Sports Picks & Predictions

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on 76ers +5
Bottom Line: Look for the Knicks to come out flat following their big win over Miami. The Knicks are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games following a win, 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400, 1-7 ATS in their last 8 Saturday games and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 versus Atlantic division foes. The underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings, and I expect this trend to continue.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* Blowout on Pacific -5
Bottom Line: Pacific has lost its first 4 conference contests. It has also lost its last 2 against Santa Clara. I believe these things will inspire the Tigers to put forth one of their best efforts of the season. Santa Clara is in a huge letdown spot following a win at St. Mary's and a terrible situational spot playing its 2nd road game in 3 days. The Tigers are 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 home games versus a team with a losing road record. Pacific is 15-5 ATS on Saturday over the last 2 seasons, including 6-1 ATS in its last 7 Saturday games. It is also on a 17-7 ATS run when laying points and a 63-35 ATS run in home games after playing a home game. The Broncos are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 Saturday games, 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games following a win and 2-5 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Pound Pacific.

5* Wiseguy NBA Friday Night Feast on Magic +7.5
Bottom Line: Road underdogs that are off back-to-back double-digit defeats are 47-16 ATS since 1996 if they are up against a team that has combined with its opponents for 215 points or more in two straight games. This system is 4-1 ATS this season and 18-6 ATS the last 5 seasons. Sacramento is being overvalued because it beat Portland 123-119 in its last game while the Magic lost to Portland 110-94 in their last game. Portland's win over the Magic was in response to its loss in Sacramento so I'm not buying that the Kings should be laying this many points, especially since they defeated the Magic by just 5 points in the first meeting in a game where they shot out of their minds from 3-point range (12 of 23). The Kings have been favored 10 times at home this season, and they are 0-10 ATS in those games. Take the points.

4* Major Central Division *SUREFIRE* on Bucks +4
Bottom Line: Home underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have failed to cover the spread in 4 of their last 5 games are 67-36 ATS since 1996 when they are up against a team that has covered the number in 6 or 7 or their last 8 games. This system is a sweet 25-6 ATS the last 5 seasons. Additionally, the underdog is 7-0 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Bet the Bucks.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* on Nebraska +4.5
Bottom Line: Nebraska is 7-0 at home this season, and I expect it to defend its home court tonight following a pair of road losses to open conference play. The Huskers are 32-15 ATS in home games off 2 straight losses against conference opponents since 1997, winning by an average of 4.3 points in this spot. The Wolverines are a soft 4-9 ATS in their last 13 road games while the Cornhuskers are a strong 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 home games. Pound Nebraska.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Knicks +8.5
Bottom Line: The Knicks are playing their best basketball of the season, and they have no problem getting up for the Heat. The Knicks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall, a stretch that is very significant. Consider that New York is 11-1 ATS in home games the last 3 seasons after successfully covering the spread in 3 or more consecutive games. The Knicks are also 10-1 ATS in home games under coach Woodson after covering the spread in 4 of their last 5 games. The Heat are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points. The Knicks have won 3 of the last 4 meetings with all of the wins coming by double digits and the loss coming by only 6 points. Pound New York.

4* Major NCAAB *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Boise State +6.5
Bottom Line: San Diego State is being overvalued following its big win at Kansas. Each of the last 4 meetings between these two have been decided by 6 points or less. Also, Boise State has lost by just 3 total points in its last 2 visits to SDSU. The Broncos are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 versus Mountain West foes while the Aztecs are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 versus the Mountain West.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Celtics +10.5
Bottom Line: Playing against favorites of 10 or more points that allowed 85 points or less last game has resulted in a 94-48 ATS record since 1996 if they are up against a team that allowed 110 points or more last game. This system is already 1-0 ATS this season and 9-2 ATS the last 3 seasons. Playing road underdogs of 10 or more points that are off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more has resulted in a 72-34 ATS record since 1996 if they have a .250 to .400 win percentage and are playing a winning team. This system is already 3-0 ATS this season.

4* Major NBA Non-Conference *SUREFIRE* on Nets +6.5
Bottom Line: Playing January home underdogs that are off a home win has resulted in a 49-20 ATS record the last 5 seasons. The Nets are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games when playing with 1 day of rest, 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games following a cover and 18-7 ATS in their last 25 versus the Pacific division. The Warriors are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games following a cover and 3-8 ATS in their last 11 meetings at the Nets. This is an extremely fatigued spot for the Warriors, and I can't see them covering this large of a number on the road against a Brooklyn squad that is playing with a lot of confidence right now.

5* Wiseguy NBA Eastern Conference Game of the Week on Hawks +5
Bottom Line: The Pacers are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games when playing with no rest and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when their starting 5 total more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Hawks are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games when playing on 1 days' rest. Atlanta was taken down by Indiana in last year's playoffs so it will be out for some serious revenge. The Pacers have lost 11 straight regular-season meetings in the ATL and are just 2-8 ATS in the last 10 meetings there. Pound the Hawks.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB Blowout Game of the Month on Virginia -11
Bottom Line: Playing Wednesday home favorites of 10 or more points that hold opponents to an average of 57.0 ppg or less has resulted in a 33-12 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting this scenario have won by 19.5 points on average. Plus, the Cavaliers are 8-0 ATS under coach Bennett as a home favorite of 9.5 to 12 points, winning these games by an average of 22.8 points.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +7
Bottom Line: The home team has had a significant edge in this series, and I expect this trend to continue. The home team is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings, including 2-0 ATS this season. The Jazz will be extremely motivated because they have lost each of the first two meetings. They will also be extremely fresh and well prepared because they haven't played since the 3rd. OKC has had a much more hectic schedule this month as it will be playing for the 3rd time in 4 days. The lack of rest is magnified by not having Westbrook available. Pound the Jazz.

