Winning Sports Picks

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Astros -120

Bottom Line: This is a great price to back Houston, as the A's will be sending out the struggling Jesse Chavez, who owns a 10.03 ERA and 2.399 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Adding to the value with the Astros is a strong system. Home teams that are scoring 4.2 or less runs/game against a team with bullpen ERA of 3.75 or less, with a cold starting pitcher that has a WHIP of 2.000 or more over his last 3 starts are a mere 11-38 (22%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Astros -120!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Nationals -160

Bottom Line: It's been an up and down season for Nationals' starter Jordan Zimmermann, but he's been a consistent force at home, posting a 2.53 ERA and 1.085 WHIP over 12 starts, in which Washington has gone 9-3. Colorado's coming off a win last time out against the Mariners, but haven't won back to back games since the All-Star break. Pound the Nationals -160!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Red Sox +138

Bottom Line: Boston is showing big time value here as a hefty road dog against rival New York. Red Sox starter Eduardo Rodriguez has a 2.93 ERA and 1.193 WHIP in 5 road starts, while Yankees' C.C. Sabathia has a 6.80 ERA and 1.512 WHIP in 8 home starts. Road underdogs with a money line of +125 to +175 that are a very bad AL offensive team (4.2 or less runs/game) against a team with a very good bullpen (ERA 3.33 or less), after a combined score of 3 runs or less are 46-26 (64%) against the money line since 1997! Pound the Red Sox +138!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Giants -178

Bottom Line: This is a complete mismatch on the mound with Madison Bumgarner going for the Giants and Williams Perez taking the rubber for the Braves. To top it off, we have a huge system in play backing a fade of Atlanta. Home teamswith a starting pitcher whose ERA is 3.70 to 4.20 on the season (NL), after a game where the bullpen was rocked for 6 or more earned runs are 29-71 (29%) against the money line since 1997. Pound the Giants -178!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Twins +155

Bottom Line: Minnesota should not be this big of a dog. Twins starter, Phil Hughes, has a 2.84 ERA and 1.263 WHIP over his last 3 starts. He's every bit as good as Toronto's Marco Estrada. Adding to this is a great system in play. Road underdogs with a money line of +150 or more who are a very bad AL offensive team (4.2 or less runs/game) against a team with a good bullpen (ERA 3.75 or less), playing on Tuesday are 32-19 (72%) against the money line since 1997. Pound the Twins +155!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on White Sox -120

Bottom Line: I believe this is a prime spot for the White Sox to bounce back after dropping 2 or 3 at home against the Yankees. Chicago is still an impressive 9-3 in their last 12 overall and will be sending out the red-hot Jose Quintana, who has a 2.61 ERA and 1.210 WHIP in his last 3 starts. We also see that home favorites with a money line of -110 or higher with a terrible OBP (.310 or less) against a very good starting pitcher (WHIP1.300 or less) -AL, in August games are 46-11 (81%) against the money line since 1997. Pound the White Sox -120!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Giants -109

Bottom Line: Road teams with a money line of -100 to -150 (SAN FRANCISCO) - starting a pitcher who walked 1 or less hitters each of his last 2 outings against opponent with a cold starting pitcher- WHIP  2.000 or more over his last 3 starts are 36-9 (80%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Giants!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Dodgers -210

Bottom Line: There's one pitcher I'm willing to lay -200 with and that's the Dodgers Clayton Kershaw. To top it off we have a huge system backing a fade of the Angels. Underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher, who are an AL team with a terrible SLG% (.400 or worse) against a very good NL starting pitcher (WHIP1.250 or less), with a slugging percentage of .330 or worse over their last 3 games are 20-74 (21%) against the money line since 1997. Pound the Dodgers -210!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Indians -123

Bottom Line: Cleveland comes in having won 2 straight, while the A's have dropped 2 straight and 6 of 7 overall. The Indians should be able to make it 3 in a row, as they send out Danny Salazar against Kendall Graveman. Salazar has a 2.11 ERA and 0.937 WHIP in his last 3 starts, while Graveman has a 10.22 ERA and 2.271 WHIP in his last 3. AL home teams that are scoring 4.2 or less runs/game against a team with a good bullpen (ERA 3.75 or less), with a cold starting pitcher- WHIP 2.000 or worse over his last 3 starts are 11-37 (23%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Indians -123!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on White Sox -173

Bottom Line: Chicago is playing some of their best baseball this season, as the White Sox enter Thursday's matchup on a 7-game winning streak. I look for the good times to continue, as Chicago owns a big advantage on the mound with their ace Chris Sale up against the Red Sox Steven Wright. Adding to this is a great system. Teams with a team slugging percentage .410 or worse on the season (AL), after scoring 7 runs or more 3 straight games are 39-8 (83%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the White Sox -173!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Yankees -140

Bottom Line: Favorites with a money line of -110 or higher with a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.20 or better on the season (AL) against opponent with a starting pitcher whose winning percentage is better than 70% are 59-17 (78%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Yankees -140!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Marlins -113

Bottom Line: Miami's Jose Fernandez has taken the mound 11 times as a home favorite of -100 to -150 and all 11 times the Marlins have came away with a victory, winning by an average score of 5.7 to 0.9 (+4.8 runs/game). Miami is also a dominant 10-1 in Fernandez's last 11 home starts when working on 5 or 6 days of rest. Pound the Marlins -113!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Diamondbacks +117

Bottom Line: Seattle's Mike Montgomery has completely fallen off the map since his impressive start. Montgomery has a 9.22 ERA and 2.121 WHIP over his last 3 starts. I don't see thing turning around for him in this one and Arizona's Robbie Ray comes in with a 1.35 ERA and 0.810 WHIP over 5 road starts. Arizona is 9-3 in their last 12 road games after allowing 2 runs or less and the Mariners are 3-9 in their last 12 home games after winning 4 or 5 of their last 6. Pound the Diamondbacks +117!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Astros -

