I’ll be previewing the WNBA action with a focus on the LA Sparks and Indiana Fever, and why I see value in betting the over.

Indiana enters this game with some confidence after a big 94–86 victory over the Seattle Storm that broke up their two-game losing streak. The win was led by Aliyah Boston with 31 points and Kelsey Mitchell scoring 26 . Caitlin Clark hasn’t been sharp yet this year (1-for-23 from three, six points in the last game) but she continues to dish and feed off-ball players which should also equate to pace and points . The Fever score 84.0 ppg on the year, and are firmly in the green in terms of their scoring differential so they should provide a steady dose of offensive upside.

LA is a bad team that has also not won much this season, but they’ve still proven capable on offense and have kept it afloat—they score 81.3 points per game on the year and all four of their last games have gone over the total . The pace has been high in their recent games as well, but their defense has not kept up and that creates the perfect recipe for an up-tempo shootout. 

Let’s also not forget about these two’s historical betting patterns too: In the last nine games, six against LA have gone over and four of six of their home games have done the same (LA has won just one of five in Indy) . LA has also gone over in 10 of their last 12 games, so the historical numbers also lean towards the over. With both teams having the scoring ability to get this game over the total combined with playing style that is set up for a back-and-forth affair filled with fast transition buckets, offensive rebounds and lots of possessions, expect the Fever’s playmakers to set the pace and the Sparks’ lack of a way to slow it down to send this one up comfortably over the total. If you’re on the over, let’s make this your game plan.

Jim's Play: 605. Sparks/Fever OVER

Atlanta Dream come into tonight's contest at Dallas averaging nearly 88 points per game and is near the top of the league in both scoring and 3-point makes. The Dream have cleared 88 four times in their last five games and are clicking offensively in the modern offense under Karl Smesko. They are stretching the floor, causing headaches for lesser defenses, and those same defenses have struggled to contain Atlanta on the road where they continue to score.

Dallas is no slouch either. The Wings are scoring about 82 points per game, good for sixth-best in the WNBA, with rookies Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, and NaLyssa Smith each contributing regularly. Bueckers is averaging just under 18 points a game and Ogunbowale dropped 27 on Sunday. Even with a few injuries to their frontcourt depth, this group has remained dangerous offensively.

The total has gone over in four of Dallas’s last five games and seven of Atlanta’s last eight — even in Dallas. What ties it all together is pace. Both teams are in the top half of the league in pace and shots taken, and neither looks like they’re slowing down. Atlanta’s attack continues to find openings against porous defenses, and Dallas’s youth and balance mean they’ll continue to push no matter the opponent or the spot.

Bottom line: with two scoring offenses on the upswing, a little defensive balance, and an over-heavy recent scoring history, the over is the play entering Tuesday night.

Jim's Play: 621. ATL Dream/Dal Wings OVER 

WNBAProp

Paige Bueckers OVER Pts + rebounds+assists

It all comes down to this, Game 7, on Sunday, June 22, 2025, in Oklahoma City as the Oklahoma City Thunder host the Indiana Pacers for the NBA Championship. Both teams have shown why they belong here, but the Thunder enter as heavy favorites. OKC was the NBA’s top regular-season team (68-14), and MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nearly un-guardable, averaging over 30 points per game in the Finals and leading a home-court charge that includes eight playoff wins at Chesapeake Energy Arena this postseason. Yet Indiana has refused to fold, overcoming early deficits and clinching a lopsided Game-6 win (108-91) behind clutch play from Tyrese Haliburton and spark from T.J. McConnell.

Turning to the betting angle, Jim Feist, known for his sharp player-prop instincts, has pegged this as a high-scoring affair and is backing the “over” for the total points. With both teams playing up-tempo, trading baskets, and leaning on their star guards (SGA and Haliburton) along with efficient role players like Jalen Williams, Bennedict Mathurin, and Pascal Siakam, the projection makes sense. The over/under is set around 214 to 215 points, the highest for a Finals Game-7 ever.

Why Jim playing the over? First, history favors this outcome. Every team to force a Game-7 after winning Game-6 has gone on to win, and Game-7s tend to produce fireworks. Home teams typically prevail, but road dogs bring no fear-and Indiana plays its brand of fast-paced, passing-heavy basketball that pushes tempo. Both offenses thrive under pressure: OKC pours in points with SGA and Williams combining for 70-plus in Game 5, while Indiana’s bench and Haliburton’s playmaking have unlocked efficient scoring bursts.

Second, Game-7 intensity often flips defense to offense-teams push harder, pace quickens, shots come faster. Jim figures SGA’s knack for fouls, quick baskets, and Haliburton’s clutch shot-making (ask Game-1 or Game-3) will grease the scoring wheels.

Players like McConnell, Mathurin, and Siakam. who can explode offensively if left unchecked. add to the confidence in crossing 215. The big question: can the defenses clamp down, slow things down? That would be needed to hold things under the total. 

So, Jim Feist playing the over isn't a flier. it's a bet on two high-octane teams locked in at do-or-die levels, underpinned by star talent and explosive bench depth. Expect Game 7 to be a back-and-forth, full-throttle slugfest, with the over flashing green.

Enjoy the game, it’s gonna be one for the ages.

Jim's Play: 513. Pacers/Thunder OVER

Interleague action here on Wednesday as the Reds (37-35) host the Minnesota Twins (36-36). The Reds hold the edge in this one at 37-35, fresh off eight wins in their last 10. LHP Nick Lodolo (4-5, 3.76 ERA) starts for the Reds. He’s struck out 70 in 79 innings and is punching Ks at a career-best clip . Lodolo’s home ERA is worse, but his hard stuff and consistency make him tough to hit, and the Reds are riding high offensively, eighth in runs per game and led by Elly De La Cruz’s 16 homers and.850 OPS .

RHP Bailey Ober (4-3, 4.40 ERA) takes the hill for Minnesota. He’s been less effective at missing bats this year and is allowing 1.6 homers per nine . The Twins have struggled (9-11 in their last 11) and are teetering around .500 (36–36). They still have firepower in Byron Buxton and Ty France, who could easily change the game with a bomb or two .

The market and analytics point to an over-leaning game with a total set around 9 runs. With the favorable weather and Lodolo’s volatility at home (5.85 ERA in home starts), it’s likely this game is played in a more open style, with the bullpens a chance to turn it late .

The Reds come in hot with home-field advantage and a more potent offense, while the Twins hope Ober can keep them in the game and the bats wake up. Expect a tight, high-scoring affair where a key inning could swing it under the lights.

Jim's Play: 975. Twins/Reds OVER

The Connecticut Sun travels to Indianapolis to face the Indiana Fever on Tuesday, June 17 with indications for a high-scoring matchup that will likely exceed the total. Since Caitlin Clark returned to the Fever's lineup following her standout performance against New York she averages 90.8 points per game when she plays while Indiana scores 76.4 points per game without her. The offensive boost acts as the primary driving force behind increased expectations.

This season Connecticut has struggled defensively giving up 88.2 points each game while Indiana has allowed opponents to score an average of 77.6 points. The high scoring tendencies of both teams strengthen the case for an offensive explosion because Indiana has surpassed the total in four of its last six home contests and the Sun in four out of six games overall.

The two teams combined for 168 points in their previous matchup on May 30 surpassing the previous total of 158.5. The current trend together with Indiana's scoring drive and Connecticut's defensive weaknesses strongly suggests this game will exceed the projected 165 points. The combined offensive force of Clark with the Fever together with the Sun’s variable offensive strength leads to a full-speed game featuring both teams. Indiana surpassing the spread with ease indicates we'll see an exciting matchup with a high score in Indianapolis tonight.

JIm's Play: 615. Sun/Fever OVER 

Under Friday night lights at Camden Yards Baltimore hosts the Angels. Charlie Morton toes the rubber for Baltimore with a 2–7 record and a 6.59 ERA across 15 games. The Orioles depend heavily on bullpen support and pitching efficiency because he produces five quality starts while averaging just 3.7 innings per outing. Jack Kochanowicz takes the mound for the Angels entering this matchup with a record of 3-7 alongside a 5.61 earned run average. He has delivered four quality starts and averaged 5.2 innings but his road ERA stands at a troubling 6.06.

Baltimore is experiencing offensive production challenges but managed to secure victories in two out of three games during a recent series against Detroit. The Orioles will rely on power hitters Gunnar Henderson who has 77 homers and 39 stolen bases at a .268 batting average and Tyler O’Neill who recently hit his sixth Opening Day homer in a row for offensive firepower. The Angels respond with their experienced core which consists of Mike Trout, Nolan Schanuel, Taylor Ward, Jorge Soler and newly called-up Christian Moore.

Bullpens may swing the outcome. Baltimore holds the 26th spot in reliever ERA with 4.74 and Los Angeles follows close behind at 28th with a 5.54 ERA. The game will likely become volatile in the final innings when the starting pitcher is removed early from play.

Two bad starting pitchers and two bottom ranking bullpens. I'll be on the OVER here tonight. 

Jim's Play: 913. Angles/Orioles OVER 

Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis will host Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals between Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers with the series evenly matched at one game each. Oklahoma City Thunder turned the tables in Game 2 with a commanding 123-107 win after Indiana Pacers snatched Game 1 in a nail-biting finish. Oklahoma City MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads them to maintain resilience throughout the season with an 18-2 record regardless of losses. The Thunder's offensive production tends to decrease during away playoff games compared to home games and Indiana plans to take advantage of this pattern.

Indiana's quick offensive style and excellent three-point shooting were essential to their surprising Game 1 victory. Tyrese Haliburton must excel in playmaking because his skill in generating plays for teammates takes precedence over his own scoring reputation. Indiana receives a significant home-court advantage because they maintain strong playoff performances at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with a 6-2 record straight up and 5-3 against the spread. Indiana's role players who excel at shooting three-pointers need to improve their performance because their combined long-range shooting proved pivotal during Game 1. 

The Thunder will use their tough perimeter defense to prevent Indiana from succeeding with long-range shots and push them into difficult positions. The upcoming Game 3 outcome will depend on which team best executes their strategy while leveraging their home-court advantage after proving their adaptive skills in previous games. 

I look for the Pacers to get many more points here at home and the Thunder to keep pace. I'm taking the OVER here in game 3. 

Jim's Play: 505 Pacers/Thunder OVER 228

The Major League Baseball game between the Seattle Mariners and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field tonight features an exciting pitching showdown and represents a crucial contest for both teams to strengthen their positions. The Arizona Diamondbacks emerged victorious in an 8-4 extra-inning game against the Mariners after spectacularly bouncing back from a late-game deficit and securing the win with a walk-off grand slam. Arizona Diamondbacks gained a strong momentum boost after their emotional win following their three-game losing streak that lasted until Monday.

Logan Evans will take the mound for Seattle and brings a notable 3-1 win-loss record together with a 2.83 ERA. Evans has reliably delivered strong performances for Seattle through his exceptional run prevention skills. Despite having an impressive ERA, Logan Evans' FIP of 4.73 indicates he might have received some luck during the season while Arizona aims to target his pitching weaknesses.

Brandon Pfaadt will pitch for the Diamondbacks with a record of 7 wins and 4 losses but a higher Earned Run Average of 5.51. Pfaadt finds himself having difficulty at Chase Field with a 6.23 ERA while he has allowed 13 home runs during his 65.1 innings pitched this season. Seattle's Cal Raleigh's current MLB home run lead of 26 makes him a key threat to exploit Brandon Pfaadt's pitching vulnerabilities. The Mariners maintain a top-half standing in OPS and run production despite an inconsistent offense which should exploit Pfaadt's recent pattern of giving up substantial earned runs.

The bullpens might become key players in the game's outcome especially after the previous night resulted in extra innings. The Diamondbacks bullpen posts a 4.57 ERA which outpaces Seattle's 3.74 mark while closer Justin Martinez left Monday's game due to elbow tightness. The already struggling Arizona bullpen faces increased pressure due to their higher number of blown saves this season. Seattle's relief pitching staff looks better prepared thanks to key pitchers including Andrés Muñoz who remain well-rested. 

This contest looks to another high scoring affair. I'm taking the over here tonight.

Jim's Play: 979. Mariners/D’backs OVER 

On June 10th, 2025, the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream will meet again for the WNBA Commissioner's Cup as they prepare for their third matchup of the season which fans eagerly await. The current series record stands at 1-1 after both matches displayed intense competition that highlights the equal level of play between these teams. The Fever won 81-76 against the Dream on May 23rd after the Dream achieved a narrow 91-90 victory over the Fever on May 21st which demonstrates their intense rivalry.

The Indiana Fever aims to continue their positive progression after breaking a losing streak with a strong victory against the Chicago Sky while Caitlin Clark was out injured though she might play in this matchup. DeWanna Bonner's offensive and defensive contributions demonstrate the Fever's roster depth and resilience. The team has maintained a strong offensive efficiency that places them at fourth position in the WNBA while their overall net rating stands impressively at +10.8. The Fever transformed their roster during the offseason by bringing in experienced leaders and defensive players to position themselves for a strong playoff run in 2025.

The Atlanta Dream began their 2025 season strongly with a 5-3 record. Dream head coach Karl Smesko implemented modern offensive strategies that prioritize shooting and spacing to create better playing opportunities for standout players Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray. The team fortified their frontcourt with Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones during the offseason which gave their struggling 2024 offense a significant boost. The Dream began their season with promise but their defense has proven slightly weaker than the Fever's by allowing 81.0 points per game while the Fever allows just 76.4 points per game. Both teams will compete intensely to improve their standing in the Commissioner's Cup while strengthening their positions within the WNBA hierarchy.

I look for a defensive battle here today. I'm taking the UNDER. 

Jim's Play: 621. Fever/Dream UNDER 160.5 

Take: 951. Marlins/Pirates OVER 8.5 

The Miami Marlins and Pittsburgh Pirates face off on Tuesday at PNC Park where their inconsistent starting pitchers will encounter contrasting team momentum. Mitch Keller pitches for the Pirates with a 1–8 record and a 4.13 ERA spanning 76 innings. Keller has recorded at least five innings across 11 consecutive starts together with nine quality starts and sustaining a 7.2 K/9 rate while opponents hit at .257 average. Miami will start Sandy Alcantara who has a 2–7 record and a high 7.89 ERA for this season. During his most recent start Alcantara performed well but it was against a weak Rockies team which suggests his performance might not hold up against the stronger Pirates offense. 

Pittsburgh enters riding momentum. Pittsburgh built a home winning streak of four games after defeating Miami 10–3 in the first match which contributed to their five wins in six games. Their home games have been marked by strong pitching stats with a 3.84 season ERA ranking them 15th in the majors together with an impressive 2.67 ERA across their six most recent matches

Miami has endured a severe performance downturn during away games while posting one of the lowest offensive rankings in the league with their .248 batting average and 26th place slugging percentage. 

Tuesday evening is expected to provide ideal conditions with clear skies and mid-70s temperatures while light left-center breezes will provide a slight advantage to power hitters.

This one looks to be high scoring with these startes on the hill and poor bullpens. I'll take the OVER here on Tuesday.

