Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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01-08-22 | Kansas State v. West Virginia -7.5 | 68-71 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 48 m | Show | |
Kansas State/West Virginia 2:00: K State struggling with Covid off 2 straight losses and still not at full strength including their bench leader - Webber (out). Jermaine Henderson fills in vs an angry Bob Huggins who's coming off a loss to Texas on the first and then a postponement vs TCU. Fortunately for WV, they're back at full strength including go-to-guy Taz Sherman. WV strong on their home floor should deliver the goods and then some vs a shell team of K-State. |
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01-08-22 | Texas -3.5 v. Oklahoma State | 51-64 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 43 m | Show | |
Texas/Oklahoma State 2:00: Didn't take long for Chris Beard to steer Texas on to the winning road. Already 2-0 in conference play and like their chances here. Okie State, which is no longer equipped with Cade Cunningham (NBA), suffered their 4th home loss on Tuesday. Like the poise the Longhorns have in their backcourt with Carr and Ramey. They're operating at a +7 turnover margin and road savvy. Texas delivers. |
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01-08-22 | Virginia +6 v. North Carolina | 58-74 | Loss | -114 | 10 h 17 m | Show | |
Virginia/North Carolina 1:00: Virginia has owned North Carolina - winning and covering seven straight. I still find value in Virginia today. North Carolina's first year HC Hubert Davis has talent but won't have 6'11" Garcia (10 PPG) and versatile 6'9" Manek (12.4 PPG) is a game time decision. The Tar Heels couldn't close out ND on the 5th and now going to lay 6 points to a team they haven't beaten since February 2017. Meanwhile, Tony Bennett's bunch is coming off 2 impressive conference road wins over Syracuse and Clemson. Moreover, they've had an extra day of prep. Cavaliers are 4-1 ATS on the road vs a team with a home win % above .700. Cavaliers have a veteran group led by Gardner and Franklin who are part of a group that can slow the Tar Heels down and work their methodical attack successfully. Take the points with the Cavaliers. |
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01-07-22 | Marquette -2 v. Georgetown | 92-64 | Win | 100 | 19 h 54 m | Show | |
Marquette/Georgetown 6:30: Georgetown has been idle for nearly 3 weeks due to Covid issues. Wednesday, was their first full practice in more than 2 weeks. Going to be hard to establish a rhythm and keep up with the frenetic pace that Shaka Smart will employ with his Golden Eagles. Marquette is coming off a blowout of Providence on Tuesday. Smart's blend of transfer talent Morsell (MD), Kuath (OK) and PG Kolek (George Mason) appear to be establishing a rhythm offensively. And their big man - Justin Lewis - adds a strong dimension to their inside game. GT does have some 3 point marksmen in Rice, Carey and dangerous Mohammed but Smart surely will shift defensive pressure to the perimeter. Eagles 4-1 ATS on the road vs home team with a home win % above .600. And they're 6-2 ATS on Fridays. Marquette, under Wojciechowski, had some success at Georgetown and under the new leadership of Smart, the Golden Eagles should deliver tonight. |
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01-06-22 | Ohio State v. Indiana -2 | 51-67 | Win | 100 | 18 h 10 m | Show | |
OSU/Indiana 7:00: Hoosiers were horrendous at Penn State on Sunday where they were a brick laying 4 of 17 from 3-point range, out-boarded yet still managed a narrow 3-point loss. Hoosiers now return home where they're 9-0. Indiana returned home successfully with a win in each of their last 2 road defeats this season. They're taking on an OSU team struggling defensively (198th nationally). Buckeyes had trouble getting their legs back at lightweight Nebraska where they needed OT to pull off a win. Prior to that, OSU was on an extended break (Dec 11th) after Covid issues occurred. We'll give the edge to the hungry Hoosiers here. Home team in this series is 6-1 ATS. Indiana the call. |
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01-05-22 | Texas Tech v. Iowa State -2.5 | 47-51 | Win | 100 | 19 h 3 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow..... |
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12-10-21 | Murray State +11.5 v. Memphis | 74-72 | Win | 100 | 19 h 25 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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12-07-21 | Butler v. Oklahoma -11 | 66-62 | Loss | -110 | 20 h 20 m | Show | |
Butler/Oklahoma 9:00: Butler sports a respectable 5-3 SU mark on the surface but all wins come against lightweight teams. When they managed to step up in competition, the Bulldogs fell flat dropping to Michigan State, Houston and Texas A&M. The 1-5 ATS Bulldogs now have to travel to their first true road game with one of their top playmakers - Bryce Nye (torn labrum) most likely out. Offensively challenged Butler averaging just 64.6 PPG (306th nationally) will have difficulty manufacturing points vs Porter Moser's well-disciplined bunch. Moser, who had lock-down teams while at Loyola University Chicago, still driving his men to improve on the defensive end despite allowing only one team to shoot better than 37% this season. Butler likes to shoot from the perimeter but Oklahoma allows just 26.5% from the perimeter. Duke transfer Goldwire working well at the point and 6'10" Tanner Groves should be too much for the Bulldogs tonight. Oklahoma the call. |
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12-03-21 | Clippers v. Lakers +2 | 119-115 | Loss | -109 | 22 h 34 m | Show | |
Clippers/Lakers 10:10: Two underachievers going at it on their home floor. Lakers will be designated home team and the crowd is usually partial to the Lakers at The Staples Center. Clippers on an 0-5 ATS/1-4 SU slide but they do get Paul George back tonight. The Lakers, on a 3-2 SU/2-3 ATS run, will have LeBron James back as he cleared Covid19 protocol and that will help ignite the loaded talent roster of the Lakers. They've lost three straight in this series and tonight is the optimum time to get up another game in the standings on the Clippers and re-establish their presence as a serious contender in the Western Conference Pacific. We'll take a bucket with the Lakers. |
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12-02-21 | Bucks v. Raptors +5 | 93-97 | Win | 100 | 2 h 42 m | Show | |
Bucks/Raptors 7:40: Red hot Bucks won its 8th straight game last night in a 127-125 thriller at home vs Charlotte. Following that emotional win, the Bucks have to travel to Toronto unrested to face a pissed off Toronto team that's lost 3 straight and sports a poor home floor mark of 1-9 ATS. Toronto, however, sports a sweet 9-1 ATS mark off 3 straight losses outgunning their opponent by an average of 13 PPG in that situation. Toronto has held their own in this series at 3-1 ATS in its last 4 meetings. And the Bucks sport a disappointing 1-5 ATS unrested. Sure, Toronto has its share of injuries but the Bucks are thin inside without Lopez (out). We'll look for Van Fleet and Siakam to lead a big effort here in Toronto. Take Toronto. |
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12-02-21 | Bulls v. Knicks +2 | 119-115 | Loss | -106 | 1 h 11 m | Show | |
Bulls/Knicks 7:40: Knicks have showed resilience off losses at 5-2 ATS and we'll grab them here. They won in Atlanta and then had a solid cover (SU loss) in Brooklyn led by Alec Burks. Burks took over the starting PG duties in place of Kemba Walker as announced Monday by Thibodeaux. Too early to tell if it's the right decision but NY has a pretty deep bench of playmakers including former Bull - Derrick Rose. Randle needs to continue to elevate his game like he did on November 21st (34 points) in the Knicks loss to successfully counter Vucevic. Bulls coming off big win over Charlotte on the 29th but kind of choppy off SU wins as of late at 1-3 ATS. Bulls are a good road favorite but 1-4 ATS on 2 days rest and 0-4 ATS at MSG. We'll take NY and the bucket. |
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11-30-21 | Duke -2.5 v. Ohio State | 66-71 | Loss | -110 | 3 h 34 m | Show | |
Duke/Ohio State 9:30: There's always a chance of a letdown by a team after a huge win; after all, Duke took out top ranked Gonzaga in Las Vegas on Friday 84-81 to surge to #1. OSU will surely be hungry to knock them off but unlikely. Coach K, in his final season, will have his guys even keeled and well prepared. He's got a great mix of experienced talent including captain - Wendell Moore Jr., Roach and Williams to blend with super freshman - Banchero. And the Blue Devils are far more disciplined on both sides of the floor at this stage; for example, Duke is 2nd in the nation in fouls per possession while OSU ranks 234th; moreover, Buckeyes turned the ball over 17 times resulting in 23 points vs Florida. Duke forced #1 Gonzaga into 17 turnovers on Friday. Duke is 21st in nation in forcing turnovers. And the crowd surely won't sway Duke. They delivered on Friday in front of 20,400! We'll grab the Blue Devils. |
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07-20-21 | Suns +5 v. Bucks | 98-105 | Loss | -106 | 43 h 58 m | Show | |
Suns/Bucks 9:05: With the Suns' backs against the wall in a win or go home game, we'll look for Phoenix to deliver here. Suns 14-6 ATS off a SU loss and covered 4 of last 5 games in Milwaukee. Giannis effort incredible down stretches and Phoenix will have to surely counter that. Suns shot the lights out in Game 5 yet still came up short despite a lackluster effort at the foul line for Milwaukee (53%). Phoenix knows what's at stake and the veteran presence of Chris Paul and Jae Crowder should support Booker well. Suns will need to step up defensive game and Ayton will have to show up strong. We'll bet on it. Suns the call. |
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07-17-21 | Bucks v. Suns -4 | 123-119 | Loss | -107 | 19 h 59 m | Show | |
Bucks/Suns 9:05: Suns clearly in Game 4 until the final moments when Giannis came up with the big block on Ayton. Booker, after a sluggish Game 3, played outstanding in Game 4 but Paul was sluggish and the rest of the Suns didn't assert themselves enough to close out a cover; however, back at their venue where they're 17-5 ATS vs teams above .500, we'll look for the urgency to come back for Phoenix. Phoenix the call. |
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07-14-21 | Suns +4.5 v. Bucks | 103-109 | Loss | -108 | 20 h 4 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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07-11-21 | Suns v. Bucks -4 | 100-120 | Win | 100 | 18 h 41 m | Show | |
Suns/Bucks 8:05: Bucks out of their element at Phoenix. In Game 1 bricked free throws to the tune of 56% and failed to execute down the stretch. Game 2 shot a ridiculous 9 or 31 from 3 point land instead of attacking the rim where they had a degree of success. In Milwaukee, we'll look for their game to be more fluid. Giannis (62 combined points in Game 1 and 2) is showing no residual effects of his knee injury. Middleton and Holiday should now feed off Giannis and a more aggressive Lopez who is overdue to step up. Lay the buckets. |
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07-08-21 | Bucks v. Suns -5 | 108-118 | Win | 100 | 20 h 40 m | Show | |
Bucks/Suns 9:05: Suns worked Milwaukee on Monday despite little output offensively from veteran Jae Crowder (1 point) and Booker going 1 of 8 from perimeter. Paul came up large while Ayton won the battle of the big men down low with Lopez as the Suns got to the free throw line and delivered (96%). Giannis looked good but his mates were tentative on whether or not to shoot with him in the game. Milwaukee will surely be stepping up their intensity as they've done throughout playoffs off a loss; however, Suns have much room for improvement and I see them upping their game level as well. We'll grab Phoenix again in this spot. |
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07-06-21 | Bucks v. Suns -6 | 105-118 | Win | 100 | 20 h 33 m | Show | |
Bucks/Suns 9:05: Suns have covered 6 of last 7 in this series. Suns achieved narrow one point victories both games vs Milwaukee this year. Giannis turned in massive 33 and 47 point showings, respectively. Bucks did do a nice job with reserves in Game 6 vs Atlanta. Portis had a huge game and Connaughton was solid; moreover, Lopez did sensational, enabling Holiday and Middleton to do their thing successfully. Tonight, Suns a bit too savvy to take a back seat. Ayton can handle Lopez much better than Capella did. Crowder has that big game experience (Miami last year in Finals), and Booker overdue for another big game. Throw in veteran PG Paul to run the show and Bucks should wither down the stretch. |
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07-03-21 | Bucks v. Hawks -2.5 | 118-107 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 15 m | Show | |
Bucks/Hawks 8:35: Back to Atlanta, Young most likely back in action, no Giannis on the road makes way for a likely Game 7. Lopez was a monster in Game 5 and fueled the way for quality performances from Middleton, Holiday and Portis. But Bucks 1-6 ATS as a road dog and inconsistency with Bucks gives value back to Atlanta here. Reddish now in the fray gives that quality depth needed. Atlanta, 18-3 ATS as home chalk, the call. |
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07-01-21 | Hawks +3 v. Bucks | 112-123 | Loss | -104 | 5 h 31 m | Show | |
Hawks/Bucks 8:35: At first glance, inkling to take Milwaukee on account that they've won without Giannis (out) on the floor before. However, disturbing that the Bucks were flat into Game 4 when had a chance to take command of series, especially with Atlanta's top player - Young - out. Tonight, most likely Young (bone bruise) will take the floor. Sure Capella (eye) and Bogdanovic (knee) are questionable but lean towards playing. Nevertheless, Okongwu, Reddish have proven to turn in quality minutes off the bench for the Hawks; moreover, Lou Williams proved he can still come off the bench with productivity. On the other hand, not sure if Portis, Connaughton or Forbes can make up the point void left without Giannis. Middleton and Holiday have been hot and cold under Budenholzer. And don't like the 0-4 ATS mark when the Bucks are off a 10+ point loss. Hawks 5-2 ATS as a road dog and we'll grab the points. |
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06-29-21 | Bucks -6.5 v. Hawks | 88-110 | Loss | -110 | 18 h 31 m | Show | |
Bucks/Hawks 8:35: Hawks threw some haymakers early in Game 3 but the Bucks survived the assault and closed it out strong. Budenholzer decided to use his Big 3 virtually the entire game and it paid dividends. Wouldn't be surprised if Middleton, Giannis and Holiday go the duration again tonight. Atlanta's Young shut down after his ankle bone bruise (again, we're talking basketball players here). Wasn't effective at all in 4th quarter. And it's almost automatic when Giannis wants to take the ball to the rack as Capella is rendered useless; after all, Lopez does a bang up job in the low post on both ends of the floor. I like Collins but he has limited help down low. We'll look for the Bucks to pull away. |
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06-28-21 | Clippers +6 v. Suns | 116-102 | Win | 100 | 20 h 36 m | Show | |
Clippers/Suns 9:05: Clippers showed grit climbing back in Game 4 before falling down the stretch. Both teams shot horribly but Clippers managed to stumble worse in the scrum with pitiful numbers of 33% from floor, 16% from perimeter and an inexcusable 66% from free throw line. Tonight, with back against the wall and everything to lose, we'll look for a rejuvenated Clippers team despite the absence of Leonard (knee). Clippers are 16-7 ATS in this series, 5-1 ATS on Mondays and covered 4 of last 5 as a playoff dog. Clippers' HC Lue has made some decent adjustments, but needs Reggie Jackson back to his prime time ways. In addition, need George to show more ready for prime time play and Mann needs to shoot more. Clippers should leave it all out on the floor here. |
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06-27-21 | Bucks v. Hawks +4.5 | 113-102 | Loss | -101 | 18 h 0 m | Show | |
Bucks/Hawks 8:35: Hawks were awful in Game 2. There were promising moments as Cam Reddish got his first bit of action in four months and did OK. As for the rest of the Hawks - a step slow and a bucket short in each quarter. The second quarter was a complete disaster getting outscored 42-17! At home, we'll look for a different story. Hawks a strong 30-12-1 ATS at home off a SU loss and covered 20 of their last 26 home games. Bucks 1-5 ATS on the road vs a home team with home win % above .600. We'll look for Young and company to get their traction and hit some buckets tonight. |
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06-26-21 | Suns v. Clippers +1 | 84-80 | Loss | -100 | 20 h 47 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-25-21 | Hawks +8 v. Bucks | 91-125 | Loss | -105 | 19 h 14 m | Show | |
Hawks/Bucks 8:35: Hawks clearly not intimidated by the Bucks. Hawks now 5-1 ATS run as a road dog in the playoffs. In Game 1, Young went off to continue his excellent post-season; in addition, Collins was a great compliment. The good news is that there is room for improvement, especially from 3 point range (25%). And that could change if Bogdanovic and Gallinari get their perimeter range back. Nevertheless, the Hawks did a nice job adjusting when the long ball wasn't dropping. Trae Young was doing a great job dropping floaters and alley oop lobs. As for Milwaukee, similar box score numbers as they were a more pathetic 22% from 3 point range yet a solid 46% from floor. Defensively, however, Budenholzer not coming up with the defensive adjustments. Technically, Hawks now 19-7 ATS in Milwaukee and 13-6 ATS in last 19 meetings in this series. Bucks 1-4 ATS off a SU loss and 1-4 ATS as chalk. Take the points again. |
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06-24-21 | Suns v. Clippers +1.5 | 92-106 | Win | 100 | 20 h 48 m | Show | |
Suns/Clippers 9:05: As stated in my last write up, Clippers were there in Game 2 and needed a thread more clutch play (free throws from George) down the stretch for the outright; nevertheless, they covered and should be in line to get the win here despite the return of Chris Paul. Beverly is doing as best as he can pestering hot shot Booker. Reggie Jackson has been huge and George is playing well. At home, Mann, Batum and Kennard should lock in as key support players. Even Zubac is holding his own vs Ayton. Clippers are 4-0 ATS in last 4 home games, 6-1 ATS as a home dog and should deliver. |
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06-23-21 | Hawks +7.5 v. Bucks | 116-113 | Win | 102 | 19 h 48 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-22-21 | Clippers +5.5 v. Suns | 103-104 | Win | 100 | 20 h 39 m | Show | |
Clippers/Suns 9:05: Clippers held their own in Game 1 despite not having Leonard. They hit 45% from floor, 43% from 3 point land and 82% of free throws. Unfortunately for them, Suns shot 55%/41% and 100%. Booker dropped 40 and Ayton was strong with 20. Tonight, I believe Coach Lue will make the needed adjustments to cover like he did vs Utah. Remember, he went small against Utah in Game 6 and exploited Defensive Player of Year - Gobert - who was rendered useless trying to stretch to the perimeter. Tonight, Clippers need Mann to shoot more and Zubac and Batum to step up their game to assist Jackson and George. Sure, Payne is doing a bang up job keeping Chris Paul's seat warm at the point, but Clippers are a better defensive team than what they showed in Game 1. We'll look for better defense and a bit more successful on the offensive perimeter. Clippers have covered 14 of the last 20 in this series. |
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06-20-21 | Hawks +7 v. 76ers | 103-96 | Win | 100 | 17 h 13 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-20-21 | Clippers +4 v. Suns | 114-120 | Loss | -108 | 12 h 22 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-19-21 | Bucks v. Nets -1 | 115-111 | Loss | -109 | 18 h 51 m | Show | |
Bucks/Nets 8:35: Great players aren't always great; they're just great when they have to be. Durant should go off on the biggest stage. And Harden, after two mediocre - by his standards - games, he's overdue to have a great game. Of course, Griffin, Green and someone else - perhaps Bruce Brown, will have to step up with support. The Bucks have shown resilience but, at times, have shown inability to close. At home, we'll look for the home team to keep with the trend of having the advantage. |
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06-18-21 | Jazz -1 v. Clippers | 119-131 | Loss | -110 | 20 h 12 m | Show | |
06-18-21 | 76ers v. Hawks +3 | 104-99 | Loss | -107 | 18 h 16 m | Show | |
76ers/Hawks 7:35: 76ers should come out with guns a blazing; however, those Doc Rivers' moves are rearing their ugly heads again. In the playoffs, Rivers has a history of leaving starters out too long and failing to utilize his bench. And he's got a dilemma on whether or not to use free throw bricking but defensive stalwart - Ben Simmons - down the stretch of games. Late in the 4th, if Rivers takes him out, their is a glaring defensive void that the sharp shooting and slashing Hawks can exploit; at the same time, with Simmons on the floor in the 4th, he is an offensive liability. His free throw shooting is an atrocious 32.8% in the playoffs! McMillan doing a fine job with adjustments and we'll roll with the Hawks which play well at home (20-6 ATS); moreover, they're 7-1 ATS at home vs Philadelphia. |
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06-17-21 | Nets v. Bucks -6 | 89-104 | Win | 101 | 7 h 32 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-16-21 | Clippers v. Jazz -2.5 | 119-111 | Loss | -110 | 20 h 14 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-16-21 | Hawks v. 76ers -6 | 109-106 | Loss | -109 | 18 h 50 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-14-21 | Jazz +5 v. Clippers | 104-118 | Loss | -100 | 20 h 16 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-14-21 | 76ers v. Hawks +3.5 | Top | 100-103 | Win | 100 | 18 h 10 m | Show |
76ers/Hawks 7:35: Sixers up 2-1 but don't count out Atlanta yet. McMillan has been around the NBA for a while and he does a nice job with defensive adjustments while letting his ballers play loose on the offensive end. Capela surely can't handle Embiid but Danny Green's absence hurts their depth. I don't see Kurkmaz or Thybulle scorching Atlanta again. The Hawks should tighten the bolts on the defensive end while they seek to get back their touch from the perimeter; after all, they're perimeter game has progressively gone down from Game 1 of this series - from 43%, 37% and just %26 in Game 3 at home. Atlanta's Trae Young is at his most dangerous penetrating with either a floater or kick out. Bogdanovic, Gallinari, Collins should step up. Atlanta is 50-23 ATS off a double-digit home loss at home and covered 5 of last 7 as a home dog. 76ers 0-5 ATS after scoring 125+ points and just 7-18-2 ATS on the road vs a home team with winning % above .600. Moreover, Atlanta has covered 6 of the last 7 in this series at home. Atlanta the call. |
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06-13-21 | Suns -3 v. Nuggets | 125-118 | Win | 100 | 17 h 50 m | Show | |
Suns/Nuggets 8:05: Suns just overwhelming the Nuggets in series. Jokic playing at his MVP (well deserved) level; however, supporting cast not good enough. Important shooting cog - Porter Jr. is sporadic in his play at best. It's never been more apparent that Murray is sorely missed. Suns cruising with Chris Paul hitting short jumpers, floaters and facilitating like he does best. Denver has no answer for him or Booker. And Ayton is doing a solid job and underrated Crowder is that final piece that every championship contender needs. Phoenix should deliver. |
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06-13-21 | Nets -2 v. Bucks | 96-107 | Loss | -102 | 12 h 25 m | Show | |
Nets/Bucks 3:05: Disturbing trend for the Bucks. Hot shooting from the perimeter for most of the season and in Round 1, has given way for a sluggish 23% for this series. It's not that Brooklyn has clamped down defensively, the Bucks have open looks; the shots are just not dropping. Giannis, Middleton and Holiday are forced to drive to the hole with a modicum of success. Yes, they're getting fouled, however, a poor 55% from the free throw line in this series isn't cutting it. On the other hand, Durant has found his range with that short jumper outside the paint, Irving is hitting clutch shots and facilitating well while the Nets are getting more than they bargained for from Bruce Brown, Joe Harris and Griffin. Milwaukee 0-4 ATS as a home dog, 2-5 ATS in this series. We'll stay on the hot Nets (9-1 ATS run). |
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06-12-21 | Jazz +5 v. Clippers | 106-132 | Loss | -115 | 18 h 58 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-11-21 | Suns v. Nuggets -1.5 | 116-102 | Loss | -109 | 20 h 7 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-11-21 | 76ers v. Hawks +1.5 | 127-111 | Loss | -110 | 18 h 48 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-10-21 | Clippers v. Jazz -2.5 | 111-117 | Win | 100 | 8 h 34 m | Show | |
Clippers/Jazz 10:00: Going to stay on the Jazz here despite the good outing the Clippers turned in for Game 1. Jazz had that extended layoff and the rust showed in the first half; moreover, Donovan Mitchell was under the weather yet still managed to turn it up a notch in the second half to lead his team to victory. Tonight, with a healthy Donovan Mitchell and a Jazz team that re-established their rhythm, they'll be tough to beat. Sure, Kennard had the game of his life and Zubac was trouble in Game 1; however, those two rarely are consistent big game players. We'll look for the Jazz to tighten the bolts with the needed adjustments tonight. Jazz 13-4 ATS at home vs teams with winning road records. And the Clippers have not had success in Utah at 8-21-1 ATS. |
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06-08-21 | Clippers v. Jazz -3.5 | 109-112 | Loss | -120 | 19 h 21 m | Show | |
Clippers/Jazz 10:00: Clippers have not had much turnover time since their Game 7 win. Now they have to play in the high altitude of Utah where they haven't had much success (8-21-1 ATS). Well rested Utah may have Conley (hamstring) back in the fray on limited minutes. He's been a huge part of their success. More importantly, Jazz have too much talent, depth and discipline to fall here. With Donovan Mitchell back on the court, the Jazz rolled vs Memphis. Sure, Leonard and George are a dangerous duo but they don't have the supporting cast to challenge the likes of Mitchell, Bogdanovic, Conley and most likely Defensive Player of the Year - Gobert. Throw in Sixth Man of the Year - Clarkson and Utah is a tough out. LAC just 1-6 ATS off a 10+ point win. The emotional and draining win will make it difficult to regroup in a limited turnover time. Tread lightly though, Utah has been historically sluggish off extended layoffs. |
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06-08-21 | Hawks v. 76ers -5 | 102-118 | Win | 100 | 17 h 31 m | Show | |
Hawks/76ers 7:30: Had Hawks in Game 1 but will jump on Philadelphia here. Hawks are shooting lights out as they are peaking at right time; however, 76ers fought way back in game by putting long lanky Simmons on Trae Young, limiting his effectiveness to a certain extent. Most likely see a similar strategy. Embiid surely didn't show lingering effects of knee issue. As good as Capella is, he still had trouble containing Embiid. And we'll look for Curry and Harris to show up tonight. Sixers should turn it up a few notches here. |
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06-07-21 | Nuggets +5 v. Suns | 105-122 | Loss | -107 | 21 h 21 m | Show | |
Nuggets/Suns 10:05: Nuggets have 4 consecutive victories at Phoenix including the last two in OT. Sure, Murray and Barton were in those; however, love how Porter Jr. and Campazzo have stepped up their game to fill the void of Murray. Jokic is the MVP favorite for a good reason. The offense is run through him and he's making everybody around him better. We'll take the points with the road strong Nuggets. |
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06-07-21 | Bucks +2 v. Nets | 86-125 | Loss | -115 | 19 h 1 m | Show | |
Bucks/Nets 7:35: Bucks, the #1 scoring offense and #3 perimeter shooting team in NBA showed plenty of rust after a 6 day layoff with a poor 20% shooting from 3 point range. They were effective, however, getting in the paint (45%) and getting to free throw line. As bad as they shot, they almost covered. Harden (hamstring) won't play tonight, which puts stress on the starters Irving, Durant and veteran journeyman - Blake Griffen. Griffen had a great game but I don't expect on encore performance here. Milwaukee's Middleton and Holiday can only get better while Lopez and Giannis continue to create problems for teams in the low post. Brooklyn won't play DeAndre Jordan because of his poor defensive consistency and that puts lots of minutes on Griffen who shouldn't be able to hold up under the fire for 40 minutes. We'll grab the bucket with Milwaukee here. |
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06-06-21 | Mavs +6.5 v. Clippers | 111-126 | Loss | -108 | 13 h 32 m | Show | |
Mavericks/Clippers 3:35: Mavericks do their best work as an underdog and sport an impressive 5-0 ATS mark as a road dog. This series has gone to the road team with each team winning 3 games on their opponent's home floor. Mavericks play well in LA where they've covered 4 straight. Sure, Leonard was sensational in Game 6 and his supporting mate - George has his moments; moreover, Reggie Jackson is having a solid series. On the other hand, Dallas has one superstar that is carrying the team - Doncic. He has average - by NBA standards - talent surrounding him in Marjanovic, Hardaway Jr., Brunson and Porzingis. Doncic has been sensational at Los Angeles and if he hits near or above 40 points, it usually results in a Dallas win. Clippers will surely try to find another creative way on stopping him by throwing different bodies on him, cutting him off early in sets and trapping him; however, we'll look for him utilize his superior skills and hopefully get decent support from his teammates who can close on the rim. Clippers 2-6 ATS on Sundays and don't do their best work as a favorite or when expected to win. We'll take the points. |
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06-06-21 | Hawks +3 v. 76ers | 128-124 | Win | 100 | 9 h 29 m | Show | |
Hawks/76ers 1:05: Like how McMillan resurrected the Hawks season after it was going in the toilet under Pierce. Moreover, he did an outstanding job prepping Atlanta defensively in the playoffs in shutting down the Knicks. We'll look for him to work more magic against a 76ers team with an ailing star - Embiid (knee). Embiid is questionable as I write this; however, he's not at his most mobile and I'm going to lean on him missing this one; consequently, that leaves a void for underrated Hawks' center - Capela to exploit. Dwight Howard not equipped to handle long minutes either. Trae Young showed in Round 1 that the stage wasn't too big for him. He did a great job lighting it up from the perimeter, tear dropping it in the low post and as a distributor when NY clamped down on him. He has some good shooters supporting him too in Bogdanovic, Hunter and Collins. On the other hand, Curry is coming off a huge game and Harris is playing great. But going into this one with the team dependent on Curry, Harris and poor foul shooting Simmons, it should be a different story. 76ers just 10-11 SU without Embiid. Hawks play well on Sundays (7-0 ATS) and now a confident road team that's grown substantially since they last visited Philly. Atlanta the call. |
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06-05-21 | Bucks +4 v. Nets | 107-115 | Loss | -110 | 18 h 10 m | Show | |
Bucks/Nets 7:35: Well rested Bucks not intimidated going into Brooklyn where they've gone 16-4-1 ATS. Sure, they'll play the Big 3 - Irving, Durant, Harden - together for the first time but like their chances. With the addition of Jrue Holiday, Bucks have much more versatility than last year. Giannis and Middleton are continue to play at an elite level during the playoffs. And Lopez has been a force down low that Brooklyn should have trouble with. We'll look for the Bucks to keep this competitive tonight. |
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06-04-21 | Clippers -2.5 v. Mavs | 104-97 | Win | 100 | 19 h 56 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-03-21 | Nuggets +5 v. Blazers | 126-115 | Win | 100 | 18 h 3 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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06-02-21 | Hawks +1.5 v. Knicks | 103-89 | Win | 100 | 18 h 59 m | Show | |
Hawks/Knicks 7:35: Knicks exposed as bricklayers when the stakes are highest. The #1 defense in the NBA during the regular season but because of offensive ineptitude, NY unable to hustle back offensively to stop the array of good shooters on Atlanta. Only players stepping up for NY are Derrick Rose and hustle guy Taj Gibson. Regular season Knicks' stars - Randle and Barrett just not ready for prime time. Atlanta much more relaxed and proficient on both ends of the floor. McMillan is doing an amazing job coaching in preparation on disrupting the Knicks' offense. And the Hawks also have bench players coming in to deliver as Gallinari and Huerter exhibited in the last few games. Atlanta the call. |
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06-01-21 | Blazers v. Nuggets -1.5 | 140-147 | Win | 100 | 19 h 47 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-31-21 | Jazz -5.5 v. Grizzlies | 120-113 | Win | 100 | 8 h 39 m | Show | |
Jazz/Grizzlies 9:35: Donovan Mitchell's return makes a huge difference in this series. He's the main driving force among a talented group of players. Throw in Bogdanovic, Conley, Ingles and then Clarkson off the bench, just too much for Memphis to handle. Morant is an incredible playmaker while Brooks is a super in his supporting effort. But the normally dominant post force - Valanciunas has been cancelled out by the superior Jazz C Gobert. As long as Gobert stays out of foul trouble, Utah should deliver again. |
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05-30-21 | Suns +7 v. Lakers | 100-92 | Win | 100 | 12 h 49 m | Show | |
Suns/Lakers 3:35: Suns were in Game 2 until frustration set in and Booker got tossed. Payne has done a nice job taking over for Paul. There's no tomorrow for Paul who has to shake off his bruise and get to work. He's up there in age and this may be his last chance at vying for a title. Ayton has been rock solid in the low block and Booker should continue to light it up. On the other hand, James (ankle) and Davis (calf) playing well through injuries while getting good support in Game 2. Phoenix should turn the table here and make this competitive. Suns 11-4 ATS off a SU loss and covered 7 of last 10 as a road dog. Suns the call. |
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05-30-21 | Knicks +5 v. Hawks | 96-113 | Loss | -107 | 9 h 20 m | Show | |
Knicks/Hawks 1:05: Barrett and Randle have been horrendous thus far in the playoffs yet the Knicks are within grasp of covering. Rose has been awesome in the series and needs better support. Knicks have thrived all season on defense (#1 scoring defense in NBA) and will have to cut off lanes (Young), box out better and cover the perimeter better; consequently, that should lead to some transition buckets to get the sluggish offense generated. McMillan is outcoaching Thibs now and the Knicks need to shake out of their jitters. Knicks are 13-4 ATS on the road, 5-1 ATS off a loss of 10+ and have had success in Atlanta (18-7-1 ATS). |
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05-29-21 | Jazz v. Grizzlies +5 | 121-111 | Loss | -100 | 19 h 43 m | Show | |
Jazz/Grizzlies 9:35: Donovan Mitchell, as expected, was the difference maker in Game 2. But these Grizzlies have lots of fight in them. Grizzlies have a solid base of talent including Brooks, big man Jonas and their superstar - Morant. They'll need more production from their bench in this Bane and Grayson Allen will need to hit some shots. Grizzlies 20-8 ATS off a SU loss of more than 10 points, and 5-0 ATS as a home dog. We'll take the points here. |
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05-29-21 | Bucks v. Heat +4.5 | 120-103 | Loss | -104 | 12 h 40 m | Show | |
Bucks/Heat 1:35: Sure, 4 of 6 in this series have been Milwaukee blowouts including the two playoff games. And the Heat are terribly out of rhythm offensively getting very little from last season's playoff hero - Herro, and Dragic and Robinson laid an egg Thursday. Tonight, I believe the Heat will exhibit more fight. Butler, Adebayo lead a tough team that plays the playoff dog role well (5-2 ATS). We'll grab the points with the home team in a desperation mode. |
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05-28-21 | Clippers v. Mavs +3 | 118-108 | Loss | -102 | 6 h 44 m | Show | |
Clippers/Mavericks 9:35: Clippers had some time to find an answer on how to stop Luka Doncic; after all, they had plenty of film from last year's ousting of Dallas in the playoffs, the two game split in the regular season, and now, the 0-2 home playoff embarrassment. Tye Lue, taking over for Doc Rivers this season, says he's not worried but for the sake of the organization, that better translate to the court today. However, not sure it will. Clippers threw everything at Doncic but he triple doubled them in Game 2 as a result. When cast offs like Hardaway Jr. scorch you in two games for 21 and 28, respectively, you better be worried. Not sure Lue has the answer. Clippers just 1-6 ATS off a SU loss and have failed to cover this series in 4 of the last 5 attempts. We'll take the points. |
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05-28-21 | Knicks +5 v. Hawks | 94-105 | Loss | -112 | 4 h 31 m | Show | |
Knicks/Hawks 7:05: Knicks' regular season top gun - Randle - shook off the rust and got into form in the second half of Game 2 to help the Knicks deliver the goods. Looked like nerves and over zealous energy hit the Knicks in the first half of Game 1. I see NY more relaxed at Atlanta tonight. NY sports a 18-7-1 ATS mark in Atlanta, including a 113-108 win there January 4th. And Derrick Rose didn't arrive in NY until February 8th and they're a much better team with him on the floor now. Knicks control the #1 defense in the NBA and should continue to make needed adjustments to Atlanta's sharp shooters and playmakers - Young, Bogdanovic, Hunter. Late in Game 2, Reggie Bullock did a good job on Young. We'll probably see more of that matchup tonight. Knicks 9-2 ATS as a road dog we'll take. |
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05-27-21 | Nuggets +4 v. Blazers | 120-115 | Win | 100 | 7 h 11 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-27-21 | Suns +7.5 v. Lakers | 95-109 | Loss | -107 | 20 h 48 m | Show | |
Suns/Lakers 10:05: As expected in Game 2, Lakers came out strong with fire in the belly of Anthony Davis; despite that, Suns remained competitive even with Chris Paul struggling with his shoulder. Tonight, look for the Suns to keep it tight; after all, they're 11-3 ATS off a SU loss and covered 7 of their last 9 road tilts. Ayton needs to match Davis' intensity and I think he will. And Booker surely lends consistent significant offensive support. Lakers just 7-19 ATS off a SU win and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home favorite roles. Phoenix the call. |
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05-27-21 | Bucks v. Heat +1.5 | 113-84 | Loss | -106 | 4 h 14 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-26-21 | Grizzlies v. Jazz -8.5 | 129-141 | Win | 100 | 19 h 28 m | Show | |
Grizzlies/Jazz 10:05: With Donovan Mitchell back in the fray tonight, Utah overdue for a breakout and it should come here. Ingles good coming off bench but not as full time on this Jazz team. Conley and Mitchell usually masterful in directing the show and should wake up the crowd here. Morant, Jonas and Brooks have been phenomenal in the playoffs thus far but face a huge challenge here as the depth of Utah should wear them down over 4 quarters now that Mitchell is back. |
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05-26-21 | Hawks v. Knicks -2 | 92-101 | Win | 100 | 17 h 23 m | Show | |
Hawks/Knicks 7:35: Liked how Burks elevated his game in Game 1; however, disappointed in Barrett (6 of 15) and, even more - Randle (6 of 23). I expect Randle to make a significant step up; after all, he torched the Hawks in 3 regular season games to the tune of 37.3 PPG/12.3 RPG/6.7 APG. And if Noel (ankle) is unable to go, Gibson is surely able to lend more quality minutes. Thibodeau needs to address getting very little, if anything, out of Payton. Thibs has been pushing the right buttons most of the year and confident that he'll make a solid decision on that. And let's not forget Thibodeau presides over the #1 defense in the NBA and should make the necessary adjustments to keep a handle on Young and Bogdanovic. Knicks solid as a home favorite all year at 13-4 ATS and 5-0-1 ATS on 2 days rest. NY the call. |
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05-26-21 | Wizards +8.5 v. 76ers | 95-120 | Loss | -106 | 16 h 28 m | Show | |
Wizards/76ers 7:05: In Game 1, 76ers went to the free throw line a staggering 33 times - a more than 2 to 1 advantage to the Wizards - Westbrook had 6 turnovers and ineffective as a shooter, Beal was only 1-6 from 3 point range, yet Washington still covered. We'll look for the Wizards to tighten up the bolts and be competitive once again; after all, they're 7-0-1 ATS off a SU loss, 6-0 ATS in their last 6 dog roles, 6-0 ATS on Wednesdays, and 4-0 ATS on 2 days rest. Coach Brooks does a nice job with adjustments and we'll stay on Washington. |
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05-25-21 | Lakers -1.5 v. Suns | Top | 109-102 | Win | 100 | 20 h 29 m | Show |
Lakers/Suns 10:05: The bulk of this Lakers' team has been here before. Last season, lost game 1 against the Blazers and proceeded to sweep. This Suns team is a bit more hungry and disciplined. I had the Suns in Game 1 and they delivered but will fade them here. Sunday, A.D. was outplayed by Ayton and the criticism is plentiful. Normally, a superstar doesn't have back-to-back bad games and I expect him to step up here to aid James. Lakers need more from Kuzma, and Schroder should step up his game. Lakers do have one of the top defenses in the NBA. That surely comes in handy down the stretch for stops. Lakers the call tonight. |
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05-24-21 | Blazers v. Nuggets -1.5 | 109-128 | Win | 100 | 20 h 1 m | Show | |
Blazers/Nuggets 10:05: Blazers chose to guard Jokic straight up; consequently, Nurkic and reserve Canter were abused; however, Jokic only had one assist as Jokic's mates didn't step up enough. Porter Jr. is a Top 10 trey bomber but was a miserable 1 of 10 from 3 point line. Look for Nuggets to make the right adjustments. 4-1 ATS off a double-digit loss at home. |
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05-24-21 | Heat +5 v. Bucks | 98-132 | Loss | -115 | 17 h 25 m | Show | |
Heat/Bucks 7:35: Rarely does a superstar have back to back bad games. I would put Jimmy Butler in that category and he should shine tonight. Butler was held in check to a degree by Giannis yet still had open shots he would normally hit. Butler is a big-game player and has a proven supporting cast that flourished in the bubble last season vs Milwaukee. Miami 4-0-1 ATS following a SU loss and we'll grab the points. |
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05-23-21 | Hawks v. Knicks -1 | Top | 107-105 | Loss | -110 | 17 h 59 m | Show |
Hawks/Knicks 7:05: Knicks' players bought into Thibodeau's defensive philosophy and the result paid dividends with the Knicks locking in the #4 seed as a host in the playoffs. Atlanta came on strong too after a mid-season coaching change. McMillan's done a great job guiding Atlanta to the playoffs after a rough start under the departed Lloyd. However, the #1 defensive team in the NBA has proven they can make stops but can run the floor and run an efficient half court offense. Randall has been amazing, Barrett has been big time support, and the Derrick Rose resurgence has been amazing. Knicks control a 6-0-1 ATS mark in this series and should deliver at MSG. |
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05-23-21 | Lakers v. Suns -2.5 | 90-99 | Win | 100 | 14 h 46 m | Show | |
Lakers/Suns 3:35: Lakers did a nice job forcing the Warriors' Curry out of his game late. Pesky Caruso was one of the key defenders disrupting him. And the Warriors did not have another offensive option who is a go-to-down-the-stretch-guy. Wiggins surely wasn't the answer. However, Suns have options. Chris Paul is a veteran point guard who has a solid supporting cast -especially SG Booker who can light it up. Then there is veteran playoff journeyman Crowder who rises to the occasion in big games. Lakers on a 1-4 ATS slide and not quite on their game yet. Phoenix the call. |
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05-22-21 | Blazers v. Nuggets +1 | 123-109 | Loss | -115 | 21 h 12 m | Show | |
Blazers/Nuggets 10:35: Lots of action on Blazers but I'm going the other way. Jokic was instrumental in keeping the Nuggets afloat when Murray went down April 12th. Since then, the Nuggets went a 13-5 SU including a meaningless loss to the Blazers to end the regular season. Campazzo, a pick up from Argentina, did a good job defensively to help fill some of the void. And Gordon, another good late season pick up has fit in the Denver system nice. With Monte Morris getting healthy and Porter Jr. continuing to add support to Jokic, Denver is still dangerous. Sure, Lillard and McCollum are a solid backcourt duo but Denver is better coached, more disciplined defensively and should deliver here. |
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05-22-21 | Celtics +8 v. Nets | 93-104 | Loss | -106 | 18 h 56 m | Show | |
Boston/Brooklyn 8:05: Prior to the season, Boston was selected to be a top contender by many; however, they underachieved dramatically - needing a play-in game to advance to the playoffs. It's no secret that Boston does a lot of their best work when expectations are low - as exhibited by their 30-17 ATS mark as an underdog over the last 47 games, including 6-1 ATS in their last 7 road dog roles. Sure, Brooklyn has the big-three together today in Irving, Durant and Harden. But they haven't had a whole lot of court time together and I don't expect magic chemistry against a pretty well disciplined Celtics' defense. And I realize the Celtics are void of Jaylen Brown (wrist) but Tatum and Walker have a pretty good supporting cast including energy driven Smart. After 3 straight losses to the Nets, look for the vengeful dog to turn in another scrap fest. We'll grab the points. |
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05-22-21 | Heat +5 v. Bucks | 107-109 | Win | 100 | 11 h 13 m | Show | |
Heat/Bucks 2:05: Last season in the playoffs, the Heat ousted the heavily favored Bucks. Today, Milwaukee wants the revenge but Miami won't be an easy out. Miami came on strong down the stretch of the season with an 11-4 SU run and getting healthy. Butler's health will be important and he's battling through a back problem. Heat went 7-13 SU without Butler in the lineup. He should be good to go today. And let's not forget the supporting cast that stepped up last year to land the Heat in the NBA Championship vs the Lakers. Herro was huge and Spoelstra's decision to insert Dragic in as starter in the playoffs paid big dividends. Heat 21-9 ATS on 3 days rest and 4-1 as a playoff dog. Jury still out on Milwaukee and we'll take the points. |
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05-21-21 | Grizzlies v. Warriors -4 | 117-112 | Loss | -107 | 22 h 44 m | Show | |
Grizzlies/Warriors 9:05: Like Jonas and Ja but Curry is shooting the lights out and Draymond Green is the guy that can take away Jonas in the paint. Warriors are 6-1 ATS off a SU loss and they control this series to the tune of 8-3 ATS. We'll look for the Warriors to advance to Utah. |
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05-20-21 | Pacers +3.5 v. Wizards | 115-142 | Loss | -113 | 18 h 22 m | Show | |
Pacers/Wizards 8:00: Pacers OK with this game for they're in triple revenge mode and actually play better on the road. Malcolm Brogdon's return added life back into the Pacers' offense. And despite the injuries, Indiana working well together. Sabonis should give the Wizards' interior a problem. And Mr. Regular Season - Russell Westbrook - laid an egg when the Wizards really needed him to shine while Beal is showing diminishing returns playing through a lingering hamstring injury. Westbrook has had his share of post-season slumps and it could be in his head again tonight. Worth taking points with Pacers. |
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05-19-21 | Warriors +5.5 v. Lakers | 100-103 | Win | 100 | 20 h 37 m | Show | |
Warriors/Lakers 10:00: Lakers took two of three in this series. The one they lost was a 115-113 loss to the Warriors on January 18th with a healthy Lakers' squad at Los Angeles. Going in to this one, Lakers' top guns - James, Davis and even Schroder are battling injuries and haven't seen much time on the floor together over the last month. Meanwhile, Golden State has found their rhythm on a 6-0 ATS run and playing well together. I'll take the points here. |
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05-18-21 | Wizards +2 v. Celtics | 100-118 | Loss | -101 | 19 h 47 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow later... |
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05-16-21 | Lakers -7 v. Pelicans | 110-98 | Win | 100 | 5 h 27 m | Show | |
05-15-21 | Heat -2.5 v. Bucks | 108-122 | Loss | -106 | 5 h 28 m | Show | |
Miami/Milwaukee 8:10: Bucks do not want any part of a playoff matchup with the Miami Heat. A Milwaukee, sitting at the 3 seed, with a win tonight would most likely pit them against the 6th seeded Heat next week. Remember, in last year's playoffs, the Heat eliminated the heavily favored Bucks in 5 games. We'll probably look for limited play of Giannis, Middleton and Holiday. On the other hand, no reason for the Heat to take foot off the throttle. They're on an 11-3 SU run and covered 6 of their last 7 ATS. Milwaukee should stay drop to their 6th straight ATS loss. |
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05-14-21 | Pelicans v. Warriors -2 | 122-125 | Win | 100 | 9 h 60 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-13-21 | Nuggets v. Wolves +4.5 | 114-103 | Loss | -104 | 7 h 0 m | Show | |
Denver/Minnesota 8:10: Wolves have been playing a great stretch of basketball - winning or in virtually every game since April 20th with the exception of a vengeful Miami team on May 7th. Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns and Russell have great chemistry together. Denver's Jokic holding the Nuggetts together since Murray's season ending injury April 12th. They're still looking to improve their seeding position as they currently trail LAC by 1 game and the Suns by 3. They're on a 1-4 ATS slide and have failed to cover their last 4 as road chalk. With Minnesota at 5-2 ATS in this series and looking to end their season strong, we'll take the points. |
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05-12-21 | Wizards +6.5 v. Hawks | 116-120 | Win | 100 | 4 h 42 m | Show | |
Wizards/Hawks 7:10: Under normal circumstances of mid-regular season, given tonight's roster, talent disparity is clearly in favor of the Hawks. However, at this stage of the season, Wizards are fighting for their Playoff Play-In lives! With top scorer - Beal (hamstring) out, the burden is put on triple-double king - Westbrook. Fortunately, Scott Brooks doing an amazing job using his bench to accommodate Westbrook. Hachimura has done a nice job in support while Bertans, Neto and Beal's replacement - Ish Smith work hard enough to keep games close. Wizards 7-1-1 ATS last 9 road games and we'll take the points with the desperate and vengeful team. |
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05-11-21 | Magic v. Bucks -13 | 102-114 | Loss | -107 | 6 h 9 m | Show | |
Magic/Bucks 9:10: Good value with the Bucks which lost in a lackluster effort last night. Sure, they'll go into this one unrested but last night Budenholzer pulled his starters around 6 minutes of the 4th and they'll be ready to roll here. Orlando has been getting pummeled since starting their rebuilding project after releasing Vucevic, Gordon and Fournier. And they have not fared well in this series at 0-5 ATS. Bucks 4-1 ATS following a loss and we'll roll with them. |
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05-10-21 | Bucks v. Spurs +7 | 125-146 | Win | 100 | 7 h 40 m | Show | |
Bucks/Spurs 8:40: Decent value here with a Spurs team that looks down and out losing 6 of the last 7 SU; however, 3-3-1 ATS over that stretch. They're clinging on to the 10 and final Play-In spot and do have something to play for here. Milwaukee is settled in and really not concerned about seeding as they prepare for playoffs, maybe even limiting minutes for top guns: Giannis, Middleton, Holiday. Spurs have covered 5 straight in this series and we'll look for them to step up their game a notch here. |
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05-09-21 | Wolves -7.5 v. Magic | 128-96 | Win | 100 | 5 h 43 m | Show | |
T-Wolves/Magic 7:10: Both these teams are not participating in post-season and will be playing the regular season out. Orlando, riddled with injuries, finishing season with makeshift lineup. T-Wolves, on the other hand, have a legitimate future with team nucleus: Karl-Anthony Towns, Edwards, Russell and playing well. Wolves competing well and should bounce back off three tough losses vs playoff caliber teams. Minnesota 9-3-1 ATS off a SU loss while Magic just 1-6 ATS as a home dog. We'll lay some wood here with Minnesota. |
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05-08-21 | Spurs +6 v. Blazers | 102-124 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 43 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-08-21 | Nets -3.5 v. Nuggets | 125-119 | Win | 100 | 7 h 42 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-07-21 | Wolves +6.5 v. Heat | 112-121 | Loss | -103 | 8 h 7 m | Show | |
T-Wolves/Heat 8:10: Minnesota has won 5 straight (5-0 SU/4-0-1 ATS) in this series and they're no easy out tonight. Anthony Edwards is playing a great stretch of basketball and hot from the perimeter. Miami, on the other hand, is struggling to guard the perimeter - as evidenced against Dallas. Sure, Spoelstra will make the needed adjustments and will have Jimmy Butler back for this one. Some good chemistry going on with Russell, Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns. We'll look for Minnesota to continue to compete. |
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05-06-21 | Bulls -4 v. Hornets | 120-99 | Win | 100 | 6 h 53 m | Show | |
Bulls/Hornets 7:10: On the surface, looks like the Hornets are the call; after all, they're at home - where they've been respectable, and starting to get healthy. However, a closer look reveals the Bulls beat Charlotte twice this season - at home and on the road - and they get back two key cogs - LaVine and Vucevic. Sure, the Bulls are on a 4 game slide and on the verge of elimination from a play-in position; however, they've taken on a tough stretch over those 4 games: NY, Milwaukee, Atlanta and Philadelphia. Now that they have their key players back and in a desperation mode, we'll look for Chicago to win with authority today. |
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05-05-21 | Spurs +7 v. Jazz | 94-126 | Loss | -106 | 7 h 34 m | Show | |
Spurs/Jazz 9:10: Spurs were slow out of the gate last night and the Jazz defensively made sure they didn't recover. Tonight, look for cagey veteran Spurs' HC Popovich to make the right adjustments; after all, Utah is still without their star Mitchell and his backcourt partner Conley. Spurs have enough talent to keep this one tight; moreover, every game important for the Spurs now to bolster shot at playoff-play-in. Spurs are 12-3-1 ATS last 16 on the road and 4-1 ATS last 5 off a loss. Spurs the call. |
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05-04-21 | Mavs v. Heat -3 | 127-113 | Loss | -106 | 10 h 39 m | Show | |
Analysis to follow... |
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05-03-21 | Spurs +7.5 v. Jazz | 99-110 | Loss | -106 | 8 h 35 m | Show | |
Spurs/Jazz 10:10: Jazz still playing pretty good basketball despite the absence of their star back-court players - Mitchell and Conley. Conley and Mitchell were instrumental in domination for much of the season, including the 130-109 win in January vs San Antonio. Bogdanovic is now one of the key offensive driving forces while rookie Trent Forest made big plays in the 4th quarter to get by Toronto on Saturday. Unlike San Antonio, Utah had a day of rest to recoup after a difficult, condensed schedule. Spurs have no time to feel sorry for themselves after falling to Philadelphia in OT yesterday. They're desperately clinging in contention with GS, NO and Memphis for a spot for a Play-In game. The good news, Popovich rested DeRozan and Poeltl yesterday for today. And Keldon Johnson stepped up his game recently. Tonight, Dejounte Murray (knee) is off the injury report and should be back to spark the desperate Spurs. Spurs 18-7-1 ATS as a road dog and 3-1 ATS in their last 4 unrested. Take the points. |
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05-03-21 | Pacers +4 v. Wizards | 141-154 | Loss | -104 | 4 h 40 m | Show | |
Pacers/Wizards 7:10: Lots of focus now on a hot Washington club but don't count the Pacers out. Indiana, 5-1 ATS road run, remains 1 1/2 games ahead of Washington. Sure, Westbrook and Beal are a super backcourt duo; however, Levert and Sumner are pretty freaking good themselves; moreover, like Indiana's smooth frontcourt now that Sabonis is back in the fray to help Brissett on the boards. Indiana covered 5 of the last 7 in this series and sports an impressive 11-4 ATS mark at Washington. I'll take the points! |
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05-02-21 | Heat v. Hornets +5.5 | 121-111 | Loss | -107 | 5 h 2 m | Show | |
Heat/Hornets 8:10: The return of LaMelo Ball and Malik Monk add quality depth to the Hornets as they vie to catch Miami, whom sit one game ahead of the Hornets in the NBA Eastern Conference. Both teams played last night and won. Charlotte has won the first two games of this season series and can sweep it here for the first time in 19 years. Heat 15-16 SU on the road and giving 5 1/2 points to a pretty good home team when healthy. We'll take the points. |
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05-01-21 | Pelicans v. Wolves +3.5 | 140-136 | Loss | -105 | 18 h 27 m | Show | |
Pelicans/Wolves 8:10: New Orleans working for that Play-In game while Minnesota merely playing for pride. Thursday night, the Pelicans battled back from a double-deficit to finish off a depleted OKC team; meanwhile, T-Wolves decided they weren't going to fold to bolster their lottery leverage and dispatched the Warriors. T-Wolves on a 4-0 run and playing their best stretch of basketball. Russell, Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns clicking together; moreover, now Rubio is stepping up his game with 26 on Thursday. Don't like the inconsistency of the Pelicans. Talented but can't count on NBA vagabond Van Gundy to pull his team together in crunch time. Pelicans 2-5 ATS off a SU win and 3-10 ATS in this series. And remember, Karl-Anthony Towns and Russell did not play back in January when the Wolves won. And the Wolves followed that up on March 11th in a 135-105 throttling to end their nine game losing streak. We'll take the points again with the resurging Wolves. |
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04-30-21 | Bucks -1 v. Bulls | 108-98 | Win | 100 | 8 h 21 m | Show | |
Bucks/Bulls 9:10: Bucks lost Giannis (ankle) last night early and it surely disrupted their play in Houston. Tonight, we'll look for them to battle back. Bucks have more than enough talent surrounding Holiday and Middleton to carry them here vs Lavine -less Bulls. Tread lightly however, Bucks not a great team unrested; however, they do play well in Chicago (8-0 ATS). |
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04-30-21 | Spurs +4.5 v. Celtics | 140-143 | Win | 100 | 7 h 2 m | Show | |
Spurs/Celtics 7:40: Boston cooling off a bit after a hot run. The Celtics are on a 1-3 ATS slide and will be without two key players - Walker (oblique) and energy guy on both ends of the floor - Smart (suspension). Spurs desperate to hang on to Play-In positioning. Spurs are coming off a loss to Miami and control a 4-1 ATS mark off a SU loss and 15-5-1 ATS as a road dog. Sure, White is out but Spurs have good depth at point with Murray and Mills. And surely DeRozan can run the show. Spurs the call. |