2005-06 NBA Top Notch Picks

Friday, March 31, 2006:

5 BONES   Phoenix/Toronto OVER 220.5:  I'll take the over in this contest as both of these teams can score in an up tempo game.  Phoenix has gone over in 12 of 15 on the road in non-conference games after going over on the road in 2 straight games since the 2000 season.  The Suns have also gone over in 13 of 17 since last season on the road in non conference games after a win.  The Over for Toronto has gone 6-1 since last season when they play as home dogs of 4->5.5 in non-conference games after a home game.  This season the over is 13-4-1 when the Raptors are 4->5.5 point dogs.  WIN

2 BONES   Dallas (-5) over Orlando:  I'll take one of the elite teams in the NBA here as they should be able to win and cover against a Magic team they are much better than.  Dallas has gone 11-1 ATS on the road after going over in 2 straight games since last season.  They have also gone 18-5-3 ATS since last season after losing SU+ ATS + going over.  Since the 1990 season, Dallas has gone 22-6 ATS on the road in non-conference games after 3 road games and 9-1 ATS on the road in non-conference after losing 2 in a row SU + ATS on the road.  Orlando has gone just 1-9-1 ATS as 4->5.5 point dogs after 3 overs since last season.  They have also gone just 5-14-3 ATS this season as dogs after losing ATS.  LOSS

Thursday, March 30, 2006:

4 BONES   Phoenix/Indiana UNDER 206.5:  I'll take the under in this situation as these teams seem to go under the total when they get together in Indianapolis.  In the last 5 meetings here, the under has gone 4-0-1.  Indiana should slow down the pace again in this game and get the total to be low.  The Pacers have gone under in 5 straight games where the average score has been 174.4 total.  Indiana has gone under in 6 of their last 8 games on a Thursday nights and in 11 of 14 since last season as dogs in non-conference after going under.  They have also gone under in 18 of 22 since 2000 as dogs in non-conference after losing + going under.  Phoenix managed just 72 points the other night in New Jersey and I expect a low scoring output from them tonight as well.  LOSS

Wednesday, March 29, 2006:

  5 BONES   Indiana (-6.5) over Atlanta:  I'll lay the points here with the Pacers as my strongest game of the month.  Indiana has got Jermaine O'neil back and the rest of their starting line-up is healthy as well.  With their bench players developing throughout the season as some of the starters were hurt, I think this team is poised to be a power in the East again.  Indiana will be seeking revenge for 3 losses this season already to the Hawks and will be catching them at the right time.  Atlanta will be playing their 4th game in 5 days and they already have a losing record ATS on back to back nights this season.  Atlanta has gone just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall and they are 5-12 ATS on Wednesdays.  Indiana has gone 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games overall and they are 12-3-1 ATS since 1990 on the road after losing + winning ATS + going under.  Teams have gone 15-2-2 ATS since last season as road favorites of 6->7.5 in conference games after winning 2 in a row ATS.  LOSS

2 BONES   Cleveland/Dallas UNDER 185:  I'll take the under in this situation as these teams played a few weeks ago in Dallas and scored a total of just 178 points.  In fact the last 2 meetings between these teams have now gone under.  Dallas has gone under in all 12 games they have played this season after losing + going over the spread.  They have also gone under in 9 of their last 10 games on the road after going over on the road in their previous game.  The Cavs have gone under in 12 of 16 this season as favorites after losing ATS.  They have also gone under in 12 of their last 16 games overall.  Since last season, Cleveland has gone under in 13 of 17 as home favorites after going over on the road.  LOSS

3 BONES   Denver (-7) over Utah:  I'll lay the points with the home team here as the Nuggets have won 5 in a row SU + ATS when playing at home.  Denver has gone 7-3 ATS in their last 10 meetings with Utah and should be catching the Jazz at a good time.  Utah is coming off an extended period of games at home and they have not fared well on the road after that.  The Jazz have gone 1-9 ATS on the road after 3 home games since last season and they are 2-11 ATS in their last 13 on the road in conference after 4 home games in a row.  Utah has lost 9 in a row ATS in conference after winning + going under and they have lost 6 in a row ATS after winning SU + ATS + going under at home.  Utah has gone 1-3 ATS in their last 4 on the road, while Denver has gone 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games ATS overall.  LOSS

Tuesday, March 28, 2006:

3 BONES   Charlotte (-3.5) over Atlanta:  I'll drop the points with the home team here as the Bobcats have gone 3-1 SU + ATS in their last 4 home games and they are playing much better than the Hawks have been lately.  Charlotte has gone 3-1 ATS in their last 4 meetings with Atlanta.  The Hawks have gone 1-8 SU in their last 9 games overall and they have managed just 2 wins ATS in their last 7 games.  Teams have gone 4-14 ATS this season in division games as road dogs after winning ATS + going over.  Charlotte has gone 11-1 ATS at home in conference games after 2 road games, dating back to last season.  Teams have gone 11-3-2 ATS since last season at home in 2->3.5 point division games after 2 games on the road.  WIN

4 BONES   Phoenix/Milwaukee OVER 215:  The line for this game started at 211 and has been bet up for good reason.  Phoenix has gone over in 17 of 19 games since 1990 as road favorites of 6->7.5 in non-conference games after a road game.  They have also gone over in 11 of their last 16 overall and in 9 straight as road favorites of 6->7.5 in non conference since last season.  Milwaukee has gone over in 6 straight as home dogs in non conference after winning ATS at home and in 9 straight as home dogs after winning at home.  The Bucks have also gone over in 18 of 22 since 1990 as home dogs after winning ATS + going over at home.  Teams have gone over in 10 of the 12 games this season when playing as home dogs in non conference games after winning ATS + going over at home.  WIN

Sunday, March 26, 2006:

4 BONES   Cleveland (-4) over Houston:  I'll drop the points with the hot Cavs team on the road as they zone in as the playoffs approach.  Houston has struggled all season, especially in this spot.  The Rockets have gone 8-25-1 ATS at home this season, including a 1-14-1 ATS at home after a road game.  Houston has also gone 1-9 ATS since the 2000 season as home dogs after winning SU + ATS + going over.  In fact, the Rockets have dropped 10 straight games ATS as road dogs.  The Cavs have gone 11-2-1 ATS as favorites after winning 3 games in a row this season.  They have also gone 6-0-1 ATS as road favorites after winning SU + ATS at home this season.  The Cavs have also gone 10-2 ATS as favorites after winning 4 in a row since last season.  LOSS

2 BONES   Boston (-5) over Chicago:  I'll take Celtics at home today as they seek revenge on a Bulls team that they are better than.  Boston has gone 13-2-1 ATS as favorites after losing + going under since last season.  Chicago has managed to go just 2-10 ATS dating back to last season when they are playing as 4->5.5 point dogs after a win ATS.  The Bulls have gone just 1-4 in their last 5 games SU and they have lost 3 games in a row ATS on the road.  Teams have gone 60-27 over the last 5 seasons when playing as home favorites as a marginal losing team against a losing team, where the home favorites are revenging a loss of 10 points or more.  LOSS

Friday, March 24, 2006:

5 BONES   Detroit/Indiana UNDER 180.5:  These teams have gone under in their last 6 meetings (none of the totals posted were this high) and in 26 of their 34 meetings since the 2000 season.  Detroit has gone under in all 10 games since last season in division after winning ATS + going under the total.  They have also gone under in 13 of their last 14 on the road in division games.  Indiana has gone under in 13 of 14 since the 2000 season as dogs in division games after winning + going under at home.  Since last season, the Pacers have gone under in 10 of 12 games as dogs in conference after winning at home.  Teams have gone under in 12 of the 15 games played since last season on the road in division after winning + going under at home in 2 straight.  The Pacers have gone under in 6 of their last 8 games and defense should be key again tonight like all their previous matchups.  WIN

3 BONES   Milwaukee/L.A. Lakers UNDER 200:  This game should go under the total as the Lakers have gone under in their last 5 games.  Milwaukee will be playing without a key guard and they have gone under in11 of 14 games they have played since the 2000 season as road dogs in non conference after losing + going over on the road.  Teams have gone under in 13 of the 17 games they have played this season as home favorites of 6->7.5 points after winning 3 games in a row ATS.  Teams have gone under in 9 of the 10 games since last season as 6->7.5 point favorites in non conference after going under in 4 in a row.  In the last 4 meeting between these teams, 3 have gone under an tonight's should be no different.  WIN

Thursday, March 23, 2006:

2 BONES   New Jersey (-7) over Minnesota:  I'll lay the points with the red hot Nets tonight as they have won 6 games in a row SU (5-0-1 ATS).  The Nets have gone 13-3 ATS since last season as home favorites after winning SU + ATS + going over.  Teams have gone 10-1 ATS this season as home favorites of 6->7.5 in non-conference games after winning ATS + going over.  Teams have gone 10-2 ATS since last season as home favorites of 6->7.5 after winning SU + ATS + going over in 2 straight games.  Minnesota has lost 6 games in a row SU on the road and they are just 14-18-1 ATS on the road this season.  LOSS

3 BONES   Houston (+6) over New Orleans:  I'll take the points in this game as the Rockets have gone 14-3-3 ATS in their last 20 games on Thursday.  Houston has gone 11-3 ATS as road dogs after a road game this season and they have gone 13-5 ATS on the road in conference this season.  The Rockets have won 10 in a row ATS on the road after losing ATS on the road.  The Rockets have gone 11-3-1 ATS as road dogs after losing 4 in a row since the 2000 season and 8-1-1 ATS as road dogs in division after 3 losses in a row since the 2000 season.  New Orleans has gone 1-9 ATS as favorites against Houston dating back to the 1990 season.  The Hornets have managed to go just 1-8 SU + ATS in their last 9 games overall.  WIN

Wednesday, March 22, 2006:

  5 BONES   Toronto (+5) over Boston:  I'll take the Raptors here as they have been a great value on the road this season, going 22-7-3 ATS on the road.  They have also gone an impressive 12-3-1 ATS when playing as road dogs after a road game this season.  That road game was a SU win last night at New York and the Raptors are 9-6-1 ATS on 0 days rest this season.  Toronto comes in going 4-1 SU in their last 5 games, while the Celtics have stumbled to a 1-4 record SU in their last 5.  This spot looks good for Toronto to get the cover as they have gone 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings with the Celtics, going 3-0 ATS in Boston.  Boston has gone 2-10-1 ATS (1-4-1) this season in conference games after going under at home.  Since the 2000 season, the Celtics have gone 2-7 ATS at home against the Raptors after a home game.  With Pierce possibly being limited with a bum ankle, hard to see the Celtics winning convincingly here.  LOSS

3 BONES   Sacramento (+2.5) over LA Lakers:  I'll take the few points here with the red hot Kings.  The Kings played at home and won't travel far for this one, but the Lakers had to travel back from the east coast from their game a few days ago.  Teams playing in Sacramento's position of road dogs in division after losing 2 in a row ATS + going under have gone 16-4-2 ATS since last season.  The Kings have gone 17-7-1 ATS at LA after a win dating back to the 1990 season.  The Lakers have gone 0-10 ATS this season in conference games after winning 2 in a row ATS (2-16 since last season).  The Lakers have lost 8 straight ATS at home in conference after a road game and are 1-9 ATS at home against Sacramento after winning on the road since the 1990 season.  LOSS

Tuesday, March 21, 2006:

4 BONES   LA Clippers (-2.5) over New Orleans:  I'll lay the points with the Clippers in this one as they are peaking and the Hornets are fading fast.  The Clippers have gone 9-1 ATS this season as 2->3.5 point favorites after winning ATS and are 17-14-1 ATS on the road.  The Clippers have also gone 12-2-1 ATS as favorites after winning ATS + going over since last season.  They have gone red hot of late as they are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games, going 5-2 ATS.  The Hornets have lost 8 games in a row, both SU + ATS.  They have now gone 0-9-1 ATS in their last 10 games as home dogs after losing + going over.  They have also gone 2-12 ATS at home after losing 4 games in a row SU + ATS since the 1990 season.  The Clippers won their last match-up earlier this month by 22 points and should be able to win and cover tonight.  LOSS

Monday, March 20, 2006:

2 BONES   LA Lakers/Boston UNDER 202.5:  I'll take the under in this contest with many trends to support it.  The Lakers have gone under in 7 of their last 10 games on the road.  This season, the Lakers have gone under in 13 of 17 as road dogs after a road game and in 9 of 10 on the road after winning ATS on the road.  The Lakers have also gone under in 3 straight games and in 9 of 10 since last season as road dogs in non-conference after going under.  Boston has gone under in 2 straight games and in 4 of their last 6 overall.  The Celtics have gone under in 11 of their last 12 at home after winning on the road.  They have also gone under in 15 of 18 games at home after 4 games on the road, dating back to the 2000 season.  WIN

Sunday, March 19, 2006:

3 BONES   Utah/Memphis UNDER 180:  I'll take the under in this contest with many trends to support it.  Memphis has gone under in 12 of 14 this season as home favorites after a home game this season.  Teams have gone under in 14 of 17 this season as home favorites of 6->7.5 after winning 2 in a row SU + ATS.  Memphis has also gone under in 12 of 13 games at home in conference after winning 2 games in a row SU + ATS since last season (last time this occured was when Utah last visited back in JHanuary and the total points scored was 152).  Teams have gone under in 14 of 15 games since last season as home favorites of 6->7.5 after winning 2 in a row ATS at home.  Utah has gone under in 8 straight as 6->7.5 point dogs in conference after winning + going over.  Utah has gone under in 16 of their 18 games all time at Memphis and in 6 of the last 8 meetings overall with the Grizz.  WIN

Saturday, March 18, 2006:

3 BONES   Portland/Milwaukee OVER 183:  I'll take the over in this contest as 7 of the last 9 meetings between these two have gone over, including 4 in a row.  Portland has gone over in 5 of their last 8 games.  Teams have gone over in 13 of 17 as 10->11.5 point dogs after 2 losses ATS this season.  Teams have gone over in 9 of 10 since last season as 10->11.5 point road dogs after 3 losses in a row SU + ATS.  Milwuakee has gone over in 12 of 13 as favorites in non-conference after losing + winning ATS on the road.  Milwaukee should dictate a faster tempo and they haven't seen a total this low for one of their games in their last 12 contests.  WIN

Friday, March 17, 2006:

  5 BONES   Indiana (+2) over Sacramento:  I'll take the Pacers tonight as they are settled in at home and the Kings have to travel east.  Indiana has been stellar in non-conference games.  The Pacers are 10-2 ATS at home this season in non-conference, 17-2 ATS in their last 19 non-conference games at home after losing ATS + going over, and a perfect 9-0 ATS the last 2 seasons in non-conference games at home after 2 home games.  Teams have gone 13-4 ATS at home in PK->1.5 point games in non-conference after losing this season.  The Pacers have also gone 12-4 ATS at home after a home game this season.  Sacramento has gone 1-9 ATS as road favorites after winning 3 in a row SU + ATS since the 2000 season.  They have also dropped 10 of 12 ATS since last season in PK->1.5 point non-conference games since last season.  WIN

Thursday, March 16, 2006:

2 BONES   Seattle (-7) over Philadelphia:  I'll lay the points with Seattle here as they are playing their best basketball of the season.  Philadelphia will once again be playing without their leader Iverson and should struggle to compete having to travel way out west.  Philadelphia has gone 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games and are just 12-17 ATS on the road this season, where they have allowed 102.7 points per game.  Seattle is a high scoring team and should put up about 110 against the Sixers.  It's hard to see Philadelphia scoring 100 without Iverson.  Seattle is 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games and will be seeking revenge for a 9 point loss back in January at Philadelphia.  LOSS

Wednesday, March 15, 2006:

2 BONES   Atlanta (+3) over New York:  I'll take the Hawks on the road tonight against the Knicks.  Both teams are near the bottom of the league, but the Hawks are an improving team.  Atlanta has gone 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games on the road and are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall.  The Knicks have gone 2-8 SU in their last 10 games overall and are 1-3 ATS in their last 4 at home.  Since last season, the Knicks have gone 2-13-1 ATS at home after losing 2 games in a row SU + ATS and 2-13 ATS in their last 15 at home in conference after 2 losses.  The Knicks have gone 0-5 ATS against Southeast division opponents this season, while the Hawks have gone 3-0 ATS against Atlantic division opponents.  Atlanta has taken 3 of the last 4 meetings SU + ATS and should be able too as well tonight.  LOSS

Tuesday, March 14, 2006:

3 BONES   Toronto (+2.5) over Philadelphia:  The Sixers will be playing without Iverson and Iguodala will be playing with a sprained finger.  Philadelphia will have trouble as they are just 2-10 ATS, losing 6 in a row as home favorites in division games after winning SU + ATS on the road.  Toronto has played very well on the road this season as they have gone 20-9-3 ATS away from home this season.  The Raptors have gone 10-2-1 ATS as road dogs this season after going under.  When playing against each other and the spread is 2->3.5, the Raptors have won 10 straight meetings ATS with the Sixers.  I'll grab the few points here with the Raptors on the road.  WIN

2 BONES   Charlotte (+4) over Washington:  I'll take home Bobcats to put up a big effort tonight as they are very good ATS in this spot.  Charlotte has gone 12-0 ATS in conference games after losing + going under this season.  They have also gone 12-1 ATS in conference games after losing ATS this season.  Charlotte has won the last 4 meetings ATS against the Wizards, including a SU win the last time the Wizards visited.  Washington has gone just 2-14 ATS in their last 16 games on the road in conference after going over.  Washington has lost 3 in a row SU on the road and Charlotte has gone 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall. LOSS

Monday, March 13, 2006:

3 BONES   Denver (-2.5) over New York:  I'll take the better team with the Nuggets here.  Denver has won the last 2 meetings SU and ATS against the Knicks and should be the better team again tonight.  Denver is playing their fourth game in a row on the road and has compiled a 2-1 SU + ATS record so far.  They have gone 7-3 SU + ATS in their last 10 games and have outscored opponents by 8 a game in their last 5.  Denver is 4-2 ATS as 1->3.5 point favorites this season, while the Knicks are 2-8 ATS as 1->3.5 point dogs this season.  The Knicks are returning home after 3 games on the road and they have won just 2 of their last 9 games overall.  The Knicks have gone 1-7 ATS in their last 8 and 4-14-1 ATS since last season at home after losing SU + ATS + going over.  WIN

Sunday, March 12, 2006:

 5 BONES   Indiana (-1.5) over Toronto:  I'll take the better team and the Pacers on the road tonight.  Toronto has not been strong at home this season and Indiana has gone 16-13-2 ATS on the road.  Indiana is playing hot as they are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 overall and will be looking for revenge for an embarrassing home loss back in December to the Raptors.  Since the year 2000, Toronto has gone 2-10 ATS at home in conference after losing 3 in a row SU + ATS and 3-11-1 ATS as home dogs after losing + going under at home.  Toronto has lost 3 in a row SU + ATS overall and has lost 7 in a row ATS in conference as PK->1.5 dogs after going under.  The Raptors have gone 0-5 ATS this season after getting beat by 10-19 points at home in their previous game.  I'll lay the point with the playoff team here.  LOSS

Saturday, March 11, 2006:

3 BONES   Chicago (+1) over Atlanta:  I'll take the Bulls in this contest as they play as well on the road as they do at home.  The Bulls match up very well with the Hawks and have won the last 5 meetings between the two teams both SU and ATS.  They have also gone 11-3 ATS as favorites against Atlanta after a loss.  Chicago is 11-3-1 ATS (9-1 in their last 10) when playing on the road in conference after losing ATS at home since last season.  Teams have gone 13-4 ATS since last season as road favorites in conference of PK->1.5 after going over in their previous game.  Atlanta has gone 1-10-1 ATS since last season as home dogs after a win. Atlanta is battling health issues again as key contributor Josh Childress is questionable.  The Bulls are 3.5 games out of the playoff and knows they need this one.  WIN

Friday, March 10, 2006:

2 BONES   LA Lakers/San Antonio UNDER 192.5:  I like the chances of this one going under the total tonight.  The Lakers have gone under in 11 of 14 on the road after winning on the road since last season (under in 7 straight).  The Lakers have gone under in 4 straight meeting at San Antonio and the under is 18-14-1 on the road this season.  San Antonio has gone under in 11 of 12 since last season as home favorites of 8->9.5 after winning and in  10 of 12 at home in conferce after going over on the road.  The Spurs have also gone under in 15 of 19 as home favorites of 8->9.5 after 3 road games since the 1990 season.  The Spurs average just 181 points in their games at home this season where the under is 9-19-1 this season.  WIN

Thursday, March 9, 2006:

2 BONES   San Antonio (-2) over Phoenix:  I'll lay the point on the road with the Spurs tonight as the Suns will have problems as they are not near full strenghth.  Their two best players, Nash and Marion, are both questionable and if they do play, will not be 100%.  They are also depleted on the bench with injuries and sickness.  Teams have gone 3-11 ATS since last season as home dogs of 2->3.5 points after winning 3 games in a row.  The Spurs have gone 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games and have outscored opponents by 10 points a game on average in their last 5 games.  The Spurs should get their revenge for a January loss to the Suns tonight.  WIN

Wednesday, March 8, 2006:

2 BONES   Philadelphia (+1.5) over Boston:  Many reasons why I like Philly to get the win here.  Boston has gone 1-10 ATS this season as home favorites after winning SU + ATS on the road this season.  They have also lost 9 straight ATS as home favorites in conference after winning ATS + over on the road.  Teams have gone 5-17 ATS since 2000 as home favorites PK->1.5 in division after 2 road games.  Philadelphia has gone 5-2 in their last 7 games SU + ATS.  They have gone 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 as road dogs after losing at home and are 10-3-1 ATS as road dogs in conference after losing + going under at home since the 2000 season.  West is questionable for the Celtics tonight and they are already skinny at the point guard position.  I look for AI to have a big game.  LOSS

2 BONES   New Orleans (+1) over L.A. Lakers:  I'll take the Hornets here at home as they have gone 10-3 ATS at home this season after playing their previous game at home.  They have also won 2 straight meetings ATS against the Lakers, winning by 16 at home on an earlier occasion this season.  Teams have gone 11-3-1 ATS as home dogs in conference after losing + going under at home this season.  New Orleans has gone 19-10 SU at home this season and the Lakers have gone 14-18 on the road.  The Lakers have gone 1-8 ATS (8-25 since 2000) in their last 9 as road favorites in conference after 2 home games.  The have lost their last 2 games on the road after a home game and have played 8 of their last 10 games in their home arena.  I expect the Hornets to give a strong showing at home and beat a Lakers team that has problems on the road.  LOSS

Tuesday, March 7, 2006:

2 BONES   New York (+11) over Indiana:  I'll take the points with the Knicks tonight as they have won 2 in a row ATS on the road and 2 in a row ATS at Indiana.  Teams have gone 11-3 ATS as road dogs of 10->11.5 in conference games after a win so far this season.  The Knicks have gone 9-1 ATS as dogs after winning on the road since last season.  Indiana has gone just 1-6 ATS as favorites of 8 points or more this season and are 0-3 ATS as favorites of 10 or more.  Indiana has gone 1-10-1 ATS in their last 12 games as home favorites of 10->11.5 in conference after a win.  They are also just 1-8 ATS in their last 9 as favorites in conference after a road game.  I'll take this high amount of points tonight.  WIN

3 BONES   San Antonio (-2.5) over L.A. Clippers:  I'll lay the points with the Spurs tonight again in LA as they won and covered the spread against the Lakers last night.  San Antonio has won 7 games in a row SU and 5 in a row ATS where they have outscored opponents by a total of 16 points per game.  Teams have gone 20-3 ATS this season as favorites in conference after winning + going over in 2 straight games.  Teams have gone 16-3 ATS since last season as road favorites in conference after going over in 4 straight games.  The Clippers have been struggling as they are 3-7 SU in their last 10 games and have lost 9 straight ATS as dogs to San Antonio after losing SU + ATS + going over.  The Clippers have gone 3-15 ATS in their last 18 games as home dogs in conference after losing ATS + going over.  LOSS

Monday, March 6, 2006:

2 BONES   Phoenix (-4.5) over New Orleans:  I'll lay the points with the Suns as they have been on a tear going 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games.  The Suns have gone 11-3-1 ATS (winning 5 straight ATS by 8 or more) on the road in conference after going over in 2 straight since last season.  Phoenix is 10-2-1 ATS after 4 overs since last season and teams have gone 16-3 ATS since last season as road favorites in conference after going over in 4 straight.  The Suns have gone 11-2 ATS in their last 13 games as road favorites in conference after a road game.  New Orleans has gone lost 2 games in a row SU + ATS and will be playing against their toughest opponent in the last 15 games.  WIN

2 BONES   Orlando/Utah OVER 188:  I like the chances of this one going over the total as both teams have several trends that state this one will climb past the total.  Orlando has gone over in all 10 games this season as dogs after losing + going over on the road.  The have also gone over in 9 of 10 this season on the road after going over on the road.  Teams have gone over in 14 of 17 since last season as 4->5.5 point dogs after losing + going over in 3 straight.  Utah has gone over in 9 straight after going under on the road this season.  The last 2 meetings between these teams has played over.  Utah has gone over in 4 of their last 5 overall with games averaging a total of 203 points.  Orlando has gone over in 8 of their last 11 overall with totals averaging 199.8 in their last 5 games.  LOSS

2 BONES   San Antonio (-4.5) over L.A. Lakers:  I'll lay the points with the Spurs tonight as they have gone 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games on the road after winning 4 in a row at home.  Teams have gone 13-4 ATS since 1990 as road favorites in conference after winning 4 in a row ATS at home.  Teams have gone 20-3 ATS so far this season as favorites in conference after winning 2 in a row SU + ATS + going over.  Teams have also gone 11-3 ATS as road favorites in conference after winning + going over in 3 straight games.  The Lakers have gone 3-11 ATS this season in conference after winning SU + ATS and are 0-12 ATS in conference after winning 2 in a row SU + ATS since last season.  The Lakers are off an upset win against the Pistons, but will find the scoring tough against the best defensive shooting percentage team in the NBA as the Spurs allow just 42.4% shooting from the field.  WIN