Jim's Play: Take: 951. Marlins/Pirates OVER 

6/08 05:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM ET 

NBA   (503) INDIANA PACERS  VS  (504) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER

503. Pacers/Thunder OVER 227.5 (5 PT / 8 ET) 

Game 2 of the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder is set for Sunday, June 8, at 5:00 PM PDT at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The Thunder are 11-point favorites, with the over/under set at 227.5 points. 

In Game 1, the Pacers pulled off a remarkable comeback, overcoming a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit to win 111–110. Tyrese Haliburton's game-winning jumper with 0.3 seconds left capped the rally, marking Indiana's fifth postseason win after trailing by 15 or more points—an NBA record in the play-by-play era.  

Despite the Thunder's strong defense and MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 38-point effort in Game 1, the Pacers' balanced offense and depth have been effective. Indiana leads the playoffs in assists (28.1), field goal percentage (49.7%), and three-point shooting (40.1%). Their ability to distribute scoring responsibilities among starters and bench players like Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin makes them a challenging opponent. 

Given both teams' offensive capabilities and the high-scoring nature of Game 1, betting on the over in Game 2 is my total play in this game.

Jim's Play: OVER the Total

The Oakland Athletics and Baltimore Orioles open their three-game series on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento. The game begins with first pitch at 7:05 PM PDT.

Currently standing at 25–36 in their season record the Orioles are on a six-game winning streak which involved sweeping the Seattle Mariners. The Orioles will start right-handed pitcher Dean Kremer against the Athletics. Kremer has a 5–5 win-loss record and posted a 4.70 ERA across 12 starts this season. During his latest appearance he managed six innings with one run scored while striking out seven against the Chicago White Sox. Batters against him have achieved a .278 average while he has given up 10 home runs this season.

The Athletics secured a decisive 14–3 victory over the Minnesota Twins which ended their four-game losing streak while improving their record to 24–40. Oakland will start a game with left-handed pitcher JP Sears on the mound. Sears holds a 4–5 record with a 5.05 earned run average across his 12 games started. During his latest game he pitched five innings while allowing two earned runs against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Cedric Mullins leads the Orioles' offensive efforts with 10 home runs and 31 RBIs while maintaining a .232 batting average. Tyler Soderstrom leads the Athletics' offense with his production of 14 home runs and 42 RBIs while batting at .257.

The Baltimore bullpen has demonstrated recent progress by achieving a 3.00 ERA during their past 10 games whereas Oakland's bullpen has experienced challenges with a 7.53 ERA over the same time frame.

Niether starter is all that good and the A's pen has been horrible. I'm taking the OVER in this game. 

Jim's Play: 973. Orioles/A’s OVER 11 

Angel Stadium will host a three-game series between the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels starting on Friday, June 6, 2025. The game will begin at 6:38 PM PDT.

Right-handed pitcher Bryce Miller will start for the Mariners who stand at 32 wins and 29 losses. Miller secured two wins and four losses while accumulating a 5.36 ERA across 43.2 innings pitched. Through this season, he has given up 26 earned runs and walked 22 batters while striking out 37 opposing players. On April 29, 2025, Miller pitched five innings against the Angels while keeping opponents scoreless and striking out six.

The Angels will respond by starting veteran right-hander Kyle Hendricks. Across 59 innings Hendricks has a 2–6 record with a 5.34 ERA. The pitcher has surrendered 35 earned runs while issuing 18 walks and tallying 39 strikeouts. During Hendricks' recent start against the Mariners he gave up only one earned run in six innings and achieved seven strikeouts.

Cal Raleigh serves as the Mariners' offensive leader with a .268 batting average along with 24 home runs and 49 RBIs. Shortstop J.P. Crawford maintains a .283 batting average and accumulates five home runs with 22 RBI totals. Taylor Ward leads Angels' offense with 17 home runs and 42 RBIs while maintaining a batting average of .214. First baseman Nolan Schanuel delivers a .275 batting average along with 23 runs batted in.

The Mariners have secured more than 57% victories during their away games. The Angels have experienced difficulties in home games with a loss rate of 60%. I expect both teams to get tehir share of runs tonight. I'm taking the over in this one. 

Jim's Play: 971. Mariners/Angels OVER 9 

6/05 05:30 PM PT / 8:30 PM ET  

NBA   (501) INDIANA PACERS  VS  (502) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER

Take: 501. Pacers/Thunder OVER 230.5

Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals tips off Thursday night in Oklahoma City, where the top-seeded Thunder host the Indiana Pacers. The Thunder are heavy favorites, but the Pacers have been defying expectations all postseason. For bettors, this game presents an intriguing opportunity: Backing a big dog or favorite play or playing the over/under on the total points. 

The Thunder boast the league's best record at 68–14 and have dominated the playoffs with a 12–4 run. Led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who averaged 32.7 points per game during the regular season, Oklahoma City has been nearly unbeatable at home, going 8–1 in the playoffs with an average margin of victory of 21.3 points.  

However, the Pacers have been on a remarkable journey. After a 10–15 start to the season, they turned things around, finishing with a 50–32 record. Indiana's offense, orchestrated by Tyrese Haliburton and bolstered by Pascal Siakam, has been potent, leading the league in assist percentage and true shooting percentage. Their depth and resilience have been evident throughout the playoffs, culminating in a 125–108 victory over the Knicks to clinch their first Finals appearance since 2000.  

The over/under is set at around 230.5 points. Given both teams' offensive capabilities and recent trends, playing the over seems like a solid bet. The Pacers have consistently hit the over in their playoff games, and the Thunder's home games have been high-scoring affairs. 

In summary, I belieive the likelihood of a high-scoring game will be what we see here in games one. I'm taking the OVER the total in this one. 

Jim's Play: 501. Pacers/Thunder OVER 230.5

Tonight at 8:00 p.m. the Phoenix Mercury will battle the Minnesota Lynx at the Target Center in Minneapolis. ET. The Commissioner's Cup matchup brings together the undefeated Lynx (7-0) who host the Mercury (5-2) after their recent 74-71 defeat to Minnesota.

Minnesota keeps advancing their strong season performance through MVP candidate Napheesa Collier who produces an average of 26.8 points per game while making significant contributions on both offense and defense. Early in the season the Lynx have proven themselves formidable because they possess both strong offensive and defensive capabilities.

Phoenix enters a transitional season with Diana Taurasi retired and Brittney Griner having departed. The Mercury brought in crucial team members Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas as part of their roster restructure. Satou Sabally stands out as Phoenix's top scorer by averaging 21.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. Thomas Natasha Mack and Kahleah Copper will miss tonight's game because of injuries.

Both teams should get plenty of points in this one tonight. I'll be on the OVER. 

Jim's Play: 629. Phx Mercury / Min Lynx OVER 

On June 1st, 2025 at the Chase Center in San Francisco the Minnesota Lynx will compete against the Golden State Valkyries. Both teams launch their 2025 WNBA Commissioner's Cup season with this game.

The Minnesota Lynx begin the game with a flawless 6-0 record demonstrating strong defensive capabilities alongside a well-rounded offensive approach. The team averages 84.2 points per game while permitting 76.3 points per game from opponents. Napheesa Collier's current status is questionable because of a knee issue and Kayla McBride's recent 20-point performance in a win against Phoenix Mercury have both been vital to their team's achievements.

The Valkyries who are playing their first season currently stand at a 2-3 record. Their recent performance demonstrated potential when they lost to the New York Liberty by just 82-77. Janelle Salaun who is playing her rookie season stands out with averages of 13.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. The team faces offensive challenges with a 73.8 points per game average and a three-point shooting percentage of 27.7%.

The Lynx have a great defense and the Valkaryies have struggled on offense. That will have me taking this game under the total. 

Jim's Play: 625. Lynx/Valkaryies UNDER 161.5

Saturday, May 31, 2025 will feature a crucial Game 6 between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis during the Eastern Conference Finals. The Indiana Pacers hold a 3-2 series lead while pursuing their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000 but must face the New York Knicks who need a Game 6 today and Game 7 victory at Madison Square Garden to punch their ticket to the NBA Finals. 

The Knicks secured a decisive 111-94 win during Game 5 with Jalen Brunson scoring 32 points while Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points and 13 rebounds to their performance. Their performance played a key role in preventing elimination and restored momentum for New York. Throughout the series Brunson consistently displayed offensive dominance by averaging 33.0 points per game.

The Pacers showed weakness in Game 5 when they turned the ball over 20 times and couldn't stop the Knicks' strong attack. Despite his Game 4 triple-double performance Tyrese Haliburton recorded only eight points and six assists during Game 5. Despite the Game 5 setback, Haliburton remains confident about the team's ability to recover because of their demonstrated resilience and preparedness to face pressure situations.

The Pacers displayed exceptional home performance this season with a 29-11 record while scoring an average of 115 points across their two home games in this series. The Pacers aim to use their home-court advantage and fan support to finish the series.

The Knicks will need to keep their defensive intensity while reducing turnovers to prolong the series. The team needs to reduce turnovers through simplified play according to Coach Tom Thibodeau who emphasized that risky passes have been a consistent problem.

The knowledge of what's at stake ensures that Game 6 will be an intense matchup between both teams. The series outcome will depend on Brunson and Haliburton's performances combined with each team's execution of their strategies.

The Pacers are a high scoring team on their home court and that means the Knicks will need to keep up on Saturday. I'm taking the OVER here on Saturday. 

Jim's Play: Take: 555. Knicks/Pacers OVER 219.5

The Chicago Sky face the Dallas Wings once more on Saturday, May 31 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas when the game tips off at 8:00 p.m. ET. The Sky earned their season debut victory against the Wings with a narrow 97–92 win in Chicago before facing them again two days later.

Kamilla Cardoso led Chicago to victory in Thursday's game with 23 points and eight rebounds while Courtney Vandersloot provided nine assists. The Sky achieved victory with key contributions from their frontcourt duo Cardoso and Angel Reese who secured nine rebounds. The Sky must continue to uphold their defensive intensity to shut down Dallas's prolific offense.

Dallas's record stands at 1–5 and they face a major setback because rookie guard Paige Bueckers is sidelined in the WNBA's concussion protocol and will not play in the upcoming two games. Bueckers provided essential contributions to the team by averaging 14.7 points and delivering 6.7 assists along with 4.5 rebounds per game. The Wings' offense will now depend heavily on All-Star guard Arike Ogunbowale who had an impressive 37-point performance during Thursday's defeat because of Bueckers' absence. The Dallas Wings need Myisha Hines-Allen and DiJonai Carrington to elevate their performances while Bueckers is sidelined.

Huge loss for the Wings with Bueckers missing today's contest. And as such, I don't expect to see much offense from Dallas here. I'm taking this game UNDER.

Jim's Play: 617. Chi Sky / Dal Wings UNDER 173.5

Tonight's matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse between the Indiana Fever and the Connecticut Sun features both franchises seeking to improve their recent poor performances. Indiana goes into the match with two wins and three losses after losing back-to-back games including a tight defeat against the Washington Mystics with a score of 83-77 last Wednesday. The Fever must adapt to playing without Caitlin Clark because her left quadriceps strain has forced her to sit out. Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston have stepped up to fill the void with Mitchell averaging 17.0 points and Boston producing 16.8 points and 10.0 rebounds each game. Coming off the bench in their defeat to Washington, DeWanna Bonner who joined the team from the Sun scored 21 points.

The Sun currently stand winless at 0-5 following their 109-87 loss to the Dallas Wings. Connecticut ranks last in scoring with 71.8 points per game while allowing 88.2 points per game which puts them near the bottom in defense. Tina Charles leads the team with 17 points and 6.6 rebounds each game while Marina Mabrey contributes 14 points and 3.2 assists per match.

With Clark out for the Fever and the poor offense of the Sun, I look for this game to be lower scoring. I'll take the UNDER here tonight. 

Jim's Play: 609. Sun/Fever UNDER 157.5

Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves will take place at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Standing at a 3-1 lead in the series, the Thunder need only one more win to reach the NBA Finals since their last appearance in 2012. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET, with the game airing on ESPN.

After enduring a 42-point defeat in Game 3 Oklahoma City achieved a close 128-126 win in Game 4 which demonstrated the determination and skill of their youthful team members. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 40 points with 10 rebounds and nine assists to lead his team while Jalen Williams scored 34 points and Chet Holmgren added 21 points along with seven rebounds and three blocks.

To prolong the series Minnesota must receive extraordinary performances from their leading players while facing elimination. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle need to improve after scoring only 16 and five points respectively in Game 4. The Minnesota bench shined during their last match as Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Donte DiVincenzo scored a total of 44 points together.

Oklahoma City holds an 8.5-point advantage while the total points projection stands at 220.5. Oklahoma City stands strong with their depth and defensive capabilities while benefiting from home-court advantage yet the Timberwolves have demonstrated their ability to perform well when facing challenges. I'm turning to the total here tonight as I look for this game to get over the posted number. 

Jim's Play: 549. T’Wolves/Thunder OVER 220.5

The Eastern Conference Finals will continue with Game 4 between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. 

Indiana Pacers hold a 2-1 advantage in the current seven-game series. The Pacers triumphed in Games 1 and 2 with a 138-135 victory followed by a 114-109 win. The Knicks managed to close the series gap by winning Game 3 with a score of 106-100.

The Knicks showed exceptional determination in Game 3 by turning around a 20-point disadvantage to achieve their inaugural postseason victory at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Since 1997 no team in the play-by-play era has managed three playoff victories from deficits of 20 points or more like the Knicks did in this game.

Karl-Anthony Towns scored 20 fourth-quarter points to make a key contribution to the comeback. However, a challenge persists: Whenever Jalen Brunson and Towns share time on the court together their defensive performance often results in negative outcomes.

The Pacers under Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam leadership look to recover from their Game 3 second-half breakdown. Indiana relies on Haliburton to lead their offensive efforts after he took personal responsibility for their defeat.

Indiana forward Aaron Nesmith remains undecided for Game 4 participation because of a right ankle injury he suffered during Game 3. Nesmith delivered his best game with a career peak of 30 points in Game 1 but has struggled to maintain that level of scoring in later matches.

The Knicks perform better defensively during road games which have a defensive rating of 110.1 compared to their home games with a rating of 114.6. Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart credit their achievements to the increased focus and team unity they build in challenging environments.

I once again look for the Knicks to flex their defensive muscles here on Tuesday. In a slower paced game I like the UNDER in this one. 

Jim's Play: 547. Knicks/Pacers UNDER 

First pitch for tonight's baseball game between the Boston Red Sox and Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field will be at 7:40 PM ET. The Red Sox look to break their current three-game losing streak while Milwaukee looks to continue their winning streak by building momentum following their narrow 3-2 victory in Monday’s series opener.

Right-hander Cooper Criswell is scheduled to start for the Red Sox after posting a 10.38 ERA through 4.1 innings this season. Aaron Civale represents Milwaukee's response with a 9.00 ERA accumulated over seven innings during the 2025 season. Both pitchers are working to recover from their initial-season challenges which may lead to a high-scoring game between them.

Rafael Devers leads Boston's offense with a batting average of .288, along with scoring 12 home runs and 48 RBIs. The team's offensive performance remained erratic during Monday's defeat with only one hit from nine at-bats with runners in scoring position. Rookie catcher Carlos Narvaez stands out by maintaining his hitting streak at eight games while achieving a .414 batting average during that period.

