on Monday. Golden State (21-22) has lost two games in a row and four of their last six contests after their 123-117 loss at Sacramento as a 7.5-point underdog last night.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Warriors need to tighten things up on defense after allowing the Kings to make 50.6% of their shots last night. They continue to play without the injured Draymond Green which does not help on that end of the court. But they are also without Jonathan Kuminga who is their second-leading scorer averaging 16.8 Points-Per-Game. Steph Curry is questionable with his ankle injury — but he is expected to play which likely explains why the Total has been pushed up a handful of points later in the day. Golden State has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when playing the second game in back-to-back days. They have played 9 of their last 10 games Under the Total after losing two or more games in a row. They return home where they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total as an underdog. They have played 12 of their last 19 games Under the Total as an underdog in all situations. Chicago is playing better defense lately — they held the Clippers to 39.4% shooting on Monday. The Bulls have held their last five opponents to 44.2% shooting which has resulted in 113.2 Points-Per-Game which is -6.8 PPG below their season average. They may be without point guard Coby White who is questionable with an ankle injury — he is scoring 18.2 PPG and adding 4.7 Assists-Per-Game. Chicago has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after an upset win as a road underdog. They have also played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after winning on the road in their last game. Furthermore, the Bulls have played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total when favored — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when on the road as the favorite. Additionally, they have played 12 of their last 18 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total in January.

FINAL TAKE: Chicago is giving up 120.0 PPG this season — but the Warriors have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total against teams who are giving up 116.0 or more PPG. 10* NBA Thursday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Chicago Bulls (575) and the Golden State Warriors (576). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (535) and the Denver Nuggets (536). THE SITUATION: Philadelphia (15-26) has lost six games in a row after their 123-109 loss at Milwaukee as an 11.5-point underdog on Sunday. Denver (26-16) has won two games in a row and six of their last seven contests after a 113-100 victory at Orlando as a 7.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets played their best defensive game of the season two days ago by holding the Magic to just 37.3% shooting. Now returning home as a double-digit favorite against a banged-up Sixers team, their attention to detail on defense may not be as sharp tonight. But Denver should continue to flex their muscles on the other end of the court where they are clicking on all cylinders. They made 51.9% of their shots on Sunday which was actually the worst shooting effort in their last four contests. They have made at least 51.7% of their shots in six of their last seven games. The Nuggets are healthy right now — and Jamal Murray is probable to play tonight despite a nagging calf injury. Denver has played 13 of their last 20 games at home Over the Total. They have played 11 of their last 14 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record — and they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Over the Total against teams with a losing record. Additionally, they have played 13 of their last 15 games Over the Total against teams from the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are allowing their opponents to nail 48.9% of their shots — and the Nuggets have played 14 of their last 21 games Over the Total against teams with a defensive field goal percentage of 46% or higher. And while Philly only scores 107.5 Points-Per-Game, Denver has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total against teams who are not scoring more than 108 PPG. The 76ers allowed the Bucks to make 49.4% of their shots which was actually their best defensive effort in their last four games. Their three previous opponents all made at least 53% of their shots against them. Philadelphia is banged up with Joel Embiid and Jared McCain out tonight with injuries — and Paul George is listed as questionable. Not having Embiid as a rim protector hurts the Sixers’ defensive efforts. In their last five games, their opponents are making 52.0% of their shots which is resulting in 117.0 PPG which is +5.4 PPG above their season average. Philadelphia has played 13 of their last 22 games Over the Total on the road. They have played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total against teams from the Western Conference. And while the Nuggets are outscoring their opponents by +4.6 PPG, the 76ers have played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total against teams who are outscoring their opponents by at least +3.0 PPG — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total on the road against teams outscoring their opponents by +3.0 or more PPG.

FINAL TAKE: Philadelphia has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total as a double-digit underdog — and Denver has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total as a favorite laying 10 or more points. 25* NBA Tuesday TNT Total of the Month is with Over the Total in the game between the Philadelphia 76ers (535) and the Denver Nuggets (536). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Charlotte Hornets (547) and the Chicago Bulls (548). THE SITUATION: Charlotte (9-28) has won two of their last three games after their 117-112 win at Utah as a 5.5-point favorite on Wednesday. Chicago (18-23) has lost three games in a row after their 110-94 upset loss against Atlanta as a 6-point favorite on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Hornets nailed 52.9% of their shots against the Jazz which was the best shooting effort in for them all season. They are only making 42.7% of their shots on the road this season — and they may be without Brandon Miller who is listed as questionable with a wrist injury. He is scoring 21.0 Points-Per-Game this year — so the Regression Gods may be making an appearance for their scoring especially if they do not have Miller tonight. Charlotte has played 21 of their last 32 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points. The Bulls are scoring 117.5 PPG — and the Hornets have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total against teams who score 116 or more PPG. Chicago has played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss at home — and they have played 6 straight games at home Under the Total after losing at home in their last game. They have also played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after losing two games in a row — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games at home Under the Total after losing two or more games in a row. They stay at home where they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total when favored. They have also played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. Furthermore, the Bulls have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total in January — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams not winning more than 25% of their games.

FINAL TAKE: The Hornets are looking to avenge a 115-108 loss at home against the Bulls on December 30th. Charlotte has played 17 of their last 23 games Under the Total when playing with revenge — and they have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total when avenging a loss at home. 10* NBA Friday Daily O/U Discounted Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Charlotte Hornets (547) and the Chicago Bulls (548). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Brooklyn Nets (521) and the Los Angeles Clippers (522). THE SITUATION: Brooklyn (14-26) snapped a five-game winning streak with a 132-114 victory at Portland as a 4-point underdog last night. Los Angeles (21-17) ended a two-game losing streak with a 109-98 victory against Miami as an 8.5-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nets come off their best shooting performance of the season by making 54.4% of their shots last night against the Trail Blazers. Their 132 points was their second-highest mark of the season. Cam Johnson scored 24 points last night be he is out tonight with what is being labeled an ankle injury. He is scoring 19.6 Points-Per-Game. Cameron Thomas is also out with a hamstring after not playing last night — he is scoring 24.7 PPG. D’Angelo Russell and Nicolas Claxton are also questionable to play tonight. As it is, Brooklyn has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when playing for the second time in back-to-back days. This is the Nets’ sixth game since last Monday — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing for the sixth or more time in the last ten days. Los Angeles made 48.3% of their shots on Monday in their win against the Heat which was the best shooting mark in their last three games and second-best clip in their last seven contests. The Clippers have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a straight-up win at home — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games at home Under the Total after a win at home in their last contest. They stay at home where they have played 6 of their last 8 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total at home against teams from the Eastern Conference. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Brooklyn Nets (521) and the Los Angeles Clippers (522). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Utah Jazz (517) and the Portland Trail Blazers (518). THE SITUATION: Utah (7-21) had won two games in a row before their 124-113 loss at Cleveland as a 14-point underdog on Monday. Portland (9-20) has lost eight of their last nine contests after their 132-108 loss at Dallas as a 12.5-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Jazz made only 41.3% of their shots against the Cavaliers which was the worst shooting effort in their last five contests. Utah has played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total off a loss on the road. They stay on the road where they have played 11 of their 15 games Over the Total this season. Additionally, the Jazz have played 11 of their last 17 games Over the Total with the number set in the 220s — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total on the road with the Total set in the 220s. Portland allowed the Mavericks to nail 53.3% of their shots on Monday. Six of their last nine opponents have shot at least 51.8% of their shots. The Trail Blazers have played 5 of their last 8 home games Over the Total after a loss by 20 or more points. They have played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total when playing with two days of rest. Portland returns home where they have played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total this season — and they have played 7 of their last 10 home games Over the Total with the Total set in the 220s.

FINAL TAKE: The Trail Blazers have played 14 of their last 22 games Over the Total in December — and the Jazz have played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total in December. 10* NBA Thursday Late Show O/U  Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Utah Jazz (517) and the Portland Trail Blazers (518). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (593) and the Golden State Warriors (594). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (16-13) had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 117-114 upset loss at home against Detroit as a 6-point favorite on Monday. Golden State (15-13) has lost four of their last five games after their 111-105 upset loss against Indiana as a 6-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Lakers nailed 54.1% of their shots on Monday which was the highest shooting effort in their last 15 games. But they allowed the Pistons to make 51.1% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last seven contests. Despite that subpar defensive performance, Los Angeles has still held their last five opponents to just 43.8% shooting which resulted in 104.6 Points-Per-Game which is -9.2 fewer PPG than their season average. But the Lakers are only making 45.3% of their shots in their last five contests resulting in 106.6 PPG which is -5.6 fewer PPG than their season average. Rookie head coach and former podcaster J.J. Reddick was supposed to be an offensive guru for this team after espousing so many philosophies on the subject in his previous job (such as “shoot more 3” — so cutting edge!). But after posting an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 115.4 last year, that mark has dropped to 111.5 for Los Angeles this season. On the road, the Lakers are making only 45.2% of their shots resulting in 107.4 PPG which is -3.8 fewer PPG than their season average. Los Angeles has played 10 of their last 14 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games on the road Under the Total with the Total set in that range. They have played 21 of their last 30 games Under the Total against teams winning 51-60% of their games — and they have played 11 of their last 14 road games Under the Total against teams winning 51-60% of their contests. Furthermore, they have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. They are relatively well rested after the NBA Cup time off two weeks ago with this being their fourth game since December 15th — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. Golden State is playing for just the fourth time since December 15th as well — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. The team acquired Dennis Schroder to boost their scoring attack — but he has been a dud so far by averaging just 7.7 PPG and not even reaching double digits once in his first three games with the team. Steph Curry may be starting to show his age — in two of his last three games against Indiana and Memphis, he scored only 12 combined points on 2 of 20 shooting with 13 missed shots from behind the arc on 15 attempts. In their last five games, the Warriors are only making 43.4% of their shots resulting in 106.8 PPG which is -6.0 PPG below their season average. Head coach Steve Kerr is getting good defensive play from his team that ranks ninth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They also rank seventh in half-court defensive efficiency. Golden State has played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games at home Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Lakers are allowing their opponents to make 47.6% of their shots — and the Warriors have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total against teams with a defensive field goal percentage of 46% or higher. 25* NBA Pacific Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (593) and the Golden State Warriors (594). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (539) and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Finals of the NBA Cup. THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (14-11) has won three games in a row as well as ten of their last 12 contests after their 110-102 win against Atlanta as a 3.5-point favorite in the Semifinals of the NBA Cup on Saturday. Oklahoma City (20-5) has won five games in a row as well as nine of their last ten contests after their 111-96 victory against Houston as a 5.5-point favorite in their Semifinal match in the NBA Cup on Tuesday. This game is being played on a neutral court at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Bucks stepped up their play on defense against the Hawks by holding them to 42.7% shooting. Head coach Doc Rivers has this group playing better on the defensive end of the court. While they rank 13th in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, they rise to eighth in the league in that metric over their last 15 games. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, they will have a size edge in this contest. With $500K on the line in a game that will not count in the regular season standings, look for another strong effort on defense from this team. It is telling that Milwaukee had played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 70% or higher. Additionally, Milwaukee has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 12 of their last 15 games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. The Bucks have also played 12 of their last 15 games Under the Total away from home against teams from the Western Conference. Oklahoma City held the Rockets to just 36.5% shooting on Saturday. They lead the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They will not make it easy on the Milwaukee shooters. They give up the fewest points in the paint per 100 possessions — and the Bucks rank just 26th in the league in creating points in the paint. The Thunder also does a great job in defending the pick-and-roll which Milwaukee leans heavily on with Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard — they give up the fewest 3-point attempts in those situations. They also surrender the fifth fewest made 3-pointers in the NBA. Oklahoma City wants to make this a track meet and generate scoring opportunities in transition — but they are not very efficient in those situations as they rank just 23rd in effective Field Goal percentage (eFG). Rivers knows this and will have his team focus on protecting the basketball and making this a half-court game. The Thunder rank just 14th in eFG when playing in the half-court. Oklahoma City has played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total following a straight-up win. This is their third game since December 8h — and they have played 13 of their last 19 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. They have played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total away from home. And in their last 8 games as an underdog or a favorite of up to 5.5 points, they have played 6 of these games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: In the knockout games in the NBA Cup this season, the average combined score has been only 208.9 points — and all five games played on a neutral court in Las Vegas in the Semifinals or Finals of this tournament going back to last year have finished Under the Total. 25* NBA Cup Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (539) and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Finals of the NBA Cup. Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Portland Trail Blazers (521) and the Los Angeles Clippers (522). THE SITUATION: Portland (8-13) has lost three of their last four games after their 137-131 loss at home to Dallas as a 6.5-point underdog on Sunday. Los Angeles (13-9) has won two of their last three contests after their 126-122 upset victory against Denver as a 3-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Trail Blazers nailed 58.3% of their shots against the Mavericks which was their best shooting effort all season — but they also allowed Dallas to make 55.2% of their shots which was the second-worst defensive performance of their season. I am expecting a visit from the Regression Gods. Portland has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after allowing 135 or more points in their last contest. They have also played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total on the road — and they have played 4 straight Unders on the road with the Total set in the 220s. Los Angeles allowed the Nuggets to make 58.0% of their shots on Sunday which was the worst defensive effort of their season. The Clippers have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 9 home games Under the Total after a win by six points or less. They stay at home where they have played 12 of their last 18 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record. Los Angeles has also played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s.