Sunday, March 5, 2006:

3 BONES   Portland/Houston UNDER 181.5:  I have a strong feeling this one will fall under as there are several key trends point that way.  For Portland the under is 13-1-1 in their last 15 games playing Houston after a loss and 3 of their last 4 meetings have gone under the total as well.  Portland has gone under in 19 of 27 games this season against teams off a win.  Portland has gone under in 18 of 28 on the road this season where they average just 85 points per game.  Houston has gone under in 17 of 23 as home favorites this season and under in 11 of 13 since the 2000 season when playing as home favorites after 3 previous home games.  In their last game they held Denver to a measly 78 points.  This contest should be a drag out low scoring affair.  LOSS

Saturday, March 4, 2006:

3 BONES   Detroit/LA Lakers UNDER 186:  I'll stick with Detroit laying the defense against a Lakers team that has problems scoring at times.  Detroit has gone under in 10 straight games as road favorites after 3 straight road games dating back to 1997.  Detroit will be playing back-to-back nights and they have gone under in 12 of 16 games in that scenario this season so far.  Teams have gone under in 10 of 12 since last season as road favorites in non-conference after winning SU + losing ATS + going under.  The Lakers have gone under in 14 of 17 since 1990 as home dogs of 4->5.5 and they have gone under in 8 straight in non-conference play after winning on the road.  The Lakers have gone under in 5 of their last 7 overall and the Piston's have gone under in 8 straight and 14 of their last 16.  LOSS

Friday, March 3, 2006:

2 BONES   Sacramento/Atlanta OVER 196.5:  I like the possibility of this one going over the total as these teams both have stats and trends pointing that way.  Sacramento has gone over in 12 of their last 14 as favorites in non-conference games of 2->3.5 points after winning ATS + going under.  Sacramento has gone over in 8 straight in non-conference play after winning ATS + going under.  Recently they have scored high against week defenses as they scored 115 on Portland and 102 on Golden State.  Atlanta has gone over in 10 of their last 13 at home and in 5 straight as home dogs after winning 2 games in a row ATS.  Teams have gone over in 10 of 11 since 2000 as home dogs of 2->3.5 in non conference after winning ATS + going over in 2 straight games.  The Hawks have gone over in 16 of 18 since the 1990 season as home dogs in non-conference after winning ATS + going over.  LOSS

  5 BONES   Detroit/Seattle UNDER 196.5:  I like the possibility of this one going under the total as Detroit should rebound after their loss and clamp down on defense against the Sonics.  Detroit has gone under in 7 straight where their opponents are averaging just 83.6 points per game over their last 5.  Detroit has also gone under in 10 of 12 since 1990 as road favorites in non-conference after losing + going under on the road.  The under for the Pistons is 18-10-1 on the road so far this season.  Six of the last 7 meetings between these teams have gone under, including their other meeting this season where the total was 183 points.  Seattle has gone under in 10 of 12 since 1990 as dogs to the Pistons.  Seattle will have new players in the line up and it will be hard for them to get into offensive rhythm against a strong defensive team like the Pistons.  WIN

Wednesday, March 1, 2006:

3 BONES   Sacramento/Cleveland UNDER 192:  I expect a lower scoring affair than this lofty number tonight.  Sacramento has gone under in 9 of 10 since last seaosn as road dogs after winning SU + ATS + going over and in 10 of 12 on the road in non-conference after going over.  The Kings have gone under in 3 of their last 4 overall and have averaged totals of 188 their last 5 games.  The Cavs have also averaged totals of 188 the last 5 games and have gone under in 3 straight.  The Cavs have gone under in 11 of 13 this season as favorites after a loss and in 12 of 14 since last season after losing 3 in a row.  Dating back to 1990, the Cavs have gone under in 11 of 13 as 2->3.5 point favorites after 3 losses SU + ATS.  Artest should be able to slow down LeBron enough to keep this one under the total.  WIN

2 BONES   Memphis (-12) over New York:  The Knicks have just been horrible lately on the road.  They will be playing their third in a row on the road and they lost their previous two by 21 to Washington and by 28 to the Spurs.  The road game before that at Dallas they got drilled by 28.  The Knicks have gone 1-8 ATS on the road in their last 9 games and are 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games overall.  Memphis has gone 10-2-2 ATS at home after a win this season.  They have also gone 11-3 ATS at home after winning + going over since last season.  The Grizzlies have won 10 in a row ATS as home favorites in non-conference games after winning + going over.  Memphis defends their home court well as they have gone 16-9-2 ATS at home this season.  Should be another blowout tonight.  LOSS

4 BONES   Portland (+6.5) over LA Lakers:  The Trailblazers have struggled lately but will be playing with revenge in their eyes after getting thumped by 17 in LA a week ago.  Portland has gone 10-3-2 ATS as home dogs in conference after losing 3 in a row since the 2000 season.  Also since that time, Portland has gone 8-0-1 ATS after losing 6 games in a row.  The Lakers are coming into tonight's game playing their 5th game in 7 nights.  Fatigue will be a factor as the Lakers have gone 4-9 ATS on 0 days rest this season.  The Lakers have gone 8-24 ATS (1-7 ATS in their last 9) when playing as road favorites in conference after 2 home games since the 2000 season.  It's hard to see the Lakers having enough energy to blow anybody out on the road when playing the previous night at home.  WIN

Monday, February 27, 2006:

4 BONES   Toronto (+9.5) over Miami:  It doesn't seem to matter if the Raptors play on the road or at home as they have comparable records at both.  In fact the Raptors have thrived on the road this season as they have gone 19-8-2 ATS.  They are ending a 5 game road trip tonight and have been competitive in every game as they have gone 2-1-1 ATS so far.  Toronto has gone 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall and are 13-3 ATS as dogs of 7 or more points this season.  Miami has lost 2 in a row ATS as home favorites in conference after winning 4 games in a row.  The Heat have also lost 2 games in a row ATS at home after winning 5 in a row.  Miami should win, but I think the Raptors will make it interesting.  WIN

4 BONES   San Antonio (-14.5) over New York:  The Spurs have started settling in at home after playing many games on the road as they have won and covered in their last 2 home games by 17 and 25 points.  The Spurs have won 4 of the last 5 meetings ATS with the Knicks and are a perfect 3-0 ATS as favorites of 14 or more points this season.  The Knicks have lost 4 in a row as road dogs after losing and going under in 2 in a row.  The Knicks have gone 0-1 ATS as dogs of more than 14 points this season and will be in trouble tonight in this hostile environment.  The Knicks may be playing with a hobbled Marbury tonight as he has re-aggravated a shoulder injury that led the Knicks to a 1-10 record without him earlier this season.  The Knicks have the fewest road wins in the NBA and should get pummeled tonight.  WIN

Sunday, February 26, 2006:

4 BONES   Cleveland/Detroit OVER 184:  I look for a higher scoring contest in this game as LeBron will not have as dismal a night as he had the other night against Washington.  The Cavs still have gone over in 4 of their last 5 games where they have averaged totals of a blistering 205.2 points per game.  Their average total of each game this season has been 193, that's 9 points higher than this posted total.  Detroit has gone over in 10 of their 11 games this season when playing after winning + going under on the road.  They have also gone over in 12 of 15 since the 2000 season at home in division after going under in 3 straight.  The Pistons have averaged totals of 193 points per game at home this season and the over has gone 15-11-1 this season in that spot.  LOSS

Saturday, February 25, 2006:

  10 BONES   Miami (-14) over Seattle:  The Heat are playing their best basketball of the year and are well rested as they are playing just their second games since the All-Star break.  Seattle is ending a 6 game road trip playing their 4th game in 5 nights, so fatigue will be a factor.  On the trip the Sonics are 1-4 ATS so far.  Seattle has gone 1-10 ATS on the road after an under this season, 2-11 ATS in their last 13 overall, 3-11 ATS since last season on the road after losing SU + ATS + going under on the road, and 1-11 ATS this season on the road against winning teams.  Miami has gone 5-1 ATS in their last 6 overall and are 15-4-1 ATS since last season at home after winning 4 in a row.  Miami has also gone 5-1-1 ATS since 2000 in non-conference games at home after winning + going under on the road.  Teams have gone 14-4 ATS since 1990 when playing as home favorite of 14->15.5 in non conference after winning 2 in a row on the road.  Teams have gone 17-4 ATS this season at home after winning 4 in a row SU + ATS.  I like a big blowout tonight.  LOSS

Friday, February 24, 2006:

3 BONES   Denver/Minnesota UNDER 193.5:  This game was picked by a consensus of formulas that has won 72% of the totals it has predicted this season so far.  Denver has gone under in 10 of the 12 games they have played on the road this season after going under in their previous game.  With the trade situation, it's hard to see the Nuggets putting up 108 points as they have in their past 8 games.  Minnesota has gone under in 9 of 10 games in conference after going under on the road this season.  The T-Wolves have also gone under in 9 of their last 10 against Denver after losing ATS.  Minnesota has gone under in 3 straight and in 7 of their last 10 overall.  Minnesota averaged just 183 points per game this season and this one should fall under the total.   LOSS

2 BONES   Chicago (+5) over Detroit:  The Bulls are playing the best basketball they have all season and should put forth a great effort tonight against the Piston.  Chicago has won 5 in a row ATS, going 12-3 ATS since last season at home in conference after winning 2 in a row ATS.  They have won two in a row SU + ATS at home.  Detroit has gone just 2-12 ATS the last 2 season on the road after losing 2 in a row ATS.  They have gone just 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games overall and seem to be laying too many points against a hot team at home this evening.   LOSS

Thursday, February 23, 2006:

 5 BONES   Memphis (+8) over Dallas:  The Mavericks have been one of the most talked about teams at the All-star break and the public is in love with them.  This points spread seems too high for a Memphis team that has the best defense in the NBA.  Memphis has won 4 games in a row and are 19-8-2 ATS after a win this season.  Memphis has gone 13-1 ATS in their last 14 as road dogs after winning at home.  Teams have gone 14-1-1 ATS as road dogs of 6->7.5 in conference after going under in 3 straight game since last season.  Memphis has played Dallas close in their last few meetings and will be seeking revenge for a 1 point loss earlier to the Mavs this season at home.  Dallas has gone 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games, including two losses in a row ATS in tight games at home against the Clippers and the Wizards.  I like the Grizzlies to play strong tonight.  LOSS

Wednesday, February 22, 2006:

2 BONES   Cleveland/Philadelphia UNDER 194:  I'll take my chances that this one will fall under this high total as a consensus of formulas that have predicted totals at 73.6% this season made this a unanimous pick.  The Cavaliers have gone under in 9 of the 10 games they have played this season as road dogs after winning 2 games in a row.  The Sixers have gone under in 11 of their last 12 games as home favorites after going over on the road in their previous game.  They have also gone under in 9 straight as home favorites of PK->1.5.  This total is surprising if you look at the Sixers scoring output recently as they have averaged just 91.4 points per game in their last 5 games with one of them going to overtime.  LOSS

2 BONES   Phoenix (-12.5) over Boston:  The Celtics are coming off a road win at Utah and Boston has gone 2-13 ATS since last season after winning SU + ATS + going over on the road.  They have also gone just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 on the road overall.  Boston has gone 5-13 ATS since the 2000 season after going over in 5 straight games.  Phoenix is well rested and should run tonight as they have gone 8-2 in their last 10 SU and have won 2 in a row ATS convincingly heading into the break.  With the Suns being fresh and the Celtics playing back to back, I like the Suns in a blow out tonight.  LOSS

3 BONES   Charlotte/Portland UNDER 191:  I'll take the under in this situation as both of these teams are near the bottom of the league in offensive output.  Charlotte has averaged 85.4 points per game in their last 5 (scored 84 last night) and Portland has averaged 85.6 points per game in their last 5 (scored 82 last night).  Portland has gone under in 7 straight at home and in 7 of their 9 games on 0 days rest this season.  Teams have gone under in 10 of 11 as home favorites of 2->3.5 in non-conference games after losing 2 in a row ATS on the road since the 2000 season.  Charlotte has gone under in 4 of their last 6 on the road and the last 3 meetings between these two teams has gone under the total.  LOSS

Tuesday, February 21, 2006:

2 BONES   Cleveland (-9.5) over Orlando:  The Cavaliers have won the last 4 meetings ATS, including the last two in Cleveland by totals of 18 and 19 points.  The Cavs have gone 10-1-1 ATS as favorites in conference after winning 2 games in a row.  Teams have gone 17-3 ATS this season as home favorites in conference after winning + going over in 2 straight.  Orlando has gone just 1-11-1 ATS in their last 13 as dogs after losing SU + ATS.  Orlando is also just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 on the road and 0-5-1 ATS the last 2 seasons as road dogs of 8->9.5 points when playing in conference.  The Cavaliers should be well focused after last seasons collapse after the All-star break.  I'll lay the points with the home team here. WIN