Jackson Chourio ignited Milwaukee's start with his first career leadoff home run during Monday's game. Rhys Hoskins leads the Brewers in batting average with his .287 mark which strengthens their offensive lineup. Despite his general hitting difficulties Christian Yelich manages to maintain a nine-game hitting streak against the Red Sox.

This matchup becomes critical for both teams since they both stand near a .500 win-loss record as they move toward the halfway point of the season. The game's result depends on which bullpen performs better during the middle and late innings while both starting pitchers search for stability.

Jim's Free play: OVER the Total.

Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals will see the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers compete tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with the Pacers leading the series 2-0 based on their narrow wins in New York. 

The Pacers maintained their high offensive output from the regular season where they averaged 117.4 points per game into the postseason. The quick offensive approach led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam has proved dominant against their opponents. Indiana scored 138 points in Game 1 while their Game 2 performance resulted in 114 points with Siakam achieving a playoff career-best 39 points. The Pacers' top-tier ability to operate quickly on offense combined with their scoring proficiency makes betting on the over appealing.

The Knicks depend on Jalen Brunson who scored 43 points in the first game and 36 points in the second game. The Knicks maintained close scores in their games and showed effective offensive performance despite their defeat. The Knicks demonstrate strong performance in playoff road games with a 5-1 record showing they can succeed without playing at Madison Square Garden. The potential for high scoring from both teams together with past game totals of 138-135 and 114-109 makes betting on the over a sound decision.

Indiana's explosive offense combined with New York's scoring potential led by Brunson indicates that Game 3 will likely produce high total points. The over on 223.5 points emerges as a strong wager based on current trends and team performances.

Jim's Play: 543. Knicks/Pacers OVER

The Los Angeles Sparks and Chicago Sky will compete at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday night while both teams aim to overcome their initial poor performance this season. The Chicago team begins at an 0–2 record while Los Angeles holds a 1–3 standing. Point spreads show the Sparks as 4.5-point favorites but the more interesting betting option might be the total points line which stands at 159.5. The under looks like a smart choice because both teams struggle offensively.

The Chicago offense produces only 66 points per game while shooting poorly from the field at 32.4%, the lowest percentage in the league. Angel Reese has shown difficulty in her first two games by maintaining a shooting percentage of 23% and committing 10 turnovers. The Sky need to redefine their offensive strategy after losing essential scorers Kahleah Copper and Chennedy Carter during their roster changes. The new players Courtney Vandersloot and Ariel Atkins are in the process of adapting to their roles while rookie Hailey Van Lith learns to navigate the professional game.

The Sparks have improved their offensive performance but are still trying to find their game rhythm. Although they score an average of 79.5 points per game their performance remains erratic because forward Cameron Brink has been sidelined with an injury. Kelsey Plum scores 26.7 points per game to lead the team while Dearica Hamby adds 16.3 points and nine rebounds each game. The Sparks have faced challenges in discovering dependable scoring alternatives beyond their two leading scorers.

Past games between these two teams typically resulted in lower point totals. Ten out of their past 14 encounters saw totals fall below expectations and their most recent six games in Los Angeles concluded with totals that went under. The historical pattern and current scoring difficulties faced by both teams support the decision to bet the under on 159.5 points.

Jim's Play: 619. Chi Sky / LA Sparks UNDER 

The Michelob ULTRA Arena will be the site of tonight's game between the Las Vegas Aces and the Washington Mystics which starts at 10:00 p.m. ET. Two strong offenses will compete tonight in a game that points towards scoring above the estimated total of 167 points.

The Mystics (2–1) have demonstrated strong offensive performance by scoring an average of 86 points per game and maintaining shooting percentages of 46.6% from the field and 39.6% from three-point range. Brittney Sykes maintains the top position for the team by scoring an average of 26.3 points and making 5 assists per game which includes a standout 30-point effort during their recent defeat against the Golden State Valkyries. The rookie duo Kiki Iriafen along with Sonia Citron have made important contributions to their team with averages of 13.7 and 14.7 points per game respectively.

The Aces (1–1) recently achieved a commanding 87–62 win against the Connecticut Sun. The reigning MVP A'ja Wilson is producing an average of 26.5 points and 13 rebounds in each game. The win featured Jewell Loyd scoring 20 points which demonstrated the team's strong offensive lineup. The Las Vegas team has demonstrated strong scoring capabilities by averaging 82.5 points per game while delivering substantial offensive performances.

The combined offensive strengths and recent game performances make the over bet on total points a sound choice for this evening's matchup.

Jim’s Play: Over the Total.

The New York Knicks welcome the Indiana Pacers to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals tonight at 8:00 PM ET. The Pacers took a 1–0 series lead after defeating the Knicks 138–135 in overtime by surmounting a 14-point deficit with less than three minutes to go. The Pacers mounted their comeback thanks to Aaron Nesmith's six fourth-quarter three-point shots and Tyrese Haliburton's 31 points with 11 assists.

The Knicks look to bounce back from their Game 1 defeat behind Jalen Brunson's 45 points and Karl-Anthony Towns' 35 points with 12 rebounds. Head coach Tom Thibodeau stressed the importance of learning from late-game errors while maintaining constant focus during each game.

This postseason opponents have struggled to defend Indiana's quick offensive plays directed by Haliburton. The Pacers have shown exceptional execution when facing high-pressure situations throughout their playoff campaign.

I still believe these teams will look to slow the pace here tonight, especially by the Knicks who don’t want to get into another run and gun showdown like they did in game one.

Jim’s Play: Under the Total 

The Milwaukee Brewers play against the Pittsburgh Pirates tonight at PNC Park beginning at 6:40 p.m. ET. The matchup between the teams’ top pitchers predicts a tight scoring game expected to stay below seven runs.

Entering the game with a 5–3 win-loss record and a 2.59 earned run average, Milwaukee's Freddy Peralta prepares to pitch. He kept his earned run total to one run throughout five innings in his most recent game. Peralta demonstrates strong defensive performance by placing in the 86th percentile for hard-hit rate allowed during the current season.

Paul Skenes from Pittsburgh has a 3–5 record with a 2.44 earned run average. Skenes has demonstrated dominance as opponents have managed to hit only .190 off him. During his most recent appearance he pitched eight innings and gave up one earned run while striking out nine batters.

Both offenses have struggled this season. The Brewers maintain the 25th position in batting average at .230 while their slugging percentage stands at .354 for 28th in the league. The Pirates hold the lowest run position in the league while their batting average stands second to lowest at .219.

The matchup tonight should favor an under 7-run total prediction because both teams display strong starting pitching yet face challenges with underperforming offenses.

Jim’s Play: UNDER the Total (Full Game)

The Texas Rangers will play against the New York Yankees in the final game of their three-game series at Yankee Stadium on Thursday, May 22, 2025, with the first pitch at 12:35 p.m. ET. The Yankees won the first two games by clinching with a thrilling 4–3 walk-off on Wednesday night after Jasson Dominguez hit a ninth-inning home run.

Thursday's pitching matchup features two seasoned right-handers: Thursday's starting pitchers will feature Nathan Eovaldi representing the Rangers while Carlos Rodon will start for the Yankees. Eovaldi enters the game with four wins and two losses along with a remarkable 1.61 ERA from 61.1 innings as proof of his skill in preventing opponent runs. Carlos Rodon has compiled a 5–3 win-loss record with a respectable 3.17 ERA through his season performances.

Aaron Judge leads the Yankees' powerful offense with his outstanding performance of a .402 average and totals of 16 home runs and 44 RBIs. Cody Bellinger made a major impact by hitting an important home run during the game on Wednesday. Jake Burger delivered two solo home runs last game while Sam Haggerty contributed with another homer as part of the Rangers' recent offensive output.

Each team wants to utilize their advantages during this final series match. The Yankees want to finish with a series victory and lengthen their winning run while the Rangers work to prevent a series defeat and build momentum during their road journey. 

With two strong pitchers on the hill I look for another low scoring contest here on Thursday. 

Jim’s Play :   907. Rangers/Yankees UNDER 7.5

The Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks renew their storied rivalry tonight in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden, tipping off at 8:00 p.m. ET on TNT. This marks the ninth playoff meeting between the two franchises, with the Pacers holding a 5–3 edge in prior series. The Knicks won two of the three regular-season matchups this year, including a commanding 123–98 victory in the opener. 

New York enters the series riding high after a decisive six-game triumph over the defending champion Boston Celtics. Jalen Brunson has been the engine of the Knicks' offense, averaging nearly 29 points and over seven assists per game in the postseason. Karl-Anthony Towns has provided a strong interior presence, averaging 19.8 points and 11.3 rebounds per game. The Knicks' supporting cast, including OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart, has contributed significantly, with Hart notably recording a triple-double in the series-clinching win over Boston.  

The Pacers arrive in New York after a convincing five-game series win over the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. Tyrese Haliburton has been instrumental, averaging 19 points and nine assists per game, and delivering in clutch moments. Pascal Siakam brings championship experience and versatility, averaging 20.2 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. Myles Turner adds a defensive anchor, contributing 16 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks per game.  

Tthe Pacers' depth and offensive versatility could pose significant challenges for the Knicks. The game is expected to be a physical battle, reminiscent of the intense matchups between these teams in the 1990s.  

With both teams aiming for their first NBA Finals appearance in over two decades, tonight's game sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling series. 

Jim is taking the UNDER here in game one.  Maybe nerves, physicality of the game should contribute to a lower scoring game one. 

Jim’s Play: Under the Total. 

Tonight at Yankee Stadium the Texas Rangers and New York Yankees will play the second game of their three-game series starting at 7:05 p.m. ET. The Yankees secured a 5–2 victory on Tuesday which extended their winning streak to nine out of their last 12 games and improved their standing to 28 wins and 19 losses. Texas needs to level the series and is relying on their top pitcher to do so.

The Rangers named Jacob deGrom their starting pitcher as he returns to New York where he previously won two Cy Young Awards during his time with the Mets. At 36 years old deGrom has modified his pitching approach by reducing his velocity to maintain his health while maintaining effectiveness with a 4–1 record and 53 strikeouts across 51 innings alongside a 2.29 ERA. Aaron Judge continues to lead the Yankees' dynamic lineup after hitting another home run Tuesday and achieving a .403 batting average with 16 home runs and 43 RBIs.

The left-handed pitcher Ryan Yarbrough who is making his third start this season represents the New York team against deGrom. Yarbrough has maintained a 1–0 record with a 3.70 ERA across 24.1 innings and demonstrated reliability whenever he has been needed. The Yankees' offense which leads the league with 5.78 runs per game will strive to give him strong backing.

We get two excellent starters here tonight. Plus the Rangers not hitting the ball and not scoring many runs either. That should lead to this game going under tonight. 

Jim’s Play:  967. Rangers/Yankees UNDER

5/20 03:40 PM PT / 6:40 PM ET 

MLB   (903) CINCINNATI REDS VS (904) PITTSBURGH PIRATES

Take : 903. Reds/Pirates UNDER 

The game between the Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on Tuesday should remain competitive and low scoring due to a strong pitching match-up.

The Reds will have Nick Martinez (2-4, 3.66 ERA) take the field as their starting pitcher. Martinez has shown consistent pitching by allowing only four home runs through 51.2 innings and maintaining control with just 11 walks. He demonstrated effective management of opposing lineups during games.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have Bailey Falter (2-3, 4.02 ERA) who will face Nick Martinez on the mound. Bailey Falter delivered outstanding performances throughout May by surrendering only one run across 16.2 innings which translated to a 0.54 ERA for that month. Bailey Falter has found his rhythm as demonstrated by his recent game performances which show his ability to minimize early-game damage.

With 141 runs scored and a .217 team batting average the Pirates occupy the last place in MLB for offensive production. The team has allowed opponents to score four or fewer runs for 24 consecutive games. Although the Reds have shown improved play they frequently begin games slowly and depend on late-game comebacks for success.

Based on the current strong pitching performances and the Pirates’ offensive difficulties I will choose the under option for this matchup. The Pirates deliver excellent pitching but their offensive output will remain minimal during this low scoring game. 

Jim’s Play: 903. Reds/Pirates UNDER

The Minnesota Lynx and Los Angeles Sparks are set to face off on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Both teams enter the game with 1-0 records, making this early-season matchup a compelling test for two squads with contrasting trajectories. 

The Lynx, fresh off a 99-84 road win over the Dallas Wings, continue to build on the momentum from their 2024 WNBA Finals appearance. Napheesa Collier led the charge with 34 points, while Courtney Williams added 25 points and nine assists. Minnesota's offense was efficient, shooting over 50% from the field and recording 27 assists. Defensively, they held Dallas to 45% shooting and won the turnover battle.  

The Sparks, under new head coach Lynne Roberts, began their season with an 84-67 victory against the Golden State Valkyries. Kelsey Plum, acquired in a major offseason trade, scored 37 points in her debut, including 26 in the second half. Dearica Hamby and Rickea Jackson contributed 14 and 13 points, respectively. Los Angeles forced 22 turnovers and limited the Valkyries to 36% shooting.  

This game presents a contrast between the Lynx's established core and the Sparks' revamped roster. Minnesota's continuity and defensive prowess will be tested against Los Angeles' new offensive schemes and Plum's scoring ability. The matchup between Collier and Plum could be pivotal in determining the outcome.

I’ll take this game over after both teams scored in the 80’s in their first games. 

Jim’s Play: 615. Lynx/Sparks Over 

The Seattle Mariners will finish their series against the Padres today at Petco Park when they play at 1:10 p.m. PT. Bryan Woo will start for the Seattle Mariners who won their first two games of the series with scores of 5-1 and 4-1 as they attempt to achieve a sweep. The Padres bring Michael King to the mound to prevent a home sweep.

Both starters have been impressive this season. Bryan Woo maintains a 4-1 win-loss record with a 2.84 ERA following his 6 1/3 scoreless innings against the Yankees. Michael King has a 4-1 record in the season and possesses a 2.32 ERA while restricting opponent batting to just .187.

Dominant pitching performances together with the trend of low-scoring games suggest that the upcoming first five innings will likely also have few runs scored. The bullpen under Andres Munoz's leadership has maintained a strong performance that resulted in Padres managing only two runs throughout their first two games.

Both teams' pitching staffs have performed well while their offenses face difficulties in creating runs. Both games have been well under thus far and I expect the same here on Sunday. 

Jim Play: 927. Mariners/Padres UNDER 

Washington Mystics take on Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena with the game starting at 1 p.m. today. ET. Two teams experiencing important changes face off in a matchup that experts predict will lead to high scoring while seasoned handicapper Jim Feist favors the over.

The Mystics gained momentum after defeating the Atlanta Dream 94-90 by executing an efficient offensive strategy that achieved shooting rates over 50% both from the field and beyond the arc. Brittney Sykes scored 22 points as she led her team to victory while rookie Sonia Citron emerged as a standout performer with 19 points in her first game. The Mystics showed depth and scoring versatility even without injured key players Georgia Amoore, Aaliyah Edwards, and Shakira Austin.