Bottom Line: Road teams with a money line of -100 to -150 (HOUSTON) - with a team on base percentage .320 or worse on the season (AL) against opponent with a cold starting pitcher- ERA 7.00 or worse over his last 3 starts are 67-22 (75%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Astros -112!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Rays -111

Bottom Line: Tampa Bay took the series opener on Friday and should have no problem securing a series win with a victory on Saturday. The Rays will have a big time edge on the mound with Erasmo Ramirez going up against the Orioles Miguel Gonzalez. Ramirez has a 2.39 ERA in 7 home starts and is working on a 1.62 ERA over his last 3. Gonzalez has a 5.22 ERA in 8 road starts and a 5.06 ERA in his last 3. Pound the Rays -111!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Rangers +133

Bottom Line: Texas is rolling offensively as they have scored an impressive 26 runs on 37 hits in their last 3 games. That offense has the Rangers falling into a very profitable system, as AL teams who are slugging .410 or worse on the season after scoring 7 or more runs in 3 straight games are 38-8 (83%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Rangers +133!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Angels -

Bottom Line: LA's Garrett Richards is a dominant 6-1 with a 1.89 ERA and 0.965 WHIP over 8 home starts, which makes this an easy play on the Angels. Adding even more value is the fact that favorites with a money line of -150 or more who are hitting .260 or worse against a good starting pitcher (ERA 4.20 or less) -AL, in July games are 64-14 (82%) against the money line since 1997! Pound the Angels -171!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Angels -156

Bottom Line: Not only does LA have a big time advantage on the mound with C.J. Wilson (2.61 ERA L3) taking the rubber against the struggling Mike Pelfery (9.88 ERA L3 & 6.02 ERA in 9 road starts), but we have a strong system in play backing the Angels. AL teams slugging .410 or worse on the season, after scoring 7 runs or more in 3 straight games are 37-8 (82%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Angels -156!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Mariners -

Bottom Line: I'll gladly take Seattle in this spot as we have a big time system in play backing the Mariners. Road favorites with a money line of -110 or higher (SEATTLE) - starting a pitcher who walked = 2.000 over his last 3 starts are 42-8 (84%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons, including a perfect 3-0 record this season. Pound the Mariners -119!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Cubs +100

Bottom Line: The Cubs went on the road and took the final two of a 3-game series at Atlanta in their return from the All-Star break, while the Reds dropped 2 of 3 at home to the Indians. The Reds know their team is about to get blown up via trades and I just don't think the motivation is there. Chicago starter Clayton Richard was sharp in his first outing of 2015, giving up just 2 runs in 6 1/3 innings. Red starter Michael Lorenzen has pitched well at times, but has struggled to go deep in games and allowed 6 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks in 4 1/3 innings of a 3-6 loss at Chicago back on 6/11. Pound the Cubs +100!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Padres -143

Bottom Line: San Diego's Tyson Ross has bounced back nicely from a slow start and went into the break with a 1.84 ERA over his last 3 starts. It was the exact opposite for Colorado's Chad Bettis, who posted an awful 10.29 ERA and 2.214 WHIP over his last 3 starts. Underdogs with a money line of +125 to +175 that are allowing 4.8 or more runs/game on the season (NL) are 8-53 (13%) against the money line in July games over the last 5 years. Pound the Padres -143!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Cardinals -124

Bottom Line: St Louis is simply showing too much value here as a small home favorite to pass up on backing the Cardinals in the first game back from the break. St Louis has gone a dominant 31-11 at home this season, while the Mets are a mere 15-28 on the road. Cardinals' Lance Lynn is 4-1 with a 1.90 ERA and 1.135 WHIP over 8 home starts and the Mets' Noah Syndergaard is 0-3 with a 6.04 ERA and 1.540 WHIP over 5 road starts. Pound the Cardinals -124!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Indians -114

Bottom Line: Cleveland has won 4 of 5 and 9 of 13 overall. I expect them to be highly motivated to go into the break with a win, as they try and stay within striking distance in the AL Central. There's a solid system in play backing the Indians. All favorites with a money line of -110 or higher  with a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.20 or better on the season (AL) against opponent with a starting pitcher whose winning percentage is better than 70% are 59-16 (79%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Indians -114!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Cubs -114

Bottom Line: Cubs are going to be motivated here after dropping the opener of the series yesterday and there's a great system in play backing Chicago for a victory. Bad NL offensive teams (4.1 or less runs/game) against a very good AL starter (3.50 ERA or less) are 38-15 (72%) against the money line after scoring and allowing 3 runs or less in their last game. Pound the Cubs -114!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Pirates -129

Bottom Line: Pittsburgh may have lost the opener yesterday against the Cardinals, but are still a dominant 8-2 in their last 10 games. I look for them to have no problem bouncing back an evening the series at home with their ace Gerrit  Cole on the mound. Cole has gone 6-2 with a 3.00 ERA and 1.118 WHIP over 8 home starts and 7-1 in his last 9 starts overall. Pound the Pirates -129!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Pirates +102

Bottom Line: Pittsburgh shouldn't be a home dog here against the Cardinals. The Pirates know this is a golden opportunity to close the gap between them and St Louis in the NL Central and they come in playing their best baseball of the season. Pittsburgh has won 5 straight and 8 of 9 overall. Cardinals are in a tough spot having just finished up a 4-game series against the Cubs and starter Carlos Martinez has given up 11 runs on 15 hits in his 2 career starts vs Pittsburgh. Roll the Pirates +102!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Angels -125

Bottom Line: Los Angeles owns a 10-2 record at Coors Field and during this stretch are averaging 8 runs. They scored 10 runs in yesterdays 8-run win to open the series and have now scored 10+ in three straight. Teams with a team slugging percentage .410 or worse on the season (AL), after scoring 7 runs or more 3 straight games are 34-8 (81%) over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Angels -125!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Mets +123