2 BONES   Toronto/Memphis UNDER 187:  I'll take the under in this situation as Memphis should control the pace as they are one of the best defensive teams in the league.  Toronto has gone under in 10 of their last 11 meetings against the Grizzlies.  The Raptors have gone under in 5 straight overall and in 5 straight on the road.  Memphis has gone under in all 10 games this season as home favorites after a home game.  They have also gone under in 8 of their last 9 as home favorites of 6->7.5, 17 of 20 at home after winning 2 in a row the past 2 season, and 14 of their last 19 overall at home.  Memphis has gone under in 6 of their last 9 overall and should do their part to keep this one under the total tonight.  WIN

3 BONES   San Antonio (-12.5) over Seattle:  The Spurs have gone 13-4 ATS the last 2 seasons at home after losing SU + ATS on the road.  They have won and covered in the last 4 meetings against the Sonics in San Antonio.  Teams playing in the Spurs postition of being at home after 6 games on the road have gone 10-2-3 ATS over the past 2 seasons.  Seattle has gone 0-9 ATS on the road after going under this season.  They have also gone 6-22-1 ATS in conference games this season (losing 8 straight).  Teams have gone 2-10 ATS this season as road dogs after losing SU + ATS + going under on the road in 2 straight games.  Seattle has gone 1-9 ATS in their last 10 overall and 2-12 ATS in their last 14 as road dogs after losing 2 in a row ATS.  I'll lay the points with the home team in a blow out tonight.  WIN

Thursday, February 16, 2006:

2 BONES   Chicago (-4.5) over Philadelphia:  The Bulls are not a good team at home this season, but should be focused enough tonight to get the home win against a tired Sixers team.  The Bulls have struggled this season due to their lack of size inside.  This should be negated tonight as the Sixers center Dalembert is questionable after he injured his wrist last night.  Speaking of last night, Philly played an OT game against the Spurs and won.  Fatigue should be a factor and teams have gone just 3-11 ATS as road dogs this season after winning SU + ATS + going over at home.  Philadelphia is just 10-14 ATS on the road and the Bulls should be more hungry for this win with the Sixers having a let down.  WIN

Wednesday, February 15, 2006:

  5 BONES   Miami/Orlando UNDER 194.5:  These teams played last night and the play should be as sharp in a 0 rest scenario.  The Heat have gone under in 10 straight games on the road in division play  after winning + going over at home.  Orlando has gone under in 6 of their last 10 and in 7 of their 10 division games so far this season.  Orlando has averaged a total of 185 points in their home games and they have gone under in 12 of 14 since 2000 as home dogs in division games.  Teams have gone under in 12 of the 13 games played since last season as home dogs of 4->5.5 points in division after losing SU + ATS on the road.  With a formula that has predicted totals at over 66% this season picking this game, I like this game to sink under the total.  LOSS

3 BONES   San Antonio/Philadelphia OVER 185.5:  The Sixers are averaging total scores of nearly 203 points per game in their home contests this season.  In the last 5 meetings between these teams the over has taken the cash 4 times.  The Spurs are in the midst of a long road trip an they have gone over in 10 straight on the road in non-conference after losing 2 in a row ATS.  The Spurs have also gone over in 13 of 15 since last season when playing on the road in non-conference after losing ATS.  This season in the NBA, teams have gone over in 15 of 18 as road favorites in non-conference after losing 2 in a row ATS.  The Spurs have gone over in 3 of their last 4 and this trend should increase tonight as the Sixers will look to push the pace. WIN

Tuesday, February 14, 2006:

2 BONES   Chicago (-2) over Sacramento:  The Bulls return home after a 7 game road trip and will be seeking revenge for the 18 point loss they received at Sacramento in the middle of it.  Chicago is 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games and 7-1 ATS in their last 8 at home after winning SU + ATS + going under on the road.  Teams have gone 14-4 ATS as home favorites of 2->3.5 in non-conference games after winning on the road since last season.  The Bulls have also gone 18-6-2 ATS since last season as favorites after winning ATS.  Sacramento is just 3-7 ATS on the road against sub .500 teams this season.  Teams have gone 3-12 ATS as road dogs of 2->3.5 after winning 4 games in a row ATS since last season.  I like Chicago to extract a little bit of revenge and get the home win tonight.  LOSS

Monday, February 13, 2006:

3 BONES   San Antonio/Cleveland OVER 179:  The road traveling Spurs should be a little weary in the legs and the defense should slack some to allow the Cavs to set a fast pace.  The Spurs have gone over in 9 straight as road favorites in non-conference3 games after losing ATS.  Teams have gone over in 10 of 12 games as road favorites in non-conference after winning SU + losing ATS.  The Cavs have gone over in 8 straight games as dogs in non conference after going under in 2 straight (over is 14-3 since 2000).  Dating back to 1990, the over is 23-5 when the Cavs are home dogs in non- conference games after an under.  Cleveland hasn't see a total posted this low for any of their games so far this season.  With 3 of the last 4 meetings going over, this one seems to be the 4th.  WIN

Sunday, February 12, 2006:

2 BONES   Indiana (+5.5) over San Antonio:  These two teams are playing in opposite situations as far as being on the road and at home.  The Spurs will be playing their 6th game in a row on the road and the Pacers will be playing their 5th game in a row at home.  The Spurs are playing with the pressure of setting a franchise record of 9 straight wins on the road.  It'll be tough against a Pacer team that has won their previous 4 games at home SU + ATS.  The Pacers have won 7 games in a row ATS in non-conference at home (19-5 since last season).  Teams have gone 15-4 ATS at home after winning 4 in a row SU + ATS this season.  Teams have gone 14-5-1 ATS since last season as home dogs in non-conference after 3 home games.  I'll grab the points here as I think the traveling will catch up to the Spurs.  WIN

Saturday, February 11, 2006:

2 BONES   Charlotte/Milwaukee UNDER 193:  The Bobcats have been decimated with injuries yet again as Brevin Knight is hurt and their offense will struggle.  This was evident last night when they managed to score a measly 73 points.  Charlotte has gone under in 3 of their last 4 games on the road and in their last 2 trips to Milwaukee.  The Bucks have gone under in 8 of their last 10 games overall and are also hurt at the guard position with Mo Williams' 14.7 points per game missing.  In his absence they have gone under in 5 of their 6 games.  The Bucks have averaged just 176 points in their game on average in their last 5 and have gone under in 9 of their last 10 games at home.  This looks like a great opportunity for a low scoring contest tonight.  WIN

Friday, February 10, 2006:

2 BONES   Portland/Boston OVER 182:  The new look Celtics haven't had any luck getting a win mainly due to their poor defense as they have averaged 194 points per game in their last 5.  Portland has averaged 189.6 points per game in their last 5.  Portland has gone over in 2 of their last 3 on the road.  Boston has gone over in 9 of their 12 non conference games this season after an over.  Teams have gone over in 21 of 25 this season as home favorites in non conference after 3 losses in a row.  This is the lowest total line of the season for Boston and the other two that were between 180 and 185 both went over the total.  Portland has shown the ability to put up points against poor defensive teams and the Celtics have given up more than 100 in 4 of their last 5 games.  WIN

3 BONES   Phoenix (-9.5) over Sacramento:  The Suns will be more rested and focused to get a win before they head out on the road.  Teams playing as home favorites of 8->9.5 points after 3 home games have gone 14-4 ATS since last season.  Sacramento has gone just 1-12 ATS in their last 13 on the road after winning 3 games in a row SU + ATS.  The Kings were in the public spotlight last night getting a blow out win over Chicago.  They have also gone just 2-10 ATS as road dogs after winning ATS at home since last season.  The Kings have lost 5 in a row ATS on the road after a win and have gone 4-17 ATS since 1990 against Phoenix after winning 2 in a row.  I'll lay the point with the Suns running in their 4th home game in a row tonight.  LOSS

  5 BONES   Denver (+6) over Dallas:  The Mavericks are in the spotlight and have won 13 in a row, but laying 6 point on the road in thin air on 0 days rest seems like too much.  The Mavs have gone 3-7-2 ATS on 0 days rest this season and are also 0-6 ATS as 6->7.5 point favorites after a win.  Teams have gone 8-19 ATS as road favorites after 4 wins SU + ATS since last season.  Denver has gone 11-4 ATS since the 2000 season at home in conference after losing 3 games in a row ATS.  The Nuggets have dropped 9 in a row ATS and will be hungry for a home win that could turn momentum around this season.  The Nuggets have not be a dog by this much at home all season and are 4-2 ATS as 6->6.5 point dogs on the season.  I'll grab the points and the home team in this one.  WIN

Wednesday, February 8, 2006:

3 BONES   New York/New Jersey UNDER 192:  The Knicks look like a team that may go on an under streak that will last a long time.  New York has gone under in their last 3 games and that is due to the loss of Stephan Marbury.  His missing contribution has caused their offense to go in a downward spiral.  Teams playing in conference on the road after 2 wins ATS and going under at home have gone under in 14 of their next 19 games since last season.  New Jersey has gone under in 7 of their last 10 and in 16 of 25 at home this season.  The under is 5-0-1 since last season for teams playing as home favorites of 10->11.5 in division after a home game since last season.  The Nets have also gone under in 9 of their last 10 in division after going over in 2 straight at home.  WIN

Tuesday, February 7, 2006:

2 BONES   Memphis/Sacramento UNDER 179:  Memphis has been prone to go under in this spot on many occasions in their past.  Memphis has gone under in all 8 games this season after losing 2 in a row and under in 10 of their 12 this season off of 2 days rest.  Since last season for Memphis the under is 11-2 on the road after 2 losses and 8-0-1 on the road after going under on the road.  Sacramento has gone under in 4 of their last 5 overall and their defense has improved every game after they acquired Ron Artest.  Four of the last 5 meetings between these two teams have gone under the total.  With this being a consensus of formulas pick that has won at a 68% clip this season, we'll risk two bones for a low scoring contest tonight.  LOSS

Monday, February 6, 2006:

2 BONES   Philadelphia (-3) over Houston:  The Houston Rockets will be playing on back-to-back days and they have gone just 4-7 ATS in that spot this season.  The Rockets are not playing well even with Yao Ming back at they have gone 1-5 ATS in their last 6 overall.  Philadelphia is a solid 9-3 ATS against the Western Conference at home and are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games overall.  Philadelphia has gone 4-1 ATS in their last 5, 3-2 SU with those losses to two of the best the NBA has to offer in Detroit and Phoenix, as they played without Iverson.  Iverson will play tonight and the Sixers should be able to cover the spread against a struggling Rockets team.  LOSS

3 BONES   New Orleans/New Jersey OVER 181.5:  There are many trends that point to this one going over, including a formula that has hit at 73.3% so far this season.  New Orleans has over in 4 straight games and the over is 14-9 in their games on the road this season.  This season teams have gone over in 11 of the 12 games played as dogs after winning ATS + going over at home in 2 straight games.  Since the 2000 season, the Nets have gone over in 13 of 17 in non-conference after winning 3 in a row ATS and in 10 of 12 as home favorites of 6->7.5 points after winning + going over at home.  The Nets average a total of 191.8 points a game at home this season and the Hornets average 189.2 on the road.  WIN

Sunday, February 5, 2006:

2 BONES   LA Clippers/Toronto OVER 203:  There are many trends that point to this one going over, as well as a formula that has predicted totals at a 63% clip this season.  The Clippers are on their 4th game of this road trip where 2 of the first 3 went over easily.  LA has gone over in 9 of 11 games on the road in non-conference after 4 wins ATS since the 2000 season.  They have also gone over in 14 of their 16 games since 1990 on the road in non conference games after winning 4 in a row ATS.  Toronto has averaged a total of 211.4 points per game in their last 5 contests and have gone over in all 10 games this season after winning 3 games in a row ATS.   Teams have gone over in all 10 games played since last season as 4->5.5 point dogs in non conference games after winning 2 in a row ATS at home.  WIN

Saturday, February 4, 2006:

4 BONES   Portland/Denver UNDER 192:  The last 2 meetings between these two teams have gone under the total and this should be the third.  Portland will be a tired team playing on 0 days rest in the mile high city and they have gone under in 6 of their 7 games with no rest this season, scoring just 81.9 points per game in those contests.  They have also gone under in 8 of their last 9 overall and in 13 of 18 since 2000 as road dogs in division after 2 home games.  The under has gone 9-1-1 for the Trailblazers in their last 11 as road dogs of 10->11.5.  Denver has gone under in 6 of their last 7 overall and in 16 of 20 since 2000 at home in conference after losing 4 games in a row.  The last 2 meetings between these teams have gone under and tonight's game seems like a prime spot for the under to take the cash again.  LOSS

Friday, February 3, 2006:

2 BONES   Sacramento/Utah OVER 187:  These teams have had a recent history of going over the total, both in their games recently and in their match-ups against each other.  Sacramento has gone over in 10 of their last 11 games at Utah after winning at home in their previous game.  Sacramento has gone over in 4 of their last 6 games overall and in 4 of their last 5 games on the road.  The Kings average a high mark of 197 points a game when they play on the road this season and they have averaged 203 points in their last 5 games overall.  Utah has gone over in 8 of their last 10 games overall and in 10 of their last 13 games overall.  In head-to-head contests recently, these teams have gone over in 4 of their last 5 meetings and I suspect tonight's contest will be the same.  LOSS

