Winning Sports Picks

20* Grizzlies/Jazz TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Memphis +9

The Memphis Grizzlies will go into the playoffs with a ton of confidence after gutting out two narrow victories over the Spurs and Warriors with their season on the line in the play-in round.  They are as dangerous as any team in the field right now because of it.

Memphis has saved its best basketball for last.  The Grizzlies are 7-1 SU in their last eight games overall with their only loss coming to those same Warriors on the road in the regular season finale.  They are as healthy as they have been all season, and as a result they should not be 9-point underdogs to the Utah Jazz in Game 1 of this series.

This line is inflated due to the Jazz having the best record in the Western Conference and earning the No. 1 seed.  They were a great regular season team, but this is the playoffs now, and we saw them struggle last year.  It's also inflated because Donovan Mitchell is making his much-anticipated return.  But it's going to take a game or two for him to shake off the rust, and for the team to get used to playing with him again.

Plays on road underdogs (Memphis) - playing with triple revenge while also off an upset win as a road underdog are 48-21 (69.6%) ATS over the last five seasons.  The line is also inflated due to Utah winning all three meetings with Memphis this season, but two of those came by 4 points or less.  The Grizzlies are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games as underdogs.  The Jazz are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games.  Bet the Grizzlies Sunday.

15* NL PLAY OF THE DAY on Arizona Diamondbacks +132

The Arizona Diamondbacks will be highly motivated for a win Sunday to end their seven-game losing streak.  They also want to avoid the sweep after losing the first two games of this series to Colorado.

Now the Diamondbacks have the advantage on the mound in Game 3 and should get the job done.  Taylor Widener is 1-0 with a 2.82 ERA and 1.120 WHIP in four starts this season, including 1-0 with a 2.08 ERA and 1.039 WHIP in three road starts.

Jon Gray is 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA in nine starts for the Rockies.  He allowed 7 runs, 5 earned, in 5 2/3 innings in his last start at San Diego.  Gray is 5-7 with a 5.42 ERA and 1.577 WHIP in 15 career starts against Arizona.  He just faced the Diamondbacks on April 30th and allowed 5 runs, 4 earned, and 10 base runners in 6 innings of a 2-7 defeat.  Bet the Diamondbacks Sunday.

20* Wizards/76ers TNT Early ANNIHILATOR on Washington +8

The Washington Wizards are one of the most dangerous No. 8 seeds I've ever seen with how well they have been playing since getting both Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal healthy.  They should not be catching 8 points to the Philadelphia 76ers, who have yet to prove themselves in the playoffs.

The Wizards are 16-6 SU in their last 22 games overall with five losses by 4 points or less.  That means they are 21-1 ATS with a line of +4.5 or higher in their last 22 games.  The only exception was their loss to the Celtics in the play-in game in which they shot just 3-of-21 from 3-point range.  But they bounced back with a dominant 142-115 win over Indiana to get into the playoffs.

This line is inflated due to the 76ers having the best record in the Eastern Conference and earning the No. 1 seed.  It is also inflated due to the 76ers winning all three meetings with the Wizards this season, but two of those came by 6 points or less.

Washington is 8-1 ATS in road games when playing with triple revenge this season.  The WIzards are 11-2 ATS after a win by 10 points or more this season.  Philadelphia is 8-24 ATS in its last 32 games after two or more consecutive home wins.  The Wizards are 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 road games.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five games as a road underdog.  Take the Wizards Sunday.

15* AL PLAY OF THE DAY on Chicago White Sox +138

The Chicago White Sox have lost the first two games of this series to the New York Yankees.  They will be highly motivated to avoid the sweep with a victory in Game 3 today.  In fact, the White Sox haven't lost three straight games all season.

Now they finally have the advantage on the mound over the Yankees in Game 3.  Dallas Keuchel is 3-1 with a 4.26 ERA and 1.204 WHIP in nine starts this season, including 2-0 with a 3.54 ERA and 1.143 WHIP in five road starts.  Keuchel owns the Yankees, going 6-5 with a 2.18 ERA and 0.928 WHIP in 11 career starts against them.

Jameson Taillon is no match for Kuechel.  He is 1-3 with a 5.73 ERA in eight starts for the Yankees this season while averaging just 4.7 innings per start.  He has already allowed 9 homers in 37 2/3 innings.  Taillon is 0-1 with a 6.46 ERA in his last three starts as well.

Chicago is 15-4 after a loss this season.  The White Sox are 7-2 in their last nine during Game 3 of a series.  Roll with the White Sox Sunday.

20* Blazers/Nuggets ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on Portland +1

The Portland Trail Blazers played as well as anyone down the stretch once they got healthy and formed some chemistry.  The Blazers went 10-2 in their last 12 games overall.  I like them to win this series, and I'm taking them in Game 1 tonight.

I just don't trust the Nuggets considering they are going to be without Jamal Murray for the rest of the playoffs.  And they will also be without key role player Will Barton, who is battling a hamstring injury.  They are relying way too much in Nikola Jokic moving forward.

Portland is 10-2 ATS on the road when the line is +3 to -3 this season.  Denver is 5-13 ATS when revenging a road loss this season.  The Blazers are 6-0 ATS in their last six games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Portland is 7-1 ATS in its last eight road games.  The Blazers are 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.  Bet the Blazers Saturday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Celtics/Nets OVER 228.5

The Brooklyn Nets are finally healthy entering the playoffs for basically the first time this season.  Despite all their injuries this season, they still led the NBA in offensive efficiency, and they will be even better in the playoffs on that end now that they have everyone healthy.

The problem with the Nets is that while they can score at will, they just don't defense.  Brooklyn ranks 21st in defensive efficiency this season.  Boston ranks right in the middle of the pack in defensive efficiency and will certainly be worse off on that end without one of their best defenders in Jaylen Brown for the remainder of the season.

The OVER is 4-1 in Celtics last five games when playing on three or more days' rest.  The OVER is 7-2 in Nets last nine games as home favorites.  Brooklyn is 32-19 OVER as a favorite this season.  Take the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* MLB Saturday PLAY OF THE DAY on Cincinnati Reds -135

The Cincinnati Reds got their bats going yesterday in a 9-4 win over the Milwaukee Brewers.  They should stay hot at the plate today and should be bigger favorites due to their massive advantage on the mound.

Sonny Gray is one of the best starters in baseball.  He has posted a 2.76 ERA and 1.164 WHIP in three home starts this season.  Gray has posted a 2.16 ERA in his last three starts as well.  He owns the Brewers, going 3-2 with a 2.49 ERA and 1.204 WHIP in nine career starts against them.

Brett Anderson is washed up.  He is 2-3 with a 4.50 ERA and 1.500 WHIP in six starts this season while averaging just 4.0 innings per start.  Anderson is 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA and 2.429 WHIP in his last three starts.  Anderson has posted a 4.34 ERA and 1.366 WHIP in seven career starts against the Reds.

Gray is 19-4 against the money line with a total set of 8.5 to 10 over the last three seasons.  The Brewers are 1-6 in their last seven games overall.  Milwaukee is 2-8 in its last 10 road games.  The Reds are 5-1 in the last six meetings.  The Brewers have scored 4 or fewer runs in nine of their last 10 games overall.  Roll with the Reds Saturday.

20* Grizzlies/Warriors ESPN No-Brainer on UNDER 221.5

The UNDER makes sense in these winner-take-all games.  The pressure is high and the defensive intensity is even higher with their seasons on the line.  That pressure sometimes affects shooting as well on offense, and these games tend to be played a lot more in the half court than out in transition like the regular season.

The Warriors have been an underrated defensive team all season.  They rank 5th in the NBA in defensive efficiency.  The Grizzlies have been an underrated defensive team as well.  They rank 6th in the NBA in defensive efficiency.  The Warriors just lost to the Lakers 100-103 for 203 combined points, while the Grizzlies just beat the Spurs 100-96 for 196 combined points.

The UNDER is 6-0 in the last six meetings in this series with combined scores of 219 or fewer points five times.  All three meetings this season saw 219 or fewer combined points.  The Grizzlies and Warriors are averaging just 215.3 combined points in those six meetings, so we are getting some nice value on this UNDER, especially given the situation.

The UNDER is 6-1 in Grizzlies last seven games overall.  The UNDER is 19-7 in Warriors last 26 vs.  a team with a winning record.  The UNDER is 20-7 in the last 27 meetings.  The UNDER is 4-0 in the last four meetings in Golden State.  The UNDER is 8-0 in Warriors last eight games off a close road loss by 3 points or less.  The UNDER is 13-1 in Grizzlies last 14 road games when revenging a road loss by 10 points or more.  Bet the UNDER in this game Friday.

15* MLB Friday Undervalued Underdog on St. Louis Cardinals +108

The St. Louis Cardinals have been one of the most underrated teams in baseball this season.  They sit at 25-18 on the season after going 17-8 in their last 25 games overall.  They should not be home underdogs to the Chicago Cubs today.

Carlos Martinez has posted a 4.36 ERA and 1.161 WHIP in seven starts this season with just two homers allowed in 41 1/3 innings.  He'll be opposed by Kyle Hendricks, who is 3-4 with a 5.27 ERA and 1.547 WHIP in eight starts this season, already allowing 11 homers in 42 2/3 innings.

The Cubs are 5-12 in their last 17 road games, including 2-7 in their last nine road games vs. a right-handed starter.  The Cardinals are 5-0 in their last five home games.  St. Louis is 19-7 in its last 26 vs. NL Central opponents.  Roll with the Cardinals Friday.

20* MLB TOTAL OF THE WEEK on White Sox/Yankees OVER 8

The wind will be blowing out to left tonight with temps in the 70's at hitter-friendly Yankee Stadium.  That forecast will help us cash this OVER 8 ticket tonight.

The White Sox are 24-2 against left-handed starters over the last two season and scoring 7.6 runs per game.  They are scoring 8.6 runs per game in their 11 games against southpaws in 2021.  They will tee off on Jordan Montgomery, who has posted a 4.75 ERA in eight starts this season.

Carlos Rodon is nowhere near as good as the numbers he has posted thus far in 2021.  Rodon is 3-3 with a 5.34 ERA and 1.719 WHIP in six career starts against the Yankees and will come back down to reality tonight.

The OVER is 5-1 in White Sox last six games vs. a left-handed starter.  The OVER is 17-6-3 in White Sox last 26 road games vs. a left-handed starter.  The OVER is 5-1 in Yankees last six Friday games.  The OVER is 27-9-1 in Yankees last 37 vs. AL Central opponents.  Take the OVER in this game Friday.

20* Pacers/Wizards TNT No-Brainer on Washington -3

The Indiana Pacers are overvalued off their 144-117 blowout win over the inexperienced Charlotte Hornets.  The Pacers shot 55% as a team and 16-of-35 (46%) from 3-point range to pull away.  They overcame being without Turner, Warren, LeVert and Lamb, but they won't overcome it against the Wizards.

Washington is undervalued after a blowout 100-118 loss to the Boston Celtics.  The Wizards shot 43% as a team and a woeful 3-of-21 (14%) from 3-point range.  They aren't going to shoot that poorly again, especially since they are back home now where they are comfortable and will have an advantage.

Washington went 3-0 SU & 2-1 ATS against Indiana this season with wins by 11 and 8 at home and a 1-point win on the road.  That dominance should continue here as they pull off the season sweep of the Pacers.

Indiana is 1-9 ATS after allowing 110 points or more in four straight games this season.  The Pacers are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a win by more than 10 points.  The Wizards are 7-0-1 ATS in their last eight games following a SU loss.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five games following an ATS loss.  Bet the Wizards Thursday.

15* AL PLAY OF THE DAY on Yankees/Rangers OVER 8

This is a very low total for a Yankees game.  They have one of the best lineups in baseball even though it hasn't shown at times this season.  And they are more than capable of covering this OVER 8 on their own, but they should get plenty of help from the Rangers as well.

Domingo German has a 3.62 ERA in seven starts this season and has already allowed 7 homers in 37 1/3 innings.  German allowed 6 earned runs in 3 2/3 innings in his only previous start against the Rangers.

Dane Dunning is 2-3 with a 4.34 ERA and 1.419 WHIP in eight starts this season for the Rangers.  He is only averaging 4.7 innings per start, so the Yankees should get to their porous bullpen early in this one.

The OVER is 4-0 in Yankees last four games after scoring two runs or less in their previous game.  The OVER is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings in Texas.  The OVER is 4-1 in Rangers last five home games.  Roll with the OVER in this game Thursday.

15* NL PLAY OF THE DAY on Giants/Reds UNDER 9

The first three meetings in this series have seen 9, 6 and 4 combined runs.  It should be more of the same today as there is value on the UNDER 9, especially with this game being played early in the day and there's a good chance some key players rest in the lineup for both teams.

Tyler Mahle has been solid this season at 2-1 with a 2.72 ERA and 1.140 WHIP in eight starts for the Reds.  He allowed just one earned run in 5 innings of a 3-0 loss to the Giants on April 14th in his lone start against them this season.

Johnny Cueto is showing he still has plenty left to give.  He is 2-1 with a 3.62 ERA in five starts this season with just two homers allowed in 27 1/3 innings.  Cueto is 1-1 with a 3.51 ERA in four career starts against Cincinnati.  He was opposite Mahle on April 14th and pitched 5 2/3 shutout innings against the Reds in that 3-0 victory.

The UNDER is 7-2 in Giants last nine games overall.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Giants last seven games vs. a right-handed starter.  The UNDER is 4-1 in Reds last five home games.  Take the UNDER in this game Thursday.

20* Warriors/Lakers ESPN Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 219.5

The Los Angeles Lakers finished 1st in the NBA in defensive efficiency this season.  This despite being without both LeBron James and Anthony Davis for big stretches.  They were even better when both were playing, and they will be a force defensively in the playoffs.

Most look at the Warriors as just an offensive team with Stephen Curry.  But that has been far from the case.  In fact, they have had to cover up for their offensive woes outside of Curry by playing stellar defense.  Indeed, the Warriors rank 5th in the NBA in defensive efficiency this season.

Los Angeles is 16-4 UNDER In its last 20 games as a home favorite of 6 points or less.  The Lakers are 23-8 UNDER as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.  Golden State is 8-1 UNDER in its last nine road games when revenging a same-season loss.  The UNDER is 19-7 in Warriors last 26 road games.  The UNDER is 6-2 in the last eight meetings.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* MLB Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on St. Louis Cardinals -1.5 (+100)

The St. Louis Cardinals have a huge advantage on the mound tonight.  Jack Flaherty is one of the best starters in baseball.  He is 7-0 with a 2.47 ERA and 0.951 WHIP in eight starts this season, including 3-0 with a 0.95 ERA and 0.526 WHIP in three home starts.  He is also 7-1 with a 2.14 ERA and 0.937 WHIP in 10 career starts against the Pirates.

He'll be opposed by Trevor Cahill, who is 1-4 with a 5.97 ERA and 1.414 WHIP in seven starts this season, including 1-3 with a 7.58 ERA and 1.632 WHIP in four road starts.  Cahill has never beaten the Cardinals, going 0-3 with a 5.80 ERA and 1.598 WHIP in seven career starts against them.

Flaherty faced off against Cahill earlier this month on May 1st.  Flaherty allowed 3 runs in 6 innings of a 12-5 victory.  Cahill allowed 5 runs and 10 base runners in 5 1/3 innings to take the loss.

St. Louis is a perfect 8-0 at home this season with a total of 7 to 7.5.  They are winning by 3.5 runs per game on average int his spot.  Flaherty is 8-0 against the money line in all games this season with the Cardinals winning by 5.9 runs per game on average in his eight starts.  Take the Cardinals on the Run Line Wednesday.

15* MLB Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Cincinnati Reds +112

The Cincinnati Reds will be highly motivated for a victory tonight after losing the first two games of this series to the San Francisco Giants.  Now they go from being favorites in each of those first two games to underdogs in Game 3, and I like the value we are getting with them.

Kevin Gausman is being overvalued here due to posting great numbers in his eight starts this season.  But he is about to come back down to reality soon.  Gausman has never beaten the Reds, going 0-3 with an 11.09 ERA and 1.982 WHIP in four career starts against them.  Gausman allowed 5 earned runs in 6 innings against the Reds on April 13th in his lone start against them this season.  

He'll be opposed by Wade Miley, who is 2-1 with a 3.37 ERA and 1.00 WHIP in three home starts this season, and 4-3 with a 3.69 ERA and 1.051 WHIP in seven starts overall.  Miley is 4-4 with a 3.82 ERA in 12 career starts against San Francisco.  That includes 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA in his last two starts against them while allowing just two earned runs in 10 innings.

Cincinnati is 9-1 after scoring 2 runs or less this season and coming back to win by 3.3 runs per game on average.  Guasman is 30-57 (-27.1 units) in his career in road starts.  The Giants are 4-9 in their last 13 meetings in Cincinnati.  Roll with the Reds Wednesday.

20* Wizards/Celtics TNT No-Brainer on Washington +2.5

Few teams are playing better than the Washington Wizards entering the playoffs.  They have gone 15-5 SU in their last 20 games overall with all five losses by 4 points or less.  So they have been competitive in each of their last 20 games with a chance to win in the closing seconds.  The Wizards are also 19-5-1 ATS in their last 25 games overall.

Few teams are playing worse than the Boston Celtics entering the playoffs.  Boston is 4-9 SU & 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games overall.  They have been banged up down the stretch with the key loss being Jaylen Brown (24.7 PPG, 6.0 RPG), who is out for the season.  He is easily their second-best player behind Jayson Tatum.  Brown averaged 26 points and 10 rebounds against Washington this this season, so his loss is a huge one.

The Wizards are 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 road games.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five games following an ATS loss.  The Wizards are 5-0 ATS in their last five games as underdogs.  Boston is 0-8 ATS in its last eight game splaying on one days' rest.  The Celtics are 9-19-1 ATS in their last 29 games vs. a team with a losing record.  Bet the Wizards Tuesday.

15* NL PLAY OF THE DAY on St. Louis Cardinals -118

The St. Louis Cardinals return home following a tough six-game road trip at Milwaukee and San Diego.  They were swept by the Padres over the weekend, so they'll be highly motivated to get back in the win column Tuesday.  That shouldn't be a problem against the lowly Pittsburgh Pirates.

John Gant has been one of the most underrated starters in baseball this season.  He has posted a 1.84 ERA in seven starts while allowing just one homer in 34 1/3 innings.  Gant is 2-0 with a 0.84 ERA in his last two starts against the Pirates, yielding just one earned run in 10 2/3 innings.

J.T. Brubaker is getting too much respect from oddsmakers tonight after going 3-2 with a 2.58 ERA in seven starts this season.  One of those starts came opposite Gant on April 30th.  He allowed 3 earned runs in 5 innings of a 3-7 loss, while Gant allowed just one earned run in 5 innings.

Pittsburgh is 6-23 in its last 29 games when revenging two straight home losses vs. opponent.  St. Louis is 200-139 in its last 339 games following three or more consecutive losses.  The Pirates are 13-42 in their last 55 road games vs. a team with a winning record.  The Cardinals are 11-1 in their last 12 games as favorites.  St. Louis is 20-6 in the last 26 meetings.  Take the Cardinals Tuesday.

15* AL PLAY OF THE DAY on Tampa Bay Rays -143

The Tampa Bay Rays have won four straight games coming in while scoring a combined 31 runs in the four victories.  They should stay hot at the plate tonight against the Baltimore Orioles, who are 2-7 in their last nine games and have scored 4 runs or less in seven of those nine games.

Matt Harvey has been roughed up in his last two starts while allowing 11 runs in 8 1/3 innings in losses to the Red Sox and Mets.  He is finally coming back down to reality after a surprising start.

Luis Patino has posted a 1.35 ERA and 0.750 WHIP in his 6 2/3 innings pitched this season, which came against the Yankees and Blue Jays, two of the best lineups in baseball.  He should have his way with this light-hitting Orioles lineup, and the bullpen will do the same behind him.

The Rays are 10-3 in their last 13 road games.  Tampa Bay is 6-0 in its last six road games vs. a team with a losing record.  The Rays are 6-1 in the last seven meetings.  The Orioles are 17-42 in their last 59 home games vs. a right-handed starter.  Baltimore is 32-85 in its last 117 during Game 1 of a series.  Roll with the Rays Tuesday.

20* MLB Monday No-Doubt Rout on Chicago White Sox -103

The Chicago White Sox are 18-7 in their last 25 games overall and playing as well as anyone in baseball. Now they face the struggling Minnesota Twins, who are 2-9 in their last 11 games overall and playing as poorly as anyone.

Chicago is a sensational 23-2 vs. left-handed starters over the last two seasons. They are scoring 7.3 runs per game and winning by 4.0 runs per game. They are 8-2 against southpaws this season alone and scoring 7.9 runs per game.

The White Sox just faced lefty J.A. Happ on May 12th less than a week ago. They rocked him for 9 earned runs in 3 1/3 innings of a 13-8 victory. Happ fell to 1-2 with an 11.71 ERA in his last four starts against the White Sox, allowing 23 earned runs in 17 2/3 innings.

Dallas Keuchel is 5-2 with a 3.86 ERA in eight career starts against Minnesota. He has allowed 3 earned runs or fewer in six of those starts, and zero earned runs in three of them. Keuchel is 1-0 with a 3.43 ERA and 1.190 WHIP in four road starts this season. Bet the White Sox Monday.

15* MLB Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Nationals/Diamondbacks OVER 9

Both the Washington Nationals and Arizona Diamondbacks have gotten their bats going in this series. They combined for 19 runs in Game 1 Friday and 15 more runs in Game 2 Saturday. It should be more of the same Sunday.

Erick Fedde is 2-4 with a 5.29 ERA in seven starts this season for the Nationals. Luke Weaver is 2-3 with a 5.00 ERA in seven starts for the Diamondbacks. 

Fedde is 1-1 with a 4.91 ERA in two career starts against Arizona. Weaver is 0-2 with a 7.04 ERA in two career starts against Washington. Roll with the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA Sunday No-Doubt Rout on Phoenix Suns -9.5

The Phoenix Suns are still playing to try to earn the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. They can get the top spot with a win Sunday coupled with a loss by the Utah Jazz to the Sacramento Kings. The Suns play before the Jazz today so they will be max motivated not knowing the result of the other game.

Phoenix blasted San Antonio 140-103 yesterday. It should be more of the same in the rematch. The Spurs don't have anything to play for as they are locked into the 10th seed. They may once again opt to rest players, as they did with DeMar DeRozan, Rudy Gay, Dejounte Murray and Jakob Poetl on Saturday. Bet the Suns Sunday.

15* NBA Sunday Early ANNIHILATOR on Washington Wizards -6

This game between the Washington Wizards and Charlotte Hornets will decide who gets the 8th seed in the East. That's big because the 7th and 8th seed can lose their play-in game and still get another chance to win against the 9th or 10th seed winner.

The Wizards are in the more favorable spot here as they had Saturday off and will be rested and ready to go. They could also get Bradley Beal back in the lineup. Meanwhile, the Hornets will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after an overtime loss to the Knicks yesterday.

It will also be the 10th game in 16 days for the Hornets. Rozier played 45 minutes, Grham 40, McDaniels 39, Zeller 36 and Bridges 34 yesterday. They simply won't have much left in the tank for the Wizards, who are playing as well as almost anyone in the NBA here down the stretch.

Washington is 20-7-1 ATS in its last 28 games overall. The Hornets are 0-6 ATS in their last six road games. Charlotte is 16-40 ATS in its last 56 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Washington is 18-4 ATS in its last 22 games playing on one days' rest. The Wizards are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a win by more than 10 points. Take the Wizards Sunday.

15* MLB Saturday PLAY OF THE DAY on Washington Nationals -124

The Washington Nationals hammered the Arizona Diamondbacks 17-2 yesterday. They should stay hot at the plate today and feast on Seth Frankoff, who will be making his season debut for the Diamondbacks.

The Nationals clearly have the advantage on the mound behind Joe Ross, who is 2-0 with a 1.23 ERA and 1.045 WHIP in four road starts this season. Ross has never lost to the Diamondbacks, going 2-0 with a 1.17 ERA and 1.044 WHIP in three career starts against Arizona.

Ross is 15-2 against the money line as a favorite of -124 to -175 in his career. The Nationals are 20-7 in their last 27 meetings in Arizona. Roll with the Nationals Saturday.

15* Heat/Bucks NBA BAILOUT on Milwaukee +4.5

The Milwaukee Bucks still have something to play for as they trail the Brooklyn Nets by one game for 2nd place in the Eastern Conference. That is big because these teams are likely to play each other in the second round of the playoffs.

The Bucks have been playing with a sense of urgency to get that No. 2 seed. They are 6-1 SU in their last seven games overall. Now they are catching 4.5 points at home to the Miami Heat, which I'm absolutely shocked by.

It's time to 'sell high' on the Heat, who are 7-1 SU & 7-1 ATS in their last eight games overall including four straight wins and covers coming in. But now the Heat are getting too much respect from the books as road favorites here.

Milwaukee is 4-0 ATS in its last four home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Miami is 8-17 ATS in its last 25 games following a win by more than 10 points. Take the Bucks Saturday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Chicago Bulls +11.5

The Chicago Bulls have been playing some of their best basketball of the season here down the stretch since both Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic returned to the lineup. They have gone 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall with all four wins by double-digits.

The lone loss during this stretch came at home to the Brooklyn Nets as 4-point underdogs. Now the Bulls are 11.5-point dogs in their rematch with the Nets and will be the more motivated team for revenge. This is way too big of a line adjustment and there's clearly value with the Bulls.

Chicago is 22-13 ATS in all road games this season. The Bulls are 13-2 ATS in their last 15 road games after covering four of their last five ATS. Bet the Bulls Saturday.

15* MLB Friday PLAY OF THE DAY on Washington Nationals -1.5 (-117)

The Washington Nationals have a big advantage on the mound tonight over the Arizona Diamondbacks that should lead to them winning this game by two runs or more.

Ace Max Scherzer gets the ball for the Nationals and he is 2-2 with a 2.33 ERA and 0.777 WHIP in seven starts this season with 61 K's in 46 1/3 innings. Scherzer has never lost to the Diamondbacks, going 7-0 with a 2.55 ERA and 0.866 WHIP in 10 career starts against them.

Riley Smith is 1-2 with a 4.74 ERA and 1.421 WHIP in four starts this season for Arizona. He'll be trying to lead a Diamondbacks team that is 2-8 in their last 10 games overall and having a problem scoring runs. Arizona has scored 4 or fewer runs in eight of those 10 games and 3 or fewer in seven of them. Roll with the Nationals on the Run Line Friday.

15* NBA Friday Undervalued Underdog on Houston Rockets +12

The Houston Rockets have already clinched the worst record in the NBA. They have been playing freely here down the stretch and have given some contenders some good battles.

Indeed, the Rockets are 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall with an 8-point loss at Milwaukee as 17.5-point dogs, an 8-point loss at Utah as 16-point dogs, an 11-point loss at Portland as 14.5-point dogs and a 2-point loss at the Lakers as 9-point dogs.

Now they take on a Clippers team that is in a bad spot tonight. While the Rockets come in on one days' rest, the Clippers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd road game in 4 days. They had to travel from Charlotte to Houston overnight.

The Clippers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight games overall. Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last five road games. Houston is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings. Take the Rockets Friday.

20* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Memphis Grizzlies -5.5

The Memphis Grizzlies are still playing for seeding as they are tied with the Warriors for the 8th seed but lose the tiebreaker. There's a big difference between being the 8th or 9th seed in the West, so they will continue to try and get that 8th spot.

The Grizzlies have been playing with a sense of urgency for several games now and are 4-0 SU in their last four games overall. That includes their 116-110 win over the Kings last night. And now they play the Kings again tonight and should win by 6-plus points again to cover this 5.5-point spread.

While the Grizzlies are nearly fully healthy and can handle this back-to-back spot well, the Kings are short-handed right now which will make the spot tougher for them. They are without Fox and Haliburton, and they could be without Barnes, Holmes and Bagley III, who are all questionable.

Memphis is 21-10 ATS in its last 31 games overall. The Grizzlies are 12-5 ATS in their last 17 home games. Memphis is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 home meetings with Sacramento. Bet the Grizzlies Friday.

15* MLB Thursday PLAY OF THE DAY on Cincinnati Reds -134

This is a tough spot for the Colorado Rockies.  They just played a double-header against the San Diego Padres yesterday and will now be playing their 4th game in 3 days.  They have a tired bullpen and a tired team overall.

Chi Chi Gonzalez is likely to get rocked by the Reds at Coors Field.  Gonzalez is 0-1 with a 6.08 ERA and 1.563 WHIP in five starts this season, including 0-1 with a 9.22 ERA and 1.683 WHIP in his last three starts.

Luis Castillo is much better than he has shown to this point of the season and comes in undervalued because of his poor numbers thus far.  Remember, Castillo went 15-8 with a 3.40 ERA in 2019 and 4-6 with a 3.21 ERA in 2020.  Roll with the Reds Thursday.

25* NBA GAME OF THE YEAR on Minnesota Timberwolves +6

The Minnesota Timberwolves have quietly gone 7-4 SU & 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall.  Three of those four losses came by 4 points or less, so they are 10-1 ATS if the line were +4.5 or higher in their last 11 games.  Now they are catching 6 points against the short-handed Nuggets.

Minnesota is rolling offensively right now.  The Timberwolves have scored 112 or more points in seven straight games.  They have scored 126 or more points in five of those seven games.  The trio of Towns, Russell and Edwards is really gelling right now down the stretch.

Denver remains without Jamal Murray, Will Barton and PJ Dozier and could be without Monte Morris.  The Nuggets have won just one of their last six games by more than 6 points, so they are 1-5 ATS in their last six games with a line of -6.5 or higher.  The Nuggets are now just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games overall and have been grossly overvalued without Murray.

The Nuggets are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games.  The Timberwolves are 6-1 ATS in their last seven Thursday games.  Minnesota is 5-2 ATS in its last seven meetings with Denver.  Bet the Timberwolves Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Orlando Magic +12.5

This is a tough spot for the Atlanta Hawks tonight.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 3rd game in 4 days after two straight narrow wins in shootouts over the Washington Wizards.  This is clearly a letdown spot for the Hawks now, and they won't have much left in the tank for the Magic tonight.

Orlando shows some pride last time out and covered as 15.5-point underdogs at Milwaukee.  Now the Magic come in rested after having yesterday off and catching a whopping 12.5 points to the Hawks tonight.

The Magic also want revenge after losing each of their first two meetings with the Hawks this season, including a 96-112 road loss on April 20th about three weeks ago.  That was a rare blowout win for the Hawks in this series.  

Atlanta is 1-14 ATS in its last 15 meetings with Orlando if the line were -12.5 with just one win by double-digits.  The Hawks are 1-4 ATS in their last five games playing on zero rest.  Take the Magic Thursday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Blazers/Jazz OVER 234

The Blazers are an OVER bettors' dream right now.  They have scored 113 or more points in 10 of their last 11 games overall, including 124 or more eight of those games.  The Utah Jazz will be happy to oblige and play in a shootout with them.

The OVER is 4-0 in Jazz last four games overall with combined scores of 235, 240 and 247 points in their last three games.  They are still able to score without Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley Jr, though their defense has taken a hit as they have allowed 116 or more in three straight.

The OVER is 35-17 in Blazers last 52 road games.  The OVER is 4-0 in Jazz last four games as a favorite.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* Blazers/Jazz ESPN ANNIHILATOR on Portland +2.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are playing their best basketball of the season right now.  They are 8-1 SU in their last nine games overall with seven wins by double-digits against some pretty good competition.  Their only loss came on the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th road game in 7 days at Atlanta.

The Blazers have scored 113 or more points in 10 of their last 11 games overall as they are hitting on all cylinders offensively.  The Jazz will be able to keep pace, but they won't be able to get the win in the end without Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley Jr.  The Blazers are simply the better team right now with the guys they have healthy and on the floor compared to the Jazz.

The Blazers are 5-1 ATS in their last six road games.  Portland is 5-1 ATS in its last six games following an ATS loss.  The Blazers are 24-7 ATS in their last 31 Wednesday games.  Roll with the Blazers Wednesday.

15* AL Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Twins/White Sox OVER 8

The Chicago White Sox have scored exactly 9 runs in three straight games now and are more than capable of covering this OVER on their own.  They have owned left-handed pitching over the last couple seasons as they are 22-1 against left-handed starters and scoring 7.3 runs per game against them over the last two years.

That has carried over into this season as the White Sox are 7-1 against left-handed starters and scoring 8.1 runs per game against them.  Now they face lefty J.A. Happ, who has posted a 5.05 ERA in eight career starts against the White Sox.  Happ has allowed 14 earned runs in 14 1/3 innings in his last three starts against Chicago.

The Twins have been at their best offensively on the road this season where they are scoring 5.1 runs per game.  They should be able to get to Dallas Keuchel enough to help get this number OVER this 8-run total.

Minnesota is 7-0 OVER vs. a n AL starting pitcher that allows 5.5 or fewer hits per start this season. The OVER is 8-0-1 in Twins last eight games vs. AL Central opponents.  The OVER is 10-2-1 in Twins last 13 games overall.  Take the OVER in this game Wednesday. 

15* Interleague PLAY OF THE DAY on Blue Jays/Braves OVER 7.5

The Toronto Blue Jays are more than capable of covering this OVER on their own.  They have scored 4 or more runs in 10 of their last 11 games overall.  There's no doubt they will do their part to help cash this OVER ticket tonight.

The Blue Jays will absolutely tee off on Max Fried, who is 1-1 with an 8.44 ERA and 2.062 WHIP in four starts this season.  Fried has already allowed 15 earned runs and 33 base runners in 16 innings this season.

Hyun-Jin Ryu has struggled of late with a 5.27 ERA in his last three starts.  The Braves have one of the best lineups in the National League and have scored 17 runs in their last three games overall and have scored 5 or more runs in six of their last 10 games overall.

The OVER is 5-1 in Blue Jays last six games overall.  The OVER is 12-3 in Braves' 15 home games this season as a favorite of -110 or higher.  The OVER is 33-16-2 in Blue Jays last 51 interleague games vs. a left-handed starter.  The OVER is 5-1 in Braves last six home games vs. a left-handed starter.  The OVER is 20-7-1 in Braves last 28 home games.  Roll with the OVER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA DOG OF THE WEEK on Washington Wizards +6.5

I cashed in the Wizards +8.5 in their first meeting with the Hawks on Monday in a 124-125 loss.  I stated that this line would be closer to a pick 'em with Bradley Beal, and that the line was adjusted too much for his absence.  It's still adjusted too much today.

The Wizards come back as 6.5-point underdogs in the rematch.  They will be the more motivated team for revenge and with a lot to play for trying to clinch a playoff spot and move up in the play-in standings.  

Washington is now 15-6 SU in its last 21 games overall with amazingly 5 of those losses coming by 3 points or less.  So they are 20-1 ATS in their last 21 games with a line of +3.5 or higher.  Enough said.  Roll with the Wizards Wednesday.

20* MLB Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Kansas City Royals -134

The Kansas City Royals are highly motivated for a win tonight to end their nine-game losing streak.  That includes a walk off loss to the Tigers in Game 1 of this series, so they are out for revenge here in Game 2 as well.

The Royals have a huge advantage on the mound tonight with ace Danny Duffy getting the ball.  He has been one of the best starters in baseball this season, going 4-2 with a 1.26 ERA in six starts, including 3-0 with a 0.50 ERA in three road starts while allowing just one earned run in 18 innings.  Duffy pitched 5 shutout innings against the Tigers in a 4-0 victory in his lone start against them in 2021 on April 25th.

Casey Mize is 1-3 with a 4.41 ERA in six starts for the Tigers this season, including 0-1 with a 7.27 ERA in two home starts.  Mize faced the Royals on April 23rd and allowed 6 earned runs, 2 homers and 10 base runners in 4 2/3 innings of a 2-6 defeat.

Detroit is 2-18 vs. an AL team with batting average of .260 or worse this season.  The Royals are 6-1 in their last seven games as road favorites.  Kansas City is 5-1 in its last six meetings with the Tigers.  Bet the Royals Wednesday.

15* Knicks/Lakers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on UNDER 214.5

The New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers are both UNDER teams.  The Knicks rank 30th in pace this season at 98.4 possessions per game.  But they are 4th in defensive efficiency, so they play slow and stop their opponents, which is why they are so improved.  The Lakers are 1st in the NBA in defensive efficiency this season despite all their injuries.

The recent head-to-head history in this series definitely favors this UNDER 214.5 as well.  The Lakers and Knicks have combined for 207, 192 and 204 points in their last three meetings, respectively.  That's an average of 201 combined points per game.  So we are getting 13.5 points of value on the UNDER based on that average tonight.

The UNDER is 14-6 in Lakers last 20 games as a favorite.  The UNDER is 9-4 in Lakers last 13 home games.  The Lakers are 15-4 UNDER in their last 19 games as a home favorite of 6 points or less.  Los Angeles is 22-6 UNDER as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.  New York is 9-1 UNDER after a win by 6 points or less this season.  Roll with the UNDER in this game Tuesday.

20* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on Dallas Mavericks -2

The Dallas Mavericks would be the 5th seed in the West if they win out.  That would be huge because they would then likely take on the Denver Nuggets, who are without Jamaal Murray and the easiest target of the Top 4 contenders.

The Mavericks have been fighting hard here down the stretch for weeks.  They are 10-2 SU in their last 12 games overall with wins over the likes of the Heat, Nets, Warriors and Lakers (twice).  Now they are in the preferred spot here as they had yesterday off and are rested and ready to go.

Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after barely surviving in a 115-110 victory over the Pelicans last night, who were missing Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson and Steven Adams.  The Grizzlies will now be playing their 5th game in 7 days, their 8th game in 12 days and their 11th game in 17 days.  They haven't had two days off in a row since the All-Star Break.

The Mavericks are 3-0 SU in their last three meetings with the Grizzlies winning those three games by a combined 36 points.  Dallas is 8-1 ATS in road games off a road win this season.  The Mavericks are 26-12 ATS in their last 38 games as road favorites.  The Grizzlies are 0-4 ATS in their last four games following a SU win.  Bet the Mavericks Tuesday.

15* NBA Tuesday Undervalued Underdog on Chicago Bulls +5

Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic returned three games ago just in time for the Bulls to make one final playoff push.  They have put together their best three-game stretch of the entire season and are ready to take down the Brooklyn Nets tonight.  The Bulls are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their last three games overall with a 21-point win at Charlotte, a 22-point home win over Boston and a 12-point road win at Detroit.

Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets are struggling here down the stretch.  They are 1-4 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall with their lone win coming after erasing a double-digit deficit to beat the short-handed Nuggets.

The Bulls upset the Nets 115-107 at home in their lone meeting this season.  Brooklyn is 2-10 ATS when revenging a loss as a favorite this season.  The Bulls are 6-0 ATS in their last six Tuesday games.  Take the Bulls Tuesday.

15* NL PLAY OF THE DAY on St. Louis Cardinals +121

What more do the St. Louis Cardinals have to do to get some respect from oddsmakers?  They are 13-4 in their last 17 games overall and are underdogs to a Milwaukee Brewers team tonight that is 2-6 in their last eight games overall and not surviving very well without their best player in Christian Yelich.

Kwang-Hyun Kim has held his own this season at 1-0 with a 3.06 ERA in four starts, including 1-0 with a 1.84 ERA in his last three.  Kim is 1-0 with a 0.75 ERA in two career starts against the Brewers, allowing just one earned run in 12 innings.

Freddy Peralta has been decent at 3-1 with a 3.60 ERA in six starts, but he's 1-1 with a 5.14 ERA in his last three and getting too much respect from oddsmakers tonight.  Peralta has never beaten the Cardinals, going 0-1 with a 7.30 ERA and 1.784 WHIP in three career starts against them.

The Cardinals are 10-2 in all Kim starts over the last two seasons.  St. Louis is 6-0 in its last six vs. NL Central opponents.  Milwaukee is 9-20 in its last 29 games following an off day.  Take the Cardinals Tuesday.

15* AL PLAY OF THE DAY on Kansas City Royals -120

The Kansas City Royals are highly motivated for a win tonight to end their eight-game losing streak that has seen them fall to below .500 on the season at 16-17.  Now they take on the worst team in baseball in the Detroit Tigers and should get right back on track.

Brady Singer has been great this season with a 3.41 ERA and 1.172 WHIP in six starts for the Royals, including 1-1 with a 2.00 ERA and 0.889 WHIP in two road starts.  Singer has never lost to the Tigers, going 3-0 with a 1.44 ERA and 0.640 WHIP in four career starts against them.

Matt Boyd has put up solid numbers for the Tigers this season, but he is getting too much respect here because of it.  Boyd is 7-10 with a 5.71 ERA and 1.457 WHIP in 23 career starts against the Royals.

Kansas City is 16-4 as a favorite of -110 or higher over the last two seasons.  Detroit is 0-13 vs. teams that average 2.75 or fewer extra base hits this season.  The Tigers are 1-17 vs. an AL team with a OBV of .320 or worse this season.  The Royals are 6-0 in their last six games as road favorites.  Kansas City is 5-0 in the last five meetings.  Bet the Royals Tuesday.

20* NBA Monday No-Doubt Rout on Portland Trail Blazers -14.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are playing their best basketball of the season right now as they try and earn a Top 6 seed in the Western Conference so they avoid the play-in round.  They are one game ahead of the Lakers for that 6th spot and will be highly motivated to finish the season strong because of it.

The Blazers are 7-1 SU & 6-2 ATS in their last eight games overall with their only loss coming on the road in the 2nd of a back-to-back situation at Atlanta where they were also playing their 5th road game in 7 days.  Six of the seven wins came by double-digits, and the seven wins came by an average of 19.1 points per game.

Now they take on the Houston Rockets, who might be the worst team in the NBA right now if it's not the Oklahoma City Thunder.  The Rockets are 5-42 SU & 14-33 ATS in their last 47 games overall.  Now they will be playing their 3rd road game in 4 days and are playing short-handed without Wall, Gordon, Bradley, Wilson, Porter Jr. and Brown.  Christian Wood and Kelly Olynyk are both questionable tonight.

The Rockets are 15-41 ATS in their last 56 games playing on one days' rest.  The Blazers are 8-1 ATS in their last nine games vs. a team with a losing record.  Portland is 6-1 ATS in its last seven home meetings with Houston.  Bet the Blazers Monday.

15* NBA Monday Undervalued Underdog on Washington Wizards +8.5

The Washington Wizards are 15-4 SU in their last 19 games overall with three losses coming by 3 points or less.  So they are 18-1 ATS in their last 19 games if they were a +3.5 dog or higher.  And now they are catching 8.5 points against the Atlanta Hawks tonight.

There should be an adjustment for Bradley Beal being out, but it should not be this big.  If he was playing this line would be much closer to a pick 'em.  He's not worth this many points even thought he has been tremendous for them.  For one game at least, Russell Westbrook can rally the troops and keep the Wizards competitive tonight.

The Wizards are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games overall.  Washington is 6-1-1 ATS in its last eight road games.  The Wizards are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games as underdogs.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five games vs. a team with a winning record.  Take the Wizards Monday.

15* MLB Monday PLAY OF THE DAY on Cincinnati Reds -151

The Cincinnati Reds have a way better lineup than the Pittsburgh Pirates do this season.  The Reds are scoring 5.1 runs per game while the Pirates are scoring just 3.5 runs per game.  And the Reds have a huge advantage on the mound tonight as well.

Tyler Mahle is 1-1 with a 2.93 ERA and 1.109 WHIP in six starts this season with 41 K's in 30 2/3 innings.  Mahle has been at his best on the road with a 1.29 ERA and 1.071 WHIP in three starts away from home.  He is also 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA in his last two starts against the Pirates while pitching 11 shutout innings.

Mitch Keller is 2-3 with a 6.29 ERA and 1.685 WHIP in six starts for the Pirates this season, including 1-2 with a 10.13 ERA and 2.439 WHIP in three home starts.  Keller has never beaten the Reds, going 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA and 1.692 WHIP in three career starts against them.

The Reds are 6-0 in their last six Monday games.  The Pirates are 4-21 in their last 25 Monday games.  Cincinnati is 7-0 in its last seven meetings with Pittsburgh.  The Pirates are 2-8 in their last 10 games overall.  Roll with the Reds Monday.

20* NBA Non-Conference TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Timberwolves/Magic OVER 228.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been an OVER bettors' dream here down the stretch.  They are 4-0 OVER In their last four games overall with combined scores of 240, 276, 274 and 233 points.  

The Timberwolves have scored 112 or more points in 13 of their last 18 games overall, and they have allowed 111 or more points in 13 of their last 16 games overall.  What makes them such a great OVER team is that they rank 3rd in the NBA in pace this season and 28th in defensive efficiency.

The Magic have also been a great OVER bet here down the stretch.  Indeed, the Magic are 12-2 OVER in their last 14 games overall.  That includes combined scores of 231 against Detroit, 228 against Boston and 234 against Charlotte in their last three games overall.  

The Magic are playing at a lot faster tempo since trading away three of their best players, and their defense has taken a huge hit as they have allowed 110 or more points in 17 of their last 20 games overall.  They have fallen all the way to 24th in defensive efficiency.

Orlando is 11-1 OVER in its last 12 games vs. a bad team that wins 25% to 40% of their games in the second half of the season.  The OVER is 7-0 in Timberwolves last seven games following an ATS loss.  The OVER is 7-0 in Magic last seven home games.  Neither team has anything to play for right now so don't expect much defense to be played in this one.  The OVER is 5-1 in the last six meetings in Orlando.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

15* Phillies/Braves ESPN Sunday Night BAILOUT on Atlanta +105

The Atlanta Braves are 4-1 in their last five games overall.  They should not be home underdogs to the Philadelphia Phillies tonight.  I'll gladly take the value here as Aaron Nola is getting too much respect from oddsmakers.

Nola is 3-1 with a 2.89 ERA in seven starts this season, but 1-1 with a 5.00 ERA in three road starts.  He hasn't exactly fared well against the Braves recently, going 0-1 with a 5.79 ERA in his last two starts against them while allowing 6 earned runs, 3 homers and 15 base runners in 9 1/3 innings.

Huascar Ynoa is getting massively disrespected here for the Braves.  He is 3-1 with a 2.43 ERA and 0.900 WHIP in six starts this season while allowing just 9 earned runs in 33 1/3 innings with 38 K's this season.  Ynoa is also 2-0 with a 1.56 ERA in three home starts and 3-0 with a 0.98 ERA in his last three starts overall.

Philadelphia is 1-11 in its last 12 road games after winning two of its last three games coming in.  Atlanta is 14-2 in its last 16 games after batting .200 or worse over a 5-game span.  The Phillies are 16-35 in their last 51 road games.  Roll with the Braves Sunday.

15* AL PLAY OF THE DAY on Boston Red Sox -131

The Boston Red Sox are blistering the ball right now as they have scored 5 or more runs in five straight and seven of their last eight games overall.  They have scored a combined 29 runs in their last three games.

The Red Sox will stay hot at the plate today against Dean Kremer, who is 0-2 with a 6.43 ERA and 1.619 WHIP in five starts this season, including 0-1 with a 12.28 ERA and 2.046 WHIP in two home starts.  Kremer has faced the Red Sox once in his career.  That came last season when he allowed 7 earned runs in 2 2/3 innings for a 23.60 ERA.

Boston has a huge advantage on the mound today behind Nick Pivetta.  He is 4-0 with a 3.23 ERA in six starts this season for the Red Sox.  Pivetta has never lost to the Orioles, going 4-0 with a 3.28 ERA and 1.054 WHIP in four career starts against them.  Take the Red Sox Sunday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Thunder/Warriors UNDER 224

Familiarity favors defense and low-scoring games.  And I love taking the UNDER in the second games of these double-header situations.  The Thunder and Warriors just played on Thursday and will play again here Saturday, so they are very familiar with one another.

The Warriors won that first meeting 118-97 for just 215 combined points.  Now we have a 224-point total for the rematch, which is too high.  It was a low possession game and should be another low-possession game in the rematch.  Neither team attempted more than 88 shots in that first meeting.

The Warriors are missing a key scorer in Kelly Oubre Jr. and have had to rely more on defense here down the stretch of the regular season.  The Thunder have had a hard time scoring as they are missing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (23.7 PPG), Aleksej Pokusevski (7.5 PPG) and Mike Muscala (9.7 PPG).  They could also be without Luguentz Dort (14.0 PPG), who suffered a knee injury Thursday and is questionable.

Golden State is 12-1 UNDER in its last 13 games after covering three of its last four ATS.  The UNDER is 57-25-1 in Thunder last 83 games as road underdogs.  The UNDER is 14-4 in Thunder last 18 road games.  The UNDER is 20-6 in the last 26 meetings.  The UNDER is 14-2 in the last 16 meetings in Golden State.  Take the UNDER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Saturday No-Doubt Rout on Portland Trail Blazers -5

The Portland Trail Blazers are surging right now in going 6-1 SU & 5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall.  Their only loss came on the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 9th game in 14 days at Atlanta.  Their six wins have come by an average of 18.7 points per game as they are playing their best basketball of the season.

Both the Blazers and Spurs will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back tonight.  The difference is that the Blazers don't have to travel as they get to stay home after beating the Lakers last night.  Meanwhile, the Spurs have to travel after beating the Kings in Sacramento last night.

This is already a very tired Spurs team as almost nobody has played a tougher schedule rest-wise since the All-Star Break.  In fact, they haven't had two days off in a row since the All-Star Break in early March.  It's no wonder the Spurs are just 1-5 SU in their last six games and 10-18 SU in their last 28 games overall.  They'll be playing in their 8th different city in their last nine games as well so there has been a ton of travel involved.

The Blazers are 7-1 ATS in their last eight games vs. a team with a losing record.  Portland is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.  Bet the Blazers Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Wizards/Pacers OVER 247.5

Washington and Indiana two of the best OVER teams in the NBA here of late.  The OVER is 7-2 in Wizards last nine games overall.  The OVER is 11-4 in Pacers last 15 games overall.  The last four Washington games have seen 249 or more combined points.  Six of the last seven Indiana games have seen 243 or more combined points.

One of those games was a 154-141 win by the Wizards over the Pacers on May 3rd at the end of regulation for 295 combined points.  Now these teams meet again here less than a week later and we need the OVER 247.5, which gives us 47 points to work with based off that first meeting.

That game was played at a rapid pace as the Wizards got 103 shots up while the Pacers got 107 shots up, which is an insane volume.  It should be more of the same here  and you have to like the fact that they only combined to make 23 3-pointers in that first meeting.  Both teams were getting to the rim at will in that first meeting and both teams are playing small ball right now with zero rim protection.  Roll with the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Detroit Pistons +10.5

The Philadelphia 76ers are overvalued right now after winning seven straight games with five blowout wins among them.  It's time to 'sell high' on the 76ers in what will be a very tough spot for them tonight.

The 76ers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th game in 7 days.  It will also be the 11th game in 18 days.  They were in a dog fight with the Pelicans last night in a 109-107 victory, which forced their starters to play big minutes.  All five starters played more than 31 minutes last night and they could choose to rest some of them.

Detroit had yesterday off and will be the fresher team.  The Pistons have remained competitive here down the stretch only losing one of their last six games by more than 10 points.  They followed up a 3-point loss to the Hornets with an upset win over the Grizzlies by 14 points as 9-point dogs in their last two games coming in.

The Pistons are 1-1 SU & 2-0 ATS against the 76ers in two meetings this season.  They lost by 4 as 8.5-point home dogs and pulled the upset by 15 points as 5-point home dogs in their most recent meetings.  Philadelphia is 6-19 ATS in its last 25 games following four or more consecutive wins.  Detroit is 8-1-1 ATS in its last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.  Bet the Pistons Saturday.

20* MLB Saturday No-Doubt Rout on Tampa Bay Rays -131

The Tampa Bay Rays have a big advantage on the mound today over the Oakland A's and should be bigger favorites because of it.  Tyler Glasnow is one of the best starters in baseball and among the favorites to win the Cy Young.

It's easy to see why as Glasnow is 4-1 with a 2.06 ERA and 0.870 WHIP in seven starts with 64 K's in 43 2/3 innings.  He is also 2-0 with a 1.96 ERA and 0.913 WHIP in four road starts.  Glasnow faced the A's on April 28th and pitched 7 shutout innings with 10 strikeouts in a 2-0 victory.

Frankie Montas is 3-2 despite a 5.87 ERA and 1.467 WHIP in six starts this season.  Montas has been at his worst at home, going 2-1 with a 7.71 ERA and 1.607 WHIP in four home starts.  He faced the Rays on April 27th and allowed 3 earned runs in 6 innings of a 3-4 loss.

The Rays are 9-2 in their last 11 road games.  Tampa Bay is 70-34 in its last 104 games vs. a right-handed starter.  Take the Rays Saturday.

20* Lakers/Blazers ESPN No-Brainer on Portland -8

The Portland Trail Blazers are surging right now and living up to their potential at the end of the season.  They are 5-1 SU & 5-1 ATS in their last five games overall with all five wins coming by double-digits and by an average of 21.4 points per game.  It wasn't against soft competition either with all five wins coming on the road against the Pacers, Grizzlies, Nets, Celtics & Cavs.  Their only loss was in the 2nd of a back-to-back situation at Atlanta.

Now the Blazers take on the reeling Los Angeles Lakers who just can't catch a break in the health department.  The Lakers are 2-7 SU & 1-8 ATS in their last nine games overall.  They are back to being without LeBron James and Dennis Shroeder.

Anthony Davis had to leave last night's game with a back injury and is questionable to play tonight.  The Lakers will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 4th game in 6 days here.  They won't have much left in the tank for the Blazers, and they definitely don't have enough talented bodies to be able to stay with them with the way they are playing right now.

The Lakers are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games.  The Blazers are 4-0 ATS in their last four games as favorites.  Take the Blazers Friday.

15* AL PLAY OF THE DAY on Red Sox/Orioles OVER 8.5

I'll gladly take the OVER 8.5 tonight between the Red Sox and Orioles.  They will be playing in one of the most hitter-friendly parks in the majors in Camden Yards.  And it's not often you will get the opportunity to bet an OVER in an Orioles home game that is under 9 runs.

I think both starting pitchers are getting too much respect because they are off to decent starts this season.  Matt Harvey has a 4.06 ERA in his six starts while Eduardo Rodriquez has a 4.18 ERA in his five starts.  They have a combined 7-1 record on the season.  But they aren't nearly as good as that record suggests and they will come back down to reality tonight.

Both teams are hot at the plate right now.  Boston has scored 5 or more runs in five of its last six games overall.  Baltimore has scored 5 or more runs in four of its last five games overall.

The OVER is 4-0 in the last four meetings this season between the Red Sox and Orioles with combined scores of 10 or more runs in all four games and an average of 14.3 combined runs per game.  Take the OVER in this game Friday.

20* NBA TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Timberwolves/Heat OVER 225

The Minnesota Timberwolves are a great OVER team, especially of late.  They have scored 113 or more points in 12 of their last 17 games overall.  They have allowed 114 or more points in 11 of their last 15 games overall.  Minnesota ranks 4th in pace this season and 28th in defensive efficiency.

The Miami Heat have been a great OVER bet of late as well.  Indeed, the OVER is 7-0 in Heat last seven games overall.  They have combined with their opponents for 227 or more points in four straight games coming in and I think it's safe to say it will be five straight tonight as we cash this OVER 225 ticket.

Miami and Minnesota just met on April 16th with the Timberwolves pulling the 119-111 upset for 230 combined points.  The OVER is 5-0 in the last five meetings with each of the last three seeing 225 or more combined points.  They combined for 255 points at the end or regulation in their final meeting last season.  The OVER is also 8-1 in the last nine meetings with 225 or more combined points in six of those.

The OVER is 7-0 in Timberwolves last seven games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game.  The OVER is 6-0 in Timberwolves last six games following an ATS loss.  Combine those unbeaten trends with the 5-0 and 7-0 trends from before and we have a perfect 25-0 system backing the OVER tonight.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Milwaukee Bucks -16.5

The Milwaukee Bucks are surging right now in going 4-0 SU & 3-1 ATS in their last four games overall with wins over the Nets (twice), Wizards and Bulls.  They are now just 0.5 games behind the Nets for 2nd place in the East and it is big for them to get home-court advantage because they will likely meet up in the 2nd round.

That's why I'm not concerned about the Bucks taking the Rockets lightly tonight.  Plus, the Rockets don't have enough talented bodies on the floor right now to even be competitive against Milwaukee's B-squad.  The thing is the Bucks are fully healthy right now and not expected to sit anyone with what's at stake with the regular season coming to an end soon.

The Rockets are without Wall, Gordon, Bradley, Wilson, House, Brown and Porter Jr.  Plus Wood, Olynyk and Augustin are all questionable.  It's no wonder the Rockets are just 5-40 SU & 12-33 ATS in their last 45 games overall.  That includes three straight blowout losses to the Warriors by 26, the Knicks by 25 and the 76ers by 20.  It should be more of the same tonight against the Bucks.

Houston is 1-10 ATS following three straight losses by 10 points or more this season.  The Rockets are 14-41 ATS in their last 55 games playing on one days' rest.  Milwaukee is 4-1 ATS in its last five home games.  Another reason the Bucks won't take the Rockets lightly is because they just lost to them on April 29th just over a week ago, so they will be out for revenge as well.  Roll with the Bucks Friday.

15* NL PLAY OF THE DAY on Phillies/Braves OVER 7.5

This is a very low total for two of the best lineups in the National League.  Plus, the forecast is going to help us cash this OVER 7.5 ticket tonight.  There is expected to be 10 MPH winds blowing out to center with temperatures in the mid-60's in Atlanta tonight.

Charlie Morton has struggled for the Braves this season with a 5.08 ERA in six starts, including a 5.71 ERA in three home starts.  Zach Eflin has been good at home but awful on the road for the Phillies, posting a 6.39 ERA in his two road starts.  And I like the fact that both lineups have already seen these starting pitchers twice this season so they will know what to expect the 3rd time around.

Eflin is 19-6 OVER on the road with a total of 7 to 8.5 runs in his career.  Atlanta is 23-9 OVER in its last 32 games following two or more consecutive wins.  The OVER is 7-1 in Phillies last eight road games vs. a team with a losing record.  The OVER is 6-1 in the last seven meetings in Atlanta.  The OVER is 6-0 in Braves last six home games vs. a team with a winning record.  The OVER is 24-9-3 in Braves last 36 games as home favorites.  Bet the OVER in this game Friday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +14.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are getting healthy and playing for pride here down the stretch.  They have covered the spread in each of their last two games with a 3-point loss to the Suns as 15.5-point underdogs and a 4-point loss to the Kings as 5.5-point dogs.  And they should stay within 14.5 points of the Golden State Warriors tonight.

The Warriors are just a middle-of-the-pack NBA team and they shouldn't be laying 14.5 points to anyone.  They are without Wiseman and Paschall and could be without Oubre Jr., who is questionable tonight.  Steph Curry is scoring a ton of points and putting up huge numbers because he has to with this team that is lacking overall talent.  The Warriors just aren't that good, and Curry gets too many headlines giving them more respect than they deserve.

Oklahoma City is 34-17 ATS in its last 51 games as a road underdog.  Golden State is 1-4 ATS in its last five games as a favorite.  Take the Thunder Thursday.

20* NBA Thursday No-Doubt Rout on Chicago Bulls -2

It's a great time to 'buy low' on the Chicago Bulls.  They have battled through injuries and are 0-4 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall against a brutal schedule with losses to the Knicks, Bucks, Hawks and 76ers.

Now the Bulls get a break in the schedule here as they come in on two days' rest, so they will be fresh and ready to go.  They will get their best player back in Zach LaVine from quarantine tonight and are as healthy as they have been all season with Nikola Vucevic also probable.  They still have an outside shot to make the playoffs with a big finish and will fight for it.

The Bulls take a step down in competition here against the Charlotte Hornets, who are 5-9 SU & 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games overall.  The Hornets are banged up right now as they are missing Gordon Hayward, Miles Bridges, Devonte Graham and Cody Martin.  They won't fare well against the rested Bulls without those guys tonight.

The Bulls are 2-0 SU & 2-0 ATS against the Hornets this season with two blowout victories by 13 points on the road and by 17 points at home.  It should be more of the same tonight.  Chicago is 7-0 ATS after losing six or seven of its last eight games this season.  Bet the Bulls Thursday.

20* MLB Thursday No-Doubt Rout on Kansas City Royals -121

It's safe to say the Kansas City Royals will be highly motivated for a victory Thursday.  They have blown leads in three straight games to the Indians in this series and lost all three games.  They desperately want to avoid the sweep here in Game 4 Thursday against their hated division rivals.

Now the Royals get to send ace Danny Duffy to the mound to salvage this series.  Duffy is 4-1 with a 0.60 ERA and 0.967 WHIP in five starts this season while allowing just two earned runs in 30 innings with 34 K's.  Duffy has owned the Indians of late, going 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA in his last two starts against them while firing 11 2/3 shutout innings.

Triston McKenzie hasn't been able to back up his impressive rookie season last year where he came on strong late.  McKenzie is 0-1 with a 7.20 ERA and 1.733 WHIP in four starts this season while allowing 12 earned runs, 5 homers and 14 walks in 15 innings.

The Royals are 16-3 in their last 19 games as favorites of -110 or higher.  Cleveland is 11-29 in its last 40 games as an underdog.  Kansas City is 4-0 in its last four during Game 4 of a series.  Roll with the Royals Thursday.

15* MLB Thursday Early ANNIHILATOR on Milwaukee Brewers -117

It's safe to say the Milwaukee Brewers will be highly motivated for a victory Thursday.  They have lost the first three games of this series to the Philadelphia Phillies by exactly one run each and by a combined three runs.  They will be motivated to avoid the sweep and take Game 4 today.

Now the Brewers send ace Brandon Woodruff to the mound to stop the bleeding.  Woodruff is just the guy for the job as he is 2-0 with a 1.80 ERA and 0.800 WHIP in six starts this season while allowing only 7 earned runs and one homer in 35 innings with 40 K's.  Woodruff is 2-0 with a 0.47 ERA and 0.474 WHIP in three road starts.  He has never lost to the Phillies, going 2-0 with a 0.50 ERA and 0.556 WHIP in three career starts against them.

Woodruff is 24-7 as a favorite of -110 or higher over the last two seasons.  Philadelphia is 18-37 in its last 55 games after three straight wins by 2 runs or less.  The Brewers are 9-1 in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning record.  Bet the Brewers Thursday.

15* MLB Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on Toronto Blue Jays +113

The Toronto Blue Jays were on a 7-2 run before losing each of the first two games of this series to the Oakland A's.  It's safe to say they will come back highly motivated for a victory here in Game 3, and I like their chances due to their advantage on the mound tonight.

Robbie Ray is one of the more underrated starters in baseball.  He has gone 1-1 with a 2.78 ERA in four starts this season, including 0-0 with a 2.45 ERA in two road starts.  He'll be opposed by Chris Bassitt, who is 2-2 with a 3.93 ERA in six starts this season, including 0-2 with a 4.67 ERA in three home starts.  Bassitt has never beaten the Blue Jays, going 0-1 with a 5.25 ERA in two career starts against them.

Toronto is 14-4 in its last 18 games when playing with double-revenge, two straight losses against an opponent.  The Blue Jays are still 6-2 in the last eight meetings even after losing the first two games of this series.  They get back to their dominance of the A's tonight.  Take the Blue Jays Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Undervalued Underdog on San Antonio Spurs +6.5

I love the spot for the San Antonio Spurs tonight.  They are highly motivated for a victory as they sit in 10th place in the West and currently in the playoffs if the season were to end today.  They lead the Pelicans by 2 games for that final playoff spot.

Now the Spurs want revenge from a 99-110 loss at Utah on Monday in what was a terrible spot for them.  The Spurs were coming off three straight losses by 5 points or less, were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 8th game in 13 days.  They had nothing left to give and still made that game competitive.

Now the Spurs come back as 6.5-point dogs in the rematch and had yesterday off to finally rest.  They should be able to put their best foot forward tonight, and that will be good enough to hang with and possibly beat a Utah Jazz team that just isn't as good without both Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley.  The Jazz have been held to 112 or fewer points in seven of their last eight games overall.  That's a big reason they are just 4-8 ATS in their last 12 games.

San Antonio is 25-5 ATS in its last 30 games when revenging a road loss by 10 points or more.  The Spurs are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 road games.  San Antonio is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven games overall.  Utah is 1-5 ATS in its last six home games.  Take the Spurs Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Wizards/Bucks OVER 240.5

The Washington Wizards are an OVER bettors' dream.  They play at the fastest pace in the entire NBA averaging 106.3 possessions per game.  And they have been putting up huge point totals during their 13-3 SU run in their last 16 games.

Indeed, the Wizards have scored 116 or more points in 13 consecutive games now.  They are coming off a 154-141 victory over the Indiana Pacers in regulation.  And now they take on a Milwaukee Bucks team that also likes to get up and down.  The Bucks rank 3rd in pace this season at 104.1 possessions per game and 6th in offensive efficiency.

The OVER is 7-0 in the last seven meetings in this series including the 255 and 244 points the Wizards and Bucks combined for in their two meetings this season.  They have combined for 239 or more points in all seven of those meetings and 244 or more six times.  Enough said.  Bet the OVER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Eastern Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Washington Wizards +5

The Washington Wizards are surging right now as they try and make the playoffs.  They have gone 13-3 SU in their last 16 games overall with two of those losses coming by a combined 4 points.  Now they are catching 5 points from the Milwaukee Bucks tonight.

This is an awful spot for the Bucks, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back, their 5th game in 7 days, and their 8th game in 13 days.  And they are coming off two straight wins over the Brooklyn Nets, so this is a huge letdown spot for them as well.  Not to mention they won't have anything left in the tank for the Wizards, who play at a break-neck pace and will test those tired legs.

Washington is 10-1 ATS after a win by 10 points or more this season.  The Wizards are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games overall.  Washington is 5-0 ATS in its last five road games.  Bet the Wizards Wednesday.

15* NBA Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Philadelphia 76ers -13.5

The Philadelphia 76ers are determined to get the top seed in the Eastern Conference as they sit 1.5 games ahead of the Nets for 1st place.  They are playing like it as they have gone 5-0 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall with those five wins coming by an average of 22.2 points per game.

Now they should make easy work of the Houston Rockets, who are just 5-39 SU & 12-32 ATS in their last 44 games overall.  That includes two straight blowout home losses to the Warriors by 26 and the Knicks by 25 coming in.

The Rockets just can't even be competitive right now because they are missing so many key players like Gordon, Wall, House, Wilson and Brown.  Christian Wood will try to play through a knee injury, while DJ Augustin is questionable tonight.

Houston is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 home games after trailing in its previous game by 15 points or more at halftime.  Philadelphia is 8-2-1 ATS in its last 11 games as a road favorite.  The Rockets are 6-21 ATS in their last 27 games as home underdogs.  Philadelphia won't take Houston lightly tonight due to its current standing in the Eastern Conference.  Roll with the 76ers Wednesday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Portland Trail Blazers -11

The Portland Trail Blazers are starting to finally live up to their potential.  They have gone 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last four games overall with all four of those victories coming by double-digits and by an average of 17.8 points per game.  

The four wins came against Indiana, Memphis, Brooklyn and Boston so it's not like they are beating up against a soft schedule.  Their only loss came on the road at Atlanta in a very tough situation as they were playing the 2nd of a back-to-back and their 5th road game in 7 days.

But now the Blazers are rested having yesterday off.  The same cannot be said for the Cavaliers, who are in an awful spot tonight playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after an overtime loss to the Phoenix Suns last night.  They are already missing several key players and they could rest some more starters after all five starters played at least 33 minutes last night.

The Cavaliers are now 1-10 SU & 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games overall with those 10 losses coming by an average of 13.0 points per game.  The Cavaliers are 1-12 ATS after failing to cover the spread in four or more consecutive games this season.  Portland beat Cleveland 129-110 at home in their lone meeting earlier this season.  The Blazers are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.  Take the Blazers Wednesday.

15* MLB Wednesday No-Doubt Rout on Los Angeles Dodgers -159

The Los Angeles Dodgers were swept by the Cubs in their double-header yesterday.  It's safe to say they will come back highly motivated for a victory today to avoid the series sweep.  And we are getting them at a discount as -159 favorites given their huge advantage on the mound.

Walker Buehler is one of the best starters in baseball.  He is 1-0 with a 3.16 ERA and 0.958 WHIP in five starts this season.  Buehler has posted a 2.13 ERA and 0.631 WHIP in two career starts against Chicago.  He'll be opposed by Adbert Alzolay, who is 1-2 with a 4.71 ERA in four starts this season, including 0-1 with a 5.58 ERA in two home starts.

The Dodgers are 48-17 in their last 65 vs. a team with a losing record.  Los Angeles is 46-18 in its last 64 games as a road favorite.  The Dodgers are 57-26 in their last 83 games following a loss.  The Cubs are 1-7 in their last eight during Game 3 of a series.  Bet the Dodgers Wednesday.

20* MLB TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Astros/Yankees OVER 9

I cashed in the OVER 8.5 between the Yankees and Astros last night and I'm back on the OVER 9 today.  These are two of the most potent offenses in the American League playing in one of the most hitter-friendly parks in baseball in Yankee Stadium.  Oddsmakers haven't set the total high enough again today.

Jordan Montgomery is 1-1 with a 4.39 ERA in five starts this season and 0-1 with a 5.17 ERA in his last three starts, which have come against three suspect lineups in Baltimore, Cleveland and Tampa Bay.  Montgomery is 0-1 with a 5.11 ERA in three career starts against Houston and this is his stiffest challenge of 2021 to date tonight.

Luis Garcia has solid numbers at 0-2 with a 3.21 ERA in three starts.  But this will be his toughest test of the season, and he is 0-1 with a 4.00 ERA and 1.444 WHIP in his two road starts this season.  Don't expect him to last very long here as the Yankees get into the Astros' bullpen early.  Garcia is only averaging 4.7 innings per start this season.

The Astros and Yankees have combined for 9 or more runs in eight of their last 13 meetings.  The OVER is 8-2-1 in Astros last 11 road games vs. a left-handed starter.  Take the OVER in this game Wednesday.

15* Raptors/Clippers TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Toronto +9.5

The Toronto Raptors are fighting to stay alive in the Eastern Conference playoff race.  They have played three straight competitive road games against three of the best teams in the Western Conference in the Nuggets (10-point loss), Jazz (4-point loss) and Lakers (7-point outright win as 10.5-point dogs).

Now they face another of the top teams in the West in the Clippers and are catching too many points once again.  Asking the Clippers to win by double-digits to cover this spread with the way they are playing right now is asking too much.

The Clippers are 1-3 SU & 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall.  They lost outright to both the Pelicans and Nuggets as favorites, lost by 8 at Phoenix, and only beat Houston by 5 as 9-point favorites.  They seem to be just going through the motions right now just waiting for the playoffs to get here.

The Raptors are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  The Clippers are 0-4 ATS in their last four games as favorites.  Toronto is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 road games vs. good shooting teams that make 48% of their shots or better.  Take the Raptors Tuesday.

20* NBA Tuesday No-Doubt Rout on New Orleans Pelicans -2

The New Orleans Pelicans will be out for revenge after laying an egg last night against the Golden State Warriors.  They trailed by 20 points in the 1st quarter and never recovered, losing 108-123 as 2-point favorites.  Look for them to put forth a much better showing with their season on the line tonight.

The Warriors shot 53.4% as a team while the Pelicans shot just 43.3%.  The Pelicans also shot just 5-of-25 from 3-point range for 20%, while the Warriors shot 17-of-44 for 38.6%.  It's unlikely their will be that big of a disparity again from 3-point range.

The Warriors are 8-22-1 ATS in their last 31 games when playing on zero rest.  Golden State is 3-11 ATS after two or more consecutive wins this season.  The Pelicans are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall and should get back to playing how they were prior to this aberration of a game.  New Orleans is 5-1 ATS in its last six games following a loss by more than 10 points.  Bet the Pelicans Tuesday.

15* MLB Interleague PLAY OF THE DAY on White Sox/Reds OVER 9

The OVER is 12-3 in all Reds' home games this season.  They are hitting .290 and scoring 7.7 runs per game at home this season.  So we should see a slugfest tonight between the Reds and Chicago White Sox, who are scoring 5.5 runs per game on the road this season.

Both Jeff Hoffman and Dylan Cease aren't as good as the numbers they have posted thus far.  This total has been set too low because of those numbers with Cease having a 2.96 ERA and Hoffman a 3.33 ERA.  But both are averaging just 4.9 innings per start, so we should get into the bullpens early in this one.  The Reds' bullpen has a 5.84 ERA while the White Sox have a 4.52 ERA this season.

The OVER is 4-0 in White Sox last four Interleague games.  The OVER is 5-1-1 in Reds last seven Interleague games.  The OVER is 19-7-1 in Reds last 27 games overall.  Roll with the OVER in this game Tuesday.

20* MLB Tuesday Total DOMINATOR on Astros/Yankees OVER 8.5

This is a very low total for two of the best offenses in the American League in the New York Yankees and Houston Astros tonight.  They should have no problem topping 8.5 runs inside hitter-friendly Yankee Stadium tonight.

Zack Greinke is getting way too much respect from oddsmakers due to posting some solid numbers with a 3.44 ERA this season.  But he has faced some very weak competition with the Mariners twice, the Tigers, A's and the Angels twice.  This is his stiffest challenge of the season to date.

Domingo German has posted a decent 4.05 ERA as well against a bunch of weak lineups.  His four starts have come against the Orioles, Indians, Rays and Blue Jays.  He gave up 3 runs and 2 homers in 3 innings in his lone home start against the Blue Jays, which is the best lineup he has seen.

The OVER is 11-4 in Astros last 15 games with a total set of 7 to 8.5, including 7-2 in their last nine road games with a total set of 7 to 8.5.  The OVER is 17-8 in Yankees last 25 during Game 1 of a series.  Bet the OVER in this game Tuesday.

15* MLB Monday Undervalued Underdog on Toronto Blue Jays +112

The Toronto Blue Jays are really playing up to their potential right now in going 7-2 SU in their last nine games overall.  That includes a three-game sweep of the Braves over the weekend in which they scored a total of 26 runs in the three victories.

The Blue Jays are showing that they have one of the best lineups in baseball when healthy.  They should tee off on Oakland's Frankie Montas, who is 2-2 with a 6.20 ERA and 1.500 WHIP in five starts this season, including 1-1 with a 9.23 ERA and 1.736 WHIP in three home starts.

Now the Blue Jays give the ball to the underrated Steven Matz, who is 3-0 with a 2.60 ERA and 0.808 WHIP in three road starts this season.  He should shut down this weak Oakland lineups that is hitting just .217 this season.

Toronto is 13-2 vs. an AL starting pitcher with a 5.90 ERA or worse over the last three seasons.  The Blue Jays are 6-0 in their last six meetings with the A's.  Oakland is 1-6 in its last seven home games vs. a team with a winning record.  Take the Blue Jays Monday.

15* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Memphis Grizzlies -2.5

The Memphis Grizzlies will be highly motivated for a victory tonight after losing three of their last four games coming in.  This is a great time to 'buy low' on them as only 2.5-point home favorites over the New York Knicks tonight.

It's also a great time to 'sell high' on the Knicks, who have gone 14-1 ATS in their last 15 games overall and are finally starting to get too much respect from oddsmakers.  It's also a terrible spot for the Knicks playing the 2nd of a back-to-back following a road win at Houston on Sunday.  They had to travel all the way to Memphis overnight.

Meanwhile, the Grizzlies had yesterday off and come into this game as healthy as they have been all season.  They will also be motivated for revenge from a 129-133 road loss at New York less than a month ago on April 9th.  They blew a big 4th quarter lead in that game and eventually lost in OT.  They have not forgotten.

Plays against road teams where the line is +3 to -3 (New York) - after beating the spread by 30 or more points total in their last five games, against an opponent that went under the total by 24 or more points total in their last three games are 27-8 (77.1%) ATS over the last five seasons.  Memphis is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 home games.  The Knicks are 1-4 ATS in their last five trips to Memphis.  Take the Grizzlies Monday.

15* NBA Monday Total DOMINATOR on Blazers/Hawks OVER 235

The Portland Trail Blazers are starting to play up to their potential offensively in going 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  They have scored 128 or more points in four straight and five of their last six games overall with their last four games all resulting in blowout victories.

Now the Blazers face an Atlanta Hawks team that is finally getting healthy and ready to score right with them.  The Hawks recently got Trae Young back from injury, and they'll get back one of their best shooters in Bogdan Bogdanovic tonight.  They can match the Blazers score for score tonight.

Portland ranks 6th in offensive efficiency and is one of the best offensive teams in the NBA in their current state.  Atlanta ranks 9th in offensive efficiency.  Portland is just 29th in defensive efficiency while Atlanta ranks 21st.

Atlanta is 9-1 OVER at home when the line is +3 to -3 this season.  The OVER is 17-5 in Blazers last 22 Monday games.  Portland is 14-4 OVER in its last 18 road games after scoring 110 points or more in four straight games.  Roll with the OVER in this game Monday.

20* AL TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Indians/Royals UNDER 8.5

The forecast is going to help us cash this UNDER 8.5 ticket between the Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Indians tonight in AL Central play.  There will be 14 MPH winds blowing in from left field at the start of this game tonight.

Aaron Civale is off to a fantastic start this season for the Indians in going 4-0 with a 2.94 ERA and 0.921 WHIP in five starts this season against some pretty tough competition.  He will have his way with the Royals tonight.

I think this total is higher than it should be because bettors don't know about Kansas City rookie Daniel Lynch, who will be making his major league debut tonight.  But Lynch is the top prospect in the Royals' organization and has a bright future.  It starts tonight against the Indians.

The UNDER is 7-1-1 in Indians last nine Monday games.  The UNDER is 5-2 in the last seven meetings.  The UNDER is 6-1 in Royals last seven Monday games.  The UNDER is 20-7-1 in Royals last 28 games with a total set of 7 to 8.5.  The UNDER is 36-16-2 in Royals last 54 vs. AL Central opponents.  Bet the UNDER in this game Monday.

20* Warriors/Pelicans ESPN No-Brainer on New Orleans -2

The New Orleans Pelicans (29-35) are in must-win mode.  They are in 11th place in the West and the top 10 teams make the playoffs.  One of the teams they are trailing for that final spot is the Golden State Warriors (32-32).  Knowing they have a chance to gain some ground here assures that they will be max motivated.

The Pelicans have come up clutch here of late with the pressure on.  They have played their best basketball of the season in going 3-1 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall with their only loss coming by 2 at Denver as 3.5-point dogs.  They crushed the Clippers by 17 in their lone home game during this stretch, while also beating Oklahoma City by 14 and Minnesota by 4 on the road.

The Warriors are 2-2 SU & 1-3 ATS in their last four games overall with their two wins coming against non-playoff contenders in the Kings and Rockets.  They also lost by 12 at Minnesota and by 30 at home to Dallas.  Now they will be without Kelly Oubre Jr. tonight, plus Andrew Wiggins is questionable.

The Warriors are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games as road underdogs.  Golden State is 16-33-2 ATS in its last 51 games following a win by more than 10 points.  New Orleans is 24-9 ATS in its last 33 Monday games.  Bet the Pelicans Monday.

15* NBA Sunday Undervalued Underdog on Sacramento Kings +7

This is an awful spot for the Dallas Mavericks.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back following a hard fought 125-124 victory over the Washington Wizards last night.  It will also be the 5th game in 7 days for the Mavericks and the 8th game in 12 days.

Luka Doncic played 39 minutes last night and Dorian-Finney Smith played 40 minutes.  Both of those guys played through injury, as did Maxi Kleber.  Kristaps Porzingis sat out with a knee injury.  There's a good chance one or more of these players sit Sunday in this awful spot.

The Kings have remained competitive here down the stretch in going 4-3 SU in their last seven games and 6-2 ATS in their last eight games.  They have two upset wins over the Mavericks during this stretch already by 14 and 7 points.  And they just upset the Lakers as double-digit dogs.

The Kings are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games.  Sacramento is 5-1 ATS in its last six games as an underdog.  The Kings are 20-6-1 ATS in the last 27 meetings.  Sacramento is 6-1 ATS in its last seven trips to Dallas.  Roll with the Kings Sunday.

20* Blazers/Celtics NBA TV No-Brainer on Portland +2.5

The Portland Trail Blazers are finally healthy and playing up to their potential.  They are 3-0 SU & 3-0 ATS in their three games overall with three straight blowout road wins over the Pacers by 21, the Grizzlies by 21 and the Nets by 19.  And now they are underdogs to the Celtics today when they shouldn't be.

The Blazers want revenge from a 115-116 home loss to the Celtics on April 13th just three weeks ago.  They will get their revenge this time around against a Celtics team that is just 2-3 SU & 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.  Their only two victories during this stretch came against Charlotte and San Antonio at home.  They were upset as 8-point favorites by Charlotte and as 11-point favorites against Oklahoma City during this stretch.

The Blazers are 4-0 ATS in their last four games as underdogs.  Portland is 4-1 ATS in its last five road games.  Boston is 7-16-1 ATS in its last 24 games following a win.  The Celtics are 1-4 ATS in their last five games as favorites.  Boston will be without Kemba Walker today.  Bet the Blazers Sunday.

15* Nets/Bucks ABC ANNIHILATOR on Milwaukee -2

The Milwaukee Bucks will be highly motivated for a victory today when they host the Brooklyn Nets.  They have a chance to close the gap on the Nets today and move their way up in the Eastern Conference standings to try and get home-court advantage.

It's a great time to 'sell high' on the Nets, who are 4-1 SU & 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.  They are still without James Harden and are dealing with a handful of injuries.  The Bucks are playing well in going 4-2 SU in their last six games with all four wins coming by 7 points or more.  They won their last two home games in dominant fashion over the 76ers by a combined 45 points.

The Bucks want revenge from a 2-point road loss at Brooklyn in their lone meeting this season.  The Nets are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 Sunday games.  The Bucks are 27-11-1 ATS in the last 39 meetings.  Take the Bucks Sunday.

15* NL Sunday PLAY OF THE DAY on Cubs/Reds OVER 8.5

The forecast is going to help us cash this OVER 8.5 ticket between the Cubs and Reds today.  There is expected to be 11 MPH winds blowing out to left field at the Great American Ballpark, which is one of the most hitter-friendly parks in baseball.  Temperatures will be in the upper-70s as well.

The Cubs have scored 18 runs in their last three games to get their bats going.  The Reds are scoring 7.8 runs per game at home this season prior to Saturday's game.  The OVER is 11-3 in all Reds home games this season.  The OVER is 37-16-5 in the last 58 meetings in Cincinnati.  Take the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* AL Sunday Total DOMINATOR on Tigers/Yankees OVER 8.5

The forecast is going to aid us in cashing this OVER 8.5 ticket today between the Tigers and Yankees.  Temperatures will be in the 70s with 12 MPH winds blowing out to center today at Yankee Stadium.

These teams combined for exactly 10 runs in each of the first two games in this series and it should be more of the same today.  Corey Kluber is past his prime and has not been effective this season, and Jose Urena is getting too much respect for what he has done thus far.

The OVER is 36-14-4 in Yankees last 54 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  The OVER is 21-6 in Yankees last 27 vs. AL Central opponents.  The OVER is 4-1 in the last five meetings.  Bet the OVER in this game Sunday.

20* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Washington Wizards +6

The Washington Wizards are 12-2 SU in their last 14 games overall and playing as well as anyone in the NBA right now.  They are also 12-3 ATS in their last 15 games overall.  And now they are getting no respect here as 6-point underdogs to the Dallas Mavericks.

The oddsmakers are factoring in the back-to-back situation for the Wizards too much here.  But they blew out the Cavaliers 122-93 last night, which meant they could rest their starters for much of the 2nd half.  Bradly Beal played just 26 minutes last night and Russell Westbrook 31 while no other starter played more than 22 minutes.  The Wizards will still have plenty left in the tank tonight.

It's a good time to 'sell high' on the Mavericks after going 5-1 SU in their last six games overall against a very soft schedule.  Maxi Kleber, Kristaps Porzingis and Dorian Finney-Smith are all questionable for the Mavericks tonight while Luka Doncic will try and play through his elbow injury.  They shouldn't be favored by 6 here when they aren't close to full strength.

The Wizards are 9-0 ATS after winning three of their last four games this season.  Washington is 9-1 ATS after a win by 10 points or more this season.  Dallas is 5-15 ATS in its last 20 home games after a road win.  Washington is 25-10 ATS in its last 35 games playing on zero rest.  The Mavericks are 1-5 ATS in their last six games vs. a team with a losing record.  Bet the Wizards Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Timberwolves OVER 234.5

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been a juggernaut since they have gotten healthy.  They are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  They are clicking offensively with the trio of Towns, Edwards and Russell on the floor at the same time.  And they can score with anyone.

Minnesota is already a great OVER team because they rank 4th in the NBA in pace and 28th in defensive efficiency.  Now they take on a Pelicans team that ranks 12th in pace and 27th in defensive efficiency.  Both teams should score at will against two of the worst defenses in the NBA.

The OVER is 3-1 in the last four meetings and we've seen 227 or more combined points in all four meetings, including 240 and 273-point efforts.  These teams met in early March and Minnesota had 100 field goal attempts while New Orleans had 93 in a very fast-paced game.  It should be more of the same here in the rematch.

New Orleans is 7-0 OVER when playing its 3rd road game in 5 days this season.  Minnesota is 9-1 OVER after three or more consecutive ATS wins over the last two seasons.  The OVER is 39-19 in Pelicans last 58 games overall.  The OVER is 11-2 in Pelicans last 13 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.  The OVER is 14-6 in the last 20 meetings.  Take the OVER in this game Saturday.

15* NBA Saturday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +6.5

The Indiana Pacers cannot be trusted to go on the road and lay 6.5 points to anyone in their current state.  They are banged up and coming off two straight blowout losses to Portland by 21 and Brooklyn by 17.

The injury report is ugly for the Pacers right now with Sabonis, Brodgon, Lamb and Sumner all questionable while Turner, Warren and Sampson are all out.  The Thunder are a lot healthier now than they were during their recent 14-game losing streak that just ended with an upset win over the Boston Celtics as double-digit road dogs.

Indiana is 0-7 ATS after allowing 130 points or more this season.  Oklahoma City is 27-13 ATS revenging a same-season loss over the last two seasons.  They only lost 116-122 at Indiana on April 21st less than two weeks ago.  They will be out for revenge here at home this time around.  Roll with the Thunder Saturday.

15* MLB Saturday No-Doubt Rout on St. Louis Cardinals -131

The St. Louis Cardinals are rolling right now in going 6-2 in their last eight games overall.  The Pittsburgh Pirates are coming back down to reality after a surprising start to the season.  We are getting the better team with the better starter at a great value today at only -131.

The Cardinals will send ace Jack Flaherty to the mound tonight.  Flaherty is 4-0 with a 3.18 ERA and 0.953 WHIP in five starts this season.  He owns the Pirates, going 6-1 with a 1.89 ERA and 0.895 WHIP in nine career starts against them.

Trevor Cahill is 1-2 with a 7.11 ERA and 1.421 WHIP in four starts this season.  Cahill has never beaten the Cardinals, going 0-2 with a 5.34 ERA and 1.550 WHIP in six career starts against them.  That includes 0-1 with an 8.52 ERA in his last three starts against the Cardinals while allowing 12 earned runs in 12 2/3 innings.

The Cardinals are 5-0 in their last five games as favorites.  St. Louis is 32-13 in the last 45 meetings, including 16-5 in the last 21 meetings in Pittsburgh.  The Pirates are 25-61 in their last 86 games vs. a team with a winning record.  Take the Cardinals Saturday.

20* MLB TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Cubs/Reds OVER 8.5

The forecast is going to help us cash this OVER 8.5 ticket between the Cubs and Reds tonight.  There is expected to be 11 MPH winds blowing out to left field at the Great American Ballpark, which is one of the most hitter-friendly parks in baseball.  Temperatures will be in the 70s as well.

Zach Davies is 1-2 with a 9.47 ERA and 2.209 WHIP in five starts this season, including 0-1 with a 20.22 ERA and 3.371 WHIP in two road starts.  He is 0-1 with a 15.43 ERA in his last two starts against the Reds while allowing 12 earned runs and 4 homers in 7 innings.

Luis Castillo is 1-2 with a 6.29 ERA and 1.603 WHIP in five starts this season while already allowing 5 homers in 24 1/3 innings.  Castillo is 1-1 with a 5.09 ERA in his last three starts against the Cubs while allowing 10 runs and 4 homers in 17 2/3 innings.

The Cubs have scored 15 runs in their last two games to get their bats going.  The Reds are scoring 7.8 runs per game at home this season.  The OVER is 11-2 in all Reds home games this season.  The OVER is 37-15-5 in the last 57 meetings in Cincinnati.  Bet the OVER in this game Saturday.

20* NBA Friday No-Doubt Rout on Phoenix Suns -4

The Phoenix Suns are just one game behind the Utah Jazz for the top seed in the Western Conference.  So there will be no letdown here off their huge win over the Clippers on Thursday.  Look for the Suns to make easy work of the short-handed Jazz tonight.

The Jazz are getting too much respect off their blowout win at Sacramento last time out.  But remember they were upset as double-digit favorites by the Timberwolves in their two games prior.  And they are faltering of late in going just 6-10 ATS in their last 16 games overall.

The reason for this slide by the Jazz is simple.  They are overvalued due to having the best record in the West, and now they are playing without two of their best players in Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley.  They stand little chance of even being competitive with the Suns without those two.

Phoenix is a sensational 10-1 ATS as a home favorite of 6 points or less this season.  Utah is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.  The Jazz are 0-7 ATS in their last seven Friday games.  The Suns are 27-12 ATS in their last 39 home games.  Phoenix is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  The Jazz are 0-4 ATS in the last four meetings.  Take the Suns Friday.

15* MLB Friday Total DOMINATOR on Rockies/Diamondbacks OVER 8.5

The Diamondbacks and Rockies have combined for 9 or more runs in seven of their last 10 meetings and seven of those meetings have occurred in Arizona.  I came up short last night with my pick on the OVER 8.5 as they combined for 8 runs, but I'm back on the OVER 8.5 tonight.

Jon Gray was awful in his lone road start this season with a 6.75 ERA and 1.750 WHIP.  Gray is 5-6 with a 5.38 ERA and 1.570 WHIP in 14 career starts against Arizona.  He'll be opposed by Madison Bumgarner, who is 2-2 with a 6.31 ERA in five starts this season, including 0-1 with an 11.56 ERA in his lone home start.

The OVER is 5-1 in Rockies last six games overall.  The OVER is 8-3 in Diamondbacks last 10 home games. The OVER is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Arizona.  The OVER is 6-2 in Diamondbacks last eight games overall.  Roll with the OVER in this game Friday.

25* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Portland Trail Blazers PK

It's a great time to 'buy low' on the Portland Trail Blazers right now.  They recently went 1-7 over an eight-game stretch where they lost a ton of close games.  But they have since finally lived up to their potential after getting healthy in their last two games, blowing out Indiana by 21 and Memphis by 21 on the road.

Now is a great time to 'sell high' on the Brooklyn Nets, who are 4-0 SU & 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.  But the Nets have all kinds of injury problems right now.  They will be without James Harden, Kevin Durant is doubtful, and Kyrie Irving is questionable.  Bruce Brown is also questionable for the Nets.

Look for the Nets to likely play this cautiously with their stars because they will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back here, and they have a huge double-header coming up on deck against the Milwaukee Bucks that they want to be fully healthy for.  Durant played 36 minutes against the Pacers last night and will almost certainly sit with Harden.

Plays on road teams where the line is +3 to -3 (Portland) - after a blowout win by 20 points or more against an opponent that has scored 105 points or more in four straight games are 29-5 (85.3%) ATS since 1996.  The Nets are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games playing on zero rest.  Bet the Blazers Friday.

20* Rockies/Diamondbacks NL Late-Night BAILOUT on OVER 8.5

The OVER is 5-0 in Rockies' last five games overall with combined scores of 10 runs or more in all five games.  And only two of those games were at Coors Field.  Look for more of the same here in a high-scoring game against the Arizona Diamondbacks with total of 8.5 that has been set too low.

Antonio Senzatela is 1-3 with a 5.76 ERA and 1.440 WHIP in five starts this season for the Rockies.  Senzatela is 3-5 with a 5.68 ERA and 1.500 WHIP in 10 career starts against Arizona as well.

Luke Weaver is 1-2 with a 4.57 ERA in four starts this season for the Diamondbacks while allowing 5 homers in 21 2/3 innings.  Weaver is 1-2 with a 7.01 ERA and 1.441 WHIP in six career starts against Colorado with the OVER going 5-1 in those six starts.

The Diamondbacks and Rockies have combined for 9 or more runs in seven of their last nine meetings and six of those meetings have occurred in Arizona.  The OVER is 8-2 in Diamondbacks last 10 home games.  Roll with the OVER in this game Thursday.

15* NBA Thursday Undervalued Underdog on Oklahoma City Thunder +9.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are getting healthier here for the stretch run.  They can put their 14-game losing streak behind them and look to play for pride here with this young team that has a lot to prove.  They are coming off an upset win as 11-point dogs at Boston last time out.  Now the Thunder are rested after having yesterday off.  

The same cannot be said for the Pelicans, who will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a tough 112-114 loss in the altitude in Denver last night.  It will also be the 3rd game in 4 days for the Pelicans and 17th game in 29 days in April as they haven't had two days off in a row since the end of March.  

It's no wonder the Pelicans are just 2-6 SU In their last eight games overall.  They are also just 10-19 SU on the road this season.  Asking them to go on the road in this difficult rest spot and win by double-digits to cover this 9.5-point spread is asking too much tonight.

Oklahoma City is 22-9 ATS in its last 31 games after playing two consecutive road games.  The Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last six games as favorites.  New Orleans is 1-5 ATS in its last six meetings with Oklahoma City.  Take the Thunder Thursday.

20* NBA Non-Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on Toronto Raptors +3

This is a very tough spot for the Denver Nuggets.  They will be playing the 2nd of a back-to-back after a narrow 114-112 win over the New Orleans Pelicans last night.  It will also be the 5th game in 7 days for the Nuggets.

Compounding matters is that the Nuggets are without three of their best players in Jamal Murray, Monte Morris and Will Barton.  Playing a close game last night meant their starters had to play big minutes with Porter Jr playing over 39 minutes, Jokic over 36 and Campazzo over 36.  Being short-handed makes this spot even more difficult, and the Nuggets won't have much left in the tank tonight.

They face a rested, healthy Raptors team that had yesterday off and is highly motivated to make the playoffs.  The Raptors sit two games out of the playoffs with 10 games left, so they need wins like blood here down the stretch.  This is one they should get given the tough spot for the Nuggets.

Toronto is playing some of its best basketball of the season right now in going 5-2 SU & 5-2 ATS in its last seven games overall.  The Raptors are 2-0 SU & 2-0 ATS in the last two meetings, including their 135-111 home win over the Nuggets in their first meeting this season.  Denver is 4-12 ATS when revenging a loss this season.  Toronto is 11-1 ATS in its last 12 road games vs. good shooting teams that make 48% or better.  Bet the Raptors Thursday.

15* NBA Wednesday Total DOMINATOR on Pelicans/Nuggets UNDER 229.5

Familiarity favors defense and UNDERS.  This will be the 3rd meeting between the Pelicans and Nuggets in the last month or so.  And the first two stayed well UNDER this 229.5-point total.  In fact, this has been a low-scoring series in general.

The UNDER is 4-0 in the last four meetings and 6-1 in the last seven meetings.  The Pelicans and Nuggets have combined for 229 or fewer points in each of the last five meetings.  They have combined for 221 or fewer points in each of the last four with an average of 218.3 combined points per game, which is roughly 11 points less than tonight's posted total of 229.5.

Now the Nuggets are without their top two point guards in Jamal Murray and Monte Morris and they are also without another key scorer and ball-handler in Will Barton.  The Nuggets are built for lower scoring games now without those guys as they have to slow it down and play through Nikola Jokic on offense.  And they have been a much better defensive team since trading for Aaron Gordon.

The Nuggets and their opponents have combined for 229 or fewer points in seven of their last nine games overall.  The Pelicans and their opponents have combined for 227 or fewer points at the end of regulation in eight of their last 10 games overall.

The UNDER is 6-0 in Nuggets last six games vs. a team with a losing record.  The UNDER is 7-2 in Pelicans last nine games as underdogs.  The UNDER Is 4-0 in Pelicans last four games vs. a team with a winning record.  The UNDER is 4-0 in the last four meetings in Denver.  Bet the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

20* NBA Western Conference TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Blazers/Grizzlies UNDER 240.5

Familiarity favors defense and low-scoring games.  Well, the Grizzlies and Blazers will be playing for the 3rd time in 6 days tonight.  After a shootout win by Memphis in their first meeting on April 23rd, the Grizzlies came back and won 120-113 for 233 combined points in the rematch on April 25th. 

The total was 232.5 in the first meeting and 235.5 in the second meeting.  Now oddsmakers have set this number way higher at 240.5 for the third meeting tonight, which is way too high and the move is not justified.  We'll gladly take the value on the UNDER given the great spot for a defensive battle with the familiarity.

The UNDER is 33-12 in Grizzlies last 45 home games.  The UNDER is 14-3 in Grizzlies last 17 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.  The UNDER is 7-3 in Blazers last 10 games overall.  The UNDER is 5-2 in the last seven meetings in Memphis.  Take the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* NBA Non-Conference KNOCKOUT on Spurs/Heat UNDER 213

Familiarity favors defense and UNDERS.  And the Spurs and Heat just met on April 21st one week ago today with the Heat winning 107-87 for just 194 combined points.  Now the oddsmakers have come back with a 213-point total for the rematch and it's simply too high tonight.

Miami and its opponents have combined for 212 or fewer points in four of its last five games overall.  The Heat are built for low-scoring games.  They rank 28th in pace at 98.7 possessions per game and 5th in defensive efficiency, giving up just 107.6 points per 100 possessions.  They also rank 24th in offensive efficiency.

The UNDER is 6-1 in Spurs' last seven games overall.  They have combined with their opponents for 213 or fewer points in five of those even games with the only exceptions being against the Pelicans and Wizards, which are two teams built for OVERS due to playing at fast paces and playing no defense.

Plays on the UNDER on road teams where the total is 210 to 219.5 (San Antonio) - revenging a blowout loss by 20 points or more, a tired team playing 6 or more games in 10 days are 51-19 (72.9%) since 1996.  San Antonio is 11-3 UNDER when revenging a same-season loss this season.

The UNDER is 4-1 in the last five meetings with combined scores of 215 or fewer points in all five meetings and an average of just 201.4 combined points per game.  That's roughly 12 points less than tonight's posted total of 213.  Roll with the UNDER in this game Wednesday.

15* MLB Wednesday PLAY OF THE DAY on St. Louis Cardinals -103

The Philadelphia Phillies are really struggling offensively this season and it's hard to trust them because of it.  They are hitting .236 and scoring 3.8 runs per game overall, including .208 and 3.0 runs per game on the road.  The Cardinals are scoring 4.5 runs per game and have one of the better lineups in the National League.

The Cardinals had 11 hits yesterday compared to just 3 hits for the Phillies in a 5-2 victory.  They should get after gas can Vincent Velasquaez, who gave up 2 runs and 2 homers in 4 innings to the Rockies in his first start this season.  Velasquez is 1-2 with a 5.56 ERA in four career starts against the Cardinals.  He has allowed 9 earned runs and 5 homers in 10 1/3 innings in his last two starts against St. Louis.

The Phillies are 16-35 in their last 51 road games.  Philadelphia is 8-25 in its last 33 road games vs. a right-handed starter.  St. Louis is 13-6 in its last 19 home meetings with Philadelphia.  Take the Cardinals Wednesday.