Bottom Line: This is a solid spot to fade the Giants at home. Not only is San Francisco in a major funk right now having lost 7 straight, but they are at a disadvantage here with Matt Cain on the mound. Cain made his first start from Tommy John surgery and struggled as expected, giving up 5 runs in 5 innings against a weak Miami offense that is playing without Stanton. While New York's Bartolo Colon hasn't been nearly as effective as they had hoped, he was dominant in his last start against the Cubs, allowing just 3 hits over 7 shutout innings. Pound the Mets +123!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on White Sox -125

Bottom Line: This is too good a price to pass up on the White Sox at home with their ace Chris Sale on the mound. Sale has overcome a rough start to 2015 and now has a 2.87 ERA and 0.958 WHIP over 15 starts. He's got a 2.32 ERA in 7 home starts and a 2.38 ERA and 0.794 WHIP over his last 3 starts. Toronto's Mark Buehrle has been dominant at home, but has just a 4.25 ERA over 8 road starts. Blue Jays won 10-5 yesterday at Detroit, but are a mere 3-11 in their last 14 after scoring 10+ runs. Pound the White Sox -125!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Diamondbacks -143

Bottom Line: These two teams are headed in different directions, making this an easy play on Arizona. The Diamondbacks have won 3 straight and 5 of 7 overall, while the Rockies have lost 4 straight and 7 of 8 overall. Colorado is 0-9 after playing 6 straight games on the road and 1-14 in their last 15 after scoring 3 runs or less in 2 straight games. Pound the Diamondbacks -143!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Mets +170

Bottom Line: The value is simply too good to pass up on the Mets today. New York will be sending out their ace Matt Harvey, who is every bit as good as the Dodgers Zach Greinke. Harvey has a 2.98 ERA in 7 road starts and a red-hot 0.92 ERA and 0.915 WHIP over his last 3 outings. New York is 12-2 in their last 14 after scoring 2 runs or less in 3 straight games. Pound the Mets +170!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Rays +111

Bottom Line: There's not a better pitcher in baseball at taking the mound at a opposing park and dominating the opposition than Tampa Bay's Chris Archer. The Rays have won 14 of Archer's last 15 road starts and he comes in with a sensational 1.76 ERA and 0.935 WHIP over 7 road starts. To top it off, Tampa bay is a perfect 7-0 when Archer takes the rubber against the Yankees. Pound the Rays +113!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Royals -144

Bottom Line: The Royals are primed for a big time performance at home after just getting swept on the road by the Astros. Kansas City has lost 4 straight only once all season. A visit from the Twins should do the trick. The Royals are 6-3 against their division rivals this season and have outscored them 25-12 in the last 6 (5-1 record). All teams with a money line of -100 to -150 (KANSAS CITY) - where team's hitters strike out 6 or less times/game on the season, after 5 straight games where they stranded 7 or less runners on base are 33-7 (83%) against the ML over the last 5 years. Pound the Royals -144!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Cardinals -142

Bottom Line: St Louis owns a ridiculous 29-8 record at home and are going to be motivated here after yesterday's 1-2 loss at home to Sale and the White Sox. The pitching matchup certainly favors the Cardinals in this one, as they send out John Lackey against Jose Quintana. Lackey has a 1.91 ERA in 8 home starts (7-1 team record) and Quintana has a 4.37 ERA in 8 road starts (2-6 team record). Pound the Cardinals -142!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on UNDER 8

Bottom Line: New York is only scoring 3.9 runs and hitting .236 as a team on the road, while the Angels come in having scored just 3 runs with a .232 average over their last 7. I really like the value we are getting here with this total set at 8 runs. Yankees' Ivan Nova was sensational in his first start of 2015, allowing just 3 hits over 6 2/3 scoreless innings. Angels' Andrew Heaney was also dominant in his first start of the season, limiting the Astros to just 1 run on 4 hits in 6 innings. Look for both offenses to struggle to get going in this one. Pound the UNDER 8!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on UNDER 9

Bottom Line: I believe we are seeing an inflated total here due to the poor overall numbers of today's two starters. Baltimore's Wandy Rodriguez has a 4.06 ERA overall and a 6.75 ERA in his last 3, but a closer look shows that he's got a strong 2.28 ERA and 1.085 WHIP over 7 road starts, 6 of which have finished UNDER the total. Baltimore's Bud Norris has a 6.70 ERA in 10 starts, but has a strong 3.11 ERA in his last 3. UNDER is 15-6 in Orioles last 21 after 2 or more consecutive wins and 11-2 in Norris' last 13 starts following 3 or more wins. UNDER is also 20-8 in the Rangers last 28 road games after scoring and allowing 3 runs or less and 8-1 in Rodriguez's last 9 starts as an underdog. Pound the UNDER 9!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Yankees +

Bottom Line: New York's Michael Pineda was roughed up in his last outing, but he only threw 76 pitches and should be primed for a bounce back start. He only threw 80 pitches in a bad start against the Orioles and fired by in his next outing allowing just 1 run on 1 hit in 6 2/3 innings. Houston's Collin McHugh is coming off a great start, but he's got a 5.77 ERA and 1.427 WHIP over 6 home starts and the Astros have gone just 1-4 in McHugh's last 5 starts after a quality start in his last appearance. Pound the Yankees +102!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Angels -139

Bottom Line: Seattle's J.A. Happ, who hasn't won since May 9. Happ is slowing making his way back to reality after a strong start and has a 4.24 ERA over his last 8 starts. On the flip side of this, Los Angeles' Garrett Richards has been dominant when he takes the mound at home. Richards is 4-1 with a 2.23 ERA in six starts at home and opponents are hitting just .188 against him. Adding value here is the fact that Richards has owned the Mariners. He's 3-1 with a 1.66 ERA and 0.877 WHIP over 6 career starts against Seattle. Pound the Angels -139!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Padres -142