FINAL TAKE: The Clippers will be motivated to avenge a 106-105 upset loss at home against the Trail Blazers as an 8-point underdog on October 30th -- and they have played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from an upset loss as a home favorite. 8* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Portland Trail Blazers (521) and the Los Angeles Clippers (522). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (553) and the Dallas Mavericks (554). THE SITUATION: New York (10-7) has won five of their last six games after their 145-118 upset win at Denver as a 3.5-point underdog on Monday. Dallas (10-8) has won five of their last six contests after their 129-119 upset victory at Atlanta as a 2.5-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Knicks scored the most points in the regular season that did not go into overtime since 1980. After nailing 60.9% of their shots against the Nuggets, it is reasonable to expect the Regression Gods to appear — but the drop-off should not be significant because this New York scoring attack is cooking. The addition of Karl-Anthony Towns is opening up scoring lanes for his teammates. They have many scorers who can create their own shot. O.G. Anunoby scored 40 points on Monday — he is scoring 19.1 Points-Per-Game from 52.4% shooting and a 42.2% mark from behind the arc. Jalen Brunson is finding the right balance between being a scorer and a distributor. They have made at least 56.0% of their shots in three of their last four games — and they have scored 134 or more points in three of their last four games. Overall, the Knicks rank second with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 117.9. Only Cleveland and New York rank in the top-three in the league in both 2-point shooting and 3-point shooting. They rank third in midrange shooting. They also maximize their possessions by leading the NBA with the lowest turnover margin. So, yes, I think the high-scoring is sustainable — and they have scored 123 or more points in five of their last seven games. The Knicks have played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total after an upset win — and they have played 6 of their last 9 road games Over the Total after an upset victory. They have also played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total after pulling off an upset win on the road. This is their fourth straight game on the road and third game since last Friday — and they have played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing the third game on the road in the last five games. They have also played 7 of their 10 games on the road Over the Total this season. Dallas made 50.0% of their shots against the Hawks on Monday — it was the third time in their last four games that they shot 50% or better from the field. They have scored at least 118 points in five straight games. But they have also given up 119 or more points in four of their last five contests. They are putting up these offensive numbers despite being without Luka Doncic has missed the last three games due to injury. Head coach Jason Kidd has his team playing a faster tempo without Doncic who prefers a slower style of play to set up his isolation game on offense. In their last three games, they have an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 115.3 — but they also have an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 112.8. Naji Marshall has been a pleasant surprise by scoring 20 or more points in all three of those games. Dallas will want to continue to push the pace tonight with the hopes of creating switches so Kyrie Irving is being defended by Brunson. On the other hand, the Knicks will push the pace as well to create the opposite matchup with Brunson being guarded by Irving. The Mavericks are playing for the third time since Sunday — and they have played 15 of their last 24 games Over the Total when playing for the third time in four games. They have also played all 7 of their games this season Over the Total as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks are outscoring their opponents by +5.7 Points-Per-Game — and the Knicks have played 8 of their last 12 games on the road Over the Total against teams who are getting outscored by +3.0 or more PPG. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (553) and the Dallas Mavericks (554). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:40 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (565) and the Los Angeles Lakers (566). THE SITUATION: Denver (8-6) has lost three of their last four games after their 123-120 upset loss against Denver as a 5-point favorite last night. Los Angeles (10-5) had won six games in a row before their 119-118 upset loss at home against Orlando as a 5-point favorite on Thursday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Lakers nailed 50.6% of their shots in a losing effort against the Magic — they are shooting 49.9% from the field in their last five games. They have scoed at least 118 points in five of their last six games. Los Angeles has played 12 of their last 15 games Over the Total after a loss at home., They have also played 14 of their last 18 games Over the Total after an upset loss — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after an upset loss as a home favorite. Additionally, they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a loss by six points or less. They stay at home where they are making 51.0% of their shots which is resulting in 121.6 Points-Per-Game — and those marks are +2.6% and +4.6 PPG above their season average. The Lakers rank fourth in the NBA with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 118.3 — and they rise to third in the league with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 122.2 when playing on their home court. But they also rank 26th in the NBA with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 117.4. Los Angeles has played 5 of their 7 home games Over the Total as a favorite this season — and they have played 13 of their last 22 home games Over the Total when favored by six points or less. Denver has played 6 of their last 9 games on the road Over the Total after an upset loss — and they have played 9 of their last 14 games Over the Total after a loss by six points or less. They have also played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total when playing without a day of rest including both of those games so far this season. They have played 6 of their last 8 games on the road Over the Total when playing the second game in back-to-back days. The Nuggets rank just 16th this season with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 112.8 — and they have given up 120 or more points in four of their last seven contests. They have scored 120 and 122 points in their last two contests. Denver goes back on the road where they have played 10 of their last 16 games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 5 of their last 8 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. They have played 8 of their 10 games this month Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Nuggets are scoring 116.8 PPG — and the Lakers have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total against teams scoring 116 or more PPG. Los Angeles has also played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total with the Total set in the 230s. 10* NBA Saturday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (565) and the Los Angeles Lakers (566). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (525) and the Golden State Warriors (526). THE SITUATION: Atlanta (7-8) has won three of their last four games after their 109-108 upset win at Sacramento as a 3.5-point underdog on Monday. Golden State (10-3) had won three games in a row before their 102-99 upset loss in Los Angeles against the Clippers on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Warriors defense has taken a step back lately. They have allowed their last five opponents to make 46.7% of their shots which has resulted in 117.8 Points-Per-Game — that is +3.3% and and +7.7 PPG above their season defensive averages. Their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 107.3 ranks 15th in the NBA in their last five games which is a big drop off from their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 107.3 for the season which is the fourth-best mark in the league. But Golden State ranks fifth in the NBA with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 116.7. And with head coach Steve Kerr using his entire bench this season, the Warriors are pushing the pace and rank fifth in the league by averaging 101.76 possessions per game. It is telling that Golden State has played 11 of their last 16 games Over the Total after an upset loss — and they have played 9 of their last 13 games at home Over the Total after an upset loss. The fast pace they are engaging in has played a big role in their playing 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total this month. Furthermore, the Warriors have played 9 of their last 14 home games Over the Total when laying 6.5 to 12 points. They have also played 10 of their last 15 home games Over the Total against teams with a losing record. The Hawks are shooting 46.7% from the field — and Golden State has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams who are making at least 46% of their shots. Atlanta is getting healthier as they have Bogdan Bogdanovic and Kobe Bufkin back from injury — and those additions should help their offensive output moving forward. The Hawks have played 11 of their last 17 games Over the Total after a win by six points or less including all four of those circumstances this season. This will be their third game on the road since last Friday — and they have played 5 of their last 7 road games Over the Total when it is their third game in five days. Atlanta plays at the third-fastest pace in the league with 103.57 average possessions per contest. They also rank just 22nd in the NBA with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 115.6. The Hawks have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total as an underdog. Furthermore, they have played 32 of their last 51 games Over the Total as an underdog including six overs in their eight games as a dog this season.

FINAL TAKE: The Warriors are outscoring their opponents by +9.4 PPG — and Atlanta has played 17 of their last 26 games Over the Total against teams who are outscoring their opponents by +3.0 or more PPG. Golden State has played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total against teams winning 40-49% of their games. With both of these teams playing at a fast pace, expect a high-scoring game. 10* NBA Wednesday Night O/U Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Atlanta Hawks (525) and the Golden State Warriors (526). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (4-10) has lost seven of their last eight games after their 104-99 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers as an 8-point underdog on Saturday. Dallas (7-7) snapped a four-game losing streak with their 121-119 upset win at Oklahoma City as a 7.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks were without Luka Doncic against the Thunder — but they did get back P.J. Washington in that game who is one of their best defensive players who they were without due to injury during their four-game losing streak. Dallas nailed 11 of their 27 shots from behind the arc for a 41% shooting percentage — and it was the first time they shot better than 33% from 3-point range in their last seven games. They were also very fortunate to get to the free throw line 36 times from which they scored 30 of their points. The Mavericks have played 14 of their last 18 games Under the Total after an upset win — and they have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after an upset win on the road. They have also played 13 of their last 20 games Under the Total after a win by six points or less. Doncic is questionable again tonight with his right knee contusion — and head coach Jason Kidd may elect to rest him against the M*A*S*H unit that is this Pelicans team right now. For the purposes of this play, I am assuming Doncic goes — but I will be more than content if he does not play. Dallas scores -5.7 fewer points per 100 possessions when he is off the court this season — and they allow +0.4 more points per 100 possessions when he is on the court. The Mavs rank eighth in the league with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 111.0 — and they improve to third in the league when playing at home with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 104.8. Dallas has played 8 of their 10 games at home Under the Total this season — and they have played 9 of their last 14 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s. They have also played 8 of their 10 games Under the Total this season when favored. New Orleans does not have healthy guards on their active roster right now. Overall, they are without Zion Williamson, C.J. McCollum, DeJounte Murray, Jose, Alvarado, Herb Jones, and Jordan Hawkins. Head coach Willie Green’s response to the lack of ball-handlers and play-makers is to slow the pace down. They are averaging only 93.70 adjusted possessions per game in their last five games which is the slowest rate in the NBA. Brandon Ingram is the primary ball-handler with the burden of the offense on his shoulders. They rank 29th in the league with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 102.8 in their last five games. But the play of their defense has improved with the slower pace. While they rank 28th in the NBA with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 117.2 this season, they rank 12th with a 112.2 Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in their last five games. Their last three games have seen no more than 203 combined points — and two of those three games saw no more than 195 combined points scored. The Pelicans have played 5 of their last 8 road games Under the Total after a straight-up loss at home. They have played 12 of their last 19 road games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s — and they have played 7 of their last 9 road games Under the Total in November.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have seen the Under go 20-10-1 in their 31 games as a double-digit favorite with Kidd as their head coach including 9 Unders in their last 12 games at home when laying ten or more points. 25* NBA Southwest Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Detroit Pistons (559) and the Milwaukee Bucks (560). THE SITUATION: Detroit (5-7) has won two of their last three games after their 123-121 upset win in overtime as a 1.5-point underdog last night against Miami in the NBA Cup. Milwaukee (3-8) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 99-85 victory against Toronto as a 9-point favorite last night in their opening game in the NBA Cup.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pistons are challenged with the dreaded back-to-back which requires travel to Milwaukee today — and they enter this game undermanned. Both Tim Hardaway, Jr. and Simone Fontecchi are expected to suit up tonight. Losing Hardaway in particular takes away one of their best scoring threats from the outside. As it is, Detroit has played 14 of their last 22 games Under the Total when playing for the third time in four days. The Pistons allowed the Heat to make 46.5% of their shots last night which was actually their worst defensive effort in their last six games. Consistent effort and better play on the defensive end of the court have been the primary focuses of first-year head coach J.B. Bickerstaff taking over a team that was too often lax in both areas last season. Detroit ranks a solid 14th in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they rise to fifth in the league in that metric in their last six games. In their five games on the road, the Pistons are holding their home hosts to just 44.9% shooting which is resulting in only 102.8 Points-Per-Game. Detroit has played all 5 of their road games this season Under the Total. They have also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. However, scoring remains an issue for this club. They rank 20th in the NBA in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and on the road, they are making only 45.6% of their shots which is resulting in just 103.4 PPG. Milwaukee shot a season-low 40.4% from the field last night and they will be without Damian Lillard tonight as he recovers from a concussion. The Bucks will miss the 26.0 PPG and 6.6 Assists-Per-Game he is generating this season. The Bucks offense is struggling — they rank 21st in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. Too often, the movement is not as crisp as it could be and the effort has been less than 100%. Bobby Portis’ decline symbolizes their problems. He is scoring only 12.5 PPG this season from 45.4% shooting and a 26.7% clip from behind the arc are all the lowest marks in his five seasons with the team. But after starting the season with only one win in their first six games, they are starting to play better in their last four contests with the biggest improvement being from their defensive effort. After holding Boston to 40.7% shooting in their previous game, they held the Raptors to 34.9% shooting last night. They rank 17th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency for the season — but in their last four contests, they rank fifth in the league while holding three of their four opponents to no better than 42.9% shooting. All four of those games finished Under the Total — and Milwaukee has played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total after playing three or more Unders in a row. Furthermore, the Bucks have played 4 of their 5 games at home this season Under the Total — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total when favored. Additionally, they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 9 of their last 14 games against each other Under the Total when playing in Milwaukee. 25* NBA Central Division Total of the Month with UUnder the Total in the game between the Detroit Pistons (559) and the Milwaukee Bucks (560). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (523) and the Portland Trail Blazers (524). THE SITUATION: Golden State (0-0) begins their regular season following a 46-36 record in the regular season last year. Portland (0-0) finished 21-61 in the regular season last year.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: It is a new era for the Warriors with the team not resigning Klay Thompson nor Chris Paul. I suspect head coach Steve Kerr will want this new-look team to return to their defensive roots that served as the foundation for their NBA championships. Draymond Green remains an elite defender. Kerr plans to use Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga on the court together more frequently which will give that unit three versatile defenders who can take on multiple assignments. Golden State played very good defense in the preseason as they held their opponents to scoring just 96.1 points per 100 possessions. The Warriors played 25 of their last 42 road games Under the Total last season. They have also played 15 of their last 20 road games Under the Total when favored — and they have played 9 of their last 12 road games Under the Total when favored by six points or less. They face a young Trail Blazers team that struggled to score last season. Portland ranked 29th in the league by scoring just 108.2 points per 100 possessions in non-garbage time last season.  Much of the problem was poor execution. They were last in the NBA by only making 60.3% of their shots at the rim. But some of the problem is being too reliant on midrange shooting. Portland took 32.4% of their shots from the midrange last season which was the seventh-highest mark in the league — and 10.5% of their shots were long midrangers which was the fifth highest in the NBA. They ranked last in the league by converting on just 39.2% of these midrange shots. The Trail Blazers have played 20 of their last 34 home games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 5 of their last 8 meetings Under the Total — and Portland did not score more than 106 points in three of their four meetings last season. Lastly, in the last 9 games involving West Conference teams making their season debuts, when the road team is favored, the game finished Under the Total 7 times. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (523) and the Portland Trail Blazers (524). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508) in Game Four of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Boston (79-20) took a commanding 3-0 lead in this best-of-seven series with their 106-99 upset victory as a 3-point underdog on Wednesday. Dallas (62-40) has lost four of their last five games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The 205 combined points scored in Game Three were the most points scored in this series. The Celtics have not allowed the Mavericks to score more than 99 points in the first three games in this series. Boston’s diversity of defensive talent is making things very difficult on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Nothing is coming easy for Doncic who has been guarded primarily by Jaylen Brown or Derrick White — although Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum have both defended him at times. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has been comfortable not double-teaming him when he is coming off pick-and-rolls given the good defensive players he has on the court. Irving comes off his best game in the series by scoring 35 points, yet Holiday and White had been doing a great job slowing him down. He made only 35.1% of his shots in Games One and Two without a made 3-pointer. The Celtics are also doing a great job defending the perimeter and taking away 3-point shots. Dallas has not taken more than 27 shots from behind the arc which was in Game One — and critics were concerned even then since taking only 32.6% of their shots from 3-point range had been their lowest percentage in the playoffs. But then the Mavericks took 26 shots from behind the arc in Game Two before attempting 25 shots from 3-point land in Game 3. The Celtics are doing a particularly good job taking away corner 3s. After taking 13% of their shots from the plum corner spot behind the arc in the playoffs coming into this series, the Mavs have taken only 4.9% of their shots from the field from the corner 3 spot. Dallas has played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in their last game — and they have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in two straight games. They have played 12 of their last 13 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s — and they have played 37 of their last 53 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210-219.5 point range including their last six games at home. The Mavericks have also played 13 of their last 17 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Boston has played 20 of their last 28 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. While the Celtics are playing great defense, they have not exploded on the other end of the court. Credit Dallas’ play on defense that has not given up more than 107 points in this series. The Mavericks did rank second in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency after acquiring P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford at the trade deadline. Boston has won ten games in a row —  and they have played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total after winning seven or more games in a row.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 14 of their last 20 home games Under the Total when avenging a loss to their opponent. 25* NBA Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (505) and the Dallas Mavericks (506) in Game Three of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Boston (78-20) has won nine games in a row after their 105-98 victory at home against the Mavericks as a 7-point favorite on Sunday. Dallas (62-29) has lost three of their last four games while trailing in this series by an 0-2 margin.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Boston held the Mavericks in check despite allowing them to make 47.5% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last three games. The Celtics have played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after winning eight or more games in a row. They go back on the road where they have played 19 of their last 27 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Dallas has played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. The Mavericks have also played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the third time in the last ten days — and they have 7 of their 8 games this season Under the Total under those circumstances. Dallas returns home where they have played 36 of their last 52 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s. The Mavs have also played 12 of their last 16 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: Boston has played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams winning 60-70% of their games — and Dallas has played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams winning 70% or more of their games. 8* NBA Wednesday Night Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (505) and the Dallas Mavericks (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (503) and the Boston Celtics (504) in Game Two of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Dallas (62-38) has lost two of their last three games after their 107-89 loss on the road against the Celtics as a 6.5-point underdog on Thursday. Boston (77-20) has won eight straight games while taking a 1-0 lead in this best-of-seven series.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks trailed at halftime by a 63-42 score — and they have played 14 of their last 22 games Over the Total after trailing by 15 or more points at halftime in their last game. Dallas was ice-cold in Game One as they only made 41.7% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last eight games. They only hit 7 of 27 shots from behind the arc — and those 27 shot attempts from 3-point land were their second fewest all season. Their 26% shooting percentage from 3-point range was their worst shooting percentage from deep in the postseason — and their players not named Luka Doncic only made 3 of their 15 shots from downtown. The offensive effort will be better in Game Two. Kidd has called on more player movement and more ball movement to get Doncic and Kyrie Irving from getting lulled into playing one-on-one isolation ball. Dallas only had nine assists in the game — and they assisted on just 22.5% of their made field goals. Irving led the team with a mere two assists. The Mavericks assisted on 59.6% of their made baskets in the regular season — so they should be much better in this area in Game Two. The Celtics played Doncic and Irving straight up without offering help when they switched off pick-and-rolls. If Dallas can simply attack this approach with more aggressiveness, they should get better scoring opportunities for Doncic and Irving — and that will open up more 3-point shooting. Dallas has played 11 of their last 18 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. And in their last 7 second games in a playoff series, they have played 5 of these games Over the Total. Boston played their best defensive game in their last nine contests by holding the Mavs to 41.7% shooting. The Celtics have not allowed more than 105 points in two straight games — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in two or more games in a row. They have also played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total when playing for just the second time in the last seven days. They stay at home where they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total with the Total set in the 210s.