Thursday, February 2, 2006:

2 BONES   Cleveland/Miami UNDER 199:  These two teams have a history of going under the total recently when they meet.  The have gone under the total in 4 of the last 5 meetings head-to-head and 6 of the last 7 meetings in Miami have been low scoring affairs going under the total.  Both teams have averaged under this total in their last 5 games as the Heat have scored 196 in their games and the Cavs have scored 194 in theirs.  The Cavs scoring has gone down without Hughes as they have gone under in 10 of the 16 games without him.  The Cavs have gone under in 9 of their last 10 games in conference with an 8->9.5 point spread.  Teams have gone under in 8 of 9 as road dogs this season when playing a conference game after 5 wins in a row.  WIN

Wednesday, February 1, 2006:

2 BONES   Minnesota/Detroit OVER 184:  These two teams combined for a total of 190 points in their earlier match up this season just last month.  Minnesota has now gone over in 5 straight games where the average score was a total of 191.  After their big trade, I expect the totals of their games to go up as they should incorporate a more up tempo style of game.  Detroit has gone over in all 7 games they have played this season at home after going under on the road.  At home the Pistons have made the over a combined 15-6-1 so far this season.  The over has gone 4-1-1 in the Pistons last 6 games and I expect a high scoring affair tonight. LOSS

  5 BONES   Memphis (+1.5) over Dallas:  The Mavericks have won 9 in a row, but tonight that should come to a halt.  Dallas has gone 0-10 ATS since 1990 as PK->1.5 point favorites after losing ATS + going under and are coming off a tough game at home last night against the Bulls.  Teams have gone 2-11 ATS after winning 8 games in a row this season and they are also 0-5-1 ATS as road favorites in division after losing ATS + going under.  Memphis is playing their last game at home before a long road trip and know how important it is for them to get a win tonight.  The Grizzlies have gone 10-1 ATS at home this season after a win.  I expect the Grizz to put on one of their best performances of the year.  WIN

Tuesday, January 31, 2006:

3 BONES   Chicago/Dallas OVER 195:  There are many trends to support the over tonight.  Chicago has gone over in 7 of 8 games this season after winning at home and in 13 of their last 14 on the road in non-conference after winning ATS + going over at home.  Dallas has gone over in all 7 games as home favorites after winning ATS this season and they have gone over in 10 straight at home after winning SU + ATS in 2 straight.  Teams have gone over in 13 of 15 since last season as road dogs in non-conference after winning 2 in a row SU + ATS at home.  Both teams have won 3 in a row SU + ATS and teams playing non-conference opponents after that this season have gone over in 25 of the 30 games.  I expect a high scoring shoot out tonight. LOSS

2 BONES   Denver (+3) over Sacramento:  The Nuggets have Camby back and the cobwebs should be off and the Nuggets should get back on track after losing 3 in row ATS.  Denver has gone 10-2 ATS in their last 12 as road dogs in conference after 3 unders and 10-3 in their last 13 ATS after losing 3 in a row ATS.  Teams have gone 16-2 ATS this season as road dogs of 2->3.5 in conference after a loss.  Since 2000, teams have gone 10-1-1 ATS on the road after losing 4 in a row ATS + going under.  Sacramento has gone 1-5 ATS in their last 6 overall and are 1-11 ATS against Denver when the Nuggets are coming off a loss ATS on the road. LOSS

Monday, January 30, 2006:

3 BONES   Charlotte (+9) over Cleveland:  The Bobcats have lost 11 straight games, but trends say they will cover ATS tonight.  Teams have gone 22-1 ATS since last season in conference play after losing 9 in a row.  Teams have gone 6-0 ATS this season as dogs in conference after losing 8 in a row.  Charlotte has gone 7-0 ATS this season as 8->9.5 point dogs after losing and are 11-5-1 ATS on 1 days rest.  The Bobcats have also gone 10-2-1 ATS in their last 13 as home dogs in conference after a road game.  Cleveland has not layed this many point on the road so far this season and are just 9-12 SU on the road this season.  The Cavs are also just 3-6-1 ATS on 0 days rest this season.  LOSS

2 BONES   Milwaukee/New Orleans OVER 186.5:  I like this game to go above this total as 4 of the last 6 meetings between these two teams have.  Milwaukee has gone over in 12 of 13 games as dogs in non-conference after winning 2 in a row ATS since the 2000 season.  Milwaukee has also gone over in 4 of their last 5 on the road and 9 of their last 10 after winning 2 in a row SU + ATS since last season.  Teams have gone over in 14 of 16 since last season as road dogs in non-conference games after winning 2 in a row ATS at home.  New Orleans has gone over in 6 of the 8 games played this season where the total line for their game was set between 185 - 189.5.  WIN

Sunday, January 29, 2006:

3 BONES   L.A. Lakers/Detroit UNDER 196.5:  These teams have gone over a lot recently and the books have adjusted as this is the highest total the Pistons have seen in their last 6 games.  The Lakers average 191 points in their games on the road and the Pistons have averaged 190 points in their games this season.  The Lakers have gone under in 9 of 11 games this season after winning 2 in a row (under in all 6 non-conference).  They have also gone under 21 of 27 since 2000 as road dogs after 2 straight home games.  Teams playing at home in non-conference games have gone under in 12 of 15 since 1990 after winning SU + losing ATS + going over in 2 straight games and under in 10 of 12 since 2000 after winning 10 games in a row SU.  WIN

Saturday, January 28, 2006:

3 BONES   Charlotte (+14.5) over Washington:  There are many trends that support Charlotte in this spot.  Teams have gone 11-1 ATS as road dogs in conference this season after losing 5 straight and teams are 12-3-1 ATS as road dogs of 12->13.5 in conference after 10 losses in a row since 1990.  Charlotte has gone 20-2-1 ATS (winning 13 straight) in conference after losing + going under.  The Bobcats have gone 9-1-1 ATS this season on the road after a home game and are 12-3-1 ATS as road dogs this season.  Washington has gone 1-12 ATS in their last 13 at home after losing ATS + going under.  They have also gone 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 at home in division after 2 games on the road.  WIN

2 BONES   Denver/L.A. Clippers UNDER 194.5:  These teams went under the total last night and have each averaged less than this total in their last 5 games overall.  The Nuggets have gone under in 4 straight and have gone under in 8 of their 9 games this season on the road after going under in their previous game.  The Clippers have also gone under in 4 straight, of which they have won SU + ATS as well.  Teams have gone under in 11 of 14 games this season as home favorite in conference after winning 4 in a row SU + ATS + going under.  Teams have also gone under in 13 of 17 since 1990 in 2->3.5 point games after winning SU + ATS + going under in 4 straight.  WIN

Friday, January 27, 2006:

 5 BONES   Cleveland (-3.5) over Indiana:  The Cavs have won 2 in a row on the road and have gone 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.  Indiana will play their first full game without Jermaine O'neil and are already short handed in the paint.  Illgauskis for the Cavs should have a solid game.  The Cavs have gone 11-1 ATS as favorites after winning 2 in a row this season and have gone 13-3-1 ATS as favorites in conference.  Cleveland, who has gone 8-0 ATS this season as favorites after 3 wins in a row, trashed the Pacers earlier this week by 30 points.  Indiana has gone 1-11-1 ATS since last season at home in conference after losing on the road.  Indiana has lost 4 in a row SU and are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall.   WIN

2 BONES   Washington (+3.5) over Chicago:  The Bulls have had a horrible time at home this season as they have gone 5-16 ATS overall, 2-9 ATS in their last 11, and have dropped 4 straight ATS in the united center.  The going will be tough tonight again as the Bulls are banged up.  Kirk Hinrich is hurt in several spots and is questionable to play tonight.  Washington has gone 11-3-1 ATS in conference after winning SU + ATS + going under.  The Wizards have won 4 of the last 5 meetings SU.  Washington is doing well lately ATS as they have won 6 of their last 8.  I like the Wizards to play better tonight as their talent is healthier than the Bulls who struggle at home.  LOSS

Thursday, January 26, 2006:

3 BONES   Phoenix (+5.5) over Miami:  The Suns are on the second game of a road trip and they have found success in that spot so far this season.  This is the fifth time it has happened and they are a perfect 4-0 SU + ATS.  Phoenix is a solid 11-7 ATS on the road this season and they have gone 30-12 ATS on the road in non-conference games after 2 losses ATS since the 1990 season.  Miami has gone just 8-11 ATS at home so far this season and they are a dismal 1-12 ATS in their last 13 games in non-conference after winning ATS + going under at home (1-6 ATS at home).  Teams have gone just 7-17 ATS since last season as home favoirtes of 4->5.5 points in non-conference games after winning 2 games in a row SU + ATS.  I like the Suns to keep it close tonight.  WIN

Wednesday, January 25, 2006:

   5 BONES   Chicago (+1.5) over Toronto:  The Bulls have won 10 straight meetings SU + ATS over the Toronto Raptors and have taken 8 straight meetings after going over in their previous game.  That stretch includes a 9 point win at home and an 11 point win on the road this season.  The Bulls are well rested with 3 days off after beating Indiana on the road in their last game.  Toronto is coming home off a 5 game road trip and have only had 1 day to rest before this game.  Toronto has gone 0-11 ATS since 1997 at home after playing 5 straight on the road.  This season, teams have gone just 2-12 ATS as home favorites after losing + winning ATS + going under on the road.  I like the Bulls to get the road win where they have been good all season long.  WIN

Tuesday, January 24, 2006:

4 BONES   Sacramento/Philadelphia UNDER 204:  There are many trends that support this one going under the total.  The Kings have gone under in 4 of their last 5 on the road and the Sixers have gone under in 4 straight overall.  For the Kings, the under is 10-1 since 2000 in non-conference after losing 2 in a row SU + ATS and 9-0 on the road after going over on the road since last season.  Philadelphia has gone under  in 16 fo 19 since 2000 as home favorites in on-conference after a road game.  Teams have gone under in 10 of 11 games this season as home favorites of 4->5.5 in non-conference games after winning on the road.  The under has won in 7 of the last 10 meetings between these teams.  I gotta jump on this pick for 4 bones as this is as good of play I have seen the past few days.  LOSS

2 BONES   Detroit (-5) over Minnesota :  Hard to see the Pistons not covering in this spot as there are many trends that support that they will do just that.  The Pistons have gone 11-2-1 ATS as road favorites of 4->5.5 points after winning SU + losing ATS since 1990.  They have also gone 11-4 ATS as favorites in non-conference games after winning 5 games in a row.  Minnesota has gone just 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games as home dogs of 4->5.5 points after losing ATS + Going under.   They have also gone 9-23 ATS since 1990 as home dogs after losing 3 in a row ATS.  Teams have gone 4-14-2 ATS as home dogs after 3 losses ATS this season.  WIN

Monday, January 23, 2006:

3 BONES   New Jersey/Utah OVER 183:  The Jazz have torched the over lately as they have topped the total in their game in 6 straight.  This season the over has been a solid bet in this spot.  For Utah, teams have gone over in 24 of 33 after going over in 6 straight and teams have gone over in 11 of 13 in PK-> 1.5 point games after going over in 4 straight.  Teams have also gone over in 30 of 42 as home favorites in non-conference games after losing 2 straight.  Utah has gone over in 10 of 12 games since 2000 as PK->1.5 point favorites.  The Nets have gone under in 5 of their last 6 games, but this is the lowest total posted in their last 5 games so the books have adjusted.  LOSS

Sunday, January 22, 2006:

3 BONES   Washington (-1.5) over Memphis:  The Wizards are playing the type of basketball that made them so successful last season as they have gone 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games, winning 3 straight at home by double digits.  Memphis is in a slump as they have lost 3 in a row SU + ATS.  Memphis has gone 1-12 ATS since 2000 on the road after 2 losses ATS on the road.  They have also gone 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games with a PK_>2.5 point spread after losing 3 in a row.  Teams have gone just 4-20 ATS this season after losing + going under on the road in 2 straight games.  These teams are heading in opposite directions so I will take momentum here.  LOSS

2 BONES   Sacramento/Miami Under 205.5:  These teams have both averaged totals of under 200 points in their games all season, so it's hard to see why the total line is this high.  Miami has gone under in 10 of their 12 games since 2000 when playing at home in non-conference games after losing SU + ATS at home.  The Under for Miami has gone 10-1-1 in their last 12 games at home against the Kings.  In fact 6 of the last 7 times these teams have faced off the under has won the cash.  Sacramento has been going under on the road all season as they have averaged a total of only 193 points in those games this season.  Sacramento has gone under in 4 straight on the road and today looks like the fifth.  LOSS

Saturday, January 21, 2006:

2 BONES   Boston (+7) over New Jersey:  The Celtics should be competitive again tonight as these teams meet for the second night in a row with Boston winning last night at home.  New Jersey has gone 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games and have dropped 3 in a row ATS at home.  Boston has won 7 in a row ATS with 4 of them coming on the road.  The Celtics have won 7 in a row (11 of their last 12) when playing as road dogs of 6->7.5 points after 2 games at home.  When it comes to playing back to back night, you must look at who has the bench advantage.  Tonight it goes to the Celtics and I expect they will hang close in this one.  LOSS