Bottom Line: San Diego's Tyson Ross tossed a complete game in his last outing, by far his best start of the season. Ross is due for an extended stretch of ace-like stuff and I'm more than happy to back the Padres at home in this spot. The key here is that Ross doesn't have to be at his best to get the win. Arizona will be sending out lefty Robbie Ray, which is great news for the San Diego offense, as they throwing up 5.2 runs/game against southpaw starters this season. Pound the Padres -142!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Padres +

Bottom Line: San Diego's James Shields is 7-1 with a 3.75 ERA over 15 starts and I really like the value here we are getting against the Giants with Heston on the mound. Heston is being slightly overvalued after his no hitter. In his 2 starts after throwing the no-no, he hasn't made it past the 6th inning and has allowed 6 runs on 14 hits. Padres will be extra motivated after getting shutout yesterday. Shields is 20-9 against the money line in his last 29 road starts and 11-2 in his last 13 after a loss. Pound the Padres +110!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Cardinals -114

Bottom Line: Easy choice here on the Cardinals as a small road favorite against the Marlins. St Louis has the clear advantage on the mound with Jaime Garcia going up against Mat Latos. We also find the Cardinals in a great system.Teams with a money line is +125 to -125  after 6 or more consecutive road games, playing on Wednesday are 102-59 (63%)over the last 5 seasons. Pound the Cardinals -114!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* ON TWINS +104

Bottom Line: Minnesota should not be an underdog at home against the White Sox in this one. The Twins got their offense rolling in a 13-2 win yesterday in the series opener and all-signs point to another easy win. The Twins are 24-14 at home while the White Sox are 12-24 on the road. Minnesota's 6-0 in Mike Pelfrey's 6 home starts (1.41 ERA), while Chicago is 2-6 in Jeff Samardzija's 8 road starts (5.71 ERA). Pound the Twins +104!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Mariners -151

Bottom Line: Not a bad price at all to back the Mariners at home with their ace Felix Hernandez on the mound. Hernandez has a 2.59 ERA and 0.916 WHIP over 8 home starts. He was dominant at home in his last start against the Giants, allowing just 4 hits over 8 shutout innings. I'll take my chances with Hernandez against Blanton, who is making just his second start since July of 2013. Blanton pitched well in his first outing, but that came against the Brewers' pathetic offense. Pound the Mariners -151!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Mets -126

Bottom Line: I'll gladly back the Mets at this price with their ace and one of the elite starters in the game in Matt Harvey on the mound. Harvey bounced back from an ugly start at home against the Giants with 7 shutout innings, where he allowed just 4 hits and didn't issue a walk. I look for Harvey to build on that outing and guide the Mets to a win here over their division rivals. Atlanta's Julio Teheran is not in prime form right now. He just gave up 6 runs on 13 hits at Boston and has a 5.66 ERA over his last 3 overall. Pound the Mets -126!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Yankees -118

Bottom Line: New York has won 10 of 11 at home and are once again showing great value. New York's Nathan Eovaldi allowed 8 runs on 9 hits in his last start at Miami (failed to get out of the 1st inning), but is 3-0 with a 3.89 ERA at home. Detroit's Alfredo Simon has pitched well so far in 2015, but is 1-3 with a 4.45 ERA over 5 career starts against the Yankees. Tigers are 1-10 in last 11 road games revenging 2 straight losses where team scored 2 or less runs. Pound the Yankees -118!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Royals

Bottom Line: I'll gladly take my chances here on the Royals as a small home favorite with the way they come into this one swinging the bat. KC is averaging 7.0 runs/game over their last 4 games, which has saw them pound out an impressive 55 hits. Red Sox starter Eduardo Rodriguez just gave up 9 runs on 8 hits in 4 2/3 innings over his last start. Look for the Royals offense to be the difference in this one. Pound the Royals -116!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on UNDER 7.5

Bottom Line: Two strong pitchers going at it in a pitchers' park with a favorable total of 7.5. Boston's Clay Buchholz has struggled a bit in his last two starts, but owns a solid 3.79 ERA and 1.079 WHIP over 6 road starts. Atlanta counters with Shelby Miller, who has a strong 1.59 ERA and 0.971 WHIP over 5 home starts. Look for both offenses to struggle to get much of anything going in this one. Pound the UNDER 7.5!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Indians -128

Bottom Line: Chicago starter Tsuyoshi Wada has a 7.55 ERA on the road and 6.56 ERA over his last 3 starts. Indians' Shaun Marcum has a 2.41 ERA over his last 3 starts. Cubs are 2-19 in their last 21 road games against an AL starting pitcher with an ERA of 4.00 to 4.70, while Cleveland is 8-2 in their last 10 interleague home games vs a lefty starter. Pound the Indians -128!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on UNDER 194

Bottom Line: The Cavaliers are facing elimination and that is going to have them laying everything on the line to keep the series alive with a win a home. They know their effort defensively has to be at it's best and I expect just that. They could also get some help with the Warriors battling the nerves of close out game to win the title. Pound the UNDER 194!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Padres -109

Bottom Line: There's a strong system in play on San Diego in Monday's series opener against the A's. Home teams that are a below average NL hitting team (AVG =4.50), with a starting pitcher whose ERA is 3.70 to 4.20 on the season (NL) are 39-10 (80%) against the money line over the last 5 seasons. Adding to this is the fact that the A's are 9-27 in their last 36 road games as an underdog of +100 to +150. Pound the Padres -109!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Cavs/Warriors OVER 195

Bottom Line: Golden State has decided to sacrifice offense for defense by switching up their rotation to feature more of Lee and less of Bogut. James and the Cavaliers weren't quite able to take advantage of the Warriors defense in Game 4, largely due to them just being exhausted. With fresh legs off the two day break, I look for Cleveland's offense to get back on track. I'm also expecting the Warriors to keep their offense rolling after a great performance in Game 4. Pound the OVER 195!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Brewers -123