FINAL TAKE: Dallas has played 19 of their last 28 games Over the Total on the road when avenging a loss where their opponent scored 100 or more points. 10* NBA Dallas-Boston ABC-TV O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (503) and the Boston Celtics (504). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (501) and the Boston Celtics (502) in Game One of the NBA Finals. THE SITUATION: Dallas (62-37) has won six of their last seven games after their 124-103 upset win at Minnesota as a 4.5-point underdog that ended that series in five games last Thursday. Boston (76-20) has won seven straight games after completing their four-game sweep against Indiana with a 105-102 win on the road as a 7.5-point road favorite back on May 27th.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Celtics only shot 44.9% from the field to close out their series with the Pacers which was the worst shooting effort in their last seven games. They did hold Indiana to 46.0% shooting which was the best defensive performance in their last five games. Boston has played 25 of their last 29 games Over the Total after holding their previous opponent to no more than 105 points — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a game where both teams scored 105 or fewer points. They have also played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total after winning six or more games in a row. The Celtics get big man Kristaps Porzingis back for Game One tonight after he missed extended time with a calf injury. While no one knows how effective he will be on the offensive end of the court, he will draw attention from the Mavericks’ defenders which should open up even more space for the Boston scorers and 3-point shooters. With the extended time off, both teams may be rusty — but both teams will have fresh legs so missed shots will create fast break scoring opportunities. The Celtics have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total when playing with three or more days of rest. They have also played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total in the opening game of a new playoff series. They return home to TD Garden where they have an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 121.7 in the postseason — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total at home in the playoffs. Boston has also played 13 of their last 17 home games Over the Total with the Total set in the 210s. Dallas played their best defensive game in their last three contests by holding the Timberwolves to 42.7% shooting last Thursday. The Mavericks have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after a straight-up win. They stay on the road where they have an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 115.1 in the playoffs this season. Dallas has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total on the road. They have also played 11 of their last 17 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Boston won both regular-season meetings between these two teams after their 138-110 victory at home as an 8.5-point favorite on March 1st — and the Mavericks have played 16 of their last 22 games Over the Total on the road when avenging a loss where they gave up at least 110 points. 10* NBA Dallas-Boston ABC-TV O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (501) and the Boston Celtics (502). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (511) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (512) in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals. THE SITUATION: Dallas (61-37) had won five games in a row before their 105-100 upset loss at home to the Timberwolves as a 1.5-point favorite on Tuesday. Minnesota (65-32) still trails by a 3-1 margin in this series.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Dallas should play better defense tonight after allowing the Timberwolves to make 52.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive performance in their last 12 games. The Mavericks allowed Minnesota to make 50.6% of their shots in Game Two — but they have then played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after allowing their last two opponents to make at least 50% of their shots. Additionally, Dallas has played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in their last game. Minnesota played their best defensive game in this series by holding the Mavs to 42.0% shooting. This improved play on that end of the court may be sustainable with head coach Chris Finch making the adjustment to move Jaden McDaniels off Luka Doncic and onto Kyrie Irving. Anthony Edwards and Kyle Anderson have been doing a better job defending Doncic — and McDaniels has had success slowing down Irving. The Timberwolves also enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last 22 games by making 52.7% of their shots on Tuesday. Minnesota has played 4 straight games Under the Total after losing three of their last four games. They have also played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total after losing two of their last three games. The T-Wolves had failed to cover the point spread in three straight games before their upset win in Game Four — and they have then played 13 of their last 19 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after playing a game where no more than 205 combined points in their last game. 8* NBA Dallas-Minnesota TNT O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (511) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508) in Game Four of the Western Conference Finals. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (64-32) has lost six of their last eight games after their 116-107 loss on the road against the Mavericks as a 1.5-point underdog on Sunday. Dallas (61-36) has won five games in a row and seven of their last eight to take a 3-0 series lead. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks took Game Three despite allowing the Timberwolves to make 50.6% which was the worst defensive effort in their last 11 contests. But they also nailed 55.9% of their shots which was their best shooting performance in their last 44 games. Dallas has played 12 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a game where they shot 55% or more of their shots. The Mavs are due a visit from the Regression Gods regarding their shooting in this series. While they are making 58.1% of their shots, their expected field goal percentage which measures their shot location relative to league shooting averages is just 53.0%. The Mavericks have played 19 of their last 27 home games Under the Total after winning on their home court in their last game. Additionally, they have played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total after winning five or more games in a row -- and they have played 22 of their last 31 games Under the Total at home after winning six or seven of their last eight contests. They have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 26 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. Furthermore, they have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s -- and they have played 35 of their last 51 games Under the Total at home with the Total set in the 210-219.5 point range. They have also played 33 of their last 50 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Minnesota played their worst defensive game in their last six contests by allowing the Mavericks to make 55.9%. of their shots. They did nail 50.6% of their shots on Sunday which was the best shooting performance in their last nine contests. The Timberwolves have not covered the point spread in this series -- and they have played 12 of their last 18 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games. All three games in this series have finished Over the Total -- and Minnesota has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when facing elimination in a playoff series. 

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 19 of their last 28 games Under the Total when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 25* NBA Western Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (507) and the Dallas Mavericks (508). Best of luck for us -- Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (505) and the Indiana Pacers (506) in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals. THE SITUATION: Boston (75-20) has won six games in a row after their 114-111 victory on the road as a 7-point road favorite on Saturday. Indiana (55-44) has lost four of their last six games while dropping the first three games in this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: This decision is largely a contrarian reaction to the fact that both of these teams have played five straight Overs coming into this Game Four. But there is more. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported at 5 PM ET that he thinks that it is “unlikely” that Tyrese Haliburton will attempt to play tonight with him being listed as questionable with a hamstring injury. While Haliburton wants to play, management sees the big picture with their franchise player and will unlikely want to risk a more serious injury with this series all but decided. We were on the Pacers in Game Three despite not having Haliburton play. They made 50.5% of their shots and built a 15-point lead. They had an eight-point lead late in the game — but they managed to blow that advantage to lose for the third straight time in this series. Losing their best player is bad enough, but the other resulting concern is that Indiana’s shot profile is simply unsustainable to score 111 points (even when playing at a fast tempo). Haliburton plays a critical role in the spacing in their half-court offense for their 3-point shooting. They only made 4 of 20 shots from behind the arc on Friday — not only is a 20% clip not going to get it done, but neither is taking only 21% of their shots from the field from 3-point range in 2024. The Pacers took 46% of their shots from midrange — and only 32% of their shots came at the rim. Overall, the Pacers only took 54% of their shots either at the rim or behind the 3-point line. They stayed competitive in the game because they shot 59.2% inside the arc — but that is simply not sustainable especially when not attacking the rim. Boston has arguably been outplayed in two of three games in this series. They need to use this game to play harder on defense. Indiana has shot at least 50.5% from the field in each game in this series. The Celtics have allowed four straight opponents to shoot 48.1% from the field — but they have then played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after allowing four or more straight opponents to make at least 47.5% from the field. Boston has played five straight Overs — but they have then played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total after playing five or more Overs in a row. They have also played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total on the road after a point spread loss. 

FINAL TAKE: The Celtics are outscoring their opponents by +11.1 Points-Per-Game this season — and that helps trigger an empirical angle supporting the Under that has been 76% effective. In games with the Total set at 220 or higher, when a team is outscoring their opponents by at least +6 PPG and has played five or more Overs in a row, that game finished Under the Total in 32 of these last 42 situations. 25* NBA Eastern Conference Total of the Year is with Under the Total in the game between the Boston Celtics (505) and the Indiana Pacers (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (555) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (556) in Game Two of the Western Conference Finals. THE SITUATION: Dallas (59-36) has won five of their last six games after their 108-105 upset victory as a 4.5-point underdog on the road against the Timberwolves on Wednesday. Minnesota (64-30) has lost four of their last six games. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks caught the Timberwolves tired and off their defensive game in the first half of Game One of this series — they nailed 24 of their 33 shots inside the arc in the first 24 minutes for a 73% field goal percentage which is a likely anomaly against the team with the best defensive 2-point field goal percentage in the NBA. Dallas has played 12 of their last 14 games Under the Total after an upset win — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a win on the road by three points or less. Additionally, they have played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game. The Mavs have won three straight games — and they have played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total after winning three or more games in a row. They have also covered the point spread in four of their last six games — and they have then played 30 of their last 45 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Minnesota allowed the Mavericks to make 49.3% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last three games. Head coach Chris Finch should make some adjustments including accepting the fact that Jaden McDaniels cannot slow down Luka Doncic. The Timberwolves have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a loss by three points or less. And while Game One finished Over the 207-point Total, they have also played 31 of their last 45 home games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Over the Total in their last game. Furthermore, Minnesota has played 12 of their last 15 second games of a new playoff series Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 12 of their last 18 games Under the Total when avenging an upset loss — and they have played 21 of their last 33 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed 100 or more points. 10* NBA Dallas-Minnesota TNT O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (555) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (556). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (553) and the Boston Celtics (554) in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals. THE SITUATION: Indiana (55-42) had won two games in a row before their 133-128 loss in overtime on the road against the Celtics as a 10-point underdog on Tuesday. Boston (73-20) has won eight of their last nine games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pacers allowed the Celtics to make 47.5% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Indiana has played 19 of their last 27 games Under the Total on the road after a point-spread win. They have committed at least five more personal fouls in three straight games -- and they have played 12 of their last 20 games Under the Total after committing five or more personal fouls than their opponent in two or more games in a row. Head coach Rick Carlisle is likely to engage in less small-ball tonight after T.J. McDonnell got burned trying to defend bigger Celtics' players. The Pacers got outscored by 8 points when he was on the court. Less small-ball tends to result in lower-scoring games. Boson needs to tighten up on defense after allowing Indiana to make 53.5% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. The Celtics have played 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win when they did not cover the point spread as the favorite. Boston has not covered the point spread in their last three games despite being on a four-game winning streak -- and they have played 15 of their last 19 games Under the Total after winning two or more games in a row when they did not cover the point spread as the favorite. 

FINAL TAKE: The Celtics have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total in the second game of a new playoff series. 10* NBA Indiana-Boston ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (553) and the Boston Celtics (554). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (549) and the Boston Celtics (550) in Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals. THE SITUATION: Indiana (55-41) has won four of their last five games after their 130-109 upset victory in New York as a 2.5-point underdog in Game Seven of that series on Sunday. Boston (72-20) has won 10 of their last 12 games after their 113-98 victory against Cleveland as a 15.5-point favorite last Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pacers made 67.1% of their shots on Sunday in a stunning display which was the best shooting effort in their last 57 games and second-best performance of the season. Indiana has played 19 of their last 30 games Under the Total after making at least 55% of their shots in their last game — and they have played 4 straight Unders after a game where they shot 60% or better from the field. The Pacers have also played 19 of their last 27 games on the road Under the Total after a point spread win -0- and they have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a win by 20 or more points. Boston allowed the Cavaliers to make 48.1% of their shots while ending that series in five games which was the worst defensive effort in their last three games — so they should tighten things up on that end of the court tonight. The Celtics did not cover the point spread in their last two games against the Cavaliers despite winning both contests — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after winning two games in a row where they did not cover the point spread. Boston has also played 15 of their last 25 home games Under the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Pacers score 121.9 Points-Per-Game — but the Celtics have played 12 of their last 19 games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams who score 116 or more PPG. 8* NBA Tuesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (549) and the Boston Celtics (550). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (539) and Denver Nuggets (540) in Game Seven of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (63-29) has won seven of their last ten games while evening this series at 3-3 with their 115-70 victory as a 2.5-point favorite on Thursday. Denver (64-29) had their three-game winning streak snapped with the setback.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves played their best game of the season by holding the Nuggets to just 30.2% shooting — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after holding their last opponent to no better than 35% shooting. They have also played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total after beating a Northwest Division rival — and they have played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a win at home against a divisional opponent. Minnesota has played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. Denver has played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a double-digit loss on the road. They have also played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. The Nuggets did cover the point spread in three straight games before their loss on Thursday — and they have played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in three of their last four games. Denver returns home where they have played 25 of their last 38 games Under the Total when favored by up to six points. 

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 3 of their last 4 playoff games Under the Total when facing elimination and the Nuggets have played 6 of their last 8 playoff games Under the Total in potential closeout circumstances. 10* NBA Sunday Night Discounted O/U Deal with Minnesota Timberwolves (539) and Denver Nuggets (540). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (541) and the New York Knicks (542) in Game Seven of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Indiana (54-41) forced this Game Seven with their 116-103 victory as a 5-point favorite at home on Friday. New York (57-37) has lost three of the last four games in this series.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pacers have played 17 of their last 25 games on the road Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 19 of their last 26 games Under the Total on the road after a point spread victory. They have played 12 of their last 16 games on the road Under the Total after a double-digit win — and they have played 13 of their last 16 road games Under the Total after a win at home by 10 or more points. Now they go back on the road where they have played 3 of their last 4 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 200s. Additionally, the Pacers have played 16 of their last 19 games Under the Total in a road game in the playoffs where they could potentially close out the series. New York has played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a double-digit loss — and they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a loss by 10 or more points on the road. The Knicks return home where they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: New York has played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total at home when playing with revenge from a loss — and they have played 9 of their last 10 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on the road by double-digits. 25* NBA 2nd Round Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (541) and the New York Knicks (542). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (531) and the Dallas Mavericks (532) in Game Six of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Oklahoma City (63-28) has lost three of their last four games after their 104-92 upset loss at home to the Mavericks as a 4.5-point underdog on Wednesday. Dallas (57-36) can close things out tonight given their 3-2 series lead.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Thunder allowed the Mavericks to make 52.6% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 13 games. Oklahoma City ranked fourth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in the regular season — and they have still held five of their last seven opponents to no higher than 42.9% shooting. The Thunder have played 20 of their last 29 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game. They have also played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after playing a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. Oklahoma City goes back on the road where they rank just 11th of the 16 teams that made the playoffs with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency number of 103.6. They are making only 32.7% of their shots from behind the arc against the Mavericks in this series. The Thunder have played 10 of their last 13 road games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. Dallas enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last six games by making 52.6% of their shots. The Mavericks have played 34 of their last 65 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 12 of their last 13 games Under the Total after an upset victory. Dallas has played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a game where neither team scored more than 105 points. The Mavs have won five of their last seven games — and they have played 21 of their last 32 games Under the Total after winning five or six of their last seven contests. They have also covered the point spread in five of their last seven games — and they have played 24 of their last 32 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. They return home where they rank only 10th of the 16 playoff teams in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency this postseason. Dallas has played 12 of their last 18 home games Under the Total when favored by up to six points.