The Sun have introduced a new lineup with head coach Rachid Meziane at the helm. Tina Charles returns to Connecticut as an experienced player with last season's averages of 14.9 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. Marina Mabrey continues to serve as an essential offensive player since she averaged 14.9 points per game during the previous season. The Sun proved their scoring potential during the preseason by defeating the reigning champion New York Liberty.

The Mystics have been performing well offensively while the Sun's revamped team wants to establish themselves as a powerful unit making today's over bet very attractive. The offensive abilities and drive of both teams suggest a high-scoring matchup which matches Feist's preference for betting on the over. 

Jim’s Play: Take: 613. Mystics/Sun OVER 

Saturday May 17, 2025 will see the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs play their Crosstown Classic game at Wrigley Field beginning with the first pitch at 2:20 p.m. ET. Currently leading the National League Central with a 26–19 record the Cubs just came back from a commanding 13–3 win in their series opener. The rookie pitcher Cade Horton recorded his second team win while Pete Crow-Armstrong impressed by collecting four hits and six RBIs.

The White Sox have endured a difficult season with a 14–31 record which is even worse when traveling where they stand at 5–19. Miguel Vargas stood out during Friday's game with his two home runs and four hits despite the team's ongoing struggles.

The Saturday baseball game will showcase right-handed Sean Burke pitching for the White Sox against left-handed Matthew Boyd representing the Cubs. Sean Burke comes into the game with a 2–4 win-loss record alongside a 4.15 ERA across 43.1 innings of pitching while Matthew Boyd stands at 3–2 with a 2.78 ERA over 45.1 innings.

Always have to look at the winds at Wrigley and today they are blowing out with some vengeance.  I’m taking this game over with the winds blowing out and the way the Cubs have hit the ball this season. 

Jim’s Play: Over the Total.

The upcoming Game 6 matchup between the Knicks and Celtics at Madison Square Garden promises to be a high-point total contest. The Knicks who are leading the series 3–2 have the opportunity to secure their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years. The Celtics show their fight spirit even when Jayson Tatum is absent from the game.

Boston's offense has been impressive lately. Boston achieved a 127-point game total during Game 5 with Derrick White taking an important role without Jayson Tatum. During the conference semifinals Derrick White has been putting up an average of 23 points while collecting 6 rebounds and dishing out 3 assists per game. The Celtics have maintained efficient shooting alongside Jaylen Brown's substantial performance.

Jalen Brunson remains an essential player for the Knicks. He has maintained postseason averages of 29.4 points and 7.8 assists despite his difficult performance in Game 5. The Knicks rely on Brunson and supporting play from Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby to match Boston's scoring output.

Tonight's over/under point total stands at approximately 211 The recent history of high-scoring matches combined with the strong offensive strengths of both teams shows me this game should go over, even without Tatum. Both teams will push the tempo in this fast-paced game which will result in higher total points. 

Jim’s Play: 509. Celitcs/Knicks OVER 

Petco Park will host the final matchup between the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres tonight when their three-game series reaches its conclusion at 9:40 p.m. ET. The series remains tied at one win each for both teams which makes tonight's game pivotal for determining the series winner.

The Padres celebrated a thrilling 6-4 win when Fernando Tatis Jr. hit a 430-foot walk-off homer in the ninth inning. The win ended the Padres' two-game losing streak and broke their four-game losing trend against the Angels which began last season.

Right-handed pitcher Randy Vásquez (2-3, 3.76 ERA) will start for the Padres and has shown strong performance at home with a 2.30 ERA across three starts. Angels veteran Kyle Hendricks will face Randy Vásquez after posting a 7.00 ERA at four road starts this season while holding a 1-4 record and 5.30 ERA.

Manny Machado leads the Padres with a .331 batting average while Fernando Tatis Jr. tops the team's home run list with 11 homers and has 26 RBIs. The Angels receive valuable production from Taylor Ward who leads the team with 21 RBIs and Nolan Schanuel who maintains a .265 batting average which is the best on the team.

The Padres own a powerful home record of 15-5 while the Angels struggle with an 8-14 road record.  Line a bit too high to play the Padres, but I look for San Diego to get plenty of runs off of Kendricks tonight and drive this total over.

Play: Over the Total. 

5/14 12:45 PM PT / 3:45 PM ET 

MLB (903) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS VS (904) SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS 

Take: Over the Total 

The Arizona Diamondbacks and San Francisco Giants finish their three-game series today at Oracle Park when the first pitch is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. ET. The series stands at a 1–1 tie after the Giants secured a 10–6 win last night through Christian Koss's grand slam which marked his career's first home run and shifted the momentum to San Francisco's side.

Left-handed pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez (1–3, 6.86 ERA) will take the mound for Arizona. Rodriguez faced difficulties throughout the season and gave up six earned runs during 2.2 innings for his most recent appearance against the Dodgers. In his last game against Minnesota, Giants' right-handed pitcher Jordan Hicks (1–4, 5.82 ERA) completed six innings with three earned runs while achieving six strikeouts.

Corbin Carroll leads the Diamondbacks' offense with 14 home runs and 31 RBIs this season. Josh Naylor maintains a .296 batting average throughout this season. Jung Hoo Lee tops the Giants with a .288 batting average and 27 RBIs while Heliot Ramos contributes seven home runs and 14 walks to the team's stats.

I’ll be taking the OVER in today’s game.  Neither starter has been that sharp and this one should go to the pens pretty early on.  Both teams capable of putting up big runs here today

Jim’s Play 903. Diamondbacks/Giants OVER

The Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners will complete their three-game series today at T-Mobile Park with first pitch at 1:10 PM PDT. The Blue Jays currently lead the series 2-0 with identical 6-3 victories and hope to complete a rare sweep in Seattle since 1991.

Toronto's lineup gained momentum thanks to Bo Bichette and Addison Barger who spearheaded the team's performance. Saturday's game saw Bo Bichette's two-run homer spark a comeback while Addison Barger delivered a tiebreaking single in the eighth inning. Alejandro Kirk excelled at the plate by hitting successfully four times in four at-bats.

The Blue Jays' starting pitcher for their upcoming game will be José Ureña who has experienced difficulties throughout the season as demonstrated by his 8.59 ERA. Bryce Miller represents the Mariners' pitching option with a 4.15 ERA and promising results despite having a 2-3 win-loss record.

Seattle which leads the AL West will attempt to prevent a sweep and reestablish their winning streak. The Mariners maintain a strong home performance with a 12-8 record by depending on their offense which stands fifth in major league rankings with 52 home runs.

I don’t see a first place team like Seattle being swept at home. Especially with a big advantage on the mound. That being said, neither pitcher is all that good and both teams should put up generous points. 

Jim’s Play: Over the total

The Chicago Cubs (22–16) start a three-game series at Citi Field against the New York Mets (24–14). Both teams lead their divisions although they approach this matchup with distinct recent experiences. After losing two out of three games to the Giants the Cubs are hoping to bounce back as the Mets enter their matchup riding high from their 7–1 win against the Diamondbacks.

Jameson Taillon takes the mound for Chicago this evening with a solid performance this season that includes a 2–1 win-loss record along with a 3.86 ERA. In his five most recent games against the Mets he has maintained a perfect 4–0 win-loss record and a remarkable 1.53 ERA. New York responds by deploying Clay Holmes who moved successfully from the Yankees bullpen to the starting rotation. Holmes starts the season with four wins and one loss while maintaining a 2.95 ERA and allowing zero home runs so far.

Kyle Tucker leads the Cubs' offense with a .284 batting average along with nine home runs and 31 RBIs. Pete Crow-Armstrong has demonstrated significant offensive production as he went 8-for-38 with four home runs and nine RBIs throughout his last 10 games. Pete Alonso remains a powerful player for the Mets with a batting average of .328 and nine home runs accompanied by 34 RBIs. Juan Soto found his rhythm after a slow start by hitting 9-for-26 with four home runs in his recent seven games.

Both pitchers are excellent and Taillon has been great against the Mets. I’m taking this game to go UNDER the total.

Jim’s Play: UNDER

The Chicago White Sox will face the Kansas City Royals for the final game of their four-game series on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City. The Kansas City Royals have taken control of the series by winning the first three games with final scores of 3-0, 4-3, and 2-1.

Right-handed pitcher Davis Martin (1-3, 3.52 ERA) will take the mound for the White Sox. During his previous start against Houston Martin gave up three runs over five innings. Martin demonstrated consistent performance but will have to maintain high focus to effectively limit the Royals' hitters. The Kansas City Royals will send left-hander Kris Bubic (3-2, 1.98 ERA) to face the White Sox. Kris Bubic stands out as a key pitcher for the Royals by maintaining an ERA below 2.00 across his 41 innings pitched this season.

Both teams find themselves at the bottom of the league in run production with identical totals of 127 runs for the season which places them 24th in MLB standings. The Royals have taken advantage of crucial hitting opportunities and Bobby Witt Jr. has been instrumental in sparking their success. Witt's two-run homer determined the outcome of Wednesday's game. Edgar Quero and Miguel Vargas have delivered recent offensive improvements for the White Sox who still face challenges in achieving plate consistency.

Two teams that have been having down years and offense has been a big reason. Neither team is very good offensively and with two decent starters on the hill today I expect this game to follow the previous three and be low scoring.  Bubic maintains a sub-2.00 ERA while Martin controls games well which suggests their upcoming contest will continue the trend of low scoring games. Take the under bet for the Thursday game in Kansas City. 

Jim’s Play: Under the Total

The Western Conference Semifinals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs begin tonight when the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder hosts Game 1 against the defending champion Denver Nuggets at Paycom Center. 

Oklahoma City approaches the series after completing their first-round sweep against Memphis Grizzlies on April 26 and enjoying full rest. The Oklahoma City Thunder showed strong offensive skills and defensive determination under the leadership of MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who averaged 32.7 points per game during the regular season. The team has achieved success this season thanks to their balanced offensive approach and roster depth.

After enduring an intense seven-game battle with the Los Angeles Clippers that ended with a decisive 120-101 win on May 3 in Game 7 the Denver Nuggets enter the series. The three-time MVP Nikola Jokic has led Denver by averaging a triple-double in the regular season while maintaining top-level performance throughout the postseason. The Nuggets' offensive rhythm depends heavily on Jamal Murray's scoring performance .

The regular-season match-up between these two teams ended with each team winning two games to demonstrate their equally matched abilities.

OKC has had plenty of rest while Denver coming off that hard fought 7-game win of the Clippers. I look for this game to have plenty of scoring tonight.

Jim’s Play: OVER the Total

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland will host the opening game of the Eastern Conference Semifinals series between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Tip-off is scheduled for 6: The game will begin at 6:00 PM ET (3:00 PM PT) and will be broadcast across the nation on TNT.

The Cavaliers head into this match with renewed confidence after achieving their largest point differential against the Miami Heat in a first-round series sweep. Donovan Mitchell distinguished himself as a key player by scoring 23.8 points per game during the first round. Mitchell will break Michael Jordan's record for consecutive 30-point playoff opening performances if he scores 30 points during Game 1.

The Cleveland Cavaliers face potential uncertainty as All-Star guard Darius Garland remains day-to-day with a toe injury. Garland did not attend practice on Saturday but took part in a full-contact session on Friday. His status will be a game-time decision .

After securing a five-game series victory against Milwaukee Bucks, the Pacers now head to their matchup in Cleveland. Tyrese Haliburton has played a critical role in Indiana Pacers' winning streak by delivering 17.6 points and leading the playoffs with an average of 11.6 assists per game. The Cavaliers' defense must focus on stopping his playmaking abilities which enable him to generate scoring chances for his teammates.

The Pacers' defensive approach concentrates on reducing three-point shot attempts while they usually refrain from switching screens and maintain less emphasis on protecting the paint. 

Cleveland ranks first in the league with 121.9 points per game while Indiana holds seventh place with 117.4 points per game in offensive scoring throughout the regular season. The series is expected to produce many points while the Cavaliers maintain their lead by controlling Haliburton's playmaking skills and using their offensive depth to their advantage.

As the series begins fans will closely monitor Darius Garland's condition and how teams adjust their strategies to neutralize each other's strengths. I do expect a lot of points in this series and tonight I'm taking game one OVER the Total. 

Jim's Play: OVER the Total 

The Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California will host the decisive Game 6 between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Jamal Murray scored 43 points with Nikola Jokic recording a triple-double as the Denver Nuggets achieved a commanding 131-115 victory in Game 5 to take a 3-2 series lead.

While Game 5 ended with high scoring totals the next matchup is expected to result in fewer points overall. The Clippers maintain a reputation for defensive discipline which propels them to top rankings in league points allowed per game and they anticipate intensifying their defense to prevent elimination from the series. The Clippers plan to break Murray's game flow and limit Jokic's playmaking abilities which should push Denver into making difficult and less effective shot attempts.

As the Clippers fight to avoid elimination with desperation tactics and the Nuggets work to finish the series with control and poise both teams will focus more intensively on half-court execution and defensive plays. The high stakes and playoff environment of Game 6 will turn this Western Conference showdown into a battle of endurance rather than a game of speed which makes betting 'under' my choice.

TAKE: Nuggets/Clippers UNDER the Total 

The Philadelphia Phillies will welcome the Washington Nationals to Citizens Bank Park where the game starts at 6:45 PM ET tonight. With their 15-13 record the Philadelphia Phillies intend to use their home field advantage to gain an upper hand over the 13-16 Nationals.

Right-hander Zack Wheeler pitches for Philadelphia with a 2-1 record and a 3.62 ERE. As a dominant force in the Phillies' rotation Wheeler stands out for his ability to overpower the opposition's batting lineups. Nationals' left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore is 2-3 on the season with an earned run average of 3.34. MacKenzie Gore demonstrated impressive moments throughout this season but will now take on the Phillies' powerful batting order.

The Phillies show strong offensive performance with Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber leading the way when playing at home. The Phillies have demonstrated strong performance at Citizens Bank Park with a home record of 9-4. Away from Nationals Park the Nationals have faced difficulties in their road games with a 4-9 record showcasing their away-game struggles.

Injuries have impacted both teams. The Nationals lineup lacks their key pitchers Josiah Gray and Cade Cavalli together with infielder Paul DeJong. The Phillies lack outfielder Brandon Marsh and pitcher Ranger Suárez in their lineup. The absence of key players from both teams will likely affect the game's dynamics especially during the later innings.

Both startes are decent here today and as such I'll be looking to play the UNDER in this game. 

Jim's Play: Nats/Phillies UNDER

On Monday, April 28, 2025, the Oakland Athletics and Texas Rangers will commence a pivotal four-game series at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, with first pitch scheduled for 8:05 p.m. ET. Both teams are vying for position in the AL West, with the Rangers holding a slight edge at 15-13 and the Athletics close behind at 14-14.

The Athletics enter the series with momentum, having secured a walk-off 3-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday, marking their second consecutive series win. Their offense has been a driving force, ranking eighth in batting average (.252), sixth in home runs (38), and fifth in slugging percentage (.428). First baseman Tyler Soderstrom has been particularly impressive, boasting a .292 average with nine home runs and 22 RBIs. On the mound, left-hander JP Sears will start for Oakland. Sears has a 3-2 record with a 3.21 ERA this season and has historically performed well against Texas, holding a 5-1 career record with a 4.10 ERA in nine appearances.