4* Major ACC *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on NC State +5.5
Bottom Line: This is a letdown spot for Notre Dame, which is coming off a gigantic win over Duke. This is a bounce-back spot for NC State following a double-digit loss at Pitt. The Wolfpack are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a double-digit loss at home. The Fighting Irish are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games. Notre Dame has been fortunate to shoot well the past two games because it has given up a lot of points. The Irish are 8-25 ATS under Brey after allowing 75 points or more in 2 straight games. Notre Dame will have a tough time scoring the basketball against an NC State defense that has been phenomenal on the road, holding opponents to 35.2% shooting overall and 19.1% from beyond the arc.

4* Major NBA Oddsmaker Error on Bucks +9
Bottom Line: Milwaukee has had the Warriors' number. It is 3-0 in the last 3 meetings and 7-1 in the last 8 meetings. It is also 4-0 at home during this span. In terms of the spread, the Warriors are 0-5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings. While Golden State would like to put an end to its struggles against the Bucks, it will have a difficult time doing so in what is a fatigued spot. This is the Warriors 4th road game in 6 days. The Bucks, meanwhile, have 2 full days of rest on their side.

4* Major NBA Central Division *SUREFIRE* on Cavs +8.5
Bottom Line: This is a look-ahead spot for Indiana, which has a pair of double-digit wins over Cleveland already this season, including one earlier this week. The Pacers will be much more concerned with their next opponent, a Toronto squad that defeated them New Year's Day. Whether Irving is able to go or not, this is a great spot to back the Cavs who are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss, 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games, 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing without a day of rest and 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games versus a team with a winning record. The Pacers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games when playing without a day of rest.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Wizards +3.5
Bottom Line: Washington has an excellent opportunity to pull off the small upset at home against the road-weary Warriors. The Wizards are 18-8 ATS in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons, winning these games by an average of 1.3 points. Washington is also 20-8 ATS as a home underdog over the last 2 seasons and 13-3 ATS in home games after having lost 2 of their last 3 games over the last 2 seasons. Pound the Wizards.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Thunder +2
Bottom Line: OKC is 8-0 ATS under coach Scott off an upset loss of 10 points or more, winning by an average of 19.5 points in this spot. The Thunder are also 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games versus a team with a winning home record. Pound OKC.

4* Major MVC Line Mistake on Bradley +4.5
Bottom Line: The Braves are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games after scoring less than 50 points in their previous game and 9-2 ATS in their last 11 home games off a defeat of 15 or more points. Bradley has lost to Drake at home by more than 4.5 points just one time in the last 8 meetings.

4* Major Sandwich Game *SUREFIRE* on Rice +12
Bottom Line: This is a classic sandwich game for Harvard following a win over B.C. and with Connecticut up next. This situation becomes even tougher for the Crimson because they defeated Rice by 30 last season, making it very easy for them to look ahead. The Owls will be out for revenge and also motivated by losses in their last two games. The Owls are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a loss and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 non-conference games.

4* Major WCC *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Pacific +15.5
Bottom Line: The Bulldogs are overvalued frequently because of the amount of attention they receive from bettors. They have been especially overvalued on Saturday's, the biggest NCAAB betting day of the week. Gonzaga is 4-13 ATS on Saturday over the last 2 seasons, including 0-6 ATS in its last 6 Saturday games. Pacific is 15-4 ATS on Saturday the last 2 seasons.

5* Wiseguy Sun Belt Conference Game of the Year on Texas State +3
Bottom Line: Arkansas State is 1-8 ATS as a road favorite or pickem over the last 3 seasons, losing these games by 3.3 points on average. It is also 0-6 ATS in road games when playing against a team with a winning pct. of 20% to 40% over the last 2 seasons, losing these games by an average of 9.5 points. Pound Texas State.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Lakers -3.5
Bottom Line: D'Antoni's teams are 16-5 ATS lifetime after 6 or more consecutive losses. Plus, the Lakers are 16-5 ATS after a blowout loss of 15 points or more over the last 3 seasons. The Jazz are 6-16 ATS after 2 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons. The Jazz are just 5-14 on the road, and their road issues will continue against an LA squad hungry to end a lengthy skid.

4* Major Western Conference *BLOOD BATH* on Nuggets -3.5
Bottom Line: Look for the Nuggets to get off the snide against a Memphis team they have defeated 10 times in their last 11 home matchups. The Grizzlies are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following a win. The Nuggets are 35-15-1 ATS in their last 51 home games versus a team with a winning road record. The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings, and the Grizzlies are 6-15 ATS in the last 21 meetings in Denver.