Bottom Line: The Brewers might not be the better team, but they have a big time advantage on the mound in this one. Milwaukee will be sending out Jimmy Nelson against Joe Ross, who will be making just his second career start. Ross allowed 3 runs in just 5 innings of work in his first start at home against the Cubs and figures to have some trouble here in his first ever start on the road. Nelson will be facing the Nationals for the first time and he's been on top of his game in that spot. He's also got a solid 3.37 ERA and strong 0.923 WHIP over 5 home starts. There's a reason Milwaukee is favored by as much as they are. Pound the Brewers -123!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on OVER 8

Bottom Line: Both offenses figures to score early and often in this one. The Rays are being forced to turn to Matt Andriese with the recent injury to Jake Odorizzi. This will be Andriese's 4th start of the season and the last 3 haven't exactly gone well. Andriese has a 6.75 ERA and 2.062 WHIP and has yet to complete 4 innings. Chicago's John Danks has a 4.81 ERA and 1.455 WHIP over 6 road starts and has allowed 5+ runs in 3 of his last 4 outings overall. Pound the OVER!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Warriors -2.5

Bottom Line: The NBA Playoffs are all about adjustments and I believe the Warriors found a wrinkle in the Cavaliers armor late in Game 3. Look for David Lee to get even more minutes in Game 4, as he really puts a lot of pressure on Cleveland's defense when they decide to double-team Curry out of the pick-and-roll. Lee's ability to pass and score is going to translate into easy baskets and in turn I look for it to get the Warriors role players into a rhythm. You also have to start wondering if Cleveland can sustain the kind of energy we have seen them display. Golden State will want this one more and I like their chances of getting the win. Pound the Warriors -2.5!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on UNDER 8

Bottom Line: All signs point to a low-scoring game, making this an easy play on the under with the total set at 8 runs. Minnesota's Kyle Gibson has a 2.35 ERA over 6 home starts and a 2.03 ERA over 5 career starts against the Royals. Kansas City's Edison Volquez may have a 4.12 ERA in 4 road starts, but has a strong 1.208 WHIP. Minnesota's offense is also in a funk, having scored just 5 runs in their last 4 games. Volquez also has a 2.18 ERA and 0.871 WHIP in 3 career starts vs the Twins. Pound the UNDER 8!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on OVER 194

Bottom Line: We have seen a pretty drastic change in the total from Game 1 when it closed at 204. While Game 1 would have went under had it not been for overtime and Game 2 flew under even with OT, the books have over-adjusted the total for Game 3. Curry is due for a big game and the Warriors are going to be looking to push even more, knowing the Cavs don't have a lot of depth and have to be worn down after laying it all on the line in Game 2. Offense steals the show tonight. Pound the OVER 194!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Pirates -145

Bottom Line: Pittsburgh has won 13 of their last 16 overall and 6 straight at home. I look for the Pirates to have no problem securing a win in their series opener at home against the Brewers. Pittsburgh will be starting veteran A.J. Burnett, who has a sensational 1.69 ERA over 4 home starts. Milwaukee's Jimmy Nelson has a 5.51 ERA over 6 road starts and a 6.48 ERA over his last 3 outings. Brewers are 5-17 in their last 22 after a game with a combined score of 3 runs or less and Nelson is 3-11 in his last 14 starts after a loss. Pound the Pirates -145!

5* WISEGUY NBA FINALS *BEST BEST* on Cavaliers +8

Bottom Line: The loss of Kyrie Irving is big for Cleveland's chances of winning the series, but I think we are seeing an overreaction on the line. The Cavs still have the best player in the world in James and he's more than capable of keeping Cleveland within 8 points. While they lose out on some offense with Irving sidelined, they get better defensively. It's not out of the question that the Cavaliers win this game outright. Pound Cleveland +8!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Twins -134

Bottom Line: Even with the Twins likely being forced to use several pitchers here with starter J.R. Graham likely only able to go 3-5 innings, I like Minnesota to win at home. Milwaukee's Matt Garza has an awful 7.07 ERA and 1.714 WHIP over 5 road starts and is 0-3 with a 11.66 ERA and 2.115 WHIP over his last 3 starts. Pound the Twins -134!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Pirates -117

Bottom Line: Pittsburgh is absolutely on fire right  now. The Pirates have won 3 straight and 11 of 13 overall. I'll take my chances on them adding another victory to their resume tonight, as they send out the red-hot Charlie Morton. In his 2 starts since joining the rotation, Morton has allowed just 3 earned runs over 14 innings of work. Pound the Pirates -117!

5* WISEGUY NBA FINALS *BEST BET* on UNDER 204

Bottom Line: The Cavaliers have taken their defensive intensity to a whole different level in the playoffs and know that they will need to be at their best on that side of the ball to have any hopes of knocking off the Warriors for the title. Cleveland is giving up a mere 92.5 ppg in the playoffs. Golden State is just as good defensively and matchup well on that side with James and company. The Warriors are only giving up 96.3 ppg in the playoffs. While everyone is expecting a lot of offense, I think it's going to be a defensive series. Pound the UNDER 204!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Indians -136

Bottom Line: Forget Kluber's two previous starts against the Royals. Kluber has figured it out and is pitching like the Cy Young winner from last year. He's allowed a whopping 2 runs over his last 3 starts with 37 strikeouts in just 25 innings of work. He's got a 1.41 ERA since May 13 and I look for the dominant stretch to continue. Kansas City is slumping right now. The Royals have dropped 6 of 7 and have scored 2 or fewer runs in each of those 6 defeats. On top of that, starter Jason Vargas has 5.16 ERA and 1.449 WHIP over 6 starts. Pound the Indians -136!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Braves -106

Bottom Line: This is simply too good a price to back the Braves with Shelby Miller on the mound. Miller is putting up elite numbers, yet is not getting the respect from the books like an elite starter. He's got a 1.48 ERA and 0.881 WHIP over 10 starts. Atlanta has won 8 of those 10 starts, including a 5-1 mark in his 6 road starts. Arizona's Josh Collmenter is 3-5 with a 5.05 ERA and 1.386 WHIP over his last 10 starts and will be facing an Atlanta offense that is hitting .313 as a team during their current 3-game winning streak. Pound the Braves!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Cubs -121

