5* Sunday NBA *BEST BET* (ABC) on Blazers +4 (line of -2 in system was an error) With home court in the Western Conference already wrapped up, the Lakers can afford to continue to rest Kobe Bryant. If he does play, it won't be big minutes. This game means a lot more to the Blazers as they want to keep winning to avoid the No. 8 spot and the Lakers in the first round of the playoffs. The Lakers would like to avoid Portland in the playoffs too as they have lost 9 of their last 10 at the Rose Garden. The Lakers are 0-8 ATS in their last 8 games following an ATS win. Pound Portland.

5* 2010 NBA Game of the Year on Celtics +2
I went against the Celtics last night with the 11.5-point underdog Wizards, who handed Bean Town a 10 point loss. The Celtics trailed by as many as 28 points. This is a veteran team with 3 Hall of Famers, and it was incredibly embarrassed last night. Look for the Celtics to save face by responding in a big way in Milwaukee. Boston should be further motivated by a 2-point defeat it suffered in Milwaukee last month. Motivation is a big part of this play, but the other big part has to do with the interior matchups. The Bucks are without arguably their best player, Andrew Bogut, and that opens things up for Kevin Garnett and Kendrick Perkins to both have their way down low. I just can't see the Bucks overcoming the loss of Bogut in this game when you consider that he is averaging 25.0 points and 15.5 rebounds against the Celtics this season. He had 25 points and 17 rebounds in Milwaukee's 86-84 victory March 9. That's a lot of points and rebounds to make up for and I just don't see it getting done. While Boston is a veteran team, it has actually been quite successful when playing without any rest. In fact, the Celtics are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on zero days rest. This team has been a cash cow in the road dog role too. The Celtics are 52-25-2 ATS in their last 79 games as a road underdog and 9-4-2 ATS in their last 15 games as a road underdog of 4.5 or fewer points. Look for Boston to make a statement with a big win tonight.

5* Friday NBA *BEST BET* on Mavericks +4
Portland is playing well, but I give the edge to the Mavs in this highly motivated spot tonight. With a win, and a Spurs loss, the Mavs can clinch the Southwest Division. Plus, they are still battling for the No. 2 seed in the West. In addition, the Mavs have lost all 3 prior meetings to the Blazers this season so they will be very hungry to pay Portland back. The underdog has dominated this matchup. In fact, the underdog is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings. The Mavericks are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog and 7-2 ATS in their last 9 road games. The Trail Blazers are just 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a winning percentage above .600 and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. We'll take the Mavs and the points.

5* NBA on TNT *BEST BET* on Lakers +2
This is a tough spot for Denver playing back-to-back against a well-rested Lakers team that will be hungry after getting absolutely embarrassed by the Spurs Sunday. Any time you catch the Lakers in the underdog role, they are worth a look. In fact, they are 29-14-2 ATS in their last 45 games as a road underdog. Furthermore, the Lakers are a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points. In other words, this is a team that typically responds well. The Nuggets have been a fool's gold favorite as they are just 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games as a favorite. Plus, they are only 1-7-1 ATS in their last 9 games playing on zero day's rest. With the Nuggets being a team the Lakers could end up seeing in the playoffs again, look for LA to send a message that it is clearly the best in the West tonight.

5* ESPN Game of the Year on Suns -6.5
The Spurs were lucky to come away with a win in Sacramento last night, but they will have no such luck on their side tonight. Tony Parker was cleared to play a bit sooner than expected, but he is not expected to play big minutes. This proves crucial here since George Hill is out injured. Without an experienced point guard to help the Spurs control the flow of the game, there will be nothing standing in the way of a rested Suns team making this one a track meet. This veteran Spurs team has struggled in back-to-backs to begin with and will certainly have its work cut out for itself against the most potent offensive team in the NBA. You have to love the fact that history is strongly on our side. Here's what I mean: plays against road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points playing on back-to-back days, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%), are an impressive 71-32 ATS the last 5 seasons. The Spurs have played a lot of games in few days while the Suns haven't played since Saturday and this should catch up with San Antonio here. Plus, Phoenix is 15-3 ATS versus poor pressure defensive teams forcing 14 or fewer turnovers per game, in the 2nd half of the season this season, winning in these spots by 10.1 points on average. The Suns are also an unbeaten 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. Pound the Suns.

5* Never Lost Tuesday NBA *BEST BET* on Kings +6.5
The San Antonio Spurs were already playing without All-Star point guard Tony Parker. Now, they'll be playing without his replacement tonight. George Hill is expected to miss at least two games. He has averaged 15.8 points in 41 games as a starter this season. Now Manu Ginobli is really the only guy San Antonio has that can create for himself and others, and this has coach Popovich worried. "I'm a little worried about everything that's coming up now without George," coach Popovich said. "It's going to be difficult to ... have Manu (Ginobili) play the point in all these games coming up. We'll have to figure something out." It's likely they won't have that "something" figured out tonight. Plus, after a huge win over the Lakers to secure a playoff spot, this one has letdown written all over it. Kings Rookie of the Year candidate Tyreke Evans is coming off one of his worst performances, shooting just 2 of 12 and finishing with six points. Expect a big bounce back game from him tonight. San Antonio is 0-8 ATS off an upset win as an underdog this season, losing in these spots by an average score of 88.5 to 96.8. The Kings have either won, or lost by 3 or fewer points in their last 5 home games against the Spurs. We'll take the points tonight.

5* Sunday NBA *BEST BET* on T-Wolves +12
This is a big letdown spot for OKC after such a big win over the Mavs last night to clinch a playoff spot. Plus, the T-Wolves will be extremely motivated after getting crushed by OKC by 17 points the last time these two teams faced off. That lopsided affair was certainly out of the ordinary as Minnesota had either won or lost by 7 or fewer points in the 8 previous meetings. Plays on road underdogs of 10 or more points revenging a road loss vs. an opponent, with a losing record, are 104-56 ATS the last 5 seasons, including 7-3 ATS this season. Plus, Minnesota is 20-8 ATS in road games when revenging a loss vs. an opponent of 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons, only losing in these spots by 7.3 points on average. Lastly, the Timberwolves are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning percentage above .600. We

5* NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Year on Hawks +5.5
The Hawks are extremely confident heading into this one after a convincing win over the Lakers. After getting punished in the playoffs by Cleveland last season, the Hawks have played the Cavs tough in two meetings this season but they have come up short in each. Look for the third time to be the charm for the Hawks tonight. The Cavs have struggled without Anderson Varejao, who won't be at full strength if he does go tonight. He is their energy guy and they have looked lethargic at times in each of their last two games without him in the lineup. Atlanta has played up to the level of its competition this season. In fact, it is 11-2 ATS when playing against a top-level team (Win Pct. > 70%) this season, defeating these teams by an average score of 96.7 to 91.2. The Hawks are also 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a road underdog of 5.0-10.5 points and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games vs. a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600. The Cavaliers are just 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games following an ATS loss and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Take the Hawks and the points tonight.

5* Wiseguy NBA on TNT Game of the Month on Nuggets -5
It's gut check time for the Nuggets tonight. They return home after a 5-game road trip where they were brutal and I fully expect them to make a statement. The Nuggets are 30-6 at home on the season where they are winning by 9.4 points on average. The home team has dominated this matchup to the tune of 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Plus, the Trail Blazers are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Denver and 10-25-1 ATS in the last 36 meetings overall. The Nuggets are 52-25-3 ATS in their last 80 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5 points, 38-15-2 ATS in their last 55 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points and 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Lay the points.

5* Tuesday NBA *BEST BET* on Pistons -3
The Pistons just fell in Indiana by 4 points on Friday so they will be hungry to return the favor at home tonight. That hunger should have grown after the Pistons turned in one of their worst performances of the season against the Cavs Sunday. In fact, plays on favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points (line opened at -3.5) revenging a same season loss vs. an opponent, off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more, are 37-14 ATS the last 5 seasons. Plus, plays on favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points vs. a division opponent, off a blowout loss by 20 points or more to a division rival, are 32-11 ATS since 1996, including 11-3 ATS the last 5 seasons. Indiana comes in having lost 9 straight road games with all of those losses coming by at least 4 points. In fact, the Pacers are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games as a road underdog of 4.5 or fewer points. We'll lay the points with the Pistons.

5* NBA System Play of the Month on Heat +3.5
I feel this is a great spot to back the Heat tonight. Miami is playing some of its best ball of the season, having won 3 straight with 2 of those wins coming over the Lakers and Hawks. So momentum is on its side. Motivation is also on its side. The last time these teams faced off, the Bobcats handed the Heat an embarrassing 104-65 loss. Trust me, that one is not sitting well with D. Wade and company. Expect a big game from Wade tonight and for the Heat to pull the upset. Plays on road underdogs revenging a road blowout loss of 30 points or more are 25-9 ATS the last 5 seasons, and when that dog is well rested only playing its 2nd game in 5 days, the situation improves to 23-4 ATS the last 5 seasons (85.2%). These numbers are too telling to ignore. We'll play by the numbers tonight!

5* Sunday NBA *BEST BET* (ESPN) on Blazers +7
Expect the rested Blazers (haven't played since Mar. 3), winners of 5 of their last 6 SU & ATS, to play really well against their division rival tonight. While Denver is 27-5 at home this season, it is only 16-15-1 ATS in those games. Portland is 17-14 on the road, but a strong 20-10-1 ATS in those games. While Portland is rested, Denver is not. Carmelo has been receiving additional intravenous fluids because he's been so run down. In fact, Denver is only 5-13 ATS when playing 6 or more games in 10 days this season, only winning in these spots 2.7 points on average. I also like that Portland is 8-1 ATS versus poor defensive teams allowing 99+ points per game in the 2nd half of the season this season. The Trail Blazers are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 road games and 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a road underdog of 5.0-10.5 points. It is also worth noting that the Nuggets are 9-19-1 ATS in their last 29 games as a favorite. We'll take the points.

5* ESPN Game of the Month on Hornets +8
Off 3 straight defeats, the Hornets will be extremely hungry tonight, especially since one of those defeats was to the Spurs on Monday. The Spurs haven't played since that Monday game, but that could prove to be too much time off when you consider that they are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 3 or more days rest. It's also hard to lay this many points with the Spurs when you consider that they are just 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games as a favorite and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. It makes it even more difficult to lay those points when you see that the Hornets are 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 road games, 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a winning home record and 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5 points. Plus, one day of rest is usually sufficient for the Hornets as they are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games playing on 1 days rest. We'll take the points.

5* NBA on TNT Game of the Month on Jazz +1.5
Rarely does Utah ever lose 2 in a row. In fact, the Jazz have not lost back-to-back games in 2 months. Utah will be the fresher team tonight, having not played since Monday (Phoenix just played last night). The Jazz will also be extremely motivated to avenge a loss to the lowly Clippers in their last game. Head-to-head, the Jazz are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 meetings in Phoenix. As I already mentioned, they are a great bounce back team and are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 games following a S.U. loss as a result. The Jazz are also 8-0-1 ATS in their last 9 road games vs. a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a road underdog and 5-0-2 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 2 days rest. Another thing that can't go unmentioned here is how much better Utah has been than Phoenix when playing on Thursday nights, a night that NBA teams don't play on often. The Jazz are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 Thursday games while the Suns are 6-20 ATS in their last 26 Thursday games. We'll take Utah tonight.

5* Wednesday NBA *BEST BET* on Grizzlies +2
I really believe Memphis is the better team and it will be hungry to prove it after 2 prior losses to the Hornets this season. In the latest matchup between these two teams, New Orleans overcame a 21-point third-quarter deficit to win 109-102 in overtime. In the teams' first matchup this season, New Orleans rallied from a nine-point deficit and won 113-111 at home on James Posey's layup with 1.1 seconds left. Those two losses, which should have been wins, have to be sitting very sour with the Grizzlies. They will be the driving force for a Memphis win this evening. Memphis has won 4 straight on the road. The Grizzlies are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a S.U. loss, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Wednesday games and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games. Plus, the Hornets are just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games as a favorite. Take Memphis.

5* NBA *BEST BET* Blowout on Bobcats -2
This is a tough spot for the Mavs, who just played last night, and will be playing their 9th game in 14 days. The Bobcats find themselves in a much better spot, playing at home where they are an impressive 20-7 this season, and playing with 2 full days of rest. Charlotte will also be looking for a little bit of revenge here after falling at Dallas by 1 point in December. Right away, you have to like the fact that plays against underdogs playing on back-to-back days, good team, winning 60-75% or more of their games on the season, are 164-109 the last 5 seasons (60.1%). You also have to like the fact that Charlotte is 13-4 ATS in home games when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days over the last 2 seasons, winning in these spots by an average score of 97.8 to 90.6. The Bobcats are also a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a home favorite of 4.5 or fewer points. The Mavericks are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games playing without any days rest. We'll take the Bobcats at home tonight.

5* Sunday Night NBA *BEST BET* (ESPN) on Hornets +8
New Orleans has showed up against elite competition. Just this month, we've seen the Hornets play the Magic to a 6-point game at Orlando to cover as a 9.5-point dog. We just saw the Hornets beat the Magic outright as a 5-point dog Friday. We have also seen them defeat the Celtics here recently and cover the number against the Cavs. The Hornets are very confident right now, even without Chris Paul, because of how well Darren Collison is playing. Plus, New Orleans has played the Mavs extremely tough, having won 8 of the last 11 meetings. You also have to like the fact that New Orleans is a perfect 8-0 ATS as a road underdog of 6.5 to 12 points under coach Bower. The Hornets are also 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games when playing on 1 days rest and 9-1 ATS in their last 10 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. The Mavericks are 6-23 ATS in their last 29 games as a home favorite and 4-17 ATS in their last 21 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. We'll take the points.

5* NBA Blowout of the Month on Pacers -1.5
With Joakim Noah doubtful this evening, and with Indiana out for revenge after losing at Chicago this week, we'll take the rested Pacers in this revenge spot against a Bulls team that just played an emotionally and physically draining OT game last night. Right away, you have to like the Pacers when you consider that plays on all teams where the line is +3 to -3 with triple revenge - 3 straight losses vs. an opponent, after a home game where both teams score 100 or more points are 64-32 ATS since 1996. The last time Indiana played the same team twice in the same week, it lost the first game (by 15 at Toronto) but then responded with a 15-point win in the second game. We'll lay the points here as I like Indiana by double digits.

5* NBA Underdog of the Month on Pistons +10
Tough spot for the Nuggets playing back-to-back after such an uptempo game last night. The Nuggets shot out of their mind last night, but those shots will have a tougher time falling with tired legs. This is a similar spot to last week for the Nuggets. After beating the Cavs, the Nuggets lost the next night by double digits to Washington as they were looking ahead to a game with Boston. Tonight, I think they get caught looking ahead to a showdown with the Lakers. Detroit has fared well against the Nuggets. In fact, it has won 7 straight and 21 of the last 25. The Pistons are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings and 13-3 ATS in the last 16. The Nuggets are 1-5-2 ATS in their last 8 games playing on zero day's rest, 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games vs. a team with a winning percentage below .400 and 2-11-1 ATS in their last 14 games vs. a team with a losing S.U. record. Detroit keeps this one within the number tonight.

5* Monday Night NBA *BEST BET* on Pacers +9
I know Indiana has really struggled on the road this season, but it is coming off a nice confidence boosting win over the Rockets. Furthermore, this will be the Mavs 5th game in the last 7 days, making this a tough spot for a veteran team. Also, I have to think that Dallas will be much more concerned about Wednesday's showdown with the Lakers. With all this in mind, I really can't justify laying this many points when you consider that Dallas is just 5-20 ATS as a home favorite this season, only winning in these spots by an average of 1.5 points. Lastly, plays against home favorites, extremely tired team playing their 5th game in 7 days, a good team (60% to 75%) playing a team with a losing record are 22-4 ATS the last 5 seasons, 18-2 ATS the last 3 seasons and a perfect 2-0 ATS this season. Take the points.

5* Sunday Night NBA *BEST BET* on Timberwolves +6.5
The Thunder are coming off a taxing overtime win in New York last night so they are going to have a difficult time covering this number on the road tonight, especially against a division rival that has played them so tough. Minnesota has either won or lost by 5 or fewer points in 6 of the last 7 meetings. The only exception was a 7-point loss. The T-Wolves normally always get up for division games so it comes as no surprise that they are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 vs. the NBA Northwest. Plus, they are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 home games and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a home underdog. While the Thunder are a much improved team this season, I think it's still a lot to be asking this team to lay this many points very often, especially in today's spot. In fact, the Thunder are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. I think it is also worth noting that they are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 Sunday games. We'll take the points.

5* ESPN Game of the Month on Mavs +6.5
Dallas has had tremendous success against the Magic, winning 5 of the last 6 meetings with that lone loss coming by just 2 points. This is a matchup that has been dominated by the underdog in terms of the point spread as the underdog is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings. The Magic are a team that have been very prone to losing in look ahead spots. In fact, they lost to Memphis on January 25th as a favorite with Boston up next, and they lost to Washington as a favorite on February 5th with Boston on deck again. With LeBron and the Cavs on deck, it will likely be difficult for the Magic to give complete focus to the task at hand. Also, plays against home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points after beating the spread by 24 or more points total in their last three games, against an opponent after being beaten by the spread by 24 or more points total in their last three games are 27-9 ATS the last 3 seasons. We'll take the points with the Mavs tonight.

5* NBA on TNT Game of the Year on Nuggets +7
Denver believes it can win a championship and it has certainly showed that to be a possibility in its biggest games this season. The Nuggets have won both of their meetings with the Lakers and they won their only meeting with the Cavs in a game Carmelo Anthony did not play in. Now, with coach George Karl announcing that he has cancer, I expect his boys to play even harder. I have to think that the Nuggets will be the more focused team tonight as the Cavs try to adjust to life with Antawn Jamison and life without Zydrunas Ilgauskas. It is not clear whether Jamison will play, but it is certain that Big Z won't be in the lineup and the Cavs will miss him. We saw how bad the Mavs looked in their first game after making a big trade, only scoring 86 points against the Thunder. Chemistry was an issue and I expect it to be an issue for Cleveland here. Plus, the Cavs are still expected to be without Mo Williams so quality depth is also an issue. The Nuggets are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog of 5.0-10.5 points and 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 games playing on 3 or more days rest. The Nuggets are also 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings. We'll take the points.

5* NBA Public Massacre of the Year on Warriors +7
The Warriors may only by 4-20 on the road this season, but they are 13-10-1 ATS in those games, and they have been downright deadly lately. In fact, the Warriors are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games. They are also 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5 points and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a road underdog of 5.0-10.5 points. It's also hard to justify laying this many points with the Rockets when you consider that they are 0-8 ATS in their last 8 games as a home favorite and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. Plus, the Rockets have struggled to defend the uptempo Warriors in recent meetings, allowing Golden State to score 107 or more points in each of the last 3 meetings while not winning by more than 4 points. Plus, I love the fact that the public is all over Houston here, reaffirming that we have the smart money side. Take the points.

5* Wednesday Night NBA *BEST BET* Blowout on Thunder -5.5
The Thunder are one of the most resilient teams in the NBA so I expect them to be extremely motivated to get back in the win column tonight after back-to-back defeats. In fact, OKC is 16-3 ATS after 1 or more consecutive losses this season and 9-1 ATS off a road loss this season. This is also a great spot for the Thunder as they have had 3 days to rest while the Bulls are playing their 4th road game in 6 days. The Thunder are a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on 3 or more day's rest and 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. It's been a good road trip for the Bulls, but expect them to fall SU & ATS tonight against the much fresher Thunder.

5* 43-0 ATS Tuesday NBA *BEST BET* on Bucks +7
It's hard not to like the Bucks catching this many points in Dallas tonight when you consider that the Mavs are 0-11 ATS in their last 11 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. And that's not all. The Mavericks are 0-8 ATS in their last 8 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400, 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 Tuesday games. Meanwhile, the Bucks are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when their opponent scores 100 or more points in their previous game and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall. And there's more. Dallas is 0-7 ATS this season at home when facing up-tempo teams averaging 83 or more shots per game. All together, we have a 43-0 ATS Angle in our favor tonight. In addition, it is also worth mentioning that the Bucks are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 meetings with Dallas and the underdog is 13-3 ATS in the last 16 meetings. Take the points tonight.

5* NBA on TNT *BEST BET* on Magic +6.5
The Orlando Magic have fallen flat on their faces the last 2 games with disappointing performances against Denver and Portland, but now they've had 2 days to rest and prepare for the team that beat them in last year's Finals. Rest has been a very important betting angle for the Magic when playing out on the road. In fact, the Magic are 14-3 ATS in road games when playing with 2 days rest over the last 3 seasons, winning these games by an average score of 102.3 to 96.4. These team has also responded rather well to being embarrassed. Orlando is 16-4 ATS off a road loss by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons, bouncing back to win by an average score of 101.6 to 93.5. We also have to figure in that the Magic are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings against the Lakers in Los Angeles and the Underdog is 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings overall. We'll take the points.

5* Friday NBA *BEST BET* (ESPN) on Magic -4.5
With all the injury problems of the Blazers, I just can't see them getting the job done against a hungry Magic team tonight. The Blazers are really hurting inside right now with Joel Przybilla and Greg Oden out. The news gets worse as Brandon Roy is listed as doubtful for tonight's contest. Orlando was just embarrassed in Denver in its last game, and I expect that loss to provide more than enough motivation for the Magic to get the job tonight. Expect a big game from Howard since the Blazers are missing their key frontline guys. Here's the clincher: plays on road favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points, good team outscoring their opponents by 3+ points/game, after a blowout loss by 15 points or more, are 33-8 ATS the last 5 seasons. For the record this system is a perfect 5-0 ATS this season. Take Orlando.

5* Tuesday NBA *BEST BET* Blowout on Grizzlies -5
Sunday the Clippers came through for us for an easy win over Miami. That win came at home where they have won 6 in a row. Expect a different story on the road tonight where they have lost 4 straight. The Clippers are just 12-27 ATS in their last 39 road games, 5-16 ATS in their last 21 road games vs. a team with a winning home record, and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog of 5.0-10.5 points. The Grizzlies have won 5 straight at home and they will be extremely motivated tonight as they look to bounce back from a 2-point loss at Charlotte. The Clippers have visited Memphis once already this season and the Grizzlies handed them a 15-point loss as a 5.5-point favorite and I expect a similar result tonight. The Grizzlies are 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall, 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 home games, and 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. Take the Grizz.

5* Eastern Conference Game of the Month (ESPN) on Hawks -3
Atlanta gets up for the C's unlike any other team. They already defeated Boston by 11 points in the Garden, and I like them to come through again here against a Celtics squad playing without Kevin Garnett. Boston has dropped 3 of its last 4 road games, needing OT to win at Miami Wednesday, and the Heat aren't as good as the Hawks in my book. Atlanta is 13-4 SU & 12-5 ATS at home this season and I think home court will treat them well again tonight. The home team is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings and the Celtics are only 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Atlanta. Atlanta desperately wants to assert itself as just as much of a contender as Orlando, Cleveland, and Boston in the East. They take another step toward doing so tonight.

5* Christmas Day NBA *BEST BET* (ABC) on Lakers -5
While the Cavs would love to make a statement with a win here, I just don't see it happening. This will be Cleveland's 4th road games in 6 days with Wednesday's overtime game with Sacramento really taking a toll. The Lakers haven't played since the 22nd so they will have the big edge in terms of fresh legs. The Lakers won both meetings last season by double digits, and I can make a strong argument that they are now better with Ron Artest, while Cleveland seems to have taken a small step back. I won't be surprised if Shaq has a good game as he will be motivated to play his former team, but at the end of the day, the Lakers just have too much fire power with Gasol, Bryant, Bynum, Odom, and Artest. Cleveland had tons of trouble matching up with LA's size defensively last season and we saw the trouble it had again in the playoffs when facing the Magic. Size and length will prevail again here. The Lakers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600 and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. This line is soft. Take LA.

5* Wednesday NBA *BEST BET* on Heat pk
I'll back a rested Heat team at home that has had Utah's number tonight, especially since the Jazz have played a lot of games in few days. The Jazz are 1-10 ATS in the last 11 meetings, including 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Miami. The Heat are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a S.U. loss and I expect them to bounce back here against a Jazz team that is just 5-8 on the road. Take Miami.

5* NBA *BEST BET* on Thunder +10
The Thunder are an incredible 10-0 ATS after a game where they did not cover the number this season, bouncing back to win by an average score of 103.7 to 93.7 in these spots. The Thunder will be lacking no motivation tonight after falling to the Lakers 85-101 exactly 1 month ago. The Thunder are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5 points and they are 11-5-2 ATS in their last 18 meetings in Los Angeles against the Lakers. Take the points tonight.

5* Saturday Night NBA *BEST BET* on Bobcats -3
Tough spot for the Jazz playing back-to-back against a Bobcats team that is well rested and has been strong at home all season. The Cats are 9-3 SU & 8-4 ATS at home this season while Utah is just 4-7 SU & ATS on the road. Charlotte is a perfect 2-0 SU & ATS at home against the Jazz the last 2 seasons, winning those games by 7 points on average. Plus, Utah is just 8-18 ATS when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons, losing in these spots by an average score of 101.2 to 107.5, and just 3-9 ATS in its last 12 back-to-backs. The Home team is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings. The Bobcats are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as a home favorite of 4.5 or less. Lastly, the Jazz are 6-20 ATS in their last 26 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Lay the number.

5* NBA Non-Conference Game of the Year on Thunder -5
Detroit is really banged up with Tayshaun Prince out and Rip Hamilton and Ben Gordon listed as questionable. Even Rodney Stuckey is not at 100% percent. Even if Hamilton and Gordon are able to go, they won't be healthy enough to drop a big night on the Thunder. Detroit is just 3-10 on the road this season and it has lost back-to-back road games by 11 and 8 points. The Thunder have lost 3 in a row so they will be very hungry to get back in the win column tonight. It's not that the Thunder are playing bad, they have just come up against superior teams (Cleveland, Denver, Dallas) and they will be excited to go up against an opponent they believe they are better than tonight. The Thunder have won the last two meetings in this series by 10 and 8 points and they are a perfect 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games against the Pistons. It has also been a money play to take the Thunder after a game where they failed to cover the spread as they are a perfect 9-0 ATS in this role this season, winning by an average score of 103.1 to 93.2 in these games. The Thunder are also 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400 and 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points. Bet the Thunder.

5* Saturday Night NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets -8.5
The public is on the Suns here and that is right where the books want them. Phoenix is in a tough spot, having just played a hard-fought game against the Magic last night. Meanwhile, the Nuggets are back home where they are 9-1 this season (winning by 13.9 ppg) and with a day's rest in their favor. Fatigue will play a major factor in this one as the Suns are only 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. This has been a matchup dominated by the home team as the home squad is 13-3 ATS in the last 16 meetings. In fact, the Suns are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 meetings in Denver. Since the beginning of last season, Denver is on a 12-1 ATS run as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points, winning in these spots by 15.6 points on average. We'll take the Nuggets at home tonight.

5* NBA on TNT Game of the Month on Magic -2
The Jazz have historically been a good home team, and they are 9-3 at home this season, but this is a really tough spot for them tonight. The Jazz played the Lakers tough for 3 quarters last night and then they were absolutely crushed in the 4th. While they would like to bounce back tonight, I don't think they'll have the legs to get it done against a Magic team that is rested and that has been one of the best road teams in the league the past couple seasons. In fact, the Magic are 10-2 on the road this season. Plus, the Jazz get the Lakers again in two nights so I expect them to be much more concerned with having their revenge in that game than this one. Utah is just 7-18 ATS when playing on back-to-back days since the beginning of last season, losing in these spots by 7 points on average. The Jazz are also just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes of the previous day. With their banged up roster, I just don't see Utah having the depth to get it done tonight. The Magic are 6-0-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Utah and 13-3-1 ATS in the last 17 meetings overall. Take the Magic.

5* NBA Central Division Game of the Year (ESPN) on Cavs -12
The Bulls have lost 5 straight games on the road with 4 of those losses coming by 15 or more points. The Cavs are rolling, having won 13 of their last 16 games. In their last 2 games, they crushed Dallas by 16 and Phoenix by 17 points. Plus, they'll be very hungry tonight after going down to Chicago by 1 point at home in the season's first meeting back on Nov. 5. Before that loss, the Cavs had won their two previous home games against the Bulls by scores of 14 and 25 points and I expected another lopsided win here. The Bulls are just 3-9 ATS in their last 12 meetings in Cleveland and the Cavaliers are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 vs. the NBA Central. Plus, the Bulls are short on quality depth right now with Tyrus Thomas expected to be out until mid-December and with Kirk Hinrich also listed as doubtful for tonight. Lay the number.

5* ESPN Game of the Month on Celtics -6
Without Jameer Nelson, I don't give the Magic a chance at Boston tonight against a highly motivated Celtics team ready to make a statement after getting knocked out of the playoffs by the Magic last season. Expect a big game from Kevin Garnett, who was forced to miss last year's playoff series with an injury, and expect Rajon Rondo to dominate the point guard battle. The home team is 25-12 ATS in the last 37 meetings and the Magic are just 5-14 ATS in the last 19 meetings in Boston. Expect the Celtics to send a message tonight.

5* Friday Night NBA *BEST BET* on Kings +5
The Kings, who only have one less win on the season than Houston, are not getting nearly enough respect tonight, especially when you consider that they are 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. It is also crucial that Sacramento is well rested here as it is 18-7 ATS when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons, winning in these spots by an average score of 103 to 101.8. The Rockets got out of the gate fast but are since coming back down to earth. Sac is improved and I like it outright tonight.

5* Wednesday Night NBA *BEST BET* on Bobcats +10.5
Big win for the Celtics last night has the public all over them, but after big wins often come letdowns and that's precisely what I think you'll see from Boston here. The Bobcats have played the Celtics tough as nails and the result has been lucrative. In fact, the Cats are 12-2 ATS in the last 14 meetings in this matchup and a perfect 7-0 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Boston. Plus, the Bobcats are an impressive 24-10 ATS in their last 34 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5 while the Celtics are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5. Doc Rivers played his starters longer than he wanted to last night, especially KG. Don't expect Boston to be up for the Bobcats the way they were for Lebron James and Shaq and expect Doc to give his vets a little more rest tonight, playing back-to-back early in the season as it is a long season. Take the points.

5* NBA Finals Game 5 MONSTER BEST BET on Magic -3
Normally, the series would be heading back to LA for Game 5, but the unique 2-3-2 format of the finals gives the Magic a home game to fight for its playoff life and that is huge. Orlando is a very resilient team and it is not going to lay down in front of its home fans here, especially since this is the last home game of the season. Plus, teams playing with nothing to lose are very dangerous. The Lakers are feeling a little fat and happy right about now, just like they were following their narrow Game 2 victory, and while they may say they want to end it tonight, they aren't going to lose any sleep over a loss as they feel they can win it in front of their home fans in Game 6. The Lakers are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games following a SU win and 3-11-1 ATS in their last 15 NBA Finals games. Orlando is 33-12 ATS revenging a same season loss vs. an opponent over the last 2 seasons, winning in these spots by an average score of 102.3 to 94.1. Orlando is also 21-8 ATS revenging a home loss vs. an opponent over the last 2 seasons. Bet the Magic tonight.

5* NBA Finals Gm 4 *MONSTER BEST BET* (ABC) on Lakers +2.5
The Magic shot an NBA Finals record 63% from the floor in Game 3 and still did not cover the spread. If Kobe was his normal self, not shooting 5 of 10 from the free throw line and living up to his title as the games best closer, the Lakers would have won Game 3 despite Orlando's shooting performance. Here are two things I know: the Magic won't shoot as well in Game 4 and Kobe will be better. The Lakers are a perfect 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games following a SU loss. The Lakers are 10-2 ATS as an underdog this season and the underdog is 8-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings. I like LA outright in Game 4 so I'll gladly take the insurance points.

5* 2009 NBA Finals Game of the Year on LA Lakers +4
I like the Lakers to deliver the knockout blow with an outright win tonight so I'll definitely take them getting 4 insurance points. They escaped with a win in Game 2 while not playing their best and that does tons for their confidence while it doesn't do anything for Orlando's. The Lakers are 22-8-2 ATS in their last 32 games as a road underdog. The Underdog is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings. With the books knowing the public would shift to the Magic tonight, they have given the Lakers plenty of breathing room here with these points. Expect the Lakers to come out on top in a close one.

5* 2009 NBA Finals Vegas Line Mistake on Lakers -6.5
Odds makers have only raised this line a half point from what we saw in Game 1 when the Lakers crushed the Magic by 25 points and I expect them to pay for their mistake. While I don't expect the Magic to shoot as poorly as they did in Game 1, I still have the Lakers winning by double digits. The Magic live and die from the three-point line and they were not that bad from three in Game 1 (8 of 23) and were still dominated. Even if they make over their season average of 10, which is going to be difficult with as well as the Lakers are defending dating back to Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals, they still have a lot of points to make up. Kobe Bryant is as focused and as hungry as I've seen him. He knows that putting the young and inexperienced Magic in a 0-2 hole all but closes the door on this series. Bet the Lakers!

5* 2009 NBA Finals Series Opener on Lakers -6
This is where experience plays a big role. The Lakers played in the Finals a season ago and came up short. They know what to expect on the big stage and this time around they have the luxury of playing Game 1 at home. The fact that they lost in the Finals last year is also key as you won't see a team that is fat and happy. The Magic haven't been here before and I'm confident you will see their nerves in Game 1 tonight. LA also has a couple individuals that really want this title and they know how important a Game 1 win is in achieving it. Phil Jackson has a chance to earn his 10th NBA title and Kobe Bryant wants his first without Shaq and his 4th overall. The Lakers match up much better with the Magic than the Cavs did and they have a lot more weapons. Take advantage of a soft line in Game 1.

5* Game 6 BEST BET (TNT) on Magic -2
The Magic have been the better team in this series and there's no way they are going to let this thing go back to Cleveland for a Game 7. The Cavaliers are 2-14 ATS in the last 16 meetings overall and 0-5 SU and ATS in the last 5 meetings in Orlando. Cleveland is just 3-12 ATS when playing against a top-level team (Win Pct. > 70%) this season while Orlando is 12-3 ATS vs. top caliber teams - outscoring their opponents by 9+ points/game over the last 2 seasons. Orlando is an incredible 10-1 ATS in home games after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons, winning by an average score of 107.9 to 88.2 in these spots. Orlando is also 15-3 ATS revenging a loss where its opponent scored 110 or more points over the last 2 seasons, winning in these spots by an average score of 107.2 to 99.6. I'll back the Magic at home to close out the series tonight.

5* Game 5 BEST BET (TNT) on Cavs -7
The Cavaliers will play their best game of the series tonight on their home floor where they are 44-3 this season. Cleveland will be very dangerous tonight because it will be fighting to stay alive in the postseason and also because it will be playing with nothing to lose. Now the pressure is on Orlando to close this thing out. Bottom line, Cleveland wins Game 4 on the road rather easily if the Magic don't go off for 17 three pointers and they won't make near that many on the road tonight. The Cavaliers are 20-6 ATS in their last 26 games following a SU loss, 14-4-1 ATS in their last 19 playoff games as a favorite, and 11-4 ATS in their last 15 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Also, Cleveland is 13-2 ATS off a road loss this season, 14-4 ATS after 1 or more consecutive losses this season, and 17-6 ATS after a close loss by 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons. The public is all over the Magic tonight so the books are looking to cash in big with a Cleveland cover. We'll go against the grain for another big winner.

5* NBA Playoffs Revenge GOTM on LA Lakers -5.5
After a 19-point Game 4 loss, you can expect the Lakers to bounce back strong on their home floor tonight. In fact, the Lakers are a perfect 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU loss. LA is 25-3 SU in its last 28 home games with the Nuggets and the Nuggets are only 3-11 ATS in the last 14 games in Los Angeles. Plus, the Nuggets are only 3-7 ATS in their last 10 playoff games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5. Denver is 12-28 ATS in its last 40 road games versus explosive offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game, losing by an average score of 102.8 to 115.1 in these spots. And lastly, the Lakers are 16-5 ATS when tied in a playoff series since 1996. I'll lay the number here.

5* NBA Eastern Conf Finals GOTY on Cavs pk
This is a do-or-die game for the Cavs when you consider the bleak history of coming back in a series after falling Behind 1-3, and I expect the Cavs to rise to the occasion. The Cavaliers are 54-26-1 ATS in their last 81 games following a SU loss and 14-3 ATS after 1 or more consecutive losses this season. But here's the clincher: Cleveland is 13-1 ATS off a road loss this season, winning by an average score of 102.0 to 88.1 in these games. I'll back the league MVP and the Cavs in this must-win spot.

5* Game 3 Monster BEST BET (TNT) on Cavs +1.5
LeBron's game winner in Game 2 saved the Cavs. Now I expect them to play with a greater sense of urgency to avoid falling behind in this series again. The Cavs have held huge leads in both Games 1 and 2 and have let the Magic claw their way back. I expect the Cavs to show a much greater killer instinct from here on out. The underdog is 10-3 ATS in the last 13 meetings and the road team is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings. The Cavaliers are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 road games, 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 games following a SU win and 22-9 ATS in their last 31 games as a road underdog of 4.5 or less points. The Magic have struggled at home in the small chalk at 5-15 ATS in their last 20 games as a home favorite of 4.5 or less. With the momentum gained in Game 2, I expect the Cavs to steal its home court back tonight.

5* 2009 NBA Playoffs Game of the Year (ABC) on Lakers +4
First off, the Lakers are one of the finest road teams in the NBA at 31-15 this season. Secondly, each time LA has lost in these playoffs, it has responded with a convincing double digit win. In fact, the Lakers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU loss. Thirdly, anytime you can get LA catching points, it is worth strong consideration, especially in a bounce back spot. The Lakers are 21-8-2 ATS in their last 31 games as an underdog and 15-6 ATS in their last 21 games as an underdog of 4.5 or less points. Plus, LA is 17-6 ATS in road games versus explosive offensive teams - scoring 103+ points/game in the 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons. There's no question the books have overvalued the Nuggets here as the public is jumping on their bandwagon. The Nuggets are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite of 4.5 or less. The Lakers are 41-14 SU against Denver since 1996 and 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings. Pound LA tonight as they win this one outright!

5* Game 1 MONSTER BEST BET on Magic +9
The Cavs have won each of their 8 playoff games by 10 or more points so odds makers are begging for action on Cleveland with this line, but we won't bite. The Magic match up very well with the Cavs as Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, and Hedo Turkoglu all pose matchup problems. This is why Orlando has had Cleveland's number. The Magic won the season series 2-1 and have won 4 of the last 5 and 8 of the last 11 overall. And when they haven't won, they have been right there to cover. The Magic are 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Cleveland and 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings. Orlando is 15-6 ATS as an underdog this season and the underdog is 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings. It's also important to note that the Cavaliers are just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning pct. above .600. The Magic are coming off a very intense series while the Cavs have had a cake walk to this point. I expect the Magic to be ready to go here as it takes Cleveland some time to match intensity and to lose its rust after a long layoff. Bet the Magic.

5* NBA Playoffs Vegas Line Mistake of the Year on LA Lakers -6.5

This line is soft. The Lakers are not going to be caught sleeping tonight after what happened in Game 1 of their last series, and they are not going to be showing any rust as they haven't had a long layoff coming into this series. Plan on LA making a statement tonight. Denver has looked great in these playoffs, but that's because it has played the majority of its games at home. Outside of a 58-point win at New Orleans, the Nuggets have looked like an ordinary team away from home in the playoffs. They are 2-2 on the road in the postseason and 6-11 in their last 17 road games overall. LA has had Denver's number. Over the last 3 seasons, LA is 11-4 SU and ATS in all meetings. The Lakers are 24-2 SU and 18-6 ATS at home against Denver since 1996 and 7-1 SU and ATS at home against the Nuggets the last 3 seasons. The Nuggets are only 2-10 ATS in the last 12 meetings overall and 3-13 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Los Angeles. LA is winning its games by an average of 10.6 points at home and has won each of its home games against Denver by 14 points this season. Denver is only 5-17 ATS versus very good teams - outscoring their opponents by 6+ points/game over the last 2 seasons, losing to these teams by an average score of 96.7 to 107.1. Cash in with the Lakers!

5* NBA Playoffs Game 7 BEST BET on Lakers -12.5
After a double digit loss in Houston in Game 4, the Lakers returned home and gave the Rockets a 40-point beat down and I anticipate a similar course of events today. I don't expect this one to be that bad, but I do expect the Lakers to dominate from start to finish. Plays on home teams off an upset loss by 10 points or more as a favorite, playing with 2 days rest are 54-15 ATS the last 5 seasons and the Lakers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU loss period. Also, Houston is 2-10 ATS off an upset win as an underdog this season and 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games in LA. Houston did steal Game 1 in LA, but the Lakers have wins of 29, 12, 13, and 40 points at home against Houston this season. That's a 23.5-point average margin of victory. I'll back the Lakers at home in this bounce back spot.

5* NBA Playoffs Blowout of the Year on Magic -6.5
I'll back the Magic at home in this do-or-die Game 6. Orlando came out with great intensity in Game 5, but ultimately couldn't get the job done down the stretch. I'm expecting even more intensity tonight with its playoff life on the line and playing in front of its home crowd. Dwight Howard has called out his coach and now I expect him to back up his words with his play tonight. I also feel great about the fact that the public is putting its money on Boston here and odds makers have moved the line the other way. This is a clear sign that the Magic are the team the books feel will cover this number. Orlando is 12-4 ATS off a road loss this season, winning by an average score of 102.6 to 89.3 in these games. The Magic are 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600 and 49-21-1 ATS in their last 71 games following a SU loss. Expect the Magic to bounce back big tonight!

5* Eastern Conference Playoffs GOTY on Celtics -2
With Big Baby's 21-foot buzzer beater the Boston Celtics regained home court and take a huge amount of momentum back home with them for tonight's matchup. I can't see the Celtics giving their home court away tonight as they now know they are in position to win this series. The Boston crowd will be electric and I can't see Ray Allen's struggles continuing any further. Orlando is 8-26 ATS off a close home loss by 3 points or less since 1996 while Boston is 16-4 ATS after a win by 6 points or less this season. Plus, the Magic are just 4-13 ATS in their last 17 meetings in the Garden. I'll bet Boston at home laying a small number tonight.

5* NBA Playoffs Do-or-Die GOTY (TNT) on Mavs -1.5
A blown call by the officials has put the Mavs in an 0-3 hole, but I don't see the Mavs pouting about it tonight in front of their home crowd. Instead, they will have way more motivation to win than most teams facing an 0-3 deficit. I don't expect Denver to be going for the jugular tonight either after such an emotionally and physically draining Game 3, especially when they can close this thing out back at home in Game 5. So expect a letdown from the Nugs here. Dallas has won 20 of the last 26 at home in this matchup and we've got three more big time systems backing the Mavs here: Plays On - Favorites (DALLAS) - revenging 4 or more losses vs opponent in last 2 years, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%) are 29-9 ATS since 1996, Plays On - Home favorites (DALLAS) - triple revenge - 3 straight losses vs. opponent, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%), are 71-33 ATS since 1996, and Plays On - Home teams where the line is +3 to -3 (DALLAS) - off a upset loss as a favorite, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%) are 44-15 ATS since 1996. The Nuggets are the better team and will win this series, but a proud Dallas team survives at home tonight.

5* Saturday NBA Playoffs BOMB on Mavs -4
While Denver has played exceptionally well in these playoffs, it has done the majority of its damage at home. The Mavericks are quite the home squad as well, going 34-9 this season. Dallas has won 20 of its last 25 home games against the Nuggets. Dating back to the regular season, the Mavs have won 8 in a row, 17 of their last 18, and 22 of their last 24 at home. They are an extraordinary home team and I expect them to leave it all out on the floor knowing that 0-3 is as good as done. What cannot be overshadowed when looking at the Nuggets is that they are just 1-3 their L4 and 5-10 their L15 road games. The Nuggets are only 2-7 ATS in their last 9 playoff games as an underdog. Plays on favorites (DALLAS) revenging 4 or more losses vs opponent in last 2 years, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%), are 29-8 ATS since 1996 and plays on home favorites (DALLAS) - triple revenge - 3 straight losses vs. opponent, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 75%), and 71-32 ATS since 1996. Lay the points with the Mavs.

5* Game 2 BEST BET (TNT) on Lakers -9.5
The Lakers cannot afford to fall behind 0-2 in this series so I expect a very motivated effort tonight on their home floor. Expect the Lakers to do a better job of getting out in transition where they can exploit Yao Ming's foot speed and they take advantage of their superior athletes. Plays on all home teams off a home loss, extremely well rested team - playing 3 or less games in 10 days, are 44-16 ATS the last 5 seasons so right away we see the profitability of this bounce back situation. Plus, the Lakers are 17-5 ATS when playing only their 2nd game in 7 days over the last 2 seasons, winning in these spots by 12.9 points on average. The Rockets played a perfect Game 1, but I expect Coach Jackson and the Lakers to make the necessary adjustments to send a message to the Rockets tonight. On top of that, the Lakers here the experts talking about the Nuggets being the team to beat in the West right now, and I expect that will light a fire under their butts as well. I'll lay the number.

5* Game 1 BEST BET on Cavs -11.5
Thanks to the Lakers not showing up last night, the Cavs will be ready here in Game 1 as they are not about to let the Hawks take them by storm. Atlanta has struggled on the road all season while the Cavs are 41-2 at home with a 14.4 point margin of victory. We saw Atlanta lose 3 games by double digit margins in its first round series against a Heat team that is far less explosive on offense and far inferior on defense than the Cavs. Cleveland is 7-0 ATS in home games off a road win by 10 points or more this season, winning in these spots by an average score of 109.0 to 85.7, 7-0 ATS after 4 straight wins by 10 points or more this season, winning in these spots by an average score of 105.4 to 87.1, and 16-1 ATS after leading their last 3 games by 5+ points at the half this season, winning by an average score of 103.1 to 86.7 in these spots. The Hawks are also 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games as an underdog of 11.0 or greater. Lay the points.

5* NBA Playoffs Second Rd GOTY (TNT) on Lakers -8
Expect the Lakers to send a message to Houston in Game 1. LA is 4-0 against Houston this season, winning in its 2 home games by 29 and 12 points respectively. The Lakers beat the Jazz by double digits in 4 of the five games in their first round series, including all 3 games at home, and the Jazz is a team which posed more problems for LA because of its athleticism. The Blazers had no answer for Yao Ming in round one, but the Lakers have two mobile scoring threats on the block in Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol that will give the big man trouble on both ends of the floor. The Rockets are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings. The Lakers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5. Here's the clincher: plays against road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points revenging a loss vs. an opponent of 10 points or more, playing with 3 or more days rest, are 73-36 ATS since 1996. Pound the Lakers.

5* Mavs/Nugs Game 1 BEST BET on Nuggets -5.5
I'll back the Nuggets in Game 1 as Dallas won't look quite as good as it did in round 1 when it faces a team with a whole lot more offensive weapons. Dallas has struggled on the road all season long and I'm not reading too much into it's first round road wins against a battered Spurs team. The Nuggets are 36-8 at home this season and 4-1 SU and ATS at home versus the Nuggets over the last 3 seasons. In fact, the Mavericks are just 1-7 ATS in the last 8 meetings. The Nuggets are an incredible 24-5-1 ATS in their last 30 games as a home favorite of 5.0-10.5 points. Lastly, plays against road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points revenging 4 or more losses vs. an opponent in last 2 years, extremely well rested team - playing only their 2nd game in 7 days are 22-4 ATS since 1996. All Nuggets in Game 1.

5* NBA Playoffs Underdog of the Year on Hawks +5
After cruising to a 90-64 victory in Game 1, the Hawks have suffered back-to-back double digit defeats. I believe strongly that the Hawks are the better team in this series and they will bounce back strong tonight to regain home court. Atlanta is 12-4 ATS revenging a road loss vs. an opponent of 10 points or more this season. Miami is 3-13 ATS in home games after a game where they made 50% of their 3 point shots or better over the last 3 seasons. There's no way Miami can continue to shoot at such a high percentage from beyond the arc. When the shots don't fall as easily tonight, Atlanta's athleticism will take over this game. Bet the Hawks!