4* Major NBA *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Rockets -11.5
Bottom Line: The Knicks stunned San Antonio last night, but I don't expect an encore performance from them. They are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a win. They Knicks are 1-12 ATS in the last 13 meetings, including 0-6 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Houston.

5* Wiseguy NBA Non-Conference Game of the Year on Hawks +3
Bottom Line: Look for the Warriors to crash and burn tonight. After an emotional win over Miami and playing a third road game in four nights, the Warriors will have little left in the tank. Atlanta has had two days to prepare, and it hasn't forgotten the 115-93 beating it took the last time it hosted Golden State. The Hawks will be motivated to say the least. Atlanta is 5-0 in its last 5 home games, winning them by 13.6 points on average. Pound the Hawks.

4* Major Eastern Conference *BLOOD BATH* on Wizards -2.5
Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from Toronto following a big-time victory over the Pacers. The Wizards are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss ATS and 6-0 ATS in their last 6 versus Eastern Conference foes.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Bobcats +11.5
Bottom Line: The Bobcats are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points and 11-1-1 ATS in their last 13 road games. The Trail Blazers are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games overall and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a win.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Grizzlies +6
Bottom Line: Phoenix was crushed by 19 at Memphis in the first meeting, and playing against home teams that are looking for revenge for a double-digit defeat has resulted in a 31-9 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they carry a win percentage of 60-75% and are taking on a team with a losing record.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Knicks +11
Bottom Line: The Knicks were brutally embarrassed at MSG by the Spurs in November, but New York is 25-8 ATS when out for revenge for a home blowout loss of 20 points or more since 1996, winning by an average of 3.4 points in these contests. Pound New York.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* on Northwestern +10.5
Bottom Line: Northwestern is off a 1-point loss to DePaul, which is worth mentioning because it has responded to go 6-0 ATS the last 3 seasons following a close loss of 3 points or less, winning by an average of 12.5 points in these games. Pound the Wildcats.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Wizards -121
Bottom Line: The Wizards are 26-12 ATS in their last 38 home games. They are 8-1 ATS in games when the line is +3 to -3 this season. They are 24-11 ATS under coach Wittman in home games when matched up against a winning team. Dallas won the season's first meeting 105-95, but Washington is 8-1 ATS this season when out for revenge for a loss where it gave up 100 points or more. It has won by an average of 4.9 points in this spot. Pound Washington.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* Bailout on Bucks +6.5
Bottom Line: The Lakers are 1-9 ATS off an upset loss as a home favorite over the last 2 seasons, losing by an average of 5.9 points in this spot. The Bucks are 10-3-1 ATS in the last 14 meetings and 6-2-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings in Los Angeles. The underdog is 14-4-1 ATS in the last 19 meetings. Pound the Bucks.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Nuggets +2.5
Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from the Heat following an emotional win in Portland. Also, expect to see a motivated Denver squad as it looks to bring a six-game skid to an end. The Nuggets are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600, and the underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings. Pound Denver.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Pelicans +3
Bottom Line: The Trail Blazers are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games overall while the Pelicans are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games overall. The Blazers have had a terrible time with New Orleans and are 0-5 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Portland just lost a tough one to Miami and plays the Thunder tomorrow so this could be a flat spot for the Blazers.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Pistons -138
Bottom Line: The Pistons were hammered at Washington last game, but I expect them to have their revenge at home where they are 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Also, the favorite is 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Cavaliers +6.5
Bottom Line: The Cavaliers have been very tough at home where they have won 8 of 14, including a win over the Clippers. They also recently took Portland down to the wire, losing by 3 in a game that appeared headed for OT before Damian Lillard drained a 3-pointer with 0.4 seconds remaining. The Cavs are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 home games, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games versus a winning team, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a cover and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 versus the West. The Warriors are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a cover and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 versus the NBA Central. The Cavs are 6-1 ATS as a home underdog this season. Pound Cleveland.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pelicans +9
Bottom Line: I expect New Orleans to keep this one closer than the oddsmakers think as Houston gets caught looking ahead to tomorrow's matchup with Oklahoma City. The Rockets are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following a win. The Pelicans are 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings, and the underdog is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings. New Orleans just played last night while Houston had the night off, but New Orleans is one of the deeper teams in the NBA. Pound the Pelicans as they have plenty left in the tank to give Houston a run for the money.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* on Boston College +9
Bottom Line: VCU will have a tough time covering this number against a B.C. squad that plays a half-court game and takes excellent care of the rock. VCU is 0-6 ATS versus slow-down teams averaging 53 or less shots/game over the last 2 seasons and 0-8 ATS versus excellent ball handling teams that committing 12 or fewer turnovers/game over the last 2 seasons. VCU forced VA Tech into 27 turnovers last game, but the Rams are 0-6 ATS after a game forcing an opponent to commit 25 or more turnovers over the last 2 seasons. VCU is also 0-6 ATS when playing away from home on 5 of 6 days' rest over the last 3 seasons. BC was upset at Auburn last game, but it is on an 8-0 ATS run in road/neutral court games off an upset loss of 10 points or more. Pound the Eagles.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Kings +8
Bottom Line: The Heat will go through the motions tonight as they look ahead to tomorrow's showing in Portland. The Kings are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games versus a team with a winning road record, and they are on a 31-15 ATS run as a home underdog of 6.5 to 9 points.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Magic +3.5
Bottom Line: The home team has had the decisive edge in the series, going 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings. The dog has been a strong play in the series as well, going 13-6 ATS in the last 19 meetings. We'll grab the home dog tonight.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Bobcats +9
Bottom Line: Look for the Thunder to get caught looking ahead to upcoming games against Houston and Portland. The Bobcats are the more rested team, and they'll go after this game hard because they embark on a stretch where they play 5 straight on the road following it. The Bobcats are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a winning record and 14-5 ATS as an underdog this season. Pound the Bobcats.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* (TNT) on Grizzlies +8
Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from the Rockets following yesterday's big win over the Spurs. The Rockets are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU win and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following an ATS win. The Rockets should be showing some fatigue as well. They are playing a 5th game in 7 days and are on an 8-28 ATS slide at home when playing 5 games in 7 days. The Grizzlies are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games when playing on 2 days' rest. They are on a 73-44 ATS run in road games when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Cavaliers +3
Bottom Line: Playing on any team that's coming off an upset defeat of 15 or more points has resulted in a 50-19 ATS record the last 17 years if they're up against an opponent that is coming off a cover on the road in a game they lost. This system tightens up to 29-9 ATS if the team we are playing on is at home. Pound Cleveland.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Warriors -2
Bottom Line: Playing against road teams that have a winning record when the line is +3 to -3 has resulted in a 44-18 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they went over the total by more than 18 points in their previous game and are playing another winning team. The Warriors are 16-6 ATS in home games after covering the number in 2 of their last 3 over the last 2 seasons. The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Lakers +9
Bottom Line: The Lakers are 15-5 ATS after a blowout loss of 15 points or more over the last 3 seasons. Playing against any team like Miami that has combined with its opponents to score 215 points or more in its last two games and allows 92-98 ppg has resulted in a 20-3 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they are up against a team that allows 102 ppg or more. This system tightens up to 4-0 ATS the last 3 seasons. The home team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings, and the underdog is 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Pound LA.

4* Major NBA Early *BLOOD BATH* on Nets -2.5
Bottom Line: The Nets will be out for payback because they were knocked out of the playoffs by the Bulls last season. Chicago has really struggled on the road where it is 3-11 SU & 4-10 ATS this season. The Bulls are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games when playing on 3 or more days' rest, 7-22 ATS in their last 29 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400 and 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games following a win.

4* Major Western Conference *SUREFIRE* on Nuggets -114
Bottom Line: The Warriors have struggled on the road where they are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games. They have also struggled in Denver where they are 2-16 in the last 18 regular-season meetings. The Warriors are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a winning record and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a victory. The Warriors knocked Denver out of the playoffs last season, and it will be out for a little revenge tonight.

4* Major Western Conference *SUREFIRE* on Lakers +8
Bottom Line: The Lakers are 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games following a loss and 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points. Playing road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have gone under the total by 36 points or more combined in their last five games has resulted in a 47-20 ATS record the last 5 season provided they have a win percentage between 45-55%. The underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings, and I expect this trend to continue.

5* Wiseguy Eastern Conference Game of the Month on Nets +7
Bottom Line: Playing against good offensive teams like Indiana that average 98-102 ppg and have held their last two opponents to 90 points or less has resulted in a 41-15 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they are up against a team like Brooklyn that gives up 102 ppg or more. Also, playing against road favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points like Indiana that are off a blowout win of 15 points or more has resulted in a 36-13 ATS record since 1996 if the game involves a pair of teams that average 98-102 ppg. This system is 3-0 ATS the last 3 seasons. The Nets have played the Pacers as tough as anyone in recent years winning 4 of the last 5 meetings and keeping the score within 5 points in 6 straight meetings. Pound Brooklyn.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on T-Wolves +6
Bottom Line: Now's the time to fade the Clippers who are on a 19-40 ATS slide after successfully covering the spread in 4 or more consecutive games. The Timberwolves are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games following an ATS loss, 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games following a SU loss, 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a SU loss of more than 10 points and 8-3 ATS in their last 11 road games versus a team with a winning home record. Plus, they will be very motivated here having dropped the season's first two matchups. Third time's a charm for Minnesota.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Raptors +11
Bottom Line: Playing against favorites of 10 or more points after 8 or more consecutive wins has resulted in a 29-10 ATS record the last 5 seasons provided they have a winning record and are playing a losing team.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Celtics +12.5
Bottom Line: The Pacers can't be trusted laying this many points. They are just 2-4 ATS as a double-digit favorite this season and 1-3 ATS when favored by 12 or more. The Celtics are 3-0 ATS on the season when catching at least 12 points so there is definitely value in them at this number. The Celtics are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings and 11-5 ATS in the last 16 meetings at Indiana. Pound Boston.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Pelicans +9
Bottom Line: Portland's Achilles' heel is its defense, and it will have a hard time covering this big number against a New Orleans squad that can really score the rock. The Pelicans will be very focused here because they've lost their last two by double digits. Fortunately, they are 26-8-1 ATS in their last 35 games following a loss of more than 10 points. And, playing road underdogs after 2 straight losses by 10 points or more that are up against an opponent that has tallied a combined score of 215 points or more in 2 straight games has resulted in a 45-16 ATS record since 1996. The Pelicans have given Portland trouble lately and are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings as a result.

4* Major NCAAB *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Michigan -2
Bottom Line: I like Michigan in this neutral court battle whether McGary goes or not. Stanford finds itself in a letdown spot after a big upset win at UConn. Michigan, meanwhile, is in bounce-back mode following a narrow home loss to Arizona. Michigan is 14-5 ATS following 1 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons. John Beilein's teams are 21-9 ATS as a neutral court favorite of 6 points or less or pickem since 1997. His Michigan teams are 15-6 ATS when getting 5 or 6 days or preparation for an opponent.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +4.5
Bottom Line: The Jazz were smoked last night but are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Bobcats wasted their legs in last night's come from behind victory and are 16-34 ATS when playing the 2nd game of a back-to-back over the last 3 seasons, losing by an average of 12.1 points in this spot. This is also Charlotte's 4th game in 5 days, and it is 2-15 ATS when playing a 4th game in 5 days over the last 3 seasons, losing by 14.6 points in this spot. The Jazz are 8-0 SU and 6-1-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings. Pound Utah.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Lakers +6.5
Bottom Line: This line is an overreaction to Kobe Bryant being out with an injury. Plus, this is a bad spot for Minnesota, which is off a huge win against Portland and has a revenge game against the Clippers up next. I don't see the T-Wolves being completely focused on the task at hand since they crushed the Lakers in the season's first meeting. The Timberwolves are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a win of more than 10 points, 8-20-1 ATS in their last 29 games following any win and 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS win. The Lakers are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Kings +11
Bottom Line: I'm expecting a letdown from the Heat following a huge win over the Pacers. Plus, we have some convincing numbers supporting this play. Playing underdogs of 10 points or more on Friday nights has resulted in a 99-59 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Playing against favorites of 10 or more points that are off a home win and are playing on Friday night has resulted in a 48-18 ATS record the last 5 seasons.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on 76ers +6.5
Bottom Line: The 76ers were completely humiliated by the Nets the last time they took the floor. Motivated by that defeat, I expect the 76ers to give Brooklyn a game this time around. Philly will be very rested and very prepared for this contest as it has had 3 days off. It will be further motivated by the fact it plays 6 straight on the road following this one. The 76ers really want to carry a little momentum into their road trip. Also, Philly is expected to get Michael Carter-Williams back tonight so that is a big boost. Playing home underdogs that have failed to cover the spread in 8 or more of their last 10 games has resulted in a 69-37 ATS record since 1996 if they are up against a team that has covered the number in 5 of 6 of their last 7 games. Pound Philly.

5* Wiseguy NBA on TNT Game of the Month on Warriors -157 (I expect the Warriors to cover the spread but am taking them on the ML for insurance as I really like them to win this game)
Bottom Line: This game is far more important to the Warriors, who lost to San Antonio in last season's playoffs and were defeated 76-74 in San Antonio in this season's first meeting. The Warriors didn't have Curry for that game and his presence was missed. The Spurs won't have Parker tonight, and they just played last night in Phoenix with Leonard, Duncan and Ginobli seeing big minutes. The Spurs will be much more concerned with Saturday's revenge game against Oklahoma City and will want to make sure they have something left in the tank. The Spurs are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a winning record. The Warriors are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600. Pound Golden State.

4* Major NBA on TNT *SUREFIRE* on Bulls +13.5
Bottom Line: Playing against double-digit home favorites that are in the midst of a win streak of 6 games or more has resulted in a 40-16 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they are a winning team playing a losing one. Teams fitting this scenario have been favored by an average of 13.2 points but have won by only 10.8 points on average. Bet Chicago.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Pelicans +10.5
Bottom Line: Look for the Pelicans to respond following last night's 11-point loss at Golden State. They should also get some help from a Clippers squad that is in for a letdown following a big win over the Spurs. New Orleans is an outstanding 20-8 ATS off a road loss by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons, winning by an average of 2.2 points in this situation.

5* Wiseguy NBA Northwest Division Game of the Year on Timberwolves -116
Bottom Line: This is a nightmare of a spot for Portland, which is playing its 4th road game in 5 days and is coming off an emotionally and physically draining last-second victory in Cleveland last night. The T-Wolves will be the much fresher side having had last night off. They'll also be the hungrier side because they are coming off a defeat in their last game, and they were swept by the Blazers last season. The Timberwolves are 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 games following a SU loss, 14-5-1 ATS in their last 20 games following an ATS loss and 18-7 ATS in their last 25 games when playing on 1 day of rest. The favorite is 17-6 ATS in the last 23 meetings. Pound Minnesota.

4* Major NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Nuggets +3
Bottom Line: Denver is 4-0 ATS in its last 4 games versus winning teams. It is 8-0 ATS in home games the last 2 seasons versus very good teams that outscore opponents by 6.0 points or more per game. It has won these games by an average of 7.3 points. The Nuggets are even 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 home games versus teams with a road winning percentage greater than .600. Denver is 3-1 SU and 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings with the loss coming by only 2 points.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Cavs +5
Bottom Line: The Blazers are being overvalued on the road against a Cleveland club that is 4-0 SU and ATS in its last 4 home games. The Cavs have had 2 days to gear up for this game while Portland will be playing on the road for the 3rd time in 4 days. This kind of a stretch is difficult enough, but it was made more difficult by getting taken to OT by the Pistons Sunday. The Cavs are 7-2 in their last 9 home games against the Blazers with the losses coming by 6 points and 1 point. The Cavs are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus winning teams. Pound the Cavs.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Celtics +2
Bottom Line: This is a difficult spot for Minnesota, which is playing the second game of a back-to-back and its 5th game in 7 days. The Timberwolves are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when playing without a day of rest. Boston is also 15-4 ATS in home games versus poor defensive teams that allow 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons. It has defeated these teams by an average of 10.6 points.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Hawks -6
Bottom Line: The Lakers upset the Bobcats last game but are 2-11 ATS in road games after an upset win the last 3 seasons, losing by an average of 10.6 points in this spot. LA's lack of back court depth will be a major issue tonight against an Atlanta team with some very capable guards (Teague, Williams, Korver, Mack).

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Pistons +4
Bottom Line: Portland's 139-point outburst in Philadelphia places it in fade territory as it is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games after scoring more than 125 points in its previous game. We saw this trend in action recently as the Blazers dropped 130 on Utah and then lost to Dallas the next night. The Pistons played the Blazers tough in Portland earlier this season, losing by only 6 points despite shooting 3 of 14 from 3-point range. Look for them to avenge that loss at home as the home side is 4-0 SU and ATS in the last 4 meetings.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Kings +6.5
Bottom Line: The Kings have been at their best at home against good teams. Recently, they have played the Clippers, Warriors and Thunder to within 6 points or less, and they beat the Mavs. In fact, the Kings are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600 and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team that has a winning record on the road. The Rockets are a soft 4-13-1 ATS in their last 18 away games versus clubs with a losing mark at home.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB Double Digit *BLOOD BATH* on UL-Lafayette -8
Bottom Line: Playing on favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points - an excellent offensive team (averages 76 or more ppg) against an average defensive team (allows 67-74 ppg), after a combined score of 165 points or more, has resulted in a 51-16 ATS record the last 5 seasons. ULL is on a 10-2 ATS run after a game where it shot 43% or lower and allowed 57% or higher. The Ragin' Cajuns are also 8-1 ATS after allowing 75 points or more in 2 straight games under coach Bob Marlin. The favorite is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings, winning these by 16.3 points on average. Pound ULL.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Lakers +3
Bottom Line: Expect the Lakers to respond following last night's embarrassing loss in Oklahoma City. L.A. is 0-3 since Kobe Bryant's return and that can't be sitting well with the future Hall of Famer. Look for a big-time performance from Bryant here. The Bobcats lost a tough one in Indiana last night, a game they led late in the fourth. I believe they'll still be hanging on to that one. The Lakers are a strong 14-4 ATS after a blowout loss by 15 points or more over the last 3 seasons. Pound LA.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Pistons -5.5
Bottom Line: The Pistons are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 versus NBA Atlantic division foes and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. Playing against road teams that are looking for revenge for a loss where they allowed 100 points or more has resulted in a 93-53 ATS record the last 5 seasons, provided they have a win percentage of 25% to 40% and their opponent has a losing record.

5* Wiseguy NBA Atlantic Division Game of the Month on Knicks +4.5
Bottom Line: New York lost by 41 at home to Boston Sunday, but it has proven time and time again that it will respond following such defeats. Consider that the Knicks are 24-7 ATS when out for revenge for a home blowout loss of 20 points or more since 1996. They have won these games straight up by an average of 3.6 points. New York is also 24-11 ATS under coach Woodson when out for revenge for a loss where it allowed 100 points or more. It has won these games straight up by an average of 2.5 points. The Knicks have shine under the bright Friday night lights, going 7-0 ATS in their last 7 Friday games. Pound the Knicks.

4* Major NBA *SUREFIRE* on Bobcats +12.5
Bottom Line: The Bobcats are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 road games and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage greater than .600. Playing against favorites of 10 or more points that are off a home win and playing on Friday night has resulted in a 47-18 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Playing road underdogs of 10 or more points on Friday night has resulted in a 91-50 ATS record the last 5 seasons. This system tightens up to 73-33 ATS if they are coming off a defeat.

5* Wiseguy NBA on TNT *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Nets +3
Bottom Line: The Clippers won't have much left in the tank following last night's hard-fought win in Boston. This will be their 6th road game in 9 days. Brooklyn has shown signs of life with back-to-back wins, and it will be the fresher side as this will be just its 3rd game in 6 days. The Clippers are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings overall and 1-12 ATS in the last 13 road meetings in the series. The Nets are 5-0 SU and ATS in their last 5 home meetings in the series. They are also 13-1 the last 14 times they have hosted the Clippers. Pound the Nets.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Jazz +7.5
Bottom Line: Sacramento has been playing well, but I expect the addition of Rudy Gay and company to disrupt its rhythm momentarily. Sac is 3-13 ATS in home games after having won 2 of their last 3 games over the last 3 seasons. Utah is 13-3 ATS after failing to cover 4 of its last 5 games over the last 3 seasons.