Conversely, the Rangers are looking to rebound after a 3-2 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Sunday, their fourth defeat in five games. Despite a strong pitching staff that ranks fifth in ERA (3.22) and leads the league in fewest walks allowed, Texas has struggled offensively. They rank 30th in RBIs and 24th in batting average (.225), with an on-base percentage of .276. Veteran left-hander Patrick Corbin will take the mound for the Rangers. Corbin is 2-0 with a 3.77 ERA this season and has a 2-0 career record with a 2.25 ERA against the Athletics.

Injuries have impacted both teams. The Rangers are without shortstop Corey Seager (hamstring) and pitcher Kumar Rocker (shoulder), while the Athletics are missing infielder Zack Gelof (hand) and several pitchers due to various injuries.

This matchup features a contrast between Oakland's potent offense and Texas's strong pitching. Sears also has been good historically against the Rangers. That coupled with the A's strong offense has the potential for this game to be higher scoring. If the Rangers can start their sluggish offense this one should easily go over the total.

Jim's Play: Texas/Oakland OVER the total. 

Game 3 between the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic of their first-round NBA playoff series will take place at the Kia Center in Orlando on April 25, 2025. The Celtics lead their playoff series 2-0 after winning their initial two home games and aim to maintain this advantage with another win on the road.

Boston managed to secure a win in Game 2 without their star forward Jayson Tatum who is currently doubtful for Game 3 because of a right wrist bone bruise. Jaylen Brown delivered an impressive performance by scoring 36 points and grabbing 10 rebounds while dishing out five assists. Kristaps Porzingis delivered 20 points and 10 rebounds while Derrick White scored 17 points through key three-pointers during the final period. The Celtics demonstrated their team depth and resilience to handle Orlando's physical defense while keeping the series lead.

While implementing an aggressive defensive strategy, the Magic have failed to establish any offensive flow. Paolo Banchero's 32 points and Franz Wagner's 25 points could not compensate for the team's poor 24% shooting percentage from the three-point line. The Magic can prevent a 3-0 deficit by increasing their shooting precision and reducing turnovers while utilizing their home crowd's support.

Boston aims to stay dominant in Florida to advance to the second round while the Magic have a critical chance to regain control and maintain their playoff chances.

Even though Orlando struggled offensively at the start of the series they demonstrated potential scoring abilities through Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Boston may have to continue without Jayson Tatum after consecutive challenging victories which creates an excellent opportunity for the Magic to strike back in their home arena. The Magic are expected to start the game with high intensity while both teams maintain a fast pace which will favor the over in this crucial matchup. I look for the OVER to come into play here in game three. 

Jim's Play: Over the Total

The Boston Red Sox will host the Seattle Mariners for the opening game of their three-game series at Fenway Park on April 22, 2025, with the first pitch at 6:45 PM ET. The Mariners have a 12-10 record going into the series and the Red Sox hold a 13-11 record.

The Seattle Mariners have assigned right-handed pitcher Bryce Miller to take the mound. Bryce Miller holds a 1-2 pitching record and has maintained a 3.43 ERA through his 21 innings pitched this season. During his most recent start against the Cincinnati Reds he pitched five innings with no runs allowed while striking out eight batters and giving up three hits. Miller has provided positive momentum to the Mariners' pitching lineup and aims to maintain his effective performance against Boston.

Right-hander Brayan Bello will make his season debut following shoulder injury recovery when he steps onto the mound for the Red Sox. Bello achieved a 12-11 win-loss record while maintaining a 4.24 ERA throughout his 157.1 innings pitched during the 2024 season. While rehabbing he pitched four combined starts for the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs and Triple-A Worcester Red Sox and finished with a 7.07 ERA from 21 strikeouts across 14 innings. The Boston team hopes to see Bello regain his past performance levels to enhance their pitching rotation stability.

Cal Raleigh has led the Mariners offensively by hitting with power from both sides of the plate. Seattle's lineup averages 4.5 runs per game which puts them at the 13th position among MLB teams. Trevor Story leads the Red Sox offensive efforts with a .337 average complemented by five home runs and 30 hits. The Boston team averages 4.52 runs per game which ranks them 11th in the league standings.

Moneyline odds show the Red Sox as slight favorites at -135 and the Mariners as underdogs at +115. The total runs predicted for the game stands at 9. Both teams have demonstrated offensive strength which when combined with Bello's season debut could create scoring chances for both sides.

The matchup pits a Mariners team that wants to extend their recent winning streak against a Red Sox team that seeks to secure their standing in the American League East division. The series opener at Fenway Park promises to be an exciting contest between two teams that have strong offensive lineups along with uncertainties about their starting pitchers. With that I'm taking the OVER here on Tuesday. 

Jim's Pick: Over

The Cincinnati Reds face the Miami Marlins Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025 at loanDepot Park for a game poised to deliver a high-scoring outcome. The match holds promising conditions for surpassing the over goal because both starting pitchers are performing poorly while each team demonstrates impressive offensive capabilities.

Cincinnati will have Nick Martinez start with his current 0-3 record and 6.00 ERA from 21 total innings. Despite his outstanding 4-0 record with a 1.00 ERA in 10 appearances against the Marlins previously, his current performances show a marked decline. Martinez has encountered difficulties in both command and preventing home runs because he has surrendered four home runs so far this season. Edward Cabrera leads Miami in the game after experiencing a challenging start to his 2025 season with a 6.52 ERA through 9.2 innings pitched. Cabrera has faced major control issues since his two outings led to six walks and his previous start against the Reds resulted in 7 earned runs and 4 homers over 3.1 innings.

The Cincinnati offense demonstrated explosive potential through a 24-run eruption against Baltimore. The Reds possess a potent offensive duo in Elly De La Cruz and Gavin Lux that challenges pitchers who have difficulties with control. Miami's inconsistent offense found its rhythm during a 6-3 win against the Reds where Kyle Stowers hit a pivotal three-run home run. The Miami team has surpassed the total score 15 times in their 22 games whereas Cincinnati has done so in 12 out of their 23 games this season. A posted total of 8.5 runs sets low expectations but weaknesses in both pitching staffs combined with potent lineups indicate value exists in betting on the over.

This matchup presents the kind of variables bettors look for when targeting a total: The combination of starting pitchers who struggle together with strong offensive teams and tendencies toward high scoring games. Due to Martinez and Cabrera's inconsistent performances alongside potent batting lineups both teams should see multiple base running chances and scoring prospects during the game. In this Tuesday night battle bettors should favor the over as their primary choice.

Jim's Pick: Over 

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the Cleveland Guardians will host the New York Yankees in the second game of their three-game series at Progressive Field with first pitch at 6:10 PM ET. The Guardians won the opening series game with a 6-4 score after José Ramírez hit a three-run homer and Kyle Manzardo delivered a solo shot to extend his streak of homers to three games.

Will Warren will pitch for the Yankees starting with a record of 1-0 and an ERA of 5.17. In 15.2 innings Warren has achieved 16 strikeouts but has also walked nine batters indicating control problems early in the season. The Guardians will start Tanner Bibee who holds a 1-2 record with a 5.85 ERA. Tanner Bibee's season started poorly when he allowed seven home runs over 20 innings of work against a Yankees lineup known for their power hitting.

Aaron Judge continues to lead New York offensively through reaching base in 19 successive games and maintaining a .384 batting average alongside his seven home runs and 25 RBIs. The Guardians respond with Steven Kwan who maintains a .333 batting average and four home runs alongside Kyle Manzardo who stands out as the team leader with seven homers and 17 RBIs. The two teams have displayed the ability to score heavily in clusters which sets the stage for a high-scoring game.

The Guardians enter the match as favorites with an 8-point total runs over/under prediction. Trent Grisham will miss New York's game because he's on the paternity list and Jorbit Vivas joins the team from Triple-A. Cleveland faces injury issues and must play without outfielder George Valera.

As both starting pitchers search for consistency and teams display powerful offensive capabilities this matchup promises to deliver an exciting competition while the Yankees work to balance their series record. I'm taking the OVER in Tuesday's matchup. 

Jim's Pick: OVER

4/19 01:05 PM PT / 4:05 PM ET 

MLB   (957) ST. LOUIS CARDINALS VS (958) NEW YORK METS

Take: UNDER

When the St. Louis Cardinals face the New York Mets on April 19, 2025 at Citi Field expect a game where runs will be at a premium. Kodai Senga of the Mets has delivered outstanding performances from the beginning of the season on the mound. Through 17 innings of pitching work Senga has a 2–1 record while achieving an impressive 1.06 ERA and 1.00 WHIP. He has given up only two earned runs throughout the season while demonstrating strong command and strikeout capabilities through seven shutout innings against Oakland and five scoreless innings against Miami.

Matthew Liberatore joins the Cardinals as a left-handed pitcher with a 1–1 record while holding a 3.93 ERA and maintaining a strong 0.98 WHIP. In his latest outing he held the Phillies to three hits while striking out seven across six innings. 

The Mets' offense lags behind with an average production of only 4.1 runs per game while their batting average remains low at approximately .224. The Mets have experienced increased difficulties at home games since they've recorded a 2–6 record on the over/under during this season. The Cardinals achieved a .270 team batting average yet demonstrated minimal power during away games with only five home runs which ranks as one of the lowest in the league.

Pitchers benefit from playing at Citi Field due to the dimensions of the park that limit scoring potential. The park factor for run production has always placed Citi Field in the lowest ranks during recent seasons. Two well-pitched starts combined with underperforming lineups make expecting high scores unlikely.

Saturday’s matchup between the Cardinals and Mets promises to be a closely contested pitchers' duel which makes betting under 8.5 runs the smart choice.

Take: Under the Total

The NBA Playoffs open on Saturday, April 19, 2025 with an exciting first-round Eastern Conference series between the No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers and the No. 5 seed Milwaukee Bucks. The first game between Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks starts at 1:00 PM ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Indiana Pacers head into the playoffs as a strong team by winning 14 out of their last 17 regular-season games. Indiana's offense demonstrates considerable potency under the leadership of All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton and forward Pascal Siakam through its top league standings in field-goal percentage and assists. Indiana maintains home-court advantage which becomes vital considering their impressive home performances after the All-Star break. 

As the regular season came to a close the Bucks had eight consecutive victories. Giannis Antetokounmpo maintains his dominance as a two-time MVP by delivering averages of over 30 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists for every game he plays. Damian Lillard will miss the start of Game 1 because of a calf injury but hopes remain high for his participation in subsequent games. Milwaukee managed to secure victories in three out of four matchups with the Pacers during the regular season which demonstrated their capability to handle Indiana's rapid style of play.

Indiana and Milwaukee's upcoming series will showcase a fierce competition between Indiana's roster depth together with their home-court advantage juxtaposed with Milwaukee's playoff-hardened team and Antetokounmpo's exceptional talent. 

Typically NBA playoff games tend to lower scoring games then regular season.  That being said, this is the one game on Saturday that stands out to me for an under play. 

Play: Bucks/Pacers UNDER

4/17 05:05 PM PT / 8:05 PM ET 

MLB   (967) LOS ANGELES ANGELS VS (968) TEXAS RANGERS

Take: OVER (Kochanowicz v Rocker)

The Los Angeles Angels will attempt to stop their current three-game skid when they play against the Texas Rangers during their series finale on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at Globe Life Field in Arlington. The Angels, who stand at 9–8 and occupy second place in the AL West standings, need to recover from their two-game series defeat. The Rangers who currently lead the division with an 11–7 record boast an impressive home record of 8–1.

Right-hander Jack Kochanowicz will take the mound for the Angels with a season record of 1–1 and a 5.74 ERA accumulated over 15.2 innings pitched. The opposing pitcher will be right-hander Kumar Rocker from the Rangers who is in search of his first win with a record of 0–2 and a 7.94 ERA over 11.1 innings pitched.

The Angels' offensive efforts are directed by Mike Trout who has achieved six home runs and 14 RBIs but maintains a low batting average of .190. Kyren Paris shines with a .368 batting average alongside five home runs and 13 RBIs. Wyatt Langford tops the Rangers with four home runs and six RBIs as Corey Seager adds a .231 batting average alongside three homers.

The starting pitchers will probably need bullpen assistance before reaching the fifth inning mark.

Take: Angels/Rangers OVER

The Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres are set to face off on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Petco Park in San Diego. The Cubs lead the Central division with a 11-7 record while the Padres lead the West with a 13-3 record. 

Jameson Taillon (1-1, 6.06 ERA) takes the mound for Chicago. Taillon has had a mixed start to the season, allowing 18 hits and 4 home runs over 16.1 innings while looking to find consistency. For San Diego, Dylan Cease (1-1, 7.98 ERA) is scheduled to start. Cease has struggled with control—issuing 6 walks in 14.2 innings—but he’s flashed strikeout potential with 18 Ks and could bounce back at home.

The Cubs enter with a 11-7 record, backed by a .257 team batting average and 25 home runs. Kyle Tucker has been a standout contributor, hitting .328 with 5 homers and 18 RBIs. Meanwhile, San Diego comes in red-hot at 13-3 overall, including an undefeated 10-0 mark at home. The Padres are swinging the bats well, hitting .279 as a team, and their pitching staff has been dominant with a 2.86 ERA. Fernando Tatis Jr. leads the offense, batting .351 with 4 home runs.

This marks the fourth meeting of the season between these two teams. The Cubs took two of three games in the previous series at Wrigley Field. Now, the Padres will look to protect their home field and even the season series. 

Given the early struggles of both starting pitchers and the potency of each lineup, this could shape up to be a high-scoring contest. 

We get a low total here of around 7.5 and I am expecting at least 10 runs in this game. 

Take: Cubs/Padres OVER

On Sunday, April 13, 2025, the Texas Rangers travel to T-Mobile Park to take on the Seattle Mariners in what shapes up to be a classic low-scoring pitcher’s duel. With two strong right-handers taking the mound and both offenses struggling to get into rhythm, this game sets up well for a play on the Under. 

Texas will send veteran right-hander Nathan Eovaldi to the mound. He’s been sharp early in the season, posting a 1-1 record with a 2.29 ERA across 19.2 innings. More impressively, he owns a microscopic 0.66 WHIP and has held opposing hitters to a .164 average, showing command and poise in each outing. On the other side, Logan Gilbert gets the nod for Seattle and he’s been equally efficient, sporting a 2.55 ERA with a 0.62 WHIP and an opponent batting average of just .129 through 17.2 innings pitched. Both starters excel at limiting baserunners and working deep into games, setting the tone for a low-scoring affair.

Offensively, neither team has inspired much confidence to start the year. The Rangers are averaging just 3.3 runs per game and hitting a weak .214 as a club. Seattle hasn’t fared much better, coming in at 3.9 runs per game with a .210 team batting average. Both lineups have struggled to string together consistent offense and have been prone to dry spells against quality starting pitching.

Historically, Logan Gilbert has matched up well against the Rangers. In 13 career starts, he holds a 4–2 record with a 2.59 ERA. His familiarity with Texas hitters and comfort pitching at home only reinforces the idea that he can control the tempo and limit scoring chances.