Bottom Line: Chicago's Jason Hammel is one of the more underrated starters right now. Hammel has a 2.98 ERA over 9 starts and has thrown 7+ innings in 5 of his last 6 outings. He's got a 2.05 ERA and 0.682 WHIP over his last 3 outings. Miami is starting Jose Urena, who will be making just his second career start. Urena was hit hard in his first outing, allowing 5 runs on 10 hits in 4 2/3 innings of work. Pound the Cubs -121!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on Warriors -10

Golden State shuts the door on Houston tonight. There is simply no way the Rockets can replicate their performance from Game 4 and keep this game close. Bottom Line: Pound the Warriors!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on Cavs -7.5

Cleveland dominated the first two games of this series in Atlanta before squeezing by in Game 3 in Cleveland. That performance was about as good as the Hawks could have played and they still came up short. Bottom Line: Pound the Cavs -7.5

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on Warriors -5

Look for the Warriors to close this series out in Houston on Monday Night. The Rockets looked lost in Game 3. They may put up a bit of a fight, but in the end the Warriors walk away with a double-digit victory. Bottom Line: Pound the Warriors -5!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on Hawks/Cavs Over 189.5

While the first two games in Atlanta were low-score affairs, we are jumping on the Over in Game 3 as linesmakers have completely blew it by setting the line too low! Game 1 featured a total of 199.5, Game 2 a total of 193 and now in Game three they have adjusted the number down to 189.5. Defenses will be more lax and both teams should near triple digits. There's simply too much value to pass on this total. Bottom Line: Pound the Hawks/Cavs Over 189.5!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on Warriors -1

Bottom Line: You might expect the Rockets to head back home and avoid going down 0-3 in the series, but I'm not seeing it. While the Warriors have not played their best basketball of late, I don't think Houston could have played much better in the first two games and still came up short. Pound the Warriors -1!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on UNDER 196

Bottom Line: The books have once again set the mark too high for these two teams. The Hawks and Cavs managed to combine for just 185 points in the first game and that was with both teams shooting a respectable 44% from the field. Cleveland's offense is hit or miss with the absence of Love and injury to Irving. Hawks offense has been out of sync for quite some time now and yet this total reflects more of how the games went in the regular season than their current form. Atlanta brings the defensive intensity and this one should fly under the mark. Pound the UNDER 196!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Warriors -10

Bottom Line: Had it not been for an awful start that saw them fall behind by as many as 16 points in the first half, the Warriors would have won Game 1 by double-digits. The Rockets won't be so fortunate to get off to a big lead and I think this one is going to get ugly in a hurry. While Harden scored 28 points, I was really impressed with the defense Golden State played on him. With Howard clearly hurt and likely out tonight, Houston is in serious trouble not only for Game 2 but for the entire series. Keep in mind that prior to their 4-point win in Game 1, the Warriors swept the season series with a 4 wins coming by at least 11 points. Pound the Warriors -10.

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Hawks -105

Bottom Line: With the way Atlanta struggled against the Nets and Wizards and Cleveland coming off an impressive series win over a good Bulls team, oddsmakers are begging you take the Cavaliers with the line they set for the series opener. Atlanta is the smart play here at home, especially when you factor in how well the Hawks played against Cleveland during the regular season and the Cavs far from full strength going into the conference finals. Pound the Hawks -105!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Warriors -10

Bottom Line: The Warriors owned the Rockets in the regular season, going 4-0 with all 4 wins coming by at least 11 points. Houston lost on the road to LA by 25+ points twice and were trailing in the other by as many as 19. Golden State has had a full 3-days of rest to regain their focus after a tough series against Memphis, while Houston is forced to play on just 1-day of rest after a grueling 7-game series against the Clippers. Golden State is more talented and won't wear down like LA did with their deep roster. Rockets also have no answer defensively for Curry, which is going to have GS scoring at will in this series. Pound the Warriors -10!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Indians/White Sox UNDER 7

Bottom Line: This game has a pitchers duel written all over it, as the Indians send out reigning Cy Young winner Corey Kluber against Chicago's ace Chris Sale. While both of these starters got off to slow starts, each comes in off a dominating performance in their last outing that I believe will carry over to their start tonight. Kluber struck out 18 while allowing just 1 hits over 8 scoreless innings against the Cardinals and Sale allowed just 2 runs on 3 hits with 11 strike outs in 8 innings at Milwaukee. UNDER is 12-2 in Kluber's last 14 road starts and 6-1 in White Sox last 7 as a home favorite. Pound the UNDER 7!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Clippers -2

Bottom Line: While the Clippers have given Houston life, I expect them to step up to the plate and deliver in Game 7, similar to what we saw in their opening round series against the Spurs. Chris Paul lives for these kind of games and I expect him to be the difference in this one. There's a nice system backing up a play on LA as well. Road favorites who are scoring 103+ points/game after allowing 55 or more in the 1st half of each of their last two games are 70-35 (67%) ATS since 1996. Pound the Clippers -2!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Tigers -112

Bottom Line: It's been a wise investment backing the Tigers in day games this season and even more so when they have their ace David Price on the mound. Detroit is 14-4 in day games so far in 2015 and 3-0 when Price gets the start. Cardinals are just 9-15 in their last 24 interleague home games and 2-10 in Lyon's last 12 starts with a total of 7 to 8.5, while Detroit is 19-5 after scoring 9+ runs in their previous game. Pound the Tigers -112!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Hawks/Wizards UNDER 198

Bottom Line: These two teams have a great understanding of what the other is trying to do offensively right now and that showed in Game 5's low scoring affair that produced a mere 163 points. Atlanta has been out of sync for quite some time and the Wizards are more of a defensive team than people realize. With Washington facing elimination and Atlanta looking to advance to the conference finals, I look for both teams to bring all out defensive intensity for 48 minutes. Pound the UNDER 198!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Bulls -2

Bottom Line: I don't expect the Bulls to go away quietly, as I look for Chicago to come out inspired and force a Game 7 with a win at home tonight. The Bulls are expected to get back Gasol after he sat out the last two games, both of which Chicago narrowly lost. Cleveland is due for a letdown here after laying it all on the line in Game 4 to avoid falling behind 3-1 and then again in Game 5 at home to secure homecourt. Look for Rose to bounce back after a subpar finish to Game 5, as he should get a boost here from the energy of the home crowd. Pound the Bulls -2!

5* WISEGUY NBA *PERSONAL FAVORITE* on Grizzlies +

Bottom Line: This is too many points for the Grizzlies to be catching in this one. Memphis may have lost badly in Game 4 at home, but for the most part have shown they are an extremely difficult matchup for the Warriors. This is a classic example of where you can't overreact to the last game and instead have to look at the series as a whole. It's not out of the question that Memphis could win this game outright, but there's no way I'm passing up on the opportunity to back them as a near double-digit dog. Pound the Grizzlies +9.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Clippers -

Bottom Line: Los Angeles has taken control of this series and I look for them to deliver another impressive performance and close out the series tonight in Game 5. The Clippers split their 2 games in Houston to start the series, but were without Paul for both of those games and could have easily won Game 2. With Paul in the lineup they won by 25 and 33 points at home. I believe the Rockets spirits have been crushed and even with their backs against the wall I don't see them playing up to their potential. Pound the Clippers -2.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on UNDER 195.5

Bottom Line: There has yet to be a game in this series that has seen more than 188 points. Clearly these two teams match up extremely well with the other, with the biggest keys being the Grizzlies ability to defend the 3-point line and keep the tempo down. I look for the defenses to continue to dominate and for tonight's contest to once again go below the mark set. With this being such a huge game for both teams in the series, I wouldn't be surprised at all if this ends up being the lowest scoring game yet. Pound the UNDER 195.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Rockets +7.5

Bottom Line: These two teams have alternated wins and losses in the series and I at least like the Rockets to cover the 7.5-point spread, as we are getting an inflated line here after the Clippers blowout win in Game 3. Houston couldn't have shot much worse (39.8%) from the field in Game 3, while LA was a blistering 55.4% shooting. The Rockets have too much talent to not turn those numbers around and I look for a big-time performance here from Harden with Houston in jeopardy of falling behind 1-3 in the series. Pound the Rockets +7.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on UNDER 197

Bottom Line: Each of the first two games in the series have finished with a combined score of 187 and I'm not expecting to see an offensive outburst with the series shifting to Memphis. The Grizzlies are an even stronger defensive team at home and Golden State is going to bring their best effort defensively here to avoid falling behind in the series. I think we are going to see a similar, if not lower, scoring affair in Game 3. UNDER is now 6-1 in Warriors last 7 conference semifinal games and 9-3 in their last 12 road games against a team with a winning home record. UNDER is 24-4 in Memphis' last 28 home games and 24-6-1 in their last 31 following a win. Pound the UNDER 197!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on UNDER 216

Bottom Line: We are getting an inflated total here due to the first two games of the series finishing over the mark. The total for Game 1 was just 212 points and the scoring tends to drop as a series progresses. With Chris Paul either sidelined or playing at less than 100%, LA needs to slow the pace way down. I also look for the Clippers defense to pick it up at home. Keep in mind that Game 2 only had 224 points with the two teams combining for a ridiculous 67 made free throws, 31 more than the two combined for in Game 1. I also think both teams are gassed at this point, which should lead to a slower pace and poorer shooting from the outside. Pound the UNDER 216!

5* WISEGUY MLB *BEST BET* on Reds/Pirates UNDER 7.5

Bottom Line: The Reds Anthony Desclafani comes in with a 2.03 ERA and 0.935 WHIP over 5 starts and has been at his best on the road, where he has a 1.80 ERA and 0.8000 WHIP in 3 starts. Desclafani should have no problem shutting down the Pirates offense, which has scored a combined 5 runs in their last 5 games. Pittsburgh will send out A.J. Burnett, who has a 1.45 ERA and 1.161 WHIP over 5 starts and a 0.95 ERA over his last 3. UNDER is 22-8 in Burnett's last 30 home starts and 13-3 in his last 16 when listed as a home favorite of -110 or higher. Pound the UNDER 7.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Bulls/Cavs UNDER 195

Bottom Line: These two teams combined for 191 points in Game 1 with an identical total of 195. Cleveland clearly isn't the same offensive team without Love and Smith to stretch the floor, making it unlikely they see a huge spike in their offensive production in Game 2. Chicago on the other hand could see their offense take a step back. Rose has not been the same player on just 1 day of rest, Butler's using most of his energy guarding LeBron and the Cavs are to make adjustments to not let Gasol shoot wide-open jumpers. I have this one finishing in the mid to low 180's. Pound the UNDER 195!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Grizzlies +

Bottom Line: The Warriors dominated Game 1 by 15-points, but I'm not expecting things to be easy for Golden State in Game 2. Memphis is expected to have Conley back and he's going to have a big impact on both sides of the ball. Grizzlies defense played well in the series opener, they just couldn't get anything going from the outside. Memphis not only has a chance to cover the spread, but if Conley does in fact play they could very well win this game outright. Pound the Grizzlies +10!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Bulls/Cavs UNDER 196

Bottom Line: Without Kevin Love and J.R. Smith the Cavaliers lose a lot offensively, but should be improved defensively with more playing time for Tristan Thompson and Iman Shumpert. I think this is an extremely evenly matched series right now and these two teams understand the importance of getting off to a strong start. I look for both to bring their best efforts on the defensive end and for this game to fly under the total of 196. Pound the UNDER!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Hawks -5

Bottom Line: The Hawks aren't getting enough respect here as a mere 5-point home favorite. Atlanta destroyed Washington in their two home games during the regular season and I feel like the Hawks got some of their mojo back at the end of their opening series against the Nets. The Wizards looked impressive in their easy series win over the Raptors, but Toronto hadn't been playing well coming into the playoffs. I also think the Wizards will be a bit rustry coming off that long lay-off. Pound the Hawks -5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Spurs +

Bottom Line: The road team has actually had the upper hand in this series and the Spurs have positioned themselves to go on the road and win Game 7. LA had to use up a lot of energy to pull out Game 6 in San Antonio and you could see how tired they were. I look for the Clippers to keep it close early, but for the Spurs to take control in the 4th quarter and advance on to the next round. San Antonio knows what it takes to win a Game 7 and aren't going to be the least bit effected by this game being on the road. Pound the Spurs +2.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Hawks -3.5

Bottom Line: Brooklyn has played better than anyone expected to this point, but the Nets run ends tonight. Atlanta is too good a team to let this drag out any longer, similar to what we saw last night with the Bulls laying it on the Bucks in Game 5. The Nets have simply overachieved and aren't catching enough points here at home to cover. I like Atlanta to win here and to do so convincingly. Pound the Hawks -3.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Bulls -3.5

Bottom Line: I'm not buying the Bucks winning a 3rd straight game in this series. Milwaukee has clearly been the more motivated team in the last two games, but that's not going to be the case here tonight. Chicago has made it clear they know they need to pick up the intensity and with a full 2 days to get things figured out, I look for the Bulls to come out and dominate this game right from the finish. The extra day of rest should help Rose get his legs back under him and allow him to be the force he was in the first 3 of this series. Chicago quits messing around and punches their ticket to the conference quarterfinals. Pound the Bulls -3.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Nets/Hawks U200.5

Bottom Line: These two teams combined to score 191 or less in each of the first 3 games in the series before going off for 235 in a overtime contest in Game 4. The important thing to note is that they only combined for 208 in regulation and that was with both teams shooting lights out from the field. With the series sitting at 2-2 and so much on the line in Game 5, I'm expecting it to return to a grind it out game that finishes around the 185-190 mark. Pound the UNDER 200.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Rockets/Mavericks UNDER 221.5

Bottom Line: Due to these two teams flying over the total in their last two games, oddsmakers have been forced to drastically inflate tonight's total, creating some big time value on the UNDER at 221.5. Both teams have shot light 47% or better in each of the last two games and that's simply not going to hold up. Houston isn't going to let Dallas continue to run up and down the floor and the Mavericks aren't going to be as strong shooting the ball on the road. I look for a similar result here to Game 2, which the Rockets won 111-99. Pound the UNDER 221.5!

5* NBA WISEGUY *BEST BET* on Hawks -4.5

Bottom Line: The Hawks have not played up to their potential so far in this series and as a result they are showing some big time value here as a mere 4.5-point home favorite against the Nets. Brooklyn allowed opponents to shoot 45.3% from the field during the regular season, which is why I'm not buying the Hawks offensive struggles being a result of the Nets defense. Atlanta is due for an offensive explosion and I look for them to win here comfortably. Pound the Hawks -4.5!

5* LAC/SA WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Clippers +6

Bottom Line: Love the value we are getting here with the Clippers as a 6-point dog. LA shot a miserable 34% from the field in Game 3, which in turn has jumped this line up a full 1.5-points from what it was listed at for Game 3. Easy for the public to fall in love with the Spurs after that great performance, especially after what they did last year. Clippers will be better offensively as they have to big of advantages with Paul and Griffin. Better shooting will have a strong impact on their play defensively. I got this one going right down to the wire and could definitely see LA winning this one outright. Pound the Clippers +6!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Bulls -4.5

Bottom Line: I believe the Bucks are both emotionally and physically drained from Thursday's double-overtime loss at home in Game 3. Chicago now has a 3-0 advantage in the series and I don't see them letting their foot off the gas in a close out game. Teams with a 3-0 series lead have covered the spread in Game 4 60% of the time since 2002 and 63% of the time in the 1st round. Pound the Bulls -4.5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Clippers/Spurs UNDER 203

Bottom Line: These two teams only managed to score 188 points in Game 2, but a 30-point overtime period pushed the final score to 118 and well over the total set for that game of 206.5. Keep in mind that the two only managed 199 points in Game 1 with a total of 208. Defensive gets an edge the more the series progresses and with this one tied at 1-1 and there being such a big advantage to going up 2-1, I think we are going to see this one fly under the mark. You also have to factor in Spurs are forced to play an injured Tony Parker and without him at full strength they must slow the pace to keep it close. Pound the UNDER 203!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Pelicans +5

Bottom Line: Warriors are getting a little too much respect here against a Pelicans team that has shown they can hang with the league's top team. New Orleans has shown they can win at home in a big spot like they will be facing tonight, as they held off the Spurs in the regular season finale 108-103 to punch their ticket to the postseason and knock San Antonio out of the No.2 seed. Other key thing here is I believe the Warriors know they are the better team and with a 2-0 series lead this is a prime spot for them to suffer a letdown. It's also worth noting that New Orleans won 103-100 as a 4.5-point home dog against the Warriors down the stretch on 4/7. Pound the Pelicans +5!

5* WISEGUY NBA *BEST BET* on Blazers/Wizards UNDER 190

Bottom Line: Memphis isn't a team that likes to push the ball. They want to grind it out and let their stingy defense do all the work. Their defense matches up extremely well with Portland's two starts Lillard and Aldridge, leaving the Blazers without any reliable options to turn to on the offensive end. The key here is that being down 0-1 is going to have Portland coming out extremely motivated on the defensive end, especially after how easily Memphis's offense scored in Game 1 (had 86 points after 3 quarters before scoring just 14 in the 4th with a 24-point lead). UNDER is 13-1 in Memphis's last 14 home games after allowing a shooting percentage of 35% or less and 26-8 in Blazers last 34 road games when revenging 4 or more straight losses. Pound the UNDER 190!