FINAL TAKE: The Thunder have played 16 of their last 22 games Under the Total when avenging an upset loss — and they have played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total when playing with revenge on the road. 25* NBA 2nd Round Western Conference Playoff Total of the Yea with Under the Total in the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder (531) and the Dallas Mavericks (532). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:35 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (529) and the Indiana Pacers (530) in Game Six of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (57-36) snapped their two-game losing streak with their 121-91 victory as a 1-point favorite on Tuesday. Indiana (53-41) looks to stave off elimination as they now trail in this series by a 3-2 margin. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: These two teams have played three straight Unders in this series — and another lower-scoring game is likely tonight. The Knicks have played 13 of their last 21 games Under the Total after a win by 15 or more points. They have also played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last game. New York outrebounded the Pacers by a 53-29 margin in Game Five — and they have played 23 of their last 34 games Under the Total after outrebounding their last opponent by 15 or more rebounds. They have also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after outrebounding their previous opponent by 20 or more rebounds. The Knicks have played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total after playing three or more Unders in a row. They have also played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. Indiana returns home where they have held the Knicks to 40.2% shooting and just 195 combined points in Games Three and Four. 

FINAL TAKE: The Pacers may be making 50.4% of their shots this season — but the Knicks have played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total against teams who are making at least 48% of their shots. 8* NBA Friday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (529) and the Indiana Pacers (530). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (525) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (526) in Game Six of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (64-28) took a 3-2 series lead on Tuesday with their 112-97 victory as a 3.5-point favorite in Game Five. Minnesota (62-29) has lost three straight games in this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets’ offensive explosion continued as they nailed 55.0% of their shots making it their third straight game where they made at least 53.7% of their shots. Denver has played 31 of their last 49 games Under the Total after shooting 50% or better from the field in their last two games — and they have played 7 straight Unders after making 50% or more of their shots in three straight games. Additionally, the Nuggets have played 22 of their last 35 games Under the Total after a straight-up win at home. They have played 19 of their last 29 games Under the Total after a win by 10 or more points — and they have played 27 of their last 39 games Under the Total after a win by 15 or more points. They have also played 15 of their last 23 games Under the Total after winning three or more games in a row. Minnesota should tighten things up on defense after allowing the Nuggets to make 55.0% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 11 games. After Denver took 47% of their shots at the rim — and they made 73.5% of these attempts — look for Rudy Gobert to go back to protecting the rim and daring Aaron Gordon or Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to beat them with their shooting in a hostile environment. The last three games in this series have finished Over the Total — but the Timberwolves have played 30 of their last 44 home games Under the Total after playing an Over in their last game. They have also played 15 of their last 19 home games Under the Total after playing two or more Overs in a row — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row. Minnesota has not covered the point spread in their last three games — and they have played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games. 

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 10* NBA Denver-Minnesota ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (525) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (526). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:35 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (523) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (524) in Game Five of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Dallas (56-36) had won two games in a row in this series before their 100-96 upset victory as a 1.5-point underdog on Monday. Oklahoma City (63-27) has won 11 of their last 13 games while evening this series at 2-2. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The hobbled health of Luka Doncic continues to impact his effectiveness. He is only scoring 22.0 Points-Per-Game in this series — and he is making only 39% of his shots including just 31% of his 3-point attempts. The Mavericks have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. And while they have covered the point spread in four of their last six games, they have then played 29 of their last 43 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Dallas continues to compete on the other end of the court — they have held the Thunder to just 101 and 100 points in their last two games. The Mavericks have played 17 of their last 25 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game — and they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in two or more games in a row. Oklahoma City has played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a win by six points or less — and they have played 21 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a straight-up win on the road. They have played 6 straight Unders after an upset victory on the road. The Thunder have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. Furthermore, Oklahoma City has not allowed more than 105 points in their last two games — and they have played 13 of their last 20 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 100 points in their last game. They have played 19 of their last 28 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in two or more games in a row. They return home where they have played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total after playing their two previous games on the road. 

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 7 of their 8 games Under the Total with the total set in the 210s — and they have played 3 of these last 4 games Under the Total when playing on the road. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (523) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (524). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:35 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (519) and the Denver Nuggets (520) in Game Five of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (62-28) has lost the last two games in this series after their 115-107 upset loss as a 3-point favorite on Sunday. Denver (63-38) has evened this series at 2-2.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves need to tighten things up on defense after allowing the Nuggets to make 57.0% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 61 games. Minnesota has played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after losing two of their last three games. And while the last two games finished Over the Total, the Timberwolves have played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total after playing two or more games in a row Over the Total. Denver enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last 13 contests by making 57.0% of their shots. They shot 53.7% of their shots in Game Three — but they have then played 31 of their last 48 games Under the Total after making 50.0% of their shots in two or more games in a row. Additionally, they have played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a win on the road against a Northwest Division rival — and they have played 35 of their last 60 games Under the Total after winning two or more games in a row. They return home where they have played 25 of their last 37 home games Under the Total when favored by up to six points.

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 20 of their last 31 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed 100 or more points. 8* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (519) and the Denver Nuggets (520). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (511) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (512) in Game Four of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (62-28) won their first game in this series with their 117-90 victory as a 3.5-point underdog on Friday. Minnesota (62-27) had won six games in a row before that loss — they hold a 2-1 lead in this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets enjoyed their best overall shooting game in over a month. Their 53.7% shooting percentage from the field was their best mark in their last ten games. They made 14 of their 28 shots (50%) from behind the arc. They scored at a 112.4 points per 100 possession rate in the half-court which was their most efficient clip in the postseason by 11 points. They scored 37 points in the third quarter alone. Head coach Michael Malone made two key adjustments to unlock the offense: (1) he had Nikola Jokic or Aaron Gordon dribble the ball up the court to ask less of Jamal Murray and (2) he emphasized getting the ball across mid-court in two to three seconds to quicker get into their half-court offense. It worked — but now the onus is on the Timberwolves’ head coach Chris Finch and his coaching staff to determine their counter move with the two days of preparation. Furthermore, the ongoing concern for this team is their lack of depth combined with their lingering injury situation. Jamal Murray, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Reggie Jackson are all questionable with injuries -- and even if they play, their continuing effectiveness will be a concern. Denver also increased their intensity on defense. The biggest tactical change was that Jokic was less concerned with defending the paint to instead use his length to disrupt things on the perimeter. The Timberwolves only made 10 of their 33 shots (30%) from behind the arc despite attempting 45% of their shots from 3-point range. The Nuggets have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a win on the road against an Atlantic Division rival. They have also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a win on the road by double-digits. Additionally, they have played 19 of their last 28 games Under the Total after a win by 10 or more points — and they have played 17 of their last 23 games Under the Total after a win by 20 or more points. They have played 20 of their last 33 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game. And in their last 13 games on the road when listed in the +/- 3-point range, Denver has played 8 of these games Under the Total. Minnesota will not be as sluggish as they were in Game Three — but they ranked a mediocre 12th in the league in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in the half-court. Jokic daring Karl-Anthony Towns to attack the glass may be worth the risk since KAT so often becomes passive and settles for outside shots. Towns only scored 14 points on a mere seven shots from the field on Friday. The T-Wolves should play much better on defense after allowing the Nuggets to make 53.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last seven games. Minnesota has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a loss on their home court — and they have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a loss at home to a Northwest Division rival. And while Game Three finished Under the Total, the Timberwolves have played 30 of their last 43 home games Under the Total after playing an Under in their last game. 

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total when avenging an upset loss — and they have played 18 of their last 25 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed 110 or more points. 25* NBA Northwest Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (511) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

FRANK’S CUTTING ROOM FLOOR FOR FRIDAY, 5/10:

My “Cutting Room Floor” plays are the situations I considered the closest to being worthy of investment but did not make the “final cut” for my official plays today for subscribers. The last play I cut for Friday was with Over the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Denver (61-28) has lost three of their last four games after their 106-80 upset loss at home to the Timberwolves as a 6.5-point favorite on Monday. The Nuggets go on the road where they have played 6 straight Overs with the Total set in the 200-209.5 point range. They have also played 4 of their last 5 third games in a playoff series Over the Total. Minnesota (62-26) has won six games in a row — and they have played 24 of their last 39 games Over the Total after winning two or more games in a row. The Timberwolves have held the Nuggets to no more than 99 points in this series — and they have played 14 of their last 17 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last two games. Take the Over. Best of luck — Frank.

Frank Sawyer’s Hollywood Sports made it FOUR STRAIGHT WINNERS this week to fuel their 41 of 65 (63%) All-Sports run with featured 25*/20*/10* plays after a 2-0 Thursday sweep! Frank CA$HED the Dallas-Oklahoma City Over to continue his long-running 91 of 150 (61%) NBA featured play run — and now he furthers his 5 of 7 (71%) NBA Game of the Year/Month sides mark with his 25* NBA Northwest Division Game of the Year with the Denver-Minnesota ATS winner on ESPN at 9:35 PM ET! DO NOT MISS OUT!

At 9:35 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (565) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (566) in Game Two of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Dallas (54-35) had won two games in a row before their 117-95 loss on the road against the Thunder as a 4-point favorite on Tuesday. Oklahoma City (62-25) has won 10 games in a row while taking a 1-0 lead in this best-of-seven series. 

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Dallas only made 39.3% of their shots on Tuesday which was the worst shooting effort in their last six games. Luka Doncic does not appear to be too close to 100% as he deals with a right knee injury. After scoring 33.9 Points-Per-Game in the regular season, he is down more than five PPG to 28.3 PPG in the postseason. But the impact of his injury is even more pronounced on the other end of the court where he is often not much inspired to play tough defense anyways. If Doncic continues to be ineffective in the half-court, Kyrie Irving will need to take more responsibility in leading the offensive attack. The injury to Maxi Kleber is also impacting this team as he offers them a versatile defender when he is healthy. As it is, the Mavericks have played 22 of their last 33-second games in an NBA playoff series Over the Total. They have also played 31 of their last 47 games in the second round of the playoffs Over the Total. Oklahoma City has played 22 of their last 35 games Over the Total after a straight-up win at home — and they have played 25 of their last 37 games Over the Total after a double-digit win on their home court. The Thunder have also played 10 of their last 12 home games Over the Total when playing for the second time in five days. Oklahoma City is playing great defense — the 39.3% field goal percentage of Dallas was the highest that the Thunder have allowed in their last three games. OKC has played three straight Unders — but they have played 25 of their last 39 games Over the Total after playing two or more Overs in a row. They have also played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 14 of their last 20 road games Over the Total when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 10* NBA Thursday Night Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (565) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (566). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:05 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (561) and the New York Knicks (562) in Game Two of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Indiana (51-39) has lost two of their last three games after their 121-117 loss on the road to the Knicks as a 5.5-point underdog on Monday. New York (55-34) has won 10 of their last 12 games.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Pacers allowed the Knicks to make 53.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 16 games — but it was also the third time in their last four games where they allowed their opponent to make at least 51.1% of their shots from the field. Indiana does not have a defensive answer to Jalen Brunson who scored 43 points and got to the free-throw line 14 times on Monday. The Pacers have played 25 of their last 38 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 14 of their last 22 games Over the Total after a loss on the road. Additionally, Indiana has played 41 of their last 68 games Over the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. This is just the fifth time all season that they are playing in a game with the Total set in the 210-219.5 point range — and they have played 3 of those previous 4 games Over the Total. New York has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a straight-up win where they did not cover the point spread as the favorite. They have also played 22 of their last 33 games Over the Total after winning five or six of their last seven games. The Knicks have played 19 of their 27 games this season Over the Total with the Total set in the 210s — and they have played 10 of their last 14 home games Over the Total with the Total set in the 210-219.5 point range. New York has played three straight Overs — and they have played 25 of their last 41 games Over the Total following a game that finished Over the Total. Additionally, they have played 16 of their last 24 games Over the Total after playing two or more Overs in a row — and they have played 11 of their last 15 games Over the Total after playing three or more Overs in a row. The Knicks will be without Mitchell Robinson indefinitely after he suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle on Monday — and that means more playing time for Precious Achiwa. Achiwa means higher scores at the margins since he is not as good a defensive player as Robinson — but he does offer more on the perimeter. 

FINAL TAKE: The Pacers have played 56 of their last 92 games Over the Total when avenging a same-season loss. 10* NBA Indiana-New York TNT O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (561) and the New York Knicks (562). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (557) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (558) in Game One of their Western Conference Semifinals series. THE SITUATION: Dallas (54-34) has won four of their last five games after their 114-101 victory against the Los Angeles Clippers as an 8-point favorite on Friday to end that series in six games. Oklahoma City (61-25) has won nine games in a row after their 97-89 victory at New Orleans as a 4.5-point favorite last Monday to complete that four-game sweep. 

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: Dallas found their offensive groove in the second half of their series with the Clippers. Their 48.2% field goal percentage in Game Six on Friday was the worst shooting mark in their last three games — they have scored 116.0 Points-Per-Game in those contests. Luka Doncic has been very productive when playing on the road — and he has been particularly effective when playing with at least three days of rest. In those ten games this season, he is scoring 35.6 PPG. The Mavericks have played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points. Oklahoma City held the Pelicans to just 37.6% shooting to close out that series in Game Four which was the best defensive effort in their last four games. They also made only 42.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 11 games. The Thunder have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after failing to score more than 100 points in their last game. And while they have held their last two opponents to 38.5% or worse shooting, they have then played 4 straight Overs after not allowing their last two opponents to make at least 39.0% of their shots. Both those games finished Under the Total — and they have played 25 of their last 38 games Over the Total after playing two or more Unders in a row. They have also played 7 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days. They host the first two games of this series where they have played 16 of their last 27 home games Over the Total with the Total set in the 210s — and they have played 8 of their last 13 home games Over the Total when favored by up to six points. 

FINAL TAKE: The Thunder won three of the four games between these two teams in the regular season after a 135-86 victory on the final day of the regular season on April 14th. The Mavericks have played 16 of their last 23 games Over the Total when on the road and playing with revenge — and they have played 14 of their last 19 road games Over the Total when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 10* NBA Tuesday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (557) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (558). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Orlando Magic (545) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (546) in Game Seven of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Orlando (50-38) forced a decisive Game Seven in this series with their 103-96 victory at home against the Cavaliers as a 4.5-point favorite on Friday. Cleveland (51-37) has lost three of their last four games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Magic took Game Six despite allowing the Cavaliers to make 48.8% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last eight games. Orlando finished the regular season ranked third in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. In this series, they have held Cleveland to just 44.0% shooting which has resulted in only 94.2 Points-Per-Game. But the Magic are only making 43.4% of their shots in this series resulting in just 101.3 PPG themselves. Their shooting has been worse on the road where they have only made 38.1% of their shots including 25.2% of their 3s in their three games in Cleveland in this series. The Magic are scoring just 90.7 PPG in those three games while scoring more than 86 points only once. Orlando has played 16 of their last 23 games Under the Total after playing a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. And while the Magic have eight fewer personal fouls in each of the last two games, they have then played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after committing at least five fewer personal fouls than their opponent in two straight games. Cleveland enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last seven games by making 48.8% of their shots on Friday. But the Cavaliers have not scored more than 104 points in this series — and they have not scored more than 97 points in five of the six games. Cleveland has played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total after not scoring more than 105 points in three or more games in a row. They have also played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after playing two games in a row where neither team scored more than 105 points. The foul situation in the last two games has helped Orlando take 16 and 10 more shots at the free throw line as well — and the Cavaliers have played 24 of their last 34 home games Under the Total after playing two games in a row where they took at least 10 fewer shots at the charity stripe.

FINAL TAKE: Cleveland has played 14 of their last 22 games Under the Total when playing with revenge. 25* NBA 1st Round Eastern Conference Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Orlando Magic (545) and the Cleveland Cavaliers (546). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (527) and the Dallas Mavericks (528) in Game Six of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (53-34) has lost six of their last eight games after their 123-93 loss at home to the Mavericks on Wednesday. Dallas (53-34) has a 3-2 series lead with the chance to close out the series tonight. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Clippers allowed the Mavericks to make 54.0% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 16 contests. They miss Kawhi Leonard who remains an outstanding defender — but head coach Ty Lue will demand a better effort from his players on that end of the court. Leonard will miss tonight’s game as well as he, as always, manages his knee problem — and the Clippers also miss his scoring. Los Angeles has not scored more than 93 points in three of the last four games in this series. The Clippers have played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a loss by 10 or more points — and they have played 30 of their last 45 games Under the Total after a loss by 15 or more points. They have also played 14 of their last 22 games Under the Total after losing two of their last three games — and they have played 4 straight Unders after losing six or seven of their last eight games. They have played 17 of their last 25 games Under the Total when playing for the second time in five days. And in their last 13 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points, Los Angeles has played 8 of these games Under the Total. Dallas enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last nine games by nailing 54.0% of their shots. The Mavs should continue to be tough to score on in this series. The additions of Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington at the trade deadline transformed the defensive makeup of this team. Since February 5th, they ranked third in the NBA in opponent’s effective field goal percentage after previously ranking 26th in the league. And in their last 15 games in the regular season, they led the NBA by holding their opponents to 106.1 points per 100 adjusted possessions. Dallas has played 23 of their last 33 games Under the Total after a win on the road by 10 or more points. They have also played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a win by 15 or more points — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a victory by 30 or more points. Furthermore, the Mavericks have played 15 of their last 22 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game — and they have played 13 of their last 16 games at home Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last game. 

FINAL TAKE: The Clippers have played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on their home court — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total when on the road playing with revenge from a same-season loss. 25* NBA 1st Round Playoff Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (527) and the Dallas Mavericks (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (511) and the Philadelphia 76ers (512) in Game Six of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (53-34) has lost two of the last three games in this series after their 112-106 upset loss in overtime at home to the 76ers as a 4-point underdog on Tuesday. Philadelphia (50-38) still trails by a 3-2 margin in this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: It took overtime for Game Five to finish Over the Total — that game was tied at 97 at the end of regulation. The Knicks made 46.5% of their shots which was their second-best shooting effort in this series. But New York’s 3-point shooting has collapsed. After only making 7 of their 27 shots from behind the arc, they shot just 10 of their 36 shots from 3-point range on Tuesday — that’s a 27.0% shooting percentage from 3-point land in their last two games. The Knicks have not shot better than 43% in three of the five games in this series. But they are playing tough defense led by O.G. Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein. They are holding the Sixers to a low 54.8% shooting percentage at the rim. New York has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after an upset loss at home. And while they have failed to cover the point spread in five of their last seven games, they have then played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. Philadelphia only made 48.1% of their shots at the rim on Tuesday. And despite them making 15 of their 39 shots (38.5%) from behind the arc, they only scored at a 110.9 points per 100 possession rate. For comparison's sake, the 76ers scored at a 116.3 points per 100 adjusted possession rate in the regular season — and their Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in Game Five would rank 26th in the league if extended for the entire season. Joel Embiid deserves credit for taking the court — but he is so banged up with several maladies including his chronic left knee and now Bell's palsy. He needs rest — and he simply is not in the physical state to take his game down low. Instead, he is trying to survive out on the perimeter — but in his last two games, he is making only 36.8% of his shots including just a 20% shooting mark from behind the arc. Philadelphia has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after an upset victory. The Sixers have also played 8 of their last 12 home games Under the Total with the Total set from 200 to 209.5.

FINAL TAKE: The 76ers have played 7 of their last 11 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-pint range. The Knicks have played 13 of their last 22 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (511) and the Philadelphia 76ers (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (505) and the Los Angeles Clippers (506) in Game Five of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Dallas (52-34) has lost four of their last six games after their 116-111 upset loss at home to the Clippers on Monday. Los Angeles (53-33) evened this series at 2-2 with the victory. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mavericks fell behind by 30 points — but they almost rallied to steal that game. They made 49.4% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last six games. But they allowed the Clippers to make 53.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last four games. Dallas has played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. Los Angeles enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last nine contests by making 53.7% of their shots -- even without the injured Kawhi Leonard. They also played their worst defensive game in their last 12 contests by allowing the Mavs to shoot 49.4% from the field. The Clippers have played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a win by six points or less. Their victory snapped a two-game losing streak — and they have also played 16 of their last 22 games at home Under the Total after losing two of their last three games. They return home where they have played 11 of their last 13 home games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. 

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 10 of their last 15 games on the road when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and the Clippers have played 13 of their last 16 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 8* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (505) and the Los Angeles Clippers (506). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (567) and the Milwaukee Bucks (568) in Game Five of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Indiana (50-37) has won three games in a row in this series after their 126-113 victory as a 10-point favorite on Sunday. Milwaukee (50-36) has lost five of their last six games and now trails in this series by a 3-1 margin. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pacers pulled out Game Four despite allowing the Bucks to make 51.1% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last five games. Indiana has played 15 of their last 22 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 17 of their last 22 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after covering the point spread as a double-digit favorite. Additionally, the Pacers have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total on the road as the favorite. Despite being without the injured Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, Milwaukee made 51.1% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last six contests. Antetokounmpo and Lillard are doubtful to play tonight. The Bucks have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a loss on the road by double-digits. They have also played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after losing two games in a row — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after losing five of their last six games. Milwaukee has also played 11 of their last 18 games Under the Total as an underdog. 

FINAL TAKE: The Bucks have played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total when avenging a double-digit loss. 8* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana Pacers (567) and the Milwaukee Bucks (568). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (561) and the Denver Nuggets (562) in Game Five of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (50-38) avoided the sweep and snapped an 11-game losing streak to the Nuggets with a 119-108 upset victory at home as a 3.5-point underdog on Saturday. Denver (60-26) had won four games in a row before that loss. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets may be without Jamal Murray tonight who is questionable with a calf injury. Murray scored 21.2 Points-Per-Game in the regular season while dishing out 6.5 Assists-Per-Game — and he is one of their best deep threats by making 42.5% of his 3s. Reggie Jackson will take his likely take his place in the starting lineup — but he is banged up with an ankle injury and has been battling an illness for more than a week. Denver needs to tighten things up on defense after allowing the Lakers to make 52.2% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last five games. The Nuggets have played 22 of their last 35 games Under the Total after winning six or seven of their last eight games. They return home where they have played 9 straight Unders against teams from the Pacific Division opponents. They have also played 16 of their last 19 games Under the Total after playing their last two games on the road. Los Angeles enjoyed their best shooting effort in their last five contests by making 52.2% of their shots. They got 22 points from D’Angelo Russell — but his scoring remains erratic after he put up a doughnut in Game Three. The Lakers have played 3 of their 4 games Under the Total after an upset win by double-digits. Los Angeles goes back on the road where they scored only 103 and 99 points in the opening two games of this series. They did hold the Nuggets to just 107.5 PPG in those contests. The Lakers have played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total on the road against teams with a winning record. They have also played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total in the first round of the playoffs. 

FINAL TAKE: Denver has played 27 of their last 45 games Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 point range — and they have played 4 of their last 6 potential close-out games in the playoffs. 25* NBA Playoff Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (561) and the Denver Nuggets (562). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (555) and the Phoenix Suns (556) in Game Four of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (59-26) has won the first three games of this series as well as seven of their last nine contests after their 126-109 victory on the road against the Suns as a 5.5-point underdog on Friday. Phoenix (49-36) hopes to stave off elimination trailing 3-0 in this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Phoenix head coach Frank Vogel did not make many changes in Game Three — he apparently thought that the return home would be enough to spark his veteran team to play better. Nope. The local media is ripping the Suns for their lack of effort — especially on the defensive end of the court. Phoenix allowed the Timberwolves to score at a 132.6 points per 100 adjusted possession rate on Friday as they continue to have their way crashing the rim. Vogel has to address this — whether it be changing to a zone defense or changing one-on-one assignments, the Suns have to get Minnesota shooting farther away from the basket. Not wanting to end their season with another embarrassing loss in front of their home fans, expect this team to at least play much harder on that end of the court tonight. As it is, Phoenix has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a loss by 15 or more points — and they have played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total after an upset loss by 15 or more points. The Suns' lack of effort also showed on with their energy on the boards — they got outrebounded by a whopping 50-28 margin in Game Three. Minnesota pulled down 37.2% of their missed shots — Phoenix can clean much of that up by simply playing harder. They have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a game where they got out-rebounded by 20 or more boards. The Suns have only covered the point spread once in their last five games — and they have played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total after falling to cover the point spread in four of their last five games. They have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fifth time in the last 14 days. Phoenix stays at home where they have played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total in the second half of the season — and they have played 14 of their last 22 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s. Minnesota has played 15 of their last 24 games Under the Total after a win by 15 or more points. Additionally, they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after an upset win by 15 or more points — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after an upset win on the road by 15 or more points. Additionally, the Timberwolves have played 14 of their last 22 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fifth time in the last 14 days. And in their last 11 games after out-rebounding their last opponent by 15 or more boards, they have played 7 of these games Under the Total. 

FINAL TAKE: The Suns have played 36 of their last 58 games Under the Total when avenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. 10* NBA Sunday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (555) and the Phoenix Suns (556). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (553) and the Indiana Pacers (553) in Game Four of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Milwaukee (50-35) lost for the fourth time in their last five games in a 121-118 loss in overtime as a 6.5-point underdog on Friday. Indiana (49-37) has won six of their last eight games while taking a 2-1 lead in this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Bucks will likely be without Damian Lillard tonight after he first twisted his ankle in Game Three before later wrenching his Achilles in the fourth quarter. While Lillard declared that he expected to play after the game, he was in a walking boot yesterday and was listed as doubtful. Milwaukee probably does not want to risk Lillard aggravating that injury the way Golden State did with Kevin Durant a few years ago. The team is already without Giannis Antetokounmpo who is doubtful to return from his calf injury. Even if one (or both) of these players take the court, neither is likely to be close to 100%. Khris Middleton stepped up with 42 points on Friday — but now he is being asked to carry the team on offense which is not his strength. Lillard scored 28 points in Game Three. With Lillard out, head coach Doc Rivers will likely turn to Malik Beasley who is an improvement on the defensive end of the court. Beasley’s size makes him an interesting choice to defend Tyrese Haliburton — and that would allow for their top defender Patrick Beverley to clamp down on Andrew Nembhard. One thing that seems certain is that Rivers will continue to do everything he can to get this game into “mud” as he declared before the series started. After the 97 mutual possessions (adjusted possessions per 48 minutes) in Game One, there were 92.5 possessions in Game Two before just the 89.2 adjusted possession rate in Game Three which includes the pace in overtime. That game went into overtime with the score tied at 111 — helped by Lillard’s 28 points. The Bucks have played 29 of their last 44 games Under the Total on the road after a point-spread loss. They have also played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after losing two games in a row — and they have played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total on the road as an underdog. They have also played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Indiana only made 13 of their 49 shots from behind the arc for a 27% shooting percentage. Tyrese Halliburton does not appear to be at 100% as he recovers from the injuries that slowed him down during the regular season — he missed 11 of his 12 shots from downtown. The Pacers' bench scoring production is down as well. After leading the NBA by getting 46.8 Points-Per-Game from their bench in the regular season, the second unit is only scoring 23.3 PPG in this series, down -23.5 PPG. Indiana has played 4 of their 6 games this season Under the Total after a win by three points or less — and they have played 42 of their last 63 home games Under the Total after a straight-up win where they did not cover the point spread as the favorite. They have played 14 of their last 23 games Under the Total after winning six or seven of their last eight games. And in their last 8 games when playing for no more than the fifth time in 14 days, they have played 5 of these games Under the Total. 

FINAL TAKE: The Bucks have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total when avenging a loss of three points or less — and they have played 22 of their last 32 games Under the Total when playing with double revenge including six of those last nine circumstances. 25* NBA Central Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks (553) and the Indiana Pacers (553). Best of luck for us — Frank.      

At 8:40 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (547) and the Los Angeles Lakers (548) in Game Four of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Denver (60-25) looks to close out this series tonight after their 112-105 upset victory on the road against the Lakers as a 1-point underdog on Thursday. Los Angeles (49-38) had won three games in a row to conclude the regular season but now trail 0-3 in this best-of-seven series. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nuggets nailed 48.9% of their shots on Thursday which was the best shooting effort for them in this series. But they have beaten the Lakers in all three games in this series despite allowing them to shoot at least 48.7% of their shots in each game. Denver has played 3 of their 4 games this season Under the Total after allowing three straight opponents to make at least 47% of their shots. Despite their shooting success, the Nuggets have not allowed more than 105 points in this series — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in three or more games in a row. Additionally, Denver has played 15 of their last 22 games Under the Total after winning three games in a row. They have also played 14 of their last 22 games Under the Total when playing for just the second time in five days. Furthermore, the Nuggets have played 4 of their last 5 playoff games Under the Total in potential close-out contests. Los Angeles allowed Denver to make 48.9% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last six games. But the Under is still 5-1-1 in the last 7 meetings between these two teams. The Lakers have also played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total in the first round of the NBA playoffs. 

FINAL TAKE: The Lakers have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from an upset loss as a home favorite. 8* NBA Saturday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (547) and the Los Angeles Lakers (548). Best of luck for us — Frank.                                                                         

At 10:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (537) and the Phoenix Suns (538) in Game Three of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Minnesota (58-26) has won three of their last four games as well as five of their last seven contests after their 105-93 loss on the road against the Timberwolves as a 3-point favorite on Tuesday. Phoenix (49-35) had won three games in a row before losing the first two games of this series. 

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Timberwolves are having their way getting looks against the Suns — they generated 43% of their points at the rim. Minnesota has played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total after winning two or more games in a row at home. They won Game One by 25 points — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after winning two games in a row by double-digits. Additionally, they have played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total after failing to score more than 105 points in their last game — and they have played 10 of their last 15 games Over the Total after a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. The Timberwolves have held the Suns to 93 and 95 points in the first two games of this series — and they have played 13 of their last 16 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 105 points or less in two straight games. Phoenix has played 6 straight Overs after losing two games in a row by double-digits. The Suns have also played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. Additionally, they have played 10 of their last 16 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last contest. This game is just the fourth time in the last three seasons that Phoenix they are playing a game at home with the Total set below 210 — and all 3 previous games finished Over the Total. 