The over/under for this game is currently set at 7 runs, and all signs point to value on the Under. With two elite arms, two cold lineups, and a pitcher-friendly ballpark, runs may be hard to come by on Sunday. 

I look for a final score of five runs or fewer fewer here today.

Take: UNDER 7 Seattle vs Texas

Saturday night’s NL Central matchup between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Cincinnati Reds sets up as a low-scoring affair, with both teams entering the contest struggling at the plate and sending left-handed starters to the mound who are capable of controlling the pace of the game. 

The Pirates will hand the ball to veteran left-hander Andrew Heaney, who has looked sharp early in 2025. Though he’s only pitched six innings so far this season, Heaney owns a 1.50 ERA and has struck out 12 batters while limiting hard contact. He’s mixing in his off-speed pitches effectively and generating whiffs, especially against lefty-heavy lineups. Opposing him will be Reds lefty Andrew Abbott, making his season debut. Abbott had an up-and-down rookie year, but he showed promise with his feel for pitching and deep repertoire. He’ll look to limit walks and keep the ball in the park, two issues that occasionally plagued him in 2024.

Offensively, neither team has found much rhythm to begin the season. The Pirates come into the game with a 5-9 record, ranking in the bottom tier of the league in scoring at just 3.69 runs per game. Bryan Reynolds has been the most consistent threat in the lineup, while other key bats like Ke’Bryan Hayes and Oneil Cruz have yet to get going. That lack of firepower has put pressure on Pittsburgh’s pitching, though their bullpen has answered the call with strong late-inning performances.

The Reds, sitting at 6-8, haven’t fared much better with the bats. They’re similarly producing fewer than four runs per game, and while Elly De La Cruz has brought energy and occasional highlight-reel plays, the team has struggled in clutch situations. Their defense has been relatively sharp, and the bullpen has shown signs of reliability, especially compared to last season’s inconsistencies.

This pitching matchup of lefties creates a natural suppression of offense, especially with both teams struggling against southpaws. Heaney has been efficient and confident to start the year, and Abbott is capable of matching his tempo if he finds his command early. Given the cool April weather and a light breeze blowing inward at hitter-friendly Great American Ball Park, the conditions may further favor pitchers in this one.

My prediction for this matchup is going under the total. I expect both starters to be in control through at least five innings, and the bullpens to play a significant role in the outcome. From a betting perspective, the most appealing angle is the Under 8.5 total runs. These are two underwhelming lineups facing competent lefties, and neither team has shown the ability to string together offense consistently. The Under has cashed in eight of the last ten combined games between these clubs, and with solid bullpen play and ideal pitcher-friendly conditions, the lean is clearly toward another low-scoring battle.

This game won’t likely be an offensive showcase, but it’s a solid opportunity to back strong starting pitching and an Under play. 

Take: Pittsburgh / Cincinnati UNDER the total

The Texas Rangers (9-4) are set to face the Seattle Mariners (5-8) on Friday, April 11, 2025, at T-Mobile Park in Seattle. The Rangers enter this matchup leading the American League West. In their recent series against the Chicago Cubs, they avoided a sweep with a 6-2 victory on Wednesday. Shortstop Corey Seager was instrumental, hitting two home runs and contributing two RBIs. Catcher Jonah Heim also added a home run and two RBIs. On the mound for Texas will be right-hander Jacob deGrom. In his last outing against the Tampa Bay Rays, deGrom allowed four runs on eight hits over 5.2 innings, resulting in a no-decision. Historically, deGrom has performed well against the Mariners, holding a 1-1 record with a 1.83 ERA in four career starts. The Mariners are looking to build momentum after a dramatic 7-6 walk-off win against the Houston Astros on Wednesday. Outfielder Randy Arozarena played a pivotal role, hitting a grand slam in the eighth inning and drawing a game-winning walk in the ninth.  Seattle will start right-hander Bryce Miller, who is seeking his first win of the season. In his previous start against the San Francisco Giants, Miller allowed four runs on seven hits over 5.1 innings, taking the loss. Notably, Miller has struggled against the Rangers in his career, posting an 0-3 record with an 8.64 ERA in four starts.  The performance of the starting pitchers will be crucial in this contest. Jacob deGrom's experience and past success against Seattle contrast with Bryce Miller's challenges facing Texas. Offensively, the Rangers will aim to capitalize on Miller's struggles, while the Mariners look to build on their recent offensive surge led by Arozarena. If Miller can improve here on Friday then I look for a low scoring contest as deGrom continues to find his old form.

Take the Rangers/Mariners game UNDER the Total. 

The San Francisco Giants (9–3) visit the New York Yankees (7–5) tonight at Yankee Stadium.  This interleague matchup features two potent offenses and starting pitchers with contrasting early-season performances, suggesting a high-scoring affair. The Giants will start Robbie Ray (2–0, 3.18 ERA). Ray has been effective in his first two starts, allowing just one earned run over six innings in his most recent outing. However, he has struggled against the Yankees historically, with a 1–3 record and a 4.18 ERA in previous matchups. Notably, Aaron Judge has hit .375 with three home runs in eight at-bats against Ray, indicating potential challenges for the left-hander tonight. The Yankees will counter with Marcus Stroman (0–0, 7.27 ERA). Stroman has had a rough start to the season, giving up four earned runs in four innings during his last outing. Opponents are batting .425 against him on the first pitch, a concerning trend against a Giants lineup that has been aggressive early in counts. 

New York leads MLB with an average of 6.83 runs per game. Paul Goldschmidt is batting .383 with a .942 OPS, while Aaron Judge has a .354 average with six home runs and 20 RBIs. The Yankees' home slash line of .278/.357/.649 underscores their offensive prowess at Yankee Stadium. San Francisco averages 4.75 runs per game and has shown power with 14 home runs in 12 games. Wilmer Flores leads the team with five home runs and 14 RBIs, while Mike Yastrzemski boasts a .344 batting average. The Giants have also been effective on the bases, with 13 stolen bases and only one caught stealing. 

The Yankees are 7–4–1 in over/under bets this season, and the Giants are 7–5. Given the Yankees' explosive offense and Stroman's early struggles, coupled with the Giants' solid lineup and Ray's potential vulnerabilities, a high-scoring game is anticipated. 

Take the Giants/Yankees game OVER the Total. 

4/10 04:15 PM PT / 7:15 PM ET 

MLB   (903) PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES VS (904) ATLANTA BRAVES

Take: UNDER

The Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves are set to conclude their three-game series at Truist Park on Thursday, April 10, 2025. The series is currently tied 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting rubber match.

The Phillies look to start Jesús Luzardo (1-0, 0.00 ERA) while the Braves will counter with Spencer Schwellenbach (1-0, 0.00 ERA).  

Jesús Luzardo will make his second start of the season for Philadelphia. In his debut, he delivered an impressive performance, pitching six scoreless innings with seven strikeouts. Luzardo's ability to mix his pitches effectively will be crucial against a Braves lineup that has shown signs of offensive resurgence. 

Spencer Schwellenbach takes the mound for Atlanta, also making his second start of the year. In his first outing, the right-hander pitched seven shutout innings, demonstrating excellent command and poise. Schwellenbach has a strong track record against the Phillies, boasting a 2-0 record in three career starts.

The Phillies secured a 4-3 victory in Wednesday's game, highlighted by Trea Turner’s go-ahead home run in the ninth inning off Braves closer Raisel Iglesias. This win improved Philadelphia's record to 8-3, placing them atop the NL East standings. The Braves, now 2-9, are looking to rebound and avoid falling further behind early in the season.

Both teams feature starting pitchers who have yet to allow a run this season, suggesting a potential pitching duel. I look for both pitchers to continue their early season dominance and as such I'm looking at a low scoring contest. 

Take the UNDER

The San Diego Padres and Oakland Athletics square off in the rubber match of their three-game series at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento on Wednesday afternoon. The Padres took the opener 5-4, while the A’s bounced back with a 10-4 win in Game 2. Both teams will be aiming to secure the series with a strong finish. The San Diego Padres send Randy Vásquez (0-1, 1.69 ERA) to the hill. Vásquez has impressed in limited action this season, throwing six scoreless innings against the Braves in his debut and giving up just two runs over 4.2 innings in a tough-luck loss to the Cubs. He’ll look to stabilize a rotation that’s currently navigating several injuries. The Oakland Athletics Osvaldo Bido (1-0, 2.70 ERA) will toe the rubber here on Wednesday. Bido has quietly turned in two solid starts, allowing only three earned runs across 10 innings. He earned a win against Seattle and a no-decision versus Colorado. He’ll aim to keep the Padres in check, especially with San Diego battling some key lineup absences. 

The Padres have jumped out to a strong start but are currently managing several injuries to key contributors. Despite this, they’re averaging 4.6 runs per game with a strong .283 team batting average. Their pitching has also held up well, allowing just 3.5 runs per game. The A’s have shown flashes but have struggled with consistency, particularly on the mound. They’re also averaging 4.6 runs per game and hitting .252 as a team, but their pitching staff has been vulnerable, surrendering 5.9 runs per contest.

San Diego will look to regroup quickly after Tuesday’s lopsided loss and push through some tough injury setbacks. Much will depend on whether Tatis Jr. and Cronenworth are available, as their absence could limit the Padres' offensive firepower. 

Oakland, on the other hand, will try to build off their big win and take advantage of a depleted San Diego lineup. If Bido can continue his steady start and the A’s offense stays hot, they’ll have a strong chance to claim the series at home.

I look once again for a higher scoring contest here today. Play the OVER.

After a long college basketball season that started back in November, we have finally arrived at the NCAA Championship game between Houston and Florida.  The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball National Championship features a compelling clash between two No. 1 seeds: the Florida Gators (35-4) and the Houston Cougars (35-4). Both teams showcased resilience in the Final Four, each mounting significant comebacks to secure their spots in the title game. Florida overcame a nine-point deficit to defeat Auburn 79-73, while Houston rallied from a 14-point shortfall to edge out Duke 70-67. The Cougars were down 11 points with under two minutes to play and had that improbable comeback late. Florida boasts a potent offense, averaging 85 points per game this season. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. has been instrumental, delivering back-to-back 30-point performances in the Elite Eight and Final Four, a feat last achieved by Larry Bird in 1979. The Gators demonstrated grit, notably overcoming a 10-point deficit with under six minutes remaining against Texas Tech in the Elite Eight. Houston prides itself on a stifling defense, leading the nation by allowing just 58 points per game. Graduate guard L.J. Cryer has been pivotal, scoring 26 points against Duke, including crucial free throws in the final moments. The Cougars' path has been marked by resilience, highlighted by their dramatic comeback against Duke, closing the game on a 9-0 run.  Florida's Offense vs. Houston's Defense: The Gators' high-scoring offense, led by Clayton Jr., will be tested against the Cougars' top-ranked defense. Houston's ability to contain Clayton will be crucial. Both teams excel in rebounding. Florida ranks fifth nationally in offensive rebounding percentage (38.9%), while Houston's physicality under the boards has been a hallmark. This championship showdown promises an exhilarating battle between Florida's dynamic offense and Houston's formidable defense. Both teams have displayed remarkable resilience throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a memorable conclusion to the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball season. This game looks to be a great defensive battle and as such I'm taking the UNDER tonight in this contest.

The Dallas Mavericks (38-40) are set to face the Los Angeles Clippers (45-32) on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. This game marks the second of a back-to-back series between the two teams, with the Clippers having secured a 114-91 victory on Friday night. The Mavericks are currently 9th in the Western Conference, striving to maintain their position in the play-in tournament. They currently hold a slim half game lead over No 10 Sacamento and 2 1/2 games lover No 11 Phoenix. The team has faced significant injury challenges, notably the season-ending torn ACL suffered by Kyrie Irving in early March. Additionally, center Daniel Gafford is sidelined with a Grade 3 MCL sprain, and Dereck Lively II is out due to a foot fracture. Anthony Davis, who has been instrumental since his return, was ruled out for Friday's game due to a left adductor strain, and his status for Saturday remains uncertain. The Clippers are positioned tied for 7th with the Grizzlies in the Western Conference, aiming to secure a direct playoff spot and avoid the play-in tournament. They only trail No 6 Minnesota by one game and are within two games of No 3 LA Lakers. So every game is a big one for the Clippers. They have been in strong form, winning 12 of their last 15 games. Kawhi Leonard has been a consistent performer, contributing 20 points in Friday's win. However, the Clippers are managing injuries as well, with Amir Coffey (knee inflammation), Jordan Miller (hamstring tendinopathy), and Ben Simmons (knee injury management) all listed as out. With the Mavericks potentially missing Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II, the Clippers' Ivica Zubac, who recorded a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds on Friday, could have an advantage in the paint. The Mavericks will rely on players like Naji Marshall, who led the team with 22 points in the previous game, to counter the offensive threats posed by the Clippers' wings, including Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell. The Clippers' recent form and home-court advantage position them as favorites in this matchup. The Mavericks' performance will heavily depend on the availability of Anthony Davis. If Davis is unable to play, Dallas may struggle to contain the Clippers' frontcourt and generate sufficient offense. Conversely, if Davis is active, his presence could significantly impact the game's dynamics, providing the Mavericks with a much-needed boost on both ends of the floor. Either way, Davis or no Davis, I'm taking this game OVER tonight. I had the Clippers last night and the game got to just 205 total points. I expect a better showing tonight from Dallas as this one goes OVER the total. 

The stage is set for a thrilling Final Four clash between two of college basketball’s elite programs: the Houston Cougars and the Duke Blue Devils. It’s a showdown of contrasting styles—Duke’s offensive firepower meets Houston’s lockdown defense. Duke enters the contest boasting the most efficient offense in the nation. Leading the charge is freshman phenom Cooper Flagg, who’s been sensational throughout the season, averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game. Supporting him is fellow freshman Kon Knueppel, a reliable scorer with 14.4 points per game and a 40.1% shooting clip from three-point range. Houston counters with the nation’s top-ranked defense and an elite 3-point shooting percentage (39.7%). Senior guard L.J. Cryer leads the way offensively with 15.4 points per game, hitting nearly 42% of his shots from deep. Junior guard Emanuel Sharp adds 12.7 points per game, giving Houston multiple perimeter threats. Cooper Flagg vs. Joseph Tugler: This battle in the paint is one to watch. Flagg will be tested by Joseph Tugler, a strong, physical defender with a massive 7-foot-6 wingspan. Tugler's defensive presence could disrupt Flagg’s rhythm and alter Duke’s offensive flow. Both teams are lethal from long range. Houston features sharp-shooters like Milos Uzan (44.5%), Cryer (41.9%), and Sharp (41.5%). On the other side, Duke counters with Tyrese Proctor (41.2%) and Knueppel. Whichever team can get hot from beyond the arc may swing the momentum. Duke is averaging close to 92 points per game during the tournament, showcasing explosive scoring capabilities. Houston, however, has held opponents to just 56.5 points per game over its four tournament victories. This is a textbook matchup between offensive firepower and defensive grit. Duke’s Defense is No Slouch. While known for its explosive offense, Duke also ranks among the top defensive teams in the country, giving up only 62.6 points per game—seventh nationally. Their ability to limit second-chance opportunities and contest shots effectively adds another layer of resistance. Houston thrives on a deliberate, methodical tempo that limits the number of possessions per game. They prefer to grind games out in the half court, emphasizing defensive execution and forcing opponents into uncomfortable offensive sets. This slower pace often keeps scoring totals down, even against more potent offenses. Both teams are great defensively and I look or Houston to do it's best to slow this game down and not get into a run and gun shootout. Take the UNDER.