Friday, January 20, 2006:

3 BONES   Utah/Denver UNDER 193 :  This game was an 8-0 consensus pick by a formula of ours that is a perfect 4-0 this season.  Utah has gone under in 14 of 19 since 2000 when playing as 4->5.5 point dogs in division.  Although the Jazz have gone over in 4 straight, the books have adjusted and made this their 3 highest total of the season.  Denver has gone under in 3 straight games and in 10 of 12 since the 2000 season as home favorites after going under in 3 straight.  Teams have gone under in 24 of the 34 games played as favorites in division after losing ATS at home this season.  LOSS

2 BONES   Cleveland (+3) over Golden State :  The key to this game is Baron Davis missing for the Warriors.  They will struggle without him as he averages 18 ppg, 9 assists per game, and is the leader in steals.  In the one game they played without him against Utah earlier this season, they managed to score just 85 points.  The Cavs have lost all 4 games on this road trip, but two were by 1 point and another was by just 2 points.  They know they can get a win against a weakened Warriors team as they have won the last 2 meetings SU + ATS.  The Cavs are 10-2 ATS since last season after losing 2 in a row on the road.  Teams have gone 15-4 ATS this season as road dogs after losing 5 games in a row.  LOSS

   5 BONES   Cleveland/Golden State UNDER 202 :  These teams are playing without key offensive players in this game.  The Cavs are without Hughes and Gooden and the Warriors are without their leader Baron Davis.  The Cavs have gone under in 10 of 11 games since last season after losing 3 games in a row.  Cleveland has gone under in 8 of their last 10 games overall and in 2 straight.  The Cavs have also gone under in 16 of 22 games as road dogs after 4 games on the road.  The Warriors are playing in a spot where teams have gone under in 11 of 14 games since 2000 when playing at home in non-conference after winning + going under.  The Cavs have average a total of 189 points in their last 5 games.  Golden State only scored 85 points in their game without Davis earlier this season.  I like the under as a strong pick tonight.  WIN

Thursday, January 19, 2006:

2 BONES   Detroit/New York OVER 190 :  These teams have played over the total in 8 of their last 10 meetings.  The Knicks have gone over in 10 straight against Detroit after winning ATS since the 2000 season.  Detroit has gone over in 5 straight at New York after winning SU + ATS.  Teams playing as road favorites of 8->9.5 points in conference after a road game have gone over in 9 of 10 games.  The Knicks have gone over in 10 of 13 after losing this season and have gone over in 9 of 10 as dogs in conference this season.  LOSS

Wednesday, January 18, 2006:

2 BONES   Minnesota/Boston UNDER 192 :  This game has several key trends that lead us to the under.  Minnesota has gone under in 10 of 12 games this season after winning ATS and going under.  The have also gone under in 9 of their last 10 on the road after winning SU + ATS.  Boston has gone under in 9 of their last 11 games at home after playing 3 straight games on the road.  Teams in the NBA playing at home in non-conference games after winning 2 games on the road ATS have gone under in their next game 10 of the 12 times it has occurred this season.  Both teams should play enough defense to keep this one under the total.  LOSS

Monday, January 16, 2006:.

2 BONES   New York (+2) over Minnesota:  The Knicks have played well enough recently to rebound off thier loss yesterday in Toronto.  The Knicks return home where they have gone 6-2 ATS in their last 8 and are 3-1 ATS on no days rest this season.  New York has gone 9-1 ATS in non-conference games after playing on the road this season.  Minnesota has lost 5 in a row on the road and are just 1-9 ATS as road favorites in non conference games dating back to last season.  New York has taken the last 4 meetings ATS and should play well here to get the home win.  LOSS

2 BONES   Utah/L.A. Clippers OVER 184:  I'll jump on the over in this spot as there are many favorable trends to my liking here.  Utah has gone over in 12 of their last 15 as road dogs of 2->3.5 in conference games dating back to last season.  The Jazz have gone over in 3 of their last 4 overall and the Clippers have gone over in 5 of their last 7 overall.  The Clippers have gone over in 10 of 12 games at home since last season after winning SU + ATS + going under.  Both teams have been lighting up the over recently, yet this line seems way too low for it to go under.  I'm guessing a high scoring affair here where the winner's going to have to score 100.  WIN

Sunday, January 15, 2006:.

2 BONES   Sacramento (-5) over Orlando:  The Kings are hungry for a win and they have a great chance against a road weary and startled Magic team.  Orlando will play again without 3 key players, including their top scorer in Steve Francis.  Orlando is playing their 4th game in 6 days and fatigue should play a role.  Orlando has gone 0-14 ATS since the 20000 season as 4->5.5 point road dogs after going over in 2 straight.  Teams have gone 4-15 ATS as 4->5.5 point road dogs this season after losing + going over.  Sacramento has gone 18-6 ATS since the 2000 season (winning 5 straight) at home after losing + going under on the road.  Sacramento has won 4 meeting in a row ATS and should make it a 5th here.  LOSS

Saturday, January 14, 2006:.

3 BONES   L.A. Lakers (+2) over Golden State:  The Lakers are easily playing the better basketball between these two teams as they have gone 4-1 SU in their last 5 games and the Warriors have lost 4 in a row SU + ATS.  Teams have gone 3-11 ATS as home favorites in conference after 4 losses ATS since the 2000 season.  In that same time, the Warriors have gone 3-13-1 ATS after losing + going under in 3 straight games.  Golden State has lost 9 in a row as home favorites in division after 2 losses ATS.  The Lakers are playing in a spot where teams have gone 10-0 ATS so far this season.  That is playing as road dogs of 2->3.5 in conference after losing ATS and going over.  WIN

Friday, January 13, 2006:

2 BONES   Washington/Indiana Under 193:  In the last 9 meetings between these two teams, the under has cashed in 66% of the time.  Washington has gone under in 4 straight games and Indiana has gone under in 4 of their last 5 games.  Washington has gone under in all 10 games since the 2000 season as road dogs of 6->7.5 points after winning ATS and going under.  Indiana has gone under in 4 straight (17 of 24 since last season) when playing as home favorites after winning SU + ATS.  Indiana averages 182 points in their games at home this season and tonight should be another defensive battle.  WIN

  5 BONES   Portland (-2) over Orlando:  I'll take advantage of the Steve Francis being suspended situation.  Not only do they lose a great player, this also hurts the teams chemistry.  Speaking of chemistry, the Trailblazers seemingly are starting to put it together after beating the Lakers soundly the other night.  Orlando has lost 5 in a row SU on the road (2-3 ATS).  Portland has gone 7-2 ATS in their alst 9 meetings and are the easiest opponent that Portland has faced so far this month.  Teams have gone 11-2 ATS as home favorites of 2->3.5 point in non conference games after winning SU + ATS this season.  Teams have also gone 32-8 ATS since last season at home in non conference games after going over in 2 straight at home. WIN

Wednesday, January 11, 2006:

3 BONES   Utah (+5) over Philadelphia:  The Jazz have been on a tear lately as they have gone 7-1, both SU + ATS in their last 8 games overall.  This includes their 4 game road trip in which they should stay competitive tonight.  Utah has gone 7-3 ATS in their last 10 meetings with Philadelphia.  Philadelphia has gone 1-12 ATS in their last 13 games as home favorites of 4->5.5 points after winning ATS.   They have also gone 3-12 ATS in their last 15 non conference games at home after winning ATS + going under .  The big edge on the boards goes to Utah here as they out rebound opponents by 5.5 a game and Philadelphia is out rebounded by 2 a game.  WIN

2 BONES  Milwaukee/Indiana Over 186.5:  The line makers have adjusted to recent trends for both teams going under the total and look to have made the line too low in my estimate.  This is the second lowest total line for Milwaukee in their last 9 games.  For Indiana, this is the lowest total line in their last 6 games.  This is due to them going under in 4 straight, where the total skipped under by an average of just 3 points in three of those games.  Milwaukee has gone over in 12 of 15 games since last season on the road in conference after winning SU + ATS (over in 5 straight).  WIN

Tuesday, January 10, 2006:

2 BONES   New Orleans (+8.5) over Detroit:  The Pistons have struggled ATS since their Christmas day win over the Spurs as they are now 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games overall.  The Pistons are ending a long stretch at home where they've played 3 in a row and 8 of their last 9 games.  Teams in the past have found it hard to cover when road favorites of 8->9.5.  Since last season teams went 2-10-1 ATS after a home game and since 2000 teams have gone 3-13 ATS after playing 3 at home then being in this situation.  The Hornets have played well in home games as they have won 3 in a row SU + ATS.  The Hornets have won 3 of their last 4 ATS and should be able to cover, even without their rookie sensation Paul, as Claxton and Snyder combine to be adequate back ups.  LOSS

Monday, January 9, 2006:

Utah (+3) over Washington:  The Jazz are playing their best basketball of the season, while the Wizards are struggling.  Utah has had the better of the last 10 meetings between these teams as they are 7-3 ATS in those contests.  Utah has gone 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games overall, including a straight up win at Detroit.  Washington has gone 0-11 ATS at home after an under since last season and have lost 6 in a row ATS (1-5 SU).  Utah is 11-7 ATS on the road and Washington is 3-11-1 ATS at home.  The edge in this game should come on the boards as the Jazz out rebound opponents by 5 a game and the Wizards are out rebounded by 3 a game.  WIN

Toronto (+6) over Chicago:  The Raptors have won 10 in a row ATS and are 5-1 SU in their last 6 overall.  Toronto is 13-3-1 ATS in the road and have won 7 in a row ATS as road dogs.  In their last 5 games, the Raptors have shot an average over 50%.  The Bulls have been a disappointment this season and their struggles at home has been a main reason.  Chicago has gone 4-12 ATS at home this season and they are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 in their building.  Chicago has gone 2-8 ATS in their last 10 overall and should struggle to cover the spread this evening.  LOSS

Sunday, January 8, 2006:

New Jersey (-4) over Toronto:  The Nets have gone 10-1 ATS since last season when playing as favorites after winning + going over.  They are also 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 as favorites in division after winning 3 in a row.  Teams have gone 11-3-1 ATS this season as road favorites of 4->5.5 after a home game.  Toronto has won 4 in a row ATS and teams have gone 1-13 ATS since 2000 as dogs after winning + going over in 4 straight.  Toronto has gone 1-12-1 ATS in their last 14 games as home dogs in conference.  Toronto has been great on the road, but has struggled at home going 2-11 ATS as home dogs this season, losing 5 of them in a row.  LOSS

Saturday, January 7, 2006:

   Memphis (-2) over Chicago:  The Grizzlies have gone 16-4 ATS after a win this season and are 11-3 ATS since last season on the road after winning ATS at home.  That win for the Grizz was a throttling performance over Utah where they were in control the whole game.  Memphis has gone 21-5 ATS on the road in on conference games after winning SU + ATS at home since the 2000 season.  The Bulls have been a disappointment this season as they have now lost 8 of their last 9 games SU + ATS.  Chicago has gone 3-12 ATS at home this season.  The Bulls will be playing in their 4th game in 6 nights and should show signs of fatigue against a Grizzlies team that was able to rest some players last night.   LOSS

Friday, January 6, 2006:

San Antonio (-9.5) over Minnesota:  The Spurs are looking like they are back in championship form with the return of Manu Ginobili.  Since his return, the Spurs have gone 4-0 SU + ATS winning by double digits in all games.  The Spurs have won 10 straight games at home and are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 at home.  Teams have gone 13-2 ATS this season as favorites in conference after winning 4 games in a row SU + ATS.  Minnesota has lost 3 in a row ATS on the road and 3 in a row ATS against the Spurs.  Since 1990, the Timberwolves have gone 2-10-1 ATS as 10->11.5 point dogs after winning ATS at home.  It's hard to see the Spurs not winning by double digits again.  LOSS

Portland/New Orleans Over 182.5:  The Trailblazers have one of the worst offenses in the league, but this spot seem like they could put up enough to get this one over the total.  This season, the Trailblazers have gone over in 13 of 17 games on the road in conference after losing ATS and going under on the road.  In their last 5 games, Portland has given up 97 points a game and should have trouble limiting the Hornets.  New Orleans has gone over in 5 of their last 6 games as they have averaged a total of 190 points a game in their last 5 games.  Teams have gone over in 16 of 20 games this season at home after winning SU + ATS and going over at home in 2 straight games.  LOSS

Phoenix (+1) over Miami:  The Suns will be gunning for a home win in a big inter conference game.  Phoenix has gone 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games with PK->2.5 point spread at home after winning ATS.  Phoenix has gone 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games.  The Suns have won 12 games in a row ATS as home dogs after a win.  Miami has not been strong on the road this season as they are just 7-10 SU.  Phoenix will try to make this a running game and that will spell doom for the Heat.  Wade has a bruised shin and Shaq is proven in effective in games that are fast paced running games.  Miami is on a road trip so fatigue will be a factor if it does become a running game.  WIN

Wednesday, January 4, 2006:

Cleveland (-2.5) over Milwaukee:  The Cavs have been red hot lately as they have gone 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games and are brimming with confidence after knocking off the Pistons last Saturday.  The Cavs have gone 12-1 ATS as favorites after winning ATS this season.  Teams have gone 16-4-4 since last season as road favorites in division after winning and going under at home.  Milwaukee will again be without TJ Ford and they have struggled to play well without him this season as they have gone just 1-3 ATS in their last 4.  Teams have gone 6-17 ATS this season as home dogs in conference after a win.  Cleveland will be seeking revenge for an earlier loss this season in Milwaukee and should be able to get it tonight.  WIN

Tuesday, January 3, 2006:

Houston/Washington Over 191.5:  There are a bunch of trends that point to this game going over the total.  Houston has gone over in 11 of 12 games since 2000 on the road in non-conference after losing 3 games in a row.  They have also gone over in 6 of their last 8 on the road, including 4 of their last 5 meetings with the Wizards.  Washington has gone over in 13 straight since the 2000 season in non conference play with a point spread of 4->5.5 after going over at home.  Teams have gone over in 10 of 11 game this season as favorites after losing 2 in a row at home.  Teams have also gone over in 11 of 13 as home favorites in non conference after losing ATS and going over at home.  WIN

Toronto (+3.5) over Atlanta:  The Raptors have played very well on the road this season despite their poor record as they have gone 12-3-1 ATS away from home on the year.  Toronto has gone 3-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings between the two teams and they have won 6 games in a row ATS, going 4-2 SU with one of those wins a 6 point win over Atlanta.  Atlanta has lost 3 games in a row, including a home loss to Charlotte.  This season, teams have gone just 4-13-1 ATS as home favorites in conference after losing 3 in a row.  Toronto has played better lately and should cover, if not win this game straight up.  WIN

Portland (+11.5) over Dallas:  The Trailblazers have played well lately as they have amassed a 7-1 ATS mark in their last 8 games overall.  In their last 5 games, Portland has outscored their opponents on average and should be deeper tonight with Telfair back.  Dallas has played down to competition all season as they are 2-7 ATS against losing teams this season.  Dallas has not fared well in this situation in the past as they have gone just 1-12 ATS in their last 13 games at home in conference after winning on the road.  Teams have gone just 3-11 ATS this season as home favorite in conference of 10->11.5 following a win.  LOSS

Saturday, December 31, 2005:

Golden State (+2.5) over Houston:  The Rockets still have many injury issues to deal with as Ming and many other key players will miss this game as well.  The Warriors got a big win in Dallas last night and their confidence should carry them into this very winnable game.  The Warriors will seek revenge for an OT loss earlier this season to the Rockets at home.  The Warriors are 16-4-1 ATS since 2000 after winning + going over on the road when playing as dogs.  Houston has gone just 1-13 ATS since the 2000 season as home favorites in conference after losing and going over.  WIN

Dallas (-4.5) over New Orleans:  The Mavs will be gunning for a win after last night's home loss to Golden State and should find it relatively easy against a Hornets team that has lost 4 games in a row ATS.  The Hornets have also lost 10 straight games ATS at home after losing + going over.  Teams have gone just 4-13-1 ATS since last season as dogs in conference after losing ATS + going over in 3 straight games.  Dallas has gone 12-3-2 since last season after losing + going over.  This season, teams have gone 10-0 ATS as road favorites of 4->5.5 after losing ATS + going over.  Dallas has the superior talent and should win comfortably tonight.  WIN

Friday, December 30, 2005:

 New Jersey (-10) over Atlanta:  The Hawks played a stretch of basketball where they opened eyes.  Now they are back to their losing ways as they have gone 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games.  Playing on the road, the Hawks have been outscored by 10 a game and will be running into a red hot Nets team.  New Jersey has won 4 in a row ATS at home and are 9-1 ATS since last season as favorites in conference after winning at home.  Teams have gone 12-2 ATS this season as favorites in conference after winning 3 games in a row SU + ATS.  New Jersey has won 7 games in a row SU and have gone 7-3 ATS in their last 10 meetings with the Hawks, winning 3 in a row.  LOSS

Thursday, December 29, 2005:

 Miami (+6) over Detroit:  The Pistons have been getting a good deal of press this week after handling the Spurs on Christmas day.  Talk has been of their fast start possibly surpassing the Bulls record mark.  With all the hype, it seems that Detroit is laying too many points to a very good Miami team.  The Heat are getting into their grove with Shaq back as they are 7-2 SU in their last 9 and they outscore their opponents by average on the road.  This season when teams are playing on the road after 4 straight at home they are 14-5 ATS.  The Heats should have a slight advantage on the boards that should keep them close enough to cover tonight.  WIN

Wednesday, December 28, 2005:

New Orleans (-2.5) over Houston:  The Rockets are decimated by injuries as many key players will be out for tonight's game again.  To make it worse, Tracy McGrady most likely won't play as his fiancé went into labor last night when they were playing in Houston.  The Rockets will be playing again without Ming, Anderson, Sura, Barry, and Alston.  Tough to see them competing against a Hornets team that has won 4 of the last 5 meetings ATS, including a 7 point win in Houston earlier this season.  Houston has been outscored by an average of 10 points a game in their last 5.  New Orleans has played well as home and has won 2 of their last 3 SU there, the wins coming against San Antonio and the Clippers, the loss was to Phoenix (all 3 will be playoff teams).  LOSS

Philadelphia (-3) over Portland:  The Sixers have the top scoring offense in the NBA and the Trailblazers are ranked dead last in offense.  Philadelphia should torch the Blazers from beyond the arc as they shoot 40% from there and the Blazers are ranked 27th in the league in perimeter defense.  Portland has gone 0-9-2 ATS in their last 11 games at home after 2 on the road and have been outscored by an average of 4 points a game at home.  Philadelphia has gone 4-1 ATS in their last 5 on the road and are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 meetings with Portland (winning by 24 points in November).  Teams have gone 4-13 ATS since last season as 2->3.5 point dogs after winning 4 in a row ATS (Portand's position tonight).  LOSS

Tuesday, December 27, 2005:

 Utah (+7.5) over Houston:  The Jazz are coming off a big win against Memphis and should keep their momentum going against a very banged up Rockets team.  Houston will be without the services of Yao Ming and Anderson, not to mention a rash of other injuries that has decimated the team.  This puts all the focus on McGrady and it has not fared well for the Rockets so far.  Houston has gone just 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games and have been outscored by and average of 7 points a game in their last 5 overall.  The Jazz's Kirilinko has returned to good health and is playing good basketball.  The main stat tonight will be rebounding as in the last 5 games, the Jazz has out rebounded opponents by 8.6 and the Rockets have been out rebounded by 3.6.  WIN

Friday, December 23, 2005:

Denver (-7) over Houston:  The Nuggets are in desperate need of a win as they have lost 4 in a row and should have an easy go at it against a very banged up Rockets team.  Houston will be without Yao Ming and they were trounced at home by the Raptors by 13 points in their last game.  The Rockets also have the following players injured:  Mutumbo, Anderson, Barry, Alston, and Sura.  Denver has gone 16-5 ATS at home after losing 3 in a row ATS dating back to the 2000 season.  Denver outscores opponents by 7 a game at home and will face a short manned team tonight.  The Nuggets are also 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games as 6->7.5 point favorites.  WIN

Thursday, December 22, 2005:

Cleveland (-1) over Chicago:  This should be a close game, but the Cavs should have be more hungry for a win in this spot and they know they have to win on the road in division.  The Cavs are starting to play the type of basketball they played early in the season as they have now won 3 in a row SU + ATS.  The Cavs have gone 7-0 ATS this season as favorites after winning 2 games in a row ATS.  Teams have gone 11-3 ATS since last season as road favorites in division games after winning SU + ATS.  The Bulls have gone 3-8 ATS on 1 days rest this season and have been inconsistent over their last 10 games.  Over their last 5 games, the Bulls have been outscored on average.  I like the Cavs in this situation tonight.  WIN

Wednesday, December 21, 2005:

New Jersey/Orlando Over 183:  This total seems to be awful low for teams that have averaged scores over this total.  New Jersey has not seen a total for a game posted this low all season and they average a total of 190 points in their games this season.  Teams in the Nets position of being on the road in conference play after 4 straight games at home have gone over in 12 of 15 games this season.  Orlando has gone over in 5 of their last 7 games and are averaging 192 points in their last 5 games overall.  Teams have gone over in 11 of 14 games since last season as home favorites after going under.  Orlando has gone over in 9 of their last 10 as home favorites of 2->3.5 points after going under at home.  LOSS

Toronto (+8) over Houston:  With the perception of being the leagues worst team, the Raptors have been slighted by the lines makers lately and I feel this is another case.  The Raptors have been great on the road as they have won 4 of their last 5 SU (only loss was in OT to Washington).  They are 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 on the road and are 8-4 ATS as road dogs this season.  Houston will be thin inside as Yao Ming is out.  The Rockets have been less than impressive at home as they have been outscored on average and are just 3-6 ATS.  Teams in Houston's position of home favorites in non conference after going under in 2 straight have gone just 4-13 ATS this season.  I'll grab the points again with the Raptors on the road.  WIN

Tuesday, December 20, 2005:

Atlanta (+12) over Miami:  The Hawks are playing their best basketball in years as they have gone 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games and have won 4 of their last 5 straight up (3 against winning teams in Cleveland, San Antonio, and Denver).  In those games they have outscored their opponents by an average of 5 points.  Teams have gone 16-5 ATS since last season in conference after winning ATS and going over in 3 straight games.  Miami has gone just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games.  Teams have gone just 3-11 ATS this season as home favorites in conference after losing ATS and going over on the road.  Miami should win, but the way the Hawks are playing should keep them close enough for a cover tonight.  LOSS

Monday, December 19, 2005:

Toronto (+8.5) over Orlando:  The Raptors are perhaps the worst team in the NBA, but they play their best ball on the road as they have gone 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9.  Orlando has not given this many points to a team all season, the only close total was a 7.5 point spot to New Orleans, a game they lost SU.  Orlando has lost 10 straight ATS in conference games after winning ATS on the road and they have gone 1-11 ATS in their last 12 as home favorites after losing + going over.  This season in the NBA has favored the Raptors in this situation.  Teams have gone 23-8 ATS as road dogs after losing 3 in a row this season and teams have gone 4-13 ATS this season as home favorites in conferenc3e after losing + going over on the road.  WIN

Sunday, December 18, 2005:

Philadelphia (-4) over Toronto:  The Sixers will go on the road after getting whooped by the Heat at home on national TV.  This should keep them fired up enough to win comfortably against who I feel is the worst team in the league in the Raptors.  Philly has gone 11-1 ATS in their last 12 game son the road after losing 2 games in a row ATS.  They have also gone 15-4-2 ATS since last season after losing at home.  Toronto has gone just 1-11-1 ATS in their last 13 games as home dogs in conference.  Since last season, teams have gone 13-4-2 ATS as road favorites of 4->5.5 in division games after a home game.  We'll lay a couple of basket here as the Sixers should roll.  WIN

Saturday, December 17, 2005:

Houston (+4.5) over L.A. Clippers:  The Rockets head into this game full of momentum, while the Clippers are in a tailspin.  Houston has won 5 in a row ATS and the Clippers have lost 3 in a row ATS.  Houston has gone 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games on the road in conference after a win and 8-0 ATS in their last 8 on the road in conference after 2 previous road games.  Teams have gone 13-4-2 ATS since last season in conference after winning 2 games in a row on the road and since 2000 teams are 26-8 ATS on the road in conference after 3 wins in a row on the road.  This season in the NBA, teams in the Clippers position of losing 3 in a row have gone 0-12 ATS as favorites in conference.  LOSS

Phoenix (+4) over Memphis:  The Suns struggled for 3 quarters last night at New Orleans, but caught fire in the 4th quarter and should carry that momentum into tonight's game.  Phoenix has gone 6-2 ATS in their last 8 on the road and has the 1st ranked scoring offense in the league.  Phoenix has win 3 in a row ATS in Memphis.  Memphis has lost 3 in a row ATS and are just 4-14 ATS since 2000 as home favorites in conference after losing 2 straight.  Teams have gone 0-12 ATS this season as favorites in conference after losing 3 in a row.  Memphis has also lost 6 straight ATS since last season at home after going under at home.       PUSH

Utah (+5.5) over Milwaukee:   The Bucks will be traveling back from a game in Boston last night, so the Jazz traveling from Indiana is not a big disadvantage.  Utah has gone 5-2 ATS in their last 7 on the road and has won their last 3 games SU + ATS following a SU + ATS loss.  The Jazz have gone 20-6 ATS since 1990 as road dogs of 4->5.5 points after losing on the road.  Milwaukee has lost 9 games in a row ATS as home favorite against Western Conference opponents, including 2 this season to Golden State and the Lakers.   Milwaukee has also gone 1-9-1 ATS in their last 11 non-conference games after a win.  WIN

Friday, December 16, 2005:

Golden State (-4.5) over Toronto:  The Warriors have been road warriors so far this season as they have gone 5-3 SU and 6-2 ATS.  They matchup well with the Raptors and blew them out by 26 points in their earlier match up this season, making them 3-1 ATS in their last 4 meetings.  Since last season, Golden State has gone 10-1 ATS in non-conference games after losing ATS and going over.  Toronto has been outscored by an average of 8 points a game at home this season, where they are 2-9 ATS having lost 3 in a row.  Since last season, the Raptors are 2-12-1 ATS as 4->5.5 point dogs after going under.  WIN

Miami (-2.5) over Philadelphia:  The Heat are a much better team with Shaq back in the line up and it should pay dividends again tonight as the Sixers don't have a strong inside game.  Philly has gone 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  They have won 4 games in a row SU, but the only quality win in those games was against Minnesota at home, which took them overtime to win.  Miami has won 3 games in a row SU and are starting to play better basketball.  Pat Riley has gone 2-0 so far this season as coach and he has done it on the road.  Miami has a better bench and rebounds the basketball far better than Philadelphia does.  Shaq has had a huge game yet this season, but I have a feeling this might be it.  WIN

   New Orleans (+5) over Phoenix:   I am going to play the emotion card tonight at the Hornets return to Louisianna to play their first home game in their state this season.  It's also an appealing play due to the fact that the Hornets have won 2 in a row and the Suns have lost 3 in a row.  Teams have gone 0-12 ATS as favorites in conference after losing 3 games in a row this season.  The Suns have lost 4 straight games in a row ATS and have scored less than 100 in 4 straight games.  The Suns are just 3-11 ATS after losing on the road dating back to last season.  The Hornets have gone 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 meetings, including a SU win Phoenix on the 12th of this month.  LOSS

Thursday, December 15, 2005:

Seattle (-2.5) over Houston:  The Rockets played a tough game in overtime at Golden State last night and will find it tough to compete on back to back nights as they have gone 0-4 ATS so far in that situation this evening.  Houston has been hot on the road, but as a franchise they struggle in this position.  The Rockets have gone just 3-12 ATS since 1990 as road dogs of 2->3.5 points after winning SU + ATS on the road.  Seattle has won 3 of the last 4 meetings SU + ATS in Seattle and will bring the 4th best offense and a huge over streak to this match up.  Teams have gone 15-4 ATS since the 2000 season after going over in 9 straight.  Teams have gone 113-64 ATS the last 5 seasons after 2 straight games of out rebounding their opponents by 10 or more.  LOSS

Wednesday, December 14, 2005:

   Chicago (-2.5) over Toronto:  The Bulls are coming off a close loss to the Heat last night at home and if history holds true they should get the win and cover tonight.  The Bulls have gone 13-4 ATS since 1990 as road favorites after losing at home.  In the NBA since 1990, teams have gone 12-3 ATS as road favorites after losing SU + winning ATS at home.  This season in the NBA, teams have gone 14-5-1 ATS on the road in conference games after losing + going over at home.  Toronto is one of the worst teams in the league and will find it tough to get a win against a team that has dominated them in recent history.  The Bulls have won the last 9 meetings between these teams, both SU and ATS.  Teams in Toronto's position of home dogs after winning ATS on the road have gone just 5-14 ATS this season.  WIN

Houston (+3) over Golden State:  The Warriors will be retuning home after a tough win over the Sonics on the road in overtime last night.  Even with this win, the Warriors seem to be coming down to earth a little since their hot winning streak.  It should be hard to find their legs against a Houston team that is starting to play well since getting McGrady back and healthy.  T-Mac has led the Rockets to 3 wins in a row SU + ATS.  Houston's defense should keep them in this game as they have allowed an average of just 85.5 points per game in their last 5 games overall.  On the other side, Golden State has allowed over 100 points in 5 straight games.  I like the Rockets to play tough on the road tonight against a tired Warriors team.  WIN

Tuesday, December 13, 2005:

Cleveland (-12.5) over Atlanta:  The Cavs have lost two in a row and will be focused at home to rout the Hawks.  Atlanta should have a let down after defeating the Spurs at home as they have gone 3-11-1 ATS after a win dating back to last season.  Atlanta has lost 7 in a row ATS to the Cavs, including four of those being double digit losses in Cleveland.  Teams have gone 13-3 ATS as home favorites of 12->13.5 in conference games after losing ATS and going over on the road this season.  Atlanta is just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 overall and have struggled on the road all season.  Dating back to last season, the Cavs have gone 38-22-1 as favorites.  LOSS

Minnesota (-4) over Sacramento:  The Wolves come back home after a tough loss on the road in Philadelphia last night and should get the bitter taste out of their mouths against the Kings who lose time due to travel.  Minnesota has gone 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games and have outscored opponents by an average of 7 at home.  The Kings have been outscored by an average of 6 on the road and have gone 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games.  This season, teams have gone 12-2 ATS as favorites in conference after winning 3 in a row ATS and 10-1 ATS as 4->5.5 point favorites in conference games after a loss (Minnesota's position).  Since 1997, teams have gone 3-23 ATS after winning 2 or more in a row ATS and playing a team that has won 6 or more in a row ATS.  LOSS

Miami (-4) over Chicago:  The Heat will gun to make Pat Riley's return to coaching a successful one.  This should be aided by the fact that Shaq is back and should help the Heat get on a roll.  Chicago is not strong on the interior and will have problems with the match-ups inside tonight.  Miami has gone 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings and teams have gone 13-3 ATS as 4->5.5 point favorites in conference games after losing ATS this season.  Chicago has gone just 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games at home and have been outscored on average at home this season.   The Bulls are struggling as they have lost 3 in a row, both SU and ATS.  Gotta like the Heat to win convincingly tonight.  LOSS

Saturday, December 10, 2005:

L.A. Lakers (+7) over Minnesota:  The Lakers will play their fourth game of this road trip as they have won 3 in a row, both SU and ATS.  All three of the wins have been by double digits at Milwaukee, Toronto, and Chicago.  Teams have gone 26-8 ATS since 2000 on the road in conference games after winning 3 straight on the road.  Teams have also gone 59-26 the past 5 seasons as road dogs seeking revenge off a road win of 10 or more points.   The revenge would be the home loss to the Wolves back in November when Minnesota started playing well.  Minnesota has gone 4-0 SU + ATS in their last 4 games and the line has been adjusted as they are big favorites for one of the few times this season.  Teams have gone 2-11 ATS so far this season at home in a conference game after winning SU + ATS + going under on the road.  LOSS

Cleveland/Milwaukee Under 203.5:  These two teams have gone under the total in their last 6 meetings and tonight should be the seventh.  This total posted for this game is the highest one in the last 5 meetings.  Cleveland has gone under in this situation.  The have gone under the total in 3 of their last 4 games on the road and have gone under in 12 of 15 games since 1990 as PK-> 2.5 point dogs after losing ATS at home.  Teams playing in the Cavaliers situation on the road in a division game after losing and going over have gone under in 8 of the 9 games this season.  The Cavaliers average under 200 points per game on the season and the Bucks average 196.8 a game on the season.  LOSS

Seattle (-3.5) over Sacramento:  The Kings have been in a drought and are becoming one of the worst teams in basketball.  Fresh of a home game losing streak of 4 games, both SU + ATS, the Kings have now dropped 5 in a row SU and ATS.  Not good new for them on the road as they are just 1-5 SU where they are being outscored by an average of 10 points per game.  In their last 5 game they have been outscored by and average of 8 points.   Seattle is heading in the other direction as they have gone 4-1 SU + ATS in their last 5 games, outscoring opponents by an average of 7 points a game.  The Sonics have won 5 of the last 6 meetings against the Kings at home and are 4-2 ATS.  Seattle should capitalize on this opportunity to get the win and should do it in convincing fashion.  LOSS

Friday, December 9, 2005:

Dallas (+4) over Memphis:  These teams are both red hot and this should be a well contested game, so points are at a premium.  Dallas will be seeking revenge for an embarrassing 20 point loss at home to Memphis earlier this season.  Dallas is a better team offensively and rebounds better as well.  Dallas has gone 7-2 ATS since 1990 as road dogs of 4->5.5 points after winning ATS on the road.  Memphis is one of the hottest teams in the NBA, but they have lost 2 games in a row at home to Dallas, both SU + ATS.  Dallas has won 3 in a row SU and have gone 3-1 in their last 4 ATS.  This is a statement game and the Mavericks have stepped up to beat the best teams in these games so far this season.  WIN

New Orleans/Portland Under 178.5:  These two teams have gone under the total a lot recently and should again tonight.  New Orleans has gone under in 4 straight game and 7 of their last 9, while Portland has gone under in 5 of their last 7 games.  Portland will be without Miles who provides offense for the Trailblazers.  Portland is playing in a position where teams have gone under in 7 of 8 games this season when playing at home after 3 straight loss SU and ATS.  New Orleans is playing in a position where the under is 9-1 this season when playing as a favorite after 3 straight losses.   The last 2 meetings between these teams have gone under and 4 of the last 6 in Portland have gone under as well (one of the overs was due to an OT game).  LOSS

New York/Phoenix Under 207.5:  These teams should see their way under this lofty total tonight.  The Knicks will be without one of their top scorers in Richardson and without him in LA the other night, the teams combined for a total of 163 points.  New York has not seen a total this high all season and can play good defense at time when needed.  Phoenix will try to control a fast pace, but the Knicks should be able to slow them enough.  New York hasn't seen a total placed this high on a game all season and this is just the second highest total for the Suns in their last 7 games.  New York has averaged a total of 187 points on the road this season in their games, while the Suns average a total of 203 at home.  WIN

Thursday, December 8, 2005:

Houston (+2.5) over Sacramento:  The Rockets have struggled early on in the season due to the loss of McGrady for awhile.  But he has returned from his back injury and says he is as healthy as he has ever been.  He has made a difference as the Rockets have won 2 of their last 3 SU and ATS (they lost to the red hot Grizzlies).  Houston has gone 6-2 ATS in their last 8 on the road and the Kings have lost 3 games in a row, both SU and ATS at home.  Overall the Kings have lost 4 games in a row SU and ATS.  This season teams have gone 1-11 ATS at home after losing 3 games in a row SU + ATS.  In the last 5 meetings between these two, the Rockets have taken 4 of them ATS.  WIN

Wednesday, December 7, 2005:

Charlotte (+2) over New Jersey:  The Nets have lost 2 games in a row at home to Detroit and Toronto and will face a win hungry Bobcats team that is coming home after a winless road trip.  The Nets have gone 2-5 ATS in their last 7.  Vince Carter is hobbled and their success is limited without him.  Charlotte has gone 9-1 ATS in conference this season and are 3-0 ATS in their last 3 at home.  The Bobcats have gone 11-0-1 ATS in their last 12 games at home in conference after a road game.  Teams have gone 9-2 ATS at home after going over in their previous 4 games this season.  Since 2000, teams have gone 14-2-2 ATS as 2->3.5 point home dogs in conference games after losing 3 straight on the road.  Charlotte is in both of those positions tonight and should play at peak performance.  LOSS

Atlanta (+9) over Utah:  The Hawks are one of the most disappointing teams in the league, but should pose enough of a challenge tonight to cover against another disappointing team.  The Hawks have gone 11-1 ATS since the 2000 season as 8->9.5 point dogs after losing SU but winning ATS.  They have also gone 12-0 ATS in that time span as 8->9.5 point dogs after losing 5 games in a row.  Teams playing as road dogs after 3 losses in a row this season have gone 16-4 ATS as road dogs (the Hawks situation).   Utah has struggled since Kirilinko's return from an ankle injury as they have gone just 1-3 ATS.  Utah has gone just 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games at home and should find it tough to pull out a double digit win against anyone.  Teams have gone just 4-14 ATS this season as home favorites in non-conference games after losing and going under.  LOSS

Friday, December 2, 2005:

Memphis (-7) over Orlando:  Memphis is playing their best basketball of the season as they have won 3 in a row SU and ATS.  Add to that the fact that the Grizz has taken 6 of the last 7 meetings between these teams and one of those was 9 point win in Orlando.  Historically Orlando does poorly in this situation ATS, while Memphis thrives.  Dating back to 2001, the Magic have gone 1-11 ATS as road dogs in non-conference games after losing both SU and ATS.  Memphis has gone 24-7-2 ATS since the 2000 season after winning on the road.  This includes an 11-1 ATS record when playing as home favorites against non-conference opponents after winning ATS on the road.  I think Memphis will get off to an early lead and shut down Orlando for the majority of the game.  WIN

Thursday, December 1, 2005:

San Antonio/Dallas Over 187:  The Spurs are a team that prides itself on defense, but they haven't been too good lately as their offense has sparkled as the over in 5-0-2 in their last 7 games on the road.  Dallas has given up nearly 100 points per game in their last 5 games and they have gone over in 5 of their last 6 overall.  Teams in the NBA have gone over in 12 of the last 13 games playing in Dallas' position at home in a 2->3.5 point game after going over on the road.  Since 2000, the Spurs have gone over in 14 of 18 in games with a 2->3.5 point spread after 2 losses in a row ATS.  Out of the last 4 meetings in Dallas, 3 of them have gone over and a formula that has predicted the total correctly in 70% of the games this season has the over as a unanimous choice.  LOSS