FINAL TAKE: The Timberwolves have played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. 10* NBA Friday Late Show O/U Bailout with Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (537) and the Phoenix Suns (538). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (527) and the Philadelphia 76ers (528) in Game Three of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: New York (52-32) has won seven games in a row after their 104-101 loss in Madison Square Garden as a 5-point favorite on Monday. Philadelphia (48-37) returns home trailing 0-2 in this best-of-seven series.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Knicks held the 76ers to just 42.9% of their shots which was the best defensive effort in their last 13 games. New York has played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a win at home by three points or less. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up win where they did not cover the point spread as the favorite. They go back on the road where they have played 14 of their last 23 games Over the Total as an underdog. The Knicks have also played 8 of their last 9 games this month Over the Total. For the 76ers, Joel Embiid has been productive despite his left knee injury. He is averaging 38 minutes per game in this series — and while he has only made 20 of 51 of his shots, he is still scoring 31.5 Points-Per-Game after dropping 34 points and adding 10 rebounds on Monday. Getting two days off between games will help tonight. Philadelphia has played 10 of their last 12 games Over the Total when playing with two days of rest. They have also played 4 straight Overs after a loss on the road where they covered the point spread as an underdog. Additionally, the Sixers have played 33 of their last 49 games Over the Total after playing their last two games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The 76ers have played 32 of their last 52 games Over the Total when favored. 8* NBA New York-Philadelphia TNT O/U Special with Over the Total in the game between the New York Knicks (527) and the Philadelphia 76ers (528). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (519) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (520) in Game Two of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: New Orleans (50-35) has lost three of their last four games after their 94-92 win against the Pelicans in Game One of this best-of-seven series. Oklahoma City (58-25) has won six games in a row. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: New Orleans only made 38.5% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last 28 contests — but I do not necessarily think the Regression Gods are coming for a visit tonight. The Pelicans miss the injured Zion Williamson who scored 22.9 PPG on 57.0% shooting. Brandon Ingram does not look close to 100% from his knee injury that kept him out for weeks. He scored only 13 points on Sunday on 5 of 17 shooting. In his four games back from injury, he has scored more than 13 points only once — and he is making just 43.1% of his shots. The Pelicans got a big game out of Jonas Valanciunas in Game One who grabbed 20 rebounds. They pulled down 36% of their missed shots — and they should control the glass again tonight against this Thunder team that privileges fast break transition opportunities to protect their defensive glass. When New Orleans gets second chance opportunities, that will also allow them to slow the pace down — something head coach Willie Green wants to do without a healthy Williamson. New Orleans has played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a loss on the road — and they have played 26 of their last 38 road games Under the Total after losing two of their last three games. They have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. And while they have outrebounded three straight opponents by five or more boards, they have then played 4 straight Unders after outrebounding three straight opponents. They stay on the road where they have played 16 of their last 25 road games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s. Oklahoma City has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last game. They have also played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a win by six or more points. Additionally, the Thunder have played 8 off their last 11 home games Under the Total when they are favored by 6.5 to 12 points. 

FINAL TAKE: The Pelicans have played 8 of their last 9 games on the road Under the Total when playing with revenge. 8* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (519) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (520). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (585) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (586) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: New Orleans (50-34) has won five of their last seven games after their 105-98 victory against Sacramento as a 1-point favorite in their second Play-In Tournament game on Friday. Oklahoma City (57-25) has won five games in a row after their 135-86 victory against Dallas as a 19.5-point favorite last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: New Orleans stepped up without the injured Zion Williamson to make 51.8% of their shots against the Kings which was the best shooting effort in their last four contests. The Pelicans are thin with their scoring without Williamson — they score -3.7 fewer points per 100 adjusted possessions when he is off the court. The Pelicans have played 29 of their last 44 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. And while they have won five of their last seven games, they have then played 26 of their last 43 games Under the Total after winning four of five of their last six contests. Oklahoma City made 55.7% of their shots last Sunday against the Mavericks which was the best shooting effort in their last nine games. The Thunder have covered the point spread in four straight games even as a double-digit point spread laying 14 or more points in those last three games. OKC has played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total after winning and covered the point spread as a double-digit favorite in two or more games in a row. They have played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after winning three or more games in a row. Furthermore, they have played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last contest. And in their last 10 games at home when laying 6.5 to 12 points, the Thunder have played 7 of these games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Pelicans want to avenge a 119-112 loss at home to the Thunder as a 1-point underdog the last time these two teams played — and they have played 39 of their last 61 road games Under the Total when playing with revenge. 8* NBA New Orleans-Oklahoma City TNT O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (585) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (586). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (587) and the Los Angeles Clippers (588) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Dallas (50-32) had won five games in a row before punting on their final two contests culminating in a 135-86 loss at Oklahoma City as a 19.5-point underdog on Sunday. Los Angeles (51-31) has lost three games in a row after a 116-105 loss to Houston as a 4.5-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: It was just announced at little after 2 PM ET that Kawhi Leonard will be out for this game as he continues to deal with right knee inflammation. His absence impacts both ends of the court for the Clippers — but I suspect the bigger concern for head coach Ty Lue is when his team has the basketball. Paul George’s defensive assignment was always going to Luka Doncic — Leonard was likely to defend Tim Hardaway or the other Mavericks off guard to Kyrie Irving. Russell Westbrook will likely get more playing time this afternoon — and Los Angeles holds their opponents to -2.2 fewer points per 100 adjusted possessions when he is on the court. Westbrook may end up Irving — and he can also switch off on Doncic. But Westbrook’s presence on the court disrupts the offensive flow and spacing with James Harden — this is the reason why he was moved to the second unit midseason. The Clippers score -3.8 fewer points per 100 adjusted possessions when Leonard is off the court — and they score -1.5 fewer points per 100 adjusted possessions when Westbrook is on the court. Lue will demand a better defensive effort after the Rockets shot 48.5% against them last week which was the worst defensive performance in their last eight games. Los Angeles has played 26 of their last 39 home games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 15 of their last 20 home games Under the Total after a double-digit loss. The Clippers have not covered the point spread in three straight games — and they have played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total after not covering the point spread in two or more games in a row. They have also played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total when playing for the fourth time or less in the last 14 days. Dallas did not show up on defense last week as they allowed the Thunder to make 55.7% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last 25 games. The Mavericks have become a very good defensive team in the second half of the season after acquiring Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington at the trade deadline. Gafford offers them the rim protection they were desperate for and Washington is a good on-the-ball defender. After ranking 26th in the NBA in opponent effective field goal percentage, Dallas improved to third in the league in that category since February 5th. They led the NBA in their final 15 games with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 106.1. The Mavericks have failed to cover the point spread in their last two games — but they have played 13 of their last 17 road games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in two or more games in a row. They had covered the point spread in their five previous games — and they have played 21 of their last 29 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. Dallas has also played 22 of their last 33 games Under the Total in the second half of the season.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have played 9 of their last 14 road games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. The Clippers have played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have played 12 of their last 15 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 10* NBA Dallas-LA Clippers ABC-TV O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Dallas Mavericks (587) and the Los Angeles Clippers (588). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 8:40 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (575) and the Denver Nuggets (576) in Game One of their Western Conference Quarterfinals series. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (49-35) has won three games in a row as well as seven of their last nine contests after their 110-106 upset victory at New Orleans as a 1-point underdog in the Play-In Tournament on Tuesday. Denver (57-25) won four of their last five games to close out the regular season with a 126-111 victory at Memphis as a 13.5-point favorite last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Lakers may be rusty with the three full days off since their game against the Pelicans — and they only made 41.7% of their shots in that game. But LeBron James and Anthony Davis should have fresh legs which will help them on the defensive end of the court. Los Angeles has played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total when playing with three or more days of rest. They stay on the road for the fourth straight game where they have played 4 of their last 6 games Under the Total after winning their two previous games on the road. They have also played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after winning three or more games in a row. Denver comes into the postseason to defend their NBA title on a hot streak regarding their shooting. The Nuggets have shot at least 50.5% from the field in their last three games — and they have played five straight games where they nailed at least 48.9% of their shots. But Denver has then played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total after making 50% or more of their shots in three straight games. They have also played 19 of their last 25 games Under the Total after making 47% or more of their shots in five straight contests. Additionally, the Nuggets have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a double-digit win on the road — and they have played 26 of their last 37 games Under the Total after a victory by 15 or more points. This will be the fifth game this season that Denver will be playing with three or more days of rest after their last contest — and they have played 3 of those first 4 games Under the Total. After playing their last two games on the road, the Nuggets return home — and they have played 15 of their last 18 games Under the Total after playing their two previous games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Denver has won the last eight meetings between these two teams after the Nuggets’ 124-114 victory as a 1-point favorite in Los Angeles on March 2nd. The Lakers have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total when playing with triple revenge against their opponent. 25* NBA Saturday Night ABC-TV Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Lakers (575) and the Denver Nuggets (576). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 9:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (557) and the New Orleans Pelicans (558) in the Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: Sacramento (47-36) has won two games in a row after their 118-94 upset victory at home against Golden State as a 3-point underdog on Tuesday to advance to this final Play-In Tournament game. New Orleans (49-34) has lost two games in a row after their 110-106 upset loss at home against the Los Angeles Lakers as a 1-point favorite in their Play-In game on Tuesday. The winner of this game takes the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs and plays at Minnesota on Sunday; the loser’s season ends. 

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Kings scored at least 110 points for just the fourth time in their last 15 games on Tuesday. After posting historic efficiency numbers on offense last season, Sacramento is a different team right now after the injuries to Malik Monk and Kevin Huerter. Monk is the team’s third-leader scoring and offensive spark plug coming off the bench. Huerter is their best 3-point shooter who opens up space in the starting five for De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. But head coach Mike Brown has his team playing much better on the defensive end of the court — and they are also playing at a slower pace to compensate for their now very thin bench. For the season, the Kings rank 14th in the league by averaging 99.47 adjusted possessions per game — with Huerter missing the last 17 games and Monk out the last 11 contests. In their last 10 games, Sacramento’s pace has dropped to just 96.55 adjusted possessions per game which is the third-slowest in the NBA during that span. But while Sacramento ranks 14th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency this season, they have risen all the way up to fifth in that metric in their last ten games. The Kings have held their last five opponents to 45.7% shooting which has resulted in 106.2 Points-Per-Game — and that is -2.2% and -8.4 PPG below their season averages. Sacramento has played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 100 points in their last game — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last contest. They have also played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a double-digit win at home — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a win by 20 or more points. They go back on the road where they have played 14 of their last 22 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 11 of their last 16 road games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Furthermore, the Kings have played 18 of their last 25 road games Under the Total against teams winning 51-60% of their games — and they have played 17 of their last 26 games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams with a winning record. They have also played 17 of their last 25 games Under the Total in April including seven of their nine games this month. New Orleans now has their own significant injury news to deal with after Zion Williamson injured his left calf late in the game on Tuesday which will keep him out for tonight’s contest. He led the way with 40 points in the loss to the Lakers — and the Pelicans will very much miss his scoring tonight. But Williamson is a liability on defense — New Orleans holds their opponents to -3.7 points per 100 adjusted possessions when he is off the court. Brandon Ingram is healthy again — but he does not appear to be close to 100% yet. He only played 25 minutes on Tuesday and was not on the court in crunch time in the fourth quarter. He scored only 11 points on 4 of 12 shooting — and he has averaged just 12 PPG in his two games back in action. As it is and even with Williamson, the Pelicans’ offense has slowed down in the half-court to close out the regular season. While they ranked 10th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in the half court during the regular season, they dropped to 18th by scoring only 97.3 points per 100 adjusted possessions in their final ten regular season games. New Orleans has played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total after losing two games in a row at home — and they have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total when playing with two days of rest. They have played 10 of their last 14 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. And in their last 24 games in the second half of the season against teams with a winning record, they have played 15 of these games Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Pelicans beat the Kings in all five of their meetings this season after their 135-123 upset win in Sacramento as a 1-point underdog on April 11th. Sacramento has played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total when avenging a loss by 10 or more points. 25* NBA Play-In Tournament Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (557) and the New Orleans Pelicans (558). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (543) and the Sacramento Kings (544) in the Play-In Tournament. THE SITUATION: Golden State (46-36) has won four of their last five games after their 123-116 win against Utah as an 11-point favorite on Sunday. Sacramento (46-36) snapped their three-game losing streak with a 121-82 victory against Portland as a 17.5-point favorite on Sunday. The winner of this game travels to play the winner of the Los Angeles Lakers-New Orleans Pelicans game on Thursday to determine the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs; the loser’s season ends.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Golden State took the day off regarding their play on the defensive end of the court against the Jazz as they allowed them to nail 51.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 17 games. Head coach Steve Kerr will make sure his team gets back to basics in this single-elimination game. The Warriors have been a much better defensive team once Draymond Green got back into the mix after getting suspended. After ranking 24th in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in their first 40 games, they improved to eighth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in their last 42 contests. While they rank 13th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency for the season, they have been even better down the stretch by rising to ninth in their last ten games. They have held their last five opponents to 45.3% shooting which has resulted in 110.4 Points-Per-Game — and those numbers are a 1.3% and a -4.8 PPG improvement against their season defensive averages. The Warriors have played 16 of their last 24 games Under the Total after winning three of their last four games. They go back on the road where they have played 14  of their last 19 games Under the Total when favored. Sacramento is missing two key pieces to what was already a limited rotation of players. Kevin Huerter has only played in two minutes in the last 16 games after injuring his left shoulder on March 18th. Malik Monk has played just one minute in their last ten games after he sprained his right MCL. Both losses are critical. Huerter is their best 3-point shooter. His presence on the perimeter opens up space for De’Aaron Fox to drive the lane — and he is an important target for Domantas Sabonis in his point forward role. Monk provides instant offense off the bench and is in line to win the Sixth Man of the Year award. In their last five games, they are only making 44.7% of their shots which has resulted in 112.6 Points-Per-Game — and those marks represent -3.0% and -4.0 PPG drops from their season averages. But the Kings have amped up their intensity on the defensive end of the court as they have held their last five opponents to 44.4% shooting which has resulted in 102.8 PPG — and those numbers are -3.6% and -12.2 PPG below their season averages. Sacramento has played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a double-digit win — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last contest. Furthermore, the Kings have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing at home.

FINAL TAKE: The Kings have played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total against fellow Pacific Division rivals. 10* NBA Tuesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (543) and the Sacramento Kings (544). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 8:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Orlando Magic (539) and the Milwaukee Bucks (540). THE SITUATION: Orlando (46-33) has lost two of their last three games after their 118-106 upset loss at Houston as a 3-point favorite last night. Milwaukee (48-31) snapped a four-game losing streak with their 104-91 victory against Boston as a 3.5-point favorite yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Bucks broke their string of upset losses by making 53.1% of their shots against the Celtics which was the best shooting effort in their last five games - albeit against a Boston squad playing without Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis defending the interior. But the bigger news was Giannis Antetokounmpo leaving the game in the third quarter with a left calf injury. While it does not look like a season-ender, Antetokounmpo will not take the court tonight. That leaves the Milwaukee offense guard heavy which is not a good look when facing this Magic defense that has outstanding defenders at the guard position. The Bucks raced out to a 63-43 halftime lead yesterday — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after going into halftime with a 15-point or better lead. They went into halftime with a 61-50 lead against New York in their previous game — and they have played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total after owning two straight double-digit halftime leads. Milwaukee has played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total after losing two of their last three games — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after losing three of their last four games. Head coach Doc Rivers will want his team to maintain their recent defensive intensity playing without Antetokounmpo. The Bucks have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 100 points in their last game — and they have played 12 of their last 19 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last contest. They have held their last five opponents to 111.6 Points-Per-Game which is -4.9 PPG below their season average. But the Bucks are only making 45.1% of their shots in their last five games which has resulted in 107.6 PP — and those marks are -3.7% and -11.9 PPG below their season average. Milwaukee has played 19 of their last 29 games Under the Total in the second half of the season. They have also played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 4 of their last 5 home games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. Orlando allowed the Spurs to make 52.3% of their shots last night which was the third straight game where their opponent made at least 50% of their shots against them. The Magic have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after allowing their last three opponents to make at least 47% of their shots — and they have played 4 straight Unders after allowing three straight opponents to make 50% or more of their shots. They have played 6 straight Unders after an upset loss — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after an upset loss by double-digits. The Under is 19-12-1 in their 32 games playing without a day of rest. And while last night’s final score finished Over the 215.5-point total, Orlando has played 23 of their last 35 games on the road Under the Total after playing a game that finished Over the Total. Franz Wagner did not play in that game as he is nursing a right ankle injury that leaves him questionable tonight — and Gary Harris is out dealing with an injury. This team has slowed things down on offense by playing at the 27th slowest pace in the league since the All-Star break. Led by Jalen Suggs who is making the first or second All-Defensive team this year, Orlando ranks third in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. The Magic have played 17 of their last 26 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and Milwaukee has played 13 of their last 21 games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: Both teams are still playing for playoff seeding — so the intensity will be high. These two teams last played on December 21st in the 118-114 victory by the Bucks in Milwaukee — and Orlando has played 15 of their last 23 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on the road. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Orlando Magic (539) and the Milwaukee Bucks (540). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the San Antonio Spurs (515) and the Memphis Grizzlies (516). THE SITUATION: San Antonio (19-59) has lost three of their last four games after their 133-126 loss to Philadelphia as a 4.5-point underdog on Sunday. Memphis (27-51) had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 116-96 loss to Philadelphia as a 14-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Led by their rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs are still playing hard late in the season despite being out of the playoff race. They had covered six games in a row before the point spread loss to the surging 76ers with Joel Embiid back from injury. The biggest improvement for this San Antonio team has been on the defensive end of the court. In their last 15 games, the Spurs rank 10th in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency which is a big jump from their 22nd ranking for the entire season. However, the offense has only improved to 25th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in their last 15 games from their 26th ranking overall — so credit goes to their defense for their improved competitiveness. San Antonio has played 19 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a loss at home. They have also played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. One of the things holding the offense back has been the season-ending injury to Devin Vassell who was scoring 19.5 Points-Per-Game. They are only making 44.0% of their shots in their last five games resulting in 106.1 PPG — and those numbers are -2.0% and -6.2 PPG below their season averages. The Spurs have played 9 of their last 12 road games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s. They have played 4 straight Unders when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. Memphis allowed the Sixers to nail 51.9% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last five contests. The Grizzlies have still held their last five opponents to just 106.6 PPG which is -6.1 PPG below their season average. But this team is a M*A*S*H unit with a long list of injured players out for tonight’s game including Jaren Jackson, Desmond Bane, and Luke Kennard joining Ja Morant unable to take the court. Memphis is scoring only 102.6 PPG in their last five games which is -3.3 PPG below their season average. The Grizzlies have played 19 of their last 27 home games Under the Total after a loss at home — and they have played 14 of their last 19 home games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They have played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total after scoring no more than 100 points in their last game. And in their last 16 games after winning two of their last three games, they have played 11 of these games Under the Total. Memphis stays at home where they have played 26 of their last 38 games Under the Total — and they have played 10 of their last 15 home games Under the Total with the Total set in the 210s.

FINAL TAKE: The Spurs have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams with a losing record — and the Grizzlies have played 24 of their last 36 home games Under the Total against teams with a losing record. 25* NBA Southwest Division Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the San Antonio Spurs (515) and the Memphis Grizzlies (516). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:40 PM ET on Friday, we will be Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (547) and the Dallas Mavericks (548). THE SITUATION: Golden State (42-34) has won six games in a row after their 133-110 victory at Houston as a 3-point favorite last night. Dallas (46-30) has won eight of their last nine games after their 109-92 win against Atlanta as an 11.5-point favorite yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Warriors nailed 48.6% of their 3s last night en route to a 58.7% shooting percentage which is their best mark of the season. Expect a visit from the Regression Gods tonight — especially with both Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga questionable with nagging knee injuries. As it is, Golden State has played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total after scoring 130 or more points in their last game. They have also played 15 of their last 22 games Under the Total after a win on the road. The Warriors have covered the point spread in two straight games as well as five of their last six contests. They have then played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in two or more games in a row — and they have played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. And while Golden State has outrebounded their last two opponents by at least ten boards, they have then played 14 of their last 18 games Under the Total after outrebounding two or more straight opponents by ten or more rebounds. This is their third game since Tuesday — and they have played 15 of their last 23 games Under the Total when playing for the third time in four days. Head coach Steve Kerr has his team amping up their intensity on the defensive end of the court as the postseason approaches. They have shaved off from than 7.0 points from their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency number to improve to fifth in the league in that metric. They have held their last five opponents to 42.7% shooting which has resulted in just 102.6 Points-Per-Game that they have allowed — and those numbers are -3.9% and 13.0 PPG below their season averages. But they are also scoring 114.0 PPG over those five games which is -4.0 PPG below their season averages. The Mavericks live-and-die by the 3-point shot. Golden State ranks sixth in the NBA in 3-point defense by holding their opponents to 35.7% shooting from behind the arc — and they are even better on the road by holding their home hosts to 34.9% shooting from 3. Dallas has played 8 of their last 9 home games Under the Total after a win on their home court. They have also played 19 of their last 26 home games Under the Total after winning six or seven of their last eight games. Additionally, the Mavericks have played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game — and they have played 16 of their last 24 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 95 points in their last contest. Head coach Jason Kidd has also overseen a dramatic transformation of the play of his team’s defense. The acquisitions of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford at the trade deadline gave this team a much-needed wing defender and rim protector. Dallas ranks third in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in their last ten games. They have not allowed their last six opponents to shoot better than 45.6% from the field — and their last nine opponents have not eclipsed 107 points with three of those foes held to 97 or fewer points. They have held their last five opponents to 42.0% shooting which has resulted in 101.0 PPG which is -5.4% and -14.8 PPG below their season averages. But the Mavs are scoring 114.6 PPG in their last five games which is -3.7 PPG below their season average — and now Luka Doncic is questionable to play this game without a day of rest given “right knee” issues. Dallas has played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total when playing without a day of rest. They have played 8 of their last 11 games at home Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: The Mavericks have played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total in the second half of the season — and they have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total The Warriors have played 21 of their last 32 games Under the Total in the second half of the season — and they have played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. 25* NBA Western Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Golden State Warriors (547) and the Dallas Mavericks (548). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (527) and the Los Angeles Clippers (528). THE SITUATION: Denver (53-33) has won two games in a row and six of their last eight contests after their 110-105 victory against San Antonio as a 16-point favorite on Tuesday. Los Angeles (47-28) had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 109-95 loss at Sacramento as a 3-point underdog on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: It looks like Denver will be without Jamal Murray for the seventh straight game tonight as he nurses a right knee injury. The Nuggets are leaning on their defense playing without their starting point guard. While their scoring is down -1.9 Points-Per-Game in their last five games without him, they have held their last five opponents to just 44.7% shooting which has resulted in 104.8 PPG. Denver has held their last two opponents to 105 and 101 points — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in two or more games in a row. They have also played 21 of their last 34 games Under the Total after winning two or more games in a row — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games on the road Under the Total after a point spread loss. On the road, the Nuggets are scoring 110.9 PPG which is -3.6 fewer PPG than their season average. Denver has played 10 of their last 12 road games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s. They have also played 15 of their last 21 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record in the second half of the season. Los Angeles only made 40.8% of their shots on Tuesday in what was the worst shooting effort in their last eight games. Unfortunately for the Clippers, that might not have been an outlier performance when considering they were without Kawhi Leonard who is not expected to play tonight either given his right knee issue. Los Angeles is scoring 113.6 PPG in games without Leonard this season which is -2.7 fewer PPG than their season average. The Clippers have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a double-digit loss on the road. And while that game finished Under the 222-point total for that contest, they have then played 27 of their last 41 home games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Under the Total. Los Angeles has only attempted 75 and 76 shots in their last two games — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after not taking more than 80 shots in two straight games. The Clippers have not covered the point spread in their last two games — and they have only covered the point spread once in their last seven contests. Los Angeles has played 16 of their last 20 home games Under the Total after not covering the point spread in two games in a row — and they have played 15 of their last 21 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. They return home where they have played 26 of their last 39 games Under the Total with the Total set in the 220s — and they have played 14 of their last 21 home games Under the Total as a pick ‘em or an underdog getting up to six points.  

FINAL TAKE: These two teams last played on December 6th with the Clippers winning by a 111-102 score. The Total was set at 227.5 for that game making it the 7th time in their last 10 games that these two teams played a game against each other that finished Under the Total. 10* NBA Thursday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Denver Nuggets (527) and the Los Angeles Clippers (528). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 8:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (561) and the New Orleans Pelicans (562). THE SITUATION: Phoenix (43-31) has lost two of their last three games after their 128-103 upset loss at Oklahoma City as a 1-point favorite on Friday. New Orleans (45-29) has lost two of their last three games after their 104-92 loss to Boston as a 6-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Suns allowed the Thunder to make 56.3% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last 37 games. Head coach Frank Vogel will be on his team to tighten things up on the defensive end of the court. As it is, Phoenix has played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after an upset loss — and they have played 17 of their last 24 games Under the Total after an upset loss as a road favorite. They have played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a loss on the road — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a loss on the road by double-digits. They stay on the road where they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total as a pick ‘em or as an underdog of up to six points — and they have played 7 of their last 10 road games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Furthermore, the Suns have played 12 of their last 17 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 21 of their last 34 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. Phoenix has also played 16 of their last 25 games Under the Total in the second half of the season. New Orleans only made 39.5% of their shots against the Celtics as they continue to struggle without Brandon Ingram who is out for the rest of the regular season with a left knee contusion. In the five games without him last month, the Pelicans only made 45.1% of their shots resulting in 107.2 Points-Per-Game — and those numbers are -3.6% and -8.0 PPG below their season averages. But New Orleans has tightened things up on defense as they have held their last five opponents to 44.8% shooting and 102.4 PPG which is -1.2% and -7.9 PPG below their season averages. The Pelicans have played 12 of their last 14 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 95 points in their last game. And while they have only covered the point spread once in their last four games, they have then played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games. New Orleans ranks fourth in the NBA in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they are second in the league by holding their opponents to just 34.6% shooting from behind the arc. Phoenix is a midrange jump-shooting team — and the Pelicans rank second in the NBA in defense against jump shots. At home, the Pelicans have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total as a pick ‘em or as a favorite of up to six points. They have also played 9 of their last 11 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Furthermore, New Orleans has played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: The Pelicans will be looking to avenge a 123-109 upset loss on the road against the Suns as a 2-point road favorite back on January 9th — and they have played 10 of their last 14 games Under the Total when attempting to avenge an upset loss to their opponent. 10* NBA Monday Night Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Phoenix Suns (561) and the New Orleans Pelicans (562). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (547) and the Charlotte Hornets (548). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (44-28) snapped a three-game losing streak with their 115-92 victory at home against Charlotte as an 11.5-point favorite on Monday. Charlotte (17-54) has lost five games in a row after that loss two days ago.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers nailed 53.5% of their shots against the Hornets which was the best shooting effort in their last 18 games. Despite that performance, Cleveland is struggling to score points as they continue to play without the injured Donovan Mitchell. They have just a 5-7 record in the last 12 games with Mitchell as he nurses a fractured nose and a nagging leg injury. In their last five games, the Cavs are making 46.4% of their shots but playing at a slower pace — they are scoring only 100.4 Points-Per-Game in those five contests. They have held their last five opponents to 105.4 PPG. Cleveland has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread cover as a double-digit favorite. They have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a win by 20 or more points. Their victory on Monday eked Over the 206-point total in that game — and they have played 23 of their last 35 games Under the Total after playing a game on the road that finished Over the Total. They had failed to cover the point spread in four of their previous five games — and they have played 21 of their last 31 road games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Led by Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, the Cavaliers rank fourth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. Cleveland has played 12 of their last 15 games on the road Under the Total — and they have played 8 straight road games Under the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. Furthermore, the Cavs have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total as a double-digit favorite. They have played 15 of their last 19 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage no higher than .250. Charlotte has not scored more than 98 points in five straight games — and they have not cracked even 93 points in their last three games. With LaMelo Ball out with an injury and Terry Rozier shipped off to Miami at the trade deadline, the Hornets offense is relying on Mikal Bridges as their go-to scorer with rookie Brandon Miller the second option. In their last five games, Charlotte is making only 42.7% of their shots resulting in only 93.8 PPG. They return home after a four-game road trip having played 31 of their last 48 home games Under the Total after losing two games in a row — and they have 10 of their last 11 home games Under the Total after losing two or more games in a row on the road. The Hornets have played 13 of their last 18 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 7 straight home games Under the Total against an opponent with a winning percentage in the 60-70% range.

FINAL TAKE: Charlotte has played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total when avenging a loss by 20 or more points — and they have played 16 of 25 games Under the Total when avenging a loss by 20 or more points under head coach Steve Clifford. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers (547) and the Charlotte Hornets (548). Best of luck for us — Frank.   

At 7:40 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Brooklyn Nets (517) and the Toronto Raptors (518). THE SITUATION: Brooklyn (26-45) has lost two games in a row after their 105-93 loss at New York as a 7.5-point underdog on Saturday. Toronto (23-48) has lost ten games in a row after their 112-109 loss at Washington as a 6-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Nets only made 44.7% of their shots against the Knicks on Saturday but it was still their best shooting effort in their last three games. They are scoring only 105.8 Points-Per-Game in their last five games — and they have failed to score more than 108 points in five of their last six contests. They have also failed to score more than 100 points in three of their last six games — so this team that is playing without the injured Cameron Johnson (amongst others) is quite capable of putting up a clunker. Brooklyn has held two of their last three opponents to 105 and 104 points so the effort on defense has been steady as of late. The Nets have played 27 of their last 44 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss. Additionally, they have played 7 of their last 9 games after failing to score more than 95 points in their last game — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after playing a game where no more than 205 combined points were scored. They have played 14 of their last 19 games Under the Total after losing two or more games on the road — and they have played 11 of their last 16 games Under the Total after losing three or more games in a row. And while they have not covered the point spread in seven of their last nine games, they have then played 12 of their last 15 games on the road Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Brooklyn continues their four-game road trip scoring only 109.1 PPG which is -2.0 PPG below their season average. The Nets have played 9 of their last 10 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage in the 25-40%. Toronto is M*A*S*H unit right now as they conduct their soft tank job — they are missing so many players headlined by Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and R.J. Barrett. Gary Trent, Jr. is their go-to scorer right now. The 109 points they scored on Saturday were their most points in their last six games — they had not scored 104 in their previous five games including two clunkers where they scored only 98 and 89 points. They are only making 44.1% of their shots in their last five games resulting in 107.5 PPG. They have not shot better than 44.1% from the field in four of their last six games. The Raptors have held four of their last six opponents to 112 or fewer points. And while the Wizards’ 47.8% shooting effort on Saturday was the lowest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last five games, Toronto has played 13 of their last 17 games Under the Total after allowing three or more straight opponents to make 47% or more of their shots from the field. The Raptors have played 17 of their last 24 home games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 6 straight Unders after losing five or more games in a row. They have failed to cover the point spread in five of their last six games — and they have played 26 of their last 37 home games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six contests. They return home where they are scoring only 110.1 PPG which is -3.0 fewer PPG than their season average — but they are holding their guests to 114.5 PPG which is -3.6 PPG lower than their season average. Toronto has played 23 of their last 35 home games Under the Total — and they have played 6 of their last 7 home games Under the Total as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points. Furthermore, they have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total in March. They have played 9 of their last 13 opponents with a losing record Under the Total in the second half of the season.

FINAL TAKE: The Nets will remember their 121-93 loss in Toronto against the Raptors in their most recent meeting on February 22nd. Brooklyn has played 23 of their last 37 games Under the Total when playing with revenge — and they have played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total when avenging a loss on the road by 20 or more points. 25* NBA Atlantic Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Brooklyn Nets (517) and the Toronto Raptors (518). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:10 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (565) and the Utah Jazz (566). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (46-21) has won two straight games after their 119-100 victory at Utah as an 8-point favorite on Saturday. Utah (29-38) has lost four of their last five games after that loss at home to the Timberwolves.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: With Minnesota playing without Karl-Anthony Towns for the rest of the season as he recovers from a torn meniscus, the initial take would be to consider Unders for the T-Wolves given the absence of his scoring prowess. But a contrarian position when the Timberwolves after playing a team with a terrible defense is prudent in this situation. Mike Conley has stepped up in the last two games to score 23 and 25 points in their last two games to offer complementary scoring to Anthony Edwards. He has nailed five 3-pointers in both of those games. As it is, the Timberwolves have played 25 of their last 36 road games Over the Total after a straight-up win on the road. They have played 14 of their last 19 games Over the Total after a point-spread victory. And they have played 20 of their last 28 games Over the Total after winning two games in a row. Minnesota remains an elite defensive club even without Towns — and they held their last two opponents to just 100 points. The T-Wolves have played 30 of their last 44 road games Over the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game — and they have played 11 of their last 12 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in two or more games in a row. They stay on the road where they are making 48.3% of their shots resulting in 114.6 Points-Per-Game. Minnesota has played 29  of their last 44 road games Over the Total against teams with a losing record. Rudy Gobert is questionable for tonight’s contest with a left rib sprain — and if he does not play, he makes the Timberwolves interior defense much less formidable. Utah is fully embracing tanking for the rest of the season. The Jazz owes Oklahoma City their first-round draft pick if it falls outside the top ten. Not coincidentally, they have the worst defensive rating in their last 15 games. Utah has played 16 of their last 21 games Over the Total in March including five of their seven games this month. Jordan Clarkson remains out with a groin injury and Lauri Markkanen is questionable with a quad injury after missing extended time due to that injury. In their last five games, they have allowed their opponents to make 50.7% of their shots resulting in 125.0 PPG — and they have allowed their last five visitors to score 119.6 PPG when they are playing at home. The Jazz have played 21 of their last 31 games Over the Total after a loss at home — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a loss at home to a Northwest Division rival. They have also played 5 straight Overs after a double-digit loss at home.

FINAL TAKE: Minnesota has won the last four meetings with Utah after Saturday’s victory. The Jazz have played 27 of their last 40 road games Over the Total when avenging a loss at home to their opponent. They have also played 35 of their last 55 games when playing with double-revenge — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing with triple-revenge. 25* NBA Northwest Division Total of the Month is with Over the Total in the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves (565) and the Utah Jazz (566). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (561) and the Philadelphia 76ers (562). THE SITUATION: Miami (37-30) has won two games in a row after their 104-101 victory at Detroit as a 5-point favorite yesterday. Philadelphia (37-30) snapped their two-game losing streak with their 109-98 victory against Charlotte as a 10-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Heat have played 25 of their last 36 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 15 of their last 19 games Under the Total after a win on the road. Additionally, they have played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 105 points in their last game. They have played 15 of their last 20 games Under the Total after winning two games in a row. Furthermore, they have played 20 of their last 25 games Under the Total after a win by three points or less. They have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after when playing without a day of rest — and they have played 17 of their last 24 games Under the Total when playing for the third time on the road in five days. On the road, Miami has played 26 of their last 35 games Under the Total — and they have played 10 of their last 12 road games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points. They have also played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record in the second half of the season. Philadelphia has played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total in the second half of the season. The 76ers have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after covering the point spread as a double-digit favorite. The Sixers have also played 6 of their last 8 games at home Under the Total with the Total set in the 200-209.5 point range.

FINAL TAKE: Jimmy Butler is questionable with a foot injury for the Heat — and this Philly team already without Joel Embiid may also be without Tobias Harris who is questionable with an ankle. Miami has won the last three meetings between these two teams after their 109-104 upset victory as a 3-point underdog on February 14th. 8* NBA Miami-Philadelphia ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (561) and the Philadelphia 76ers (562). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:40 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (537) and the Houston Rockets (538). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (39-21) had their two-game winning streak snapped in a 113-106 loss at Milwaukee as a 1.5-point underdog on Monday. Houston (27-34) has won two games in a row after their 114-101 victory at home against San Antonio as a 7.5-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Clippers allowed the Bucks to make 47.4% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last three games. Los Angeles has played 13 of their last 20 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 20 of their last 28 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. And while they have only covered the point spread twice in their last seven games, they have then played 11 of their last 12 games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. The Clippers are without Russell Westbrook who injured his hand and may miss the rest of the regular season. This team will need his offensive spark coming off the bench. As it is, Los Angeles are making 47.9% of their shots in their last five games resulting in 110.8 Points-Per-Game — and those marks are -6.4 PPG and a -1.2% drops from their season average. The Clippers stay on the road where they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. They have also played 20 of their last 31 games Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. Houston made 46.7% of their shots against the Spurs which was the best shooting mark in their last 11 contests. But the Rockets have played 17 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total after a win on their home court. Furthermore, they have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a double-digit victory — and they have played 20 of their last 31 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Houston is still only making 40.8% of their shots in their last five games resulting in 108.4 PPG — and those numbers represent a -4.4 PPG and a -4.7% drop from their season averages. They stay at home where they are limiting their guests to just 44.9% shooting including a 32.8% mark from behind the arc resulting in 109.5 PPG. Houston has played 12 of their last 17 home games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 4 straight Unders at home as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points.  

FINAL TAKE: The Rockets want to avenge a 106-100 loss in Los Angeles against the Clippers on November 17th last fall — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a loss earlier in the season. 10* NBA LA Clippers-Houston ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Los Angeles Clippers (537) and the Houston Rockets (538). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (571) and the Los Angeles Clippers (572). THE SITUATION: Sacramento (32-23) has won two straight games after their 127-122 victory against San Antonio as a 10.5-point favorite on Thursday. Los Angeles (37-18) has won two of their last three games after their 101-95 victory as a 9-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Kings made 55.9% of their shots against the Spurs which was the best shooting effort in their last four contests. And while that final score cruised Over the 242-point total in that contest, Sacramento has then played 22 of their last 33 games on the road Under the Total after playing an Over in their last game. The Kings have only covered the point spread twice in their last seven games — and they have then played 11 of their last 13 road games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Sacramento ranks ninth in the league with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 119.0 — but now they go back on the road where that metric drops to 114.6, ranking 15th in the NBA. Their 115.7 Points-Per-Game scoring average on the road is -2.9 PPG below their season average. But the Kings tighten things up on defense when playing in hostile environments. While they rank 27th in defensive efficiency in the half-court when playing at home, they improve to a 19th ranking in the half-court when on the road. And while they rank 27th in transition defense at home, they rise to a ranking of 17th when on the road. Overall, Sacramento ranks 10th in the NBA with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 114.6 when on the road which is a big improvement versus their 118.1 mark at home which ranks 26th in the league. Their home hosts are making 47.8% of their shots resulting in 115.6 PPGG which is -0.9% and -2.4 PPG below their season averages. The Kings have played 24 of their last 35 road games Under the Total as an underdog. Los Angeles has played 8 straight Unders at home after a win by six points or less — and they have played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a straight-up win where they did not cover the point spread as a favorite. The Clippers have covered the point spread only once in their last six games (three games ago) — and they have played 8 straight Unders after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. They have also played 13 of their last 15 home games Under the Total after failing to cover the point spread in two or more games in a row. They return home where they hold their guests to just 110.5 PPG on 46.3% shooting — and they rank 11th in the NBA with an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency of 111.9 which is much better than their 116.4 mark when on the road, ranking 15th in the league. But while they lead the league with an Adjusted Offensive Efficiency of 119.6 when on the road, that number drops to 118.6 when at home which ranks just 10th in the league when measuring home court efficiency. The Kings are vulnerable to good 3-point shooting teams since they are last in the league by allowing their opponents to make 39.8% of their shots from behind the arc. But Los Angeles is not a prolific shooting team from distance since only 38.1% of their shots are from behind 3-point range, ranking 17th in the NBA. They may be without two of their best 3-point shooters as well with both Paul George and Norman Powell questionable with nagging injuries.

FINAL TAKE: The Clippers have played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total at home when favored by up to six points — and the Kings have played 19 of their last 26 road games Under the Total as an underdog of up to six points or as a pick ‘em. 25* NBA Pacific Division Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Sacramento Kings (571) and the Los Angeles Clippers (572). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (541) and the New Orleans Pelicans (542). THE SITUATION: Miami (30-25) returns to the court tonight for the first time since the All-Star break after winning four of their last five games with their 109-014 upset victory at Philadelphia as a 3-point underdog back on February 14th. New Orleans (34-22) has won four games in a row as well as eight of their last nine contests with their 127-105 win against Houston as a 7.5-point favorite last night.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Heat stepped up their play on defense heading into the break. They held their last five opponents to 46.4% shooting which resulted in just 102.0 Points-Per-Game — and those numbers are -8.4 PPG and -1.0% below their respective season averages. They have held eight straight opponents to no more than 110 points — and they have held six of those opponents to 104 or fewer points. But Miami continues to struggle on the other end of the court as they have not scored more than 110 points in 14 of their last 18 games. Injuries will likely hold them back in scoring tonight. Terry Rozier is out with a knee and Josh Richardson is out with a shoulder — and Tyler Herro is questionable with a foot issue. As it is, the Heat have played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a straight-up win on the road — and they have played 26 of their last 39 games Under the Total after a win by six points or less. They have also played 15 of their last 21 games Under the Total after winning four or five of their last six games. Additionally, Miami has played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing for no more than the fourth time in the last ten days — and they have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total when enjoying a rest advantage versus their opponent. The Heat have played four straight Unders — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total after playing an Under in their last game. They have also played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total after playing two or more Unders in a row. On the road, they are scoring only 108.0 PPG — but they are allowing just 107.7 PPG. They have played 19 of their last 27 games Under the Total on the road — and they have played 12 of their last 16 road games Under the Total as an underdog. Furthermore, they have played 24 of their last 36 road games Under the Total with Total set in the 210s. New Orleans has played 9 straight Undress at home after a double-digit victory — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a win at home by 20 or more points. They have also played 20 of their last 30 games Under the Total after a point spread win. The Pelicans made 52.1% of their shots last night after going into the All-Star break by making 56.2% against Washington — but they have then played 15 of their last 20 games Under the Total after making 50% or more of their shots in two straight games. Both those games finished Over the Total — but they have then played 6 straight Unders after playing two or more Overs in a row. They have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total when playing no more than their third game in the last ten days. With Brandon Ingram questionable with an illness and Zion Williamson questionable with his nagging left foot issues, they may be without one or two of their best scorers. As it is, New Orleans has averaged 114.2 PPG in their last five games which is -2.4 PPG below their season average. The Pelicans' play on the other end of the court has been outstanding — they rank sixth in the league in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They have held five of their last seven opponents to no more than 106 points — and they have held three of their last four opponents to no more than 105 points with two of those teams only scoring 84 and 87 points. Their last five opponents have scored just 108.2 PPG which is -3.9 PPG below their season average.

FINAL TAKE: Both of these struggle to score in crunch time which may explain why the Heat have played 17 of their last 24 road games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and the Pelicans have played 7 of their last 8 home games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 25* NBA Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Miami Heat (541) and the New Orleans Pelicans (542). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:10 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (511) and the Los Angeles Clippers (512). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (29-21) has won three games in a row after their 138-100 win against Toronto as a 10.5-point favorite on Monday. Los Angeles (34-15) has won four games in a row and nine of their last ten contests after their 149-144 win at Atlanta as a 4-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Pelicans made 51.0% of their shots on Monday which was the best shooting effort in their last six contests — but they have then played 8 of their last 13 games Under the Total after making 47% or more of their shots in four or more games in a row. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after scoring 130 or more points in their last contest. New Orleans has also played 13 of their last 19 games Under the Total after a double-digit win — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a victory by 20 or more points on their home court. They have played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total after a point-spread victory. And while that game finished Over the Total, they have then played 17 of their last 23 games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Over the Total. The Pelicans go back on the road where they have played 32 of their last 48 games Under the Total as an underdog getting up to six points or as a pick ‘em. Los Angeles made 58.4% of their shots on Monday against the Hawks in what was the second-best shooting effort in their last 13 games. The Clippers have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after scoring 145 or more points in their last game. They did allow Atlanta to shoot 53.7% from the field which was the worst defensive effort in their last ten contests. That game concluded a long seven-game road trip — so this team may not have worked their hardest on the defensive end of the court against a Hawks team that does not play great defense. Los Angeles has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a game where 225 or more combined points were scored. They return home to play their eighth game since January 26th — and they have played 13 of their last 17 home games Under the Total when playing for the eighth or more time in the last 14 days. The Clippers have played 39 of their last 65 games Under the Total at home at Crypto.com Arena — and they have played 16 of their last 27 games Under the Total when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles held the Pelicans to an effective field goal percentage of 39.9% in a 111-95 win on the road which was New Orleans' worst offensive performance of the season — and now Zion Williamson is questionable to play tonight with a foot injury. The Clippers make 49.7% of their shots and lead the NBA with a 39.9% clip from behind the arc. The Pelicans have played 24 of their last 33 road games Under the Total in the second half of the season against teams who make 46% or more of their shots — and they have played 18 of their last 22 road games Under the Total in the second half of the season against opponents who are shooting 36% or better from 3-point range. 10* NBA Wednesday Late Show O/U Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the New Orleans Pelicans (511) and the Los Angeles Clippers (512). Best of luck for us — Frank.