The stage is set for a high-octane SEC showdown as the Florida Gators and the Auburn Tigers battle for a spot in the national championship game. Both teams have had dominant seasons and bring explosive offenses and disciplined coaching into this Final Four matchup. Under head coach Todd Golden, Florida posted a 34-4 record and finished second in the SEC. The Gators are one of the nation’s most potent offensive teams, averaging 85.4 points per game, good for fourth nationally. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. has been the engine of their attack, averaging 18.1 points and 4.2 assists per game. Led by veteran coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn compiled a 32-5 record and won the SEC regular-season title. They average 83.2 points per game (12th nationally) and are anchored by dominant forward Johni Broome, who averages 18.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per contest. Florida holds a slight edge on offense, averaging 85.4 points to Auburn’s 83.2. Auburn allows 69.2 points per game, slightly better than Florida’s 69.7. 

The Tigers have shown exceptional consistency on the defensive end, allowing 70 points or fewer in all six of their SEC and NCAA Tournament games leading up to the Final Four. Their ability to control tempo and limit quality looks has been a major factor in their postseason success. Florida ranks among the nation’s best in defending both the two-point and three-point shot. Their perimeter defense makes it difficult for opponents to get hot from deep, and their length inside challenges finishes at the rim. The game will be played at the Alamodome, a large football stadium converted for basketball. These types of venues can affect shooting accuracy due to unusual sightlines and depth perception issues, especially on three-point attempts. In high-pressure games like the Final Four, teams often emphasize defensive execution and deliberate offensive sets over fast-break scoring. That leads to fewer possessions and lower-scoring outcomes, especially in the early stages of the game when nerves are high. Both teams proved they can play defense and with the stadium being a converted football stadium and the stakes at hand, I'm sticking with the UNDER here today. 

Take : UNDER the Total

The Timberwolves are in the thick of the Western Conference playoff hunt, currently tied for the sixth seed. Securing a top-six finish is key to avoiding the Play-In Tournament. Minnesota enters this matchup riding a three-game winning streak, including a dramatic 140-139 double-overtime victory over the Denver Nuggets. In that game, Anthony Edwards led the way with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, continuing his strong season. While already eliminated from playoff contention, the Nets are coming off back-to-back wins over the Washington Wizards and Dallas Mavericks. In their most recent outing, a 113-109 win over Dallas, Keon Johnson led with 24 points and D'Angelo Russell added 18 points and 11 assists. The Nets are giving increased minutes to their young core as they look toward the future. Anthony Edwards has emerged as one of the league’s premier young scorers, averaging 27.3 points per game. The Nets will need to prioritize defensive schemes to try to slow him down, though that’s easier said than done given his current form. D'Angelo Russell’s experience and court vision make him a central figure for Brooklyn. However, Minnesota’s defense ranks among the league’s best, making his job more difficult. The Timberwolves rank sixth in defensive efficiency, and they’ve been tough on opposing guards. Minnesota enters this game with momentum and something to play for, while Brooklyn is experimenting with lineups and developing young talent. With the Timberwolves’ playoff aspirations driving their intensity—and the Nets struggling defensively—Minnesota is expected to control the game and score enough points to get this game OVER the total. 

The UCF Knights and the Cincinnati Bearcats are set to clash in the quarterfinals of the College Basketball Crown tournament on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The UCF Knights (18-16) secured their spot in the quarterfinals with a narrow 76-75 victory over Oregon State. In that game, three players—Tyler Hendricks, Nils Machowski, and Darius Johnson—each contributed 15 points. Notably, leading scorer Keyshawn Hall, who averages 18.8 points per game, did not participate in the matchup against Oregon State. The Cincinnati Bearcats (19-15) advanced by defeating DePaul 83-61 in their opening game of the tournament. Cincinnati showcased a balanced offense with six players scoring in double figures, led by Dillon Mitchell's 15 points and seven rebounds. UCF averages 79.2 points per game, shooting 42.4% from the field and 33.8% from three-point range. Cincinnati averages 70.9 points per game with a field goal percentage of 44.8% and 32% from beyond the arc. Knights allow an average of 80 points per game, while the Bearcats have a stronger defensive record, conceding 65.6 points per game. Cincinnati has dominated recent matchups, winning the last five games against UCF. Their most recent encounter was on February 5, 2025, where the Bearcats triumphed 93-83. I expect much the same this time around as we should see plenty of points scored in this contest. Play the OVER.

The Boston Red Sox and the Baltimore Orioles are set to conclude their three-game series on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore. The Boston Red Sox (2-4): have had a challenging start to the season, currently holding a 2-4 record. They secured a 3-0 victory in the second game of this series, with pitcher Garrett Crochet delivering an impressive eight-inning shutout performance. The Baltimore Orioles are at an even 3-3, having alternated wins and losses in their first six games. They won the series opener against Boston with an 8-5 scoreline. Boston Red Sox: Tanner Houck (0-1, 6.35 ERA) is slated to start for Boston. In his season debut against the Texas Rangers, Houck pitched 5.2 innings, allowing four earned runs on seven hits, with three walks and two strikeouts. Historically, Houck has a 3.50 ERA in nine career appearances (five starts) against the Orioles. Veteran right-hander Charlie Morton (0-1, 10.80 ERA) will take the mound for Baltimore. In his first start of the season against the Toronto Blue Jays, Morton lasted 3.1 innings, surrendering four earned runs on seven hits, with one walk and three strikeouts. Boston Red Sox: Outfielder Wilyer Abreu has been a bright spot, boasting a .500 batting average with two home runs and six RBIs. Additionally, second baseman Kristian Campbell is off to a strong start, going 6-for-16 this season. Baltimore Orioles: Third baseman Jordan Westburg leads the team with three home runs and a .381 batting average. Outfielder Cedric Mullins is also performing well, hitting .350 with two home runs and ten RBIs. With the pitchers not yet in form, I'm looking at plenty of runs to be scored here today. Take the OVER.

The Orlando Magic (36-40) head to the Frost Bank Center to face the San Antonio Spurs (31-43) in a matchup with a projected total set at 220.5 points. Both teams bring contrasting recent form and defensive tendencies that make a compelling case for the over. The Magic have picked up wins in four of their last six games, showing improved offensive execution. In a recent high-scoring win over the Kings, they dropped 121 points, shooting nearly 50% from the field and over 46% from deep. When this team finds rhythm early, their pace and ball movement create open looks, especially from beyond the arc. The Spurs, on a four-game losing streak, have struggled to contain opponents, recently surrendering 148 points to the Warriors. Their season average in total points per game is nearly 229, signaling a high-tempo game environment and a vulnerable defense prone to breakdowns—particularly in transition and against perimeter shooting. The over has hit in the last two meetings between these teams, and both clubs have had games this season where defensive execution gave way to shootouts. The Spurs’ willingness to push pace, paired with Orlando’s ability to capitalize on a porous defense, suggests another contest leaning toward high total scoring. The way the Spurs have given up points in recent games should have the Magic coming in around 120 points. I'm taking the game OVER. 

The 2025 NCAA Tournament’s South Regional Final brings a high-stakes clash between two powerhouse programs as the No. 2 seed Michigan State Spartans face off against the No. 1 seed Auburn Tigers on Sunday in Atlanta. Tip-off is set for 5:05 PM ET at State Farm Arena, and a trip to the Final Four in San Antonio is on the line. Michigan State Spartans (30-6) under Tom Izzo has once again led his Spartans deep into March, relying on a disciplined, defense-first approach. Michigan State has allowed just over 67 points per game this season while holding opponents to 40% shooting from the field. Offensively, they average 78 points per game, with solid ball movement and efficient perimeter play. Freshman guard Jase Richardson has emerged as a clutch performer, dropping 20 points in the Sweet 16 win over Ole Miss. Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard provide veteran leadership in the backcourt, while Malik Hall anchors the frontcourt with grit and experience. The Auburn Tigers (31-5) led by Bruce Pearl. The Tigers have ridden a high-octane offense to the brink of the Final Four. Auburn averages nearly 84 points per game, powered by a deep and athletic rotation. In their Sweet 16 comeback win over Michigan, the Tigers showed resilience behind Johni Broome’s 22 points and 16 rebounds. Guards Denver Jones and freshman sensation Tahaad Pettiford have given Auburn perimeter scoring punch, while their defense has held opponents to under 70 points per contest. Auburn also boasts one of the nation’s top shot-blocking teams, averaging six swats per game. Both teams are battle-tested. Michigan State thrives in gritty, close games, while Auburn can explode offensively in spurts. Whichever team dictates pace will hold the upper hand. Expect a physical, tightly contested battle with shifting momentum. Michigan State’s defense will slow Auburn’s tempo early, but the Tigers’ athleticism and depth may wear down the Spartans over 40 minutes. This looks to be a grind out game with every point being important. I'm taking the UNDER. 

The Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks wrap up their four-game series on Sunday afternoon in what promises to be a competitive showdown between two clubs looking to establish early-season momentum. Both teams have shown flashes of potential and will be eager to close the series strong before turning the page to April. The Chicago Cubs have won three straight (2–3) after losing their first two games in Tokyo to the Dodgers. Arizona is 1–2. Chicago Cubs will start Matthew Boyd (LHP). Boyd enters the 2025 campaign following a solid 2024 season where he posted a 2.72 ERA and recorded 46 strikeouts. He’ll look to contain an Arizona offense that’s been swinging the bat well early on. Arizona will counter with Eduardo Rodríguez (LHP). Rodríguez brings veteran experience and aims to bounce back from a 5.04 ERA last season. His familiarity with the Cubs is limited, but he has the stuff to keep Chicago’s lineup in check when he’s on. Chicago Cubs Kyle Tucker (OF): The offseason acquisition has wasted no time making an impact, showcasing power and consistency at the plate. Ian Happ (LF): A cornerstone of the Cubs’ lineup, Happ is off to a steady start, batting .267 with one home run and four RBIs. Sunday’s matchup features two experienced left-handers, and the battle on the mound may come down to who can minimize damage against the heart of each lineup. I look for at least nine runs to be scored in this contest and as such I'm taking the OVER. 

The Midwest Region's Elite Eight matchup features the No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers (30–7) against the No. 1 seed Houston Cougars (33–4). Both teams are renowned for their defensive prowess and disciplined playstyles, setting the stage for a highly competitive battle with a Final Four berth at stake. Tennessee Volunteers are 30–7 under Head Coach Rick Barnes. Tennessee secured their Elite Eight spot by defeating Kentucky 78–65, showcasing their defensive strength and balanced scoring. Houston is 33–4 under Head Coach Kelvin Sampson. Houston advanced by narrowly edging out Purdue 62–60, demonstrating resilience and clutch performance in critical moments. Houston allows 88.0 points per 100 possessions. Tennessee allows 89.3 points per 100 possessions. Houston averages 123.4 points per 100 possessions. Tennessee averages 121.1 points per 100 possessions. Pace of play: Houston 61.6 possessions per 40 minutes. Tennessee: 63.7 possessions per 40 minutes. Both teams exhibit elite defenses and methodical offensive approaches, often resulting in low-scoring, possession-controlled games. Tennessee Volunteers: Zakai Zeigler (Guard): Instrumental in the Sweet 16 victory over Kentucky with 18 points and 10 assists, Zeigler's playmaking and defensive tenacity are vital for Tennessee's success. Chaz Lanier (Guard): Contributed 17 points against Kentucky, providing a reliable scoring option from the perimeter. Felix Okpara (Center): Anchors the defense with shot-blocking ability and added 11 rebounds in the previous game, effectively controlling the paint. Houston Cougars: L.J. Cryer (Guard): Averaging 15.3 points per game, Cryer's scoring prowess and experience are crucial for Houston's offensive rhythm. Milos Uzan (Guard): Delivered a game-high 22 points, including the game-winning layup against Purdue, showcasing his clutch performance under pressure. Jamal Shead (Guard): Provides leadership and stability in the backcourt, facilitating the offense and contributing defensively. This Elite Eight clash is anticipated to be a defensive battle, with both teams excelling in limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. Houston's slight edge in offensive efficiency and superior three-point shooting (39.8%) could be pivotal. This looks to be a close game and slow pace. I'm taking UNDER as my Elite 8 Total of the Year. 

The Elite Eight clash between the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils and No. 2 seed Alabama Crimson Tide is set for Saturday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, with tipoff at 8:49 p.m. ET. Duke comes in with a 34-3 record, driven by an efficient and balanced roster. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has led the way, averaging 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His performance in the Sweet 16 — 30 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks — was nothing short of elite, proving he’s built for March. Alabama (28-8) brings one of the most potent offenses in the country, fresh off a 113-88 win over BYU where they set an NCAA Tournament record with 25 made three-pointers. Senior guard Mark Sears exploded for 34 points, hitting 10 from beyond the arc. Alabama’s experience and tempo-heavy attack make them a unique threat. The defining battle could be between Duke’s top-ranked two-point defense (holding opponents to 43.2%) and Alabama’s explosive two-point offense (converting 60.1%). Another critical factor will be Alabama’s outside shooting against Duke’s strong perimeter defense, which has limited opponents to around 30% from deep. Duke leads the all-time series 8-3 and has won seven straight matchups against Alabama. However, these teams haven’t met since 2013, and both programs have evolved significantly since then. This game pits Duke’s polished, defensive-minded approach against Alabama’s free-flowing, high-octane offense. The outcome may depend on whether Duke can limit Alabama’s three-point barrage and slow down their pace. Either way, this one has all the makings of a classic.  I look for both teams to dictate the pace at times. And as such, I'm expecting this game to get enough points to go over the total. 

The No. 1 seed Florida Gators face off against the No. 3 seed Texas Tech Red Raiders in a high-stakes Elite Eight showdown at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:09 p.m. ET. Florida rides into this game on a nine-game win streak, including a dominant 87-71 Sweet 16 victory over Maryland. The Gators showed off their depth with six players scoring in double figures and a +18 margin on the glass. They’ve been one of the tournament’s most efficient offensive teams, averaging 85.4 points per game heading into the round. Florida’s success comes from balance — several players are shooting 35.7% or better from beyond the arc — and a stingy defense that has held opponents to just 25.8% shooting from deep during the tournament. Texas Tech punched their ticket to the Elite Eight with an 85-83 overtime comeback win over Arkansas, erasing a 16-point deficit. JT Toppin, Darrion Williams, and Christian Anderson combined for 62 points, carrying the Red Raiders through a nail-biting finish. However, Texas Tech’s outside shooting has dipped in the tournament. They’ve connected on just 25.0% of their three-point attempts, down from a season average of 36.7%. The possible absence of guard Chance McMillian due to an oblique injury could also impact their rotation. The spotlight will be on how Texas Tech’s offense handles Florida’s elite defense. Florida ranks second in adjusted offensive efficiency (129.2 points per 100 possessions) and ninth in adjusted defensive efficiency (92.9 points allowed per 100 possessions). One key battle will be at point guard: Elijah Hawkins for Texas Tech vs. Walter Clayton Jr. for Florida. Whoever controls the pace and tempo could shift the game’s direction dramatically.  Florida is an offensive machine and I don't see anyone keeping them down. Tech will have to keep pace or get blowout on Saturday. I'm taking OVER.