4* Major NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Celtics +6.5
Bottom Line: The Celtics are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a cover while the Clippers are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games following a cover. The Clippers have defeated Boston by more than 6 points just 1 time in the last 11 meetings. I'll grab the points in what should be a close game as Boston draws added motivation from a visit from its former coach.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Magic +6.5
Bottom Line: I'm not ready to trust the Bobcats laying this many points considering they are a dismal 31-53 ATS at home over the last 3 seasons. Off a rewarding win over Golden State, I anticipate a letdown. Consider that Charlotte is on a 5-17 ATS slide coming off an upset victory, losing by an average of 7.9 points in this spot. Pound Orlando.

4* Major NBA Situational *SUREFIRE* on T-Wolves +1
Bottom Line: Great spot for a well-rested Minnesota squad against a Detroit club playing its 3rd game in 4 days. Playing all teams when the line is +3 to -3 that are off a home loss has resulted in a 63-28 ATS record since 1996 if they are playing for the 3rd time or less in 10 days. This system is 6-1 ATS the last 3 seasons. The T-Wolves have also won 6 straight against Detroit by an average of 11.5 points.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Hawks +5.5
Bottom Line: Playing underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points off 2 or more consecutive home wins has resulted in a 49-22 ATS record the last 5 seasons if they are playing for just the 4th time or fewer in 10 days. Teams fitting this scenario have been underdogs of 6.0 points on average but have lost by just 2.7. Atlanta has won 3 straight at home with 2 of the wins coming against good Dallas and LA Clippers teams. The Thunder are just 3-3 in their last 6 on the road with 1 of the wins coming by just 2 points over a poor Sacramento team. The Hawks have won 2 of their last 3 against OKC. Pound Atlanta.

4* Major NBA *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Pacers -3
Bottom Line: The Pacers are 9-0 at home this season and have won 2 straight at home against the Heat by 7 and 14 points. Indiana has also won 4 of its last 5 home games against the Heat. The Pacers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss of more than 10 points and 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 1 day of rest. The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Wizards +2
Bottom Line: Can't see the road-weary Nuggets getting past a Washington squad that is 5-1 in its last 6 at home. This will be Denver's 5th road contest in 7 days while the Wiz will be playing at home and for just the 2nd time in 7 days. Big edge for Wash in terms of fresh legs. The Wizards went 2-0 SU and ATS versus Denver last season and are 22-9-1 ATS in their last 32 versus the Western Conference. Pound Washington.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* (ESPNU) on Ole Miss -1
Bottom Line: Look for the Rebels to hand Oregon its first defeat of the season. Ole Miss is an impressive 13-6-2 ATS in its last 21 home games, 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600 and 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games versus Pacific-12 opponents. Since Andy Kennedy took over the Rebels, they are 13-5 ATS at home when the line is +3 to -3. They are also 23-12 ATS in home non-conference games, 26-12 ATS versus teams with a win percentage greater than .800 and 32-10 ATS versus teams scoring 77+ points/game under his watch.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Nets -140
Bottom Line: This is a terrible spot for Milwaukee which will be playing its 2nd game in as many nights and its 4th in 5 days. The Bucks went to OT last night so they will really be feeling the effects of fatigue. The Bucks are 4-13 ATS in their last 17 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. Brooklyn has been brutally embarrassed in its last two games, but I believe it responds here. The Bucks are 5-15 ATS as a home underdog over the last 2 seasons and 5-17 ATS in home games off a road win over the last 3 seasons. Pound Brooklyn.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB Game of the Week on St. Joseph's +5
Bottom Line: The Villanova Wildcats are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following a win of more than 20 points and 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 versus Atlantic 10 opponents. The Hawks are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 home games. Look for Nova to struggle in its first true road game of the season as it goes up against a St. Joe's squad that will be hungry to avenge last season's 4-point loss.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Jazz +11.5
Bottom Line: Huge letdown spot for the Blazers coming off big wins over Indy and OKC. Playing against Friday night double-digit home favorites that are off a home win has resulted in a 43-17 ATS record the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting this scenario have won by just 8.9 points on average so there's plenty of line value here. Pound Utah.

4* Major NBA Fool's Gold on Raptors +4.5
Bottom Line: The Suns are 13-5 ATS this season but have done the majority of their damage as an underdog. They are just 5-16 ATS as a home favorite over the last 2 seasons and 3-15 ATS as a home favorite of 6 points or less over the last 2 seasons. Toronto is 3-0 SU and ATS in the last 3 meetings with 2 of these in Phoenix.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Clippers +1.5
Bottom Line: The Clippers went down in Atlanta last night but are a lucrative 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games when playing without a day of rest. They will have no problem getting up for this one because they have lost 5 straight to the Grizzlies going back to last season's playoffs. You know that isn't sitting well with Chris Paul and company, and I expect them to bring the skid to an end tonight. The Grizzlies are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 home games, and the Clippers have won three of their last four regular-season games at Memphis.

5* Wiseguy Big Ten/ACC Challenge *BEST BET* on Nebraska -4.5
Bottom Line: Nebraska has been an awesome investment at home where it is 7-1-1 ATS in its last 9 home games. Additionally, playing against any team in the first 10 games of the season with 1 or no starters returning that has been held to 65 points or less in 4 straight games has resulted in a 53-23 ATS record since 1997. Teams fitting this scenario have lost by 11.1 points on average. Pound Nebraska.

5* Wiseguy NBA *UNDERDOG SHOCKER* Game of the Month on Bucks +4.5
Bottom Line: This is a huge letdown spot for Detroit following last night's win over the Heat. Meanwhile, this is a revenge spot for Milwaukee as it was embarrassed by 19 in Detroit 1 1/2 weeks ago. Playing any team that has lost 12 or more of its last 15 games ATS, provided that team has is playing 6 or more games in a 10-day span, has resulted in a 90-50 ATS record since 1996. Teams fitting this scenario have been underdogs of 3.5 points on average but have lost by just 0.2 points on average. Pound the Bucks.

4* Major NBA Super System Smoker on Cavs +4.5
Bottom Line: Playing underdogs that have lost 12 or more of their last 15 games ATS has resulted in a 54-23 ATS record since 1996 if they're taking on a team that has won 3 of their last 4 ATS. Teams fitting this scenario have lost by just 2.8 points on average. Value lies with Cleveland.

4* Major NBA *CRUNCH TIME BAILOUT* on Kings +7
Bottom Line: OKC gets caught looking ahead here as it has a big showdown in Portland tomorrow. The Kings have lost 4 in a row but played the Clippers to a 1-point game and a 6-point game and played the Warriors to a 2-point game during this stretch. The Kings are an impressive 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* Blowout on Mavs -8
Bottom Line: Mavs will be extremely motivated following back-to-back losses and 4 defeats in 5 games. They'll be ready to take their frustrations out on a Charlotte squad they are 9-0 lifetime against at home with a 12.9-point average margin of victory. Pound Dallas.

5* Wiseguy Big Ten/ACC Challenge *BEST BET* on Georgia Tech -125
Bottom Line: The Yellow Jackets lost by 13 points at Illinois in last year's Big Ten/ACC Challenge, and they will have their revenge tonight. Georgia Tech brings almost everyone back from last year's team while Illinois returns only two starters and lost its top two scorers. The Fighting Illini are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 road games and 7-15 ATS in their last 22 road games versus a team with a winning home record. Pound Tech.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* Blowout on Cal -6.5
Bottom Line: With or without Richard Solomon, I expect Cal to roll tonight at home where it is 37-6 in non-conference games under Mike Montgomery and 5-0 all-time versus Irvine. It's last 3 home wins in the series have come by an average of 18.7 points. If you want to beat Cal at home, you better be able to force some turnovers. That's something Irvine hasn't been able to do. The Golden Bears are 6-0 ATS in home games versus teams that force 12.0 turnovers or less per game under Montgomery, winning by an average of 21.6 points in these contests.

5* Wiseguy NCAAB *BEST BET* on DePaul -135
Bottom Line: I like DePaul against the spread but am taking it on the ML for insurance as I really like it to win this game. Playing against road underdogs or pickems after a combined score of 175 points or more with four starters returning from last year in the first 10 games of the season has resulted in a 70-39 ATS record since 1997. Teams fitting this scenario have lost by an average of 13.5 points. The Beavers are 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games following a win and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games after scoring more than 90 points in their previous game. The Blue Demons are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 versus Pac-12 foes.

5* Wiseguy NBA *BEST BET* on Wizards -157
Bottom Line: I still like the Wizards against the spread but am taking them on the ML for insurance as I love their chances of winning this game. Washington is 17-6 ATS in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. It is also 18-7 ATS when playing the second game of a back-to-back over the last 2 seasons. The home team is 5-1-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings. The Hawks are 0-3-2 ATS in the last 5 meetings and 0-3-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Washington.

5* Wiseguy NBA Blowout Game of the Week on Pistons -5
Bottom Line: Fading the Lakers in road contests when they are off an upset victory has resulted in an 11-1 ATS record the last 3 seasons. LA has lost these games by 11.9 points on average. Pound the Pistons.

5* Wiseguy NBA Underdog Game of the Week on Raptors +6.5
Bottom Line: Toronto has a huge edge in terms of fresh legs. Playing home underdogs with a losing record that are extremely well rested (playing 5 or less games in 14 days) has resulted in a 20-3 ATS record the last 3 seasons. Pound Toronto.

4* Major *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Thunder -131
Bottom Line: The Thunder are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600. The home team is 4-0-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings, and the Spurs 0-5 ATS in their last 5 meetings in Oklahoma City. San Antonio's winning streak comes to an end tonight.

4* Major on Timberwolves -6
Bottom Line: Minnesota has lost two straight but those came on the road to the Rockets and Pacers. Look for the Wolves to get back on track at home where they are 6-2 this season. The Timberwolves are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400 while the Nuggets are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games versus a team with a winning home record.