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament's Sweet 16 features the No. 3 seed Texas Tech Red Raiders and the No. 10 seed Arkansas Razorbacks on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Tip-off is scheduled for 10:09 PM ET, with television coverage on TBS and truTV. Texas Tech Red Raiders (27-8) have showcased a strong offense throughout the season, ranking fifth nationally in offensive efficiency. They possess a balanced attack, capable of scoring both inside and from the perimeter. Notably, forward J.T. Toppin has been a dominant presence in the paint, averaging 18.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. In their recent victory over Drake, Toppin recorded a double-double with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Arkansas Razorbacks (22-13) have embraced the underdog role, advancing to the Sweet 16 with impressive victories over higher-seeded teams. Their defense has been particularly effective, limiting opponents' shooting percentages and disrupting offensive rhythms. Offensively, Arkansas has been solid but will need to improve their three-point shooting and rebounding to compete effectively against Texas Tech. The Razorbacks' defense will be tested by the Red Raiders' versatile offensive strategies, which can adapt to both interior and perimeter scoring. Containing Toppin in the paint while defending against Texas Tech's three-point shooters will be crucial for Arkansas. Arkansas prefers an up-tempo game, capitalizing on fast breaks and transition opportunities. Conversely, Texas Tech is adept at controlling the tempo, often slowing down the game to execute their half-court offense efficiently. The team that dictates the pace is likely to gain a significant advantage. Red Raiders offense has been formidable and I expect them to control this game today. That will force Arkansas to match them with their up-tempo offense. I'll be on the over in this game today. 

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament's Sweet 16 features the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils and the No. 4 seed Arizona Wildcats on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:39 p.m. ET, with television coverage on CBS. This is a rematch from earlier in the season where Duke prevailed, 69-55. Duke Blue Devils (33-3) have  demonstrated dominance throughout the season, currently on a 13-game winning streak. Their offense is led by standout freshman Cooper Flagg, who has fully recovered from an earlier ankle injury and is expected to play without limitations. They average 83.2 ppg while allowing just 61.7 ppg. The Blue Devils have also benefited from a strategic lineup change, with Sion James replacing Caleb Foster, enhancing their performance significantly. Arizona Wildcats (24-12) have shown resilience, overcoming a 15-point deficit to defeat Oregon 87-83 in the Round of 32. Caleb Love has been a pivotal player, delivering consistent performances and leading the team's offense. Arizona's defense has improved notably, preparing them for the physicality of the NCAA Tournament. Arizona averages 82.2 ppg. These are two of the highest scoring teams in the tournament and as such I'm looking for a pretty good shootout today. I'm taking the OVER. 

The NCAA Tournament continues Thursday with a the high-octane Alabama Crimson Tide and the disciplined BYU Cougars. Both teams have looked sharp in the opening rounds and bring very different styles to the court, setting the stage for a classic clash of pace and precision. BYU Cougars — No. 5 Seed (Big 12) are 25-10 and coming off a win over No. 4 seed Kansas State. The Cougars have ridden their perimeter shooting and disciplined ball movement to reach the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2011. Head coach Mark Pope has this team playing smart, unselfish basketball. BYU ranks among the top teams in the nation in assists and three-point attempts, often stretching defenses thin with five-out lineups. Jaxson Robinson — The senior wing has been electric from deep, averaging over 17 points per game in the tournament and shooting above 40% from three. His ability to hit contested shots and create space will be vital. Alabama Crimson Tide — No. 1 Seed (SEC) are 29-6 and coming off a win over No. 8 seed Texas A&M. The Tide enter the Sweet 16 after rolling through their first two opponents with their signature blend of pace, spacing, and athleticism. Nate Oats’ squad continues to be one of the fastest-paced teams in the country, looking to score early and often with a deep arsenal of shooters and slashers.  Mark Sears — The veteran guard has been the engine of Alabama's offense, combining elite shot-making with excellent vision. His ability to break down BYU’s defense and control tempo will be crucial. Alabama wants to run; BYU wants to control tempo. Alabama has been scoring big in this tournament and BYU might have to open it up a bit here to stay close. I'm taking the OVER here in this Sweet 16 matchup. 

The Los Angeles Lakers (43-28) are set to face the Indiana Pacers (42-29) on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. The Lakers are currently on a three-game losing streak, including a recent 118-106 loss to the Orlando Magic. They are aiming to snap this skid and improve their road performance. LeBron James, despite dealing with a left groin strain, is listed as probable and is expected to play. His leadership, alongside Luka Doncic, will be crucial in this matchup. The Pacers are riding a five-game winning streak and have been formidable at home, boasting a 24-10 record at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Tyrese Haliburton has been instrumental in their recent success, providing significant contributions on both ends of the floor.  The Lakers will rely heavily on the performances of LeBron James and Luka Doncic to penetrate the Pacers' defense. The effectiveness of this duo could determine the Lakers' ability to score efficiently. Indiana prefers an up-tempo style of play, which has been effective during their winning streak. The Lakers will need to control the pace to avoid being overwhelmed by the Pacers' fast breaks and quick transitions. This matchup presents contrasting team dynamics, with the Lakers seeking to end their losing streak and the Pacers aiming to extend their winning momentum. I expect the Pacers to dictate the pace of this one and that means a high scoring game. I'm taking the OVER. 

The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is set to face Canada in the third-place playoff of the 2025 Concacaf Nations League on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The match will kick off at 6:00 PM Eastern Time (3:00 PM Pacific Time) at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Though not the grand final, this match holds weight. For both the United States and Canada, it’s a chance to restore pride, gain momentum ahead of the 2025 Gold Cup, and fine-tune their squads as they both gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which they’re co-hosting alongside Mexico. A bronze medal in the Nations League isn’t the ultimate prize, but for two nations with growing soccer expectations, it’s meaningful—especially coming off semifinal losses that left fans and managers frustrated. The U.S. enters this match under pressure following a disappointing 1-0 semifinal loss to Panama. Mauricio Pochettino’s side struggled with cohesion and energy. His post-match remarks hinted at deeper concerns: motivation, leadership, and perhaps a need to rethink tactical roles. With stars like Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah, there's no shortage of talent—but converting that into results is the key. Canada fell to Mexico in the semifinals, 2-0, and while that result was expected by some, Jesse Marsch’s squad still has plenty to prove. The team looked dangerous in spurts, with Jacob Shaffelburg emerging as a breakout performer. Canada’s recent success—including beating the U.S. last September—shows they’re no longer underdogs in this rivalry. The rivalry has tightened in recent years. In their last five meetings the momentum has swun slightly to Canada. However, historically, the U.S. has had the upper hand.  USA must control tempo early and improve in the final third. Transition defense has to be sharper against Canada’s pace. Canada looks to sit compact and break on the counter. Exploiting space behind U.S. fullbacks will be crucial. Tough call here as this one will be tight, but I expect either team to finish with a 2-1 win and as such I'll be on the OVER. 

The No. 8 seed Connecticut Huskies (24-10) are set to face the No. 1 seed Florida Gators (31-4) in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The game will tip off at 12:10 PM Eastern Time at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, and will be broadcast on CBS. The Huskies advanced to the second round after a hard-fought 67-59 victory over Oklahoma. Sophomore guard Solo Ball played a pivotal role, contributing 14 points and five rebounds. Ball's development has been instrumental for UConn, especially after limited play as a freshman. Junior forward Alex Karaban, the only remaining starter from UConn's previous two national championship teams, added 13 points and seven rebounds in the win. The Gators showcased their offensive prowess with a dominant 95-69 win over Norfolk State in the first round. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., a first-team All-American, led the charge with 23 points, five rebounds, and two steals. Clayton's decision to transfer to Florida has paid dividends, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier guards and an NBA draft prospect. Fifth-year senior guard Alijah Martin also made significant contributions, scoring 17 points and adding two assists. Historically, UConn leads the series 5-1, including a 75-54 victory in their last meeting on December 7, 2022. Notably, UConn defeated Florida during the 2013-14 season, both in the regular season and in the Final Four. Florida boasts the nation's top-rated offense, averaging nearly 86 points per game. UConn's defense will need to be at its best to contain the Gators' high-scoring attack. U Conn knows they can't get into a scoring match here on Sunday. As such look for the Huskies to slow the pace down. I'm going to take UNDER with U Conn taking the tempo.

The NCAA Tournament's East Region features an intriguing first-round matchup between the No. 4 seed Arizona Wildcats and the No. 13 seed Akron Zips on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle.  Arizona Wildcats (22-12, 14-6 Big 12) under head coach Tommy Lloyd, Arizona boasts a high-octane offense, averaging 81.7 points per game. The Wildcats are led by guard Caleb Love, who contributes 16.6 points per game, and forward Henri Veesaar, a 7-foot sophomore known for his efficiency around the rim. Arizona's size advantage is notable, with a roster featuring multiple players over 6-foot-3. Akron Zips (28-6, 17-1 MAC): enter the tournament on a hot streak, having won 21 of their last 22 games. The Zips are known for their fast-paced play, ranking 16th nationally in adjusted tempo, and average 84.6 points per game. Guard Nate Johnson leads the team with 14.0 points per game, while Tavari Johnson adds 13.0 points and 3.9 assists per game. Despite their offensive prowess, Akron's roster is relatively undersized, with most contributors standing 6-foot-3 or shorter. Pace of Play: Both teams favor an up-tempo style, which could lead to a high-scoring affair. Arizona ranks 55th in adjusted tempo, while Akron sits at 16th. This alignment suggests both teams will be comfortable pushing the pace. Both teams should be running and gunning in this game. Play the OVER. 

The NCAA Tournament's first-round matchup between the No. 6 seed BYU Cougars and the No. 11 seed VCU Rams is scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 4:05 PM ET at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. BYU Cougars (24-9) boast a high-octane offense, averaging 81 points per game. They are particularly effective from beyond the arc, ranking 15th nationally in three-point shooting percentage. Richie Saunders leads the team with 16 points per game, while Dallin Hall contributes 9.3 points per game. The VCU Rams (28-6) are renowned for its defensive prowess, allowing just 62.4 points per game, which ranks eighth nationally. Offensively, they average 77 points per game. Max Shulga is the team's leading scorer, averaging 15.1 points per game, and Jack Clark adds 13.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Both teams rely heavily on three-point shooting. BYU ranks 15th nationally in three-point shooting percentage, while VCU ranks 27th. Defensively, VCU excels at guarding the perimeter, holding opponents to 30.6% shooting from beyond the arc, whereas BYU allows opponents to shoot 34.8%. VCU's defense is adept at creating turnovers, ranking 32nd nationally in opponent turnovers per possession. BYU, however, has struggled with ball security, ranking 205th in turnovers per possession. Here is an interesting fact, No 11 seeds have been very good since 2011, going 29-27. Can they do it again here. I'll take VCU and we'll see. 

The Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers (22-12) are set to face the American University Eagles (22-12) in the NCAA Tournament's First Four on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Donny Lind, the Mountaineers clinched the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) title by defeating Iona 63-49. They have won nine of their last 11 games, including four straight, showcasing a strong finish to their season. The Eagles, guided by second-year head coach Duane Simpkins, secured the Patriot League championship with a decisive 74-52 victory over Navy. They have won eight of their last 10 games, including four consecutive wins, demonstrating strong form entering the tournament. Mount St. Mary's is led by Dola Adebayo who leads the team with 13.2 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, shooting 51.9% from the field. American University's top scorer is Matt Rogers with 17.0 points per game, along with 5.6 rebounds, shooting an impressive 55.6% from the field.  This First Four matchup features two teams with identical records and recent championship victories. American's experience and continuity, coupled with their defensive strengths, position them favorably. However, Mount St. Mary's momentum and balanced scoring could challenge the Eagles, suggesting a closely contested game. For me, I'm sticking with the UNDER here on Wednesday. 

The Pistons hold a 37-31 record, placing them sixth in the Eastern Conference. They average 114.8 points per game (12th in the league) and allow 113.2 points per game (14th). Their rebounding average stands at 45.3 per game (9th). The Pelicans have struggled this season with an 18-50 record, ranking 14th in the Western Conference. They average 110.8 points per game (23rd) and concede 119.0 points per game (26th). Their rebounding average is 43.5 per game (21st). Pistons: Cade Cunningham: 25.6 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 9.3 APG and Malik Beasley: 16.3 PPG, 2.7 RPG lead the team. Pelicans are led by Zion Williamson: 24.2 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 5.3 APG and Trey Murphy III: 21.6 PPG, 5.2 RPG. Pelicans: Zion Williamson (personal reasons), Kelly Olynyk (finger), and Yves Missi (ankle) are questionable. Brandon Boston Jr. (ankle) is out. Herbert Jones (shoulder) and Dejounte Murray (Achilles) are out for the season. I look for the Pistons to score a lot here on Monday and push this game over the total. 

The Alabama Crimson Tide and the Florida Gators are set to clash in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament semifinals on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CT (3:30 p.m. ET), with the game broadcast on ESPN. Alabama Crimson Tide are 25-7 overall, 13-5 in SEC play, averaging 91.4 points per game while allowing 80.7 points per game. The Crimson Tide are renowned for their high-octane offense, leading the nation in scoring with an average of 91.4 points per game. Their up-tempo style is complemented by a deep roster, allowing them to maintain intensity throughout games. In their recent quarterfinal matchup, Alabama dominated Kentucky with a 99-70 victory, showcasing their offensive prowess. Florida Gators are 28-4 overall, 14-4 in SEC play, averaging 84.8 points per game and allowing 68.6 points per game. The Gators have been impressive on both ends of the floor, combining a potent offense with a stifling defense. Their balanced approach has led them to a strong season, including a recent 95-81 victory over Missouri in the quarterfinals, where Clayton Jr. led with 18 points and six assists. Even though this is one of the highest totals we'll see in college hoops, these two teams are built to score a lot and go over this number. Play OVER. 

The Western Michigan Broncos (12-19, 9-9 MAC) are set to face the Kent State Golden Flashes (21-10, 11-7 MAC) in the quarterfinals of the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Tournament on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, with tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET. This season, the Broncos and Golden Flashes split their two regular-season meetings, each securing a victory on the road. On January 14, Western Michigan triumphed 94-83 at Kent State, while the Golden Flashes edged out a 77-76 win in Kalamazoo on March 4. The Broncos secured their tournament berth with a narrow 64-63 victory over Bowling Green in their regular-season finale. Junior guard Chansey Willis Jr., recently named to the All-MAC Second Team, has been instrumental for Western Michigan, averaging 17.0 points and 5.8 assists per game. He has scored in double figures in 21 of his 23 games this season. The Broncos have also been strong on the boards, leading the MAC in offensive rebounds with 13.3 per game. The Golden Flashes enter the tournament on a positive note, having won two consecutive games, including a 76-70 victory over Eastern Michigan. Kent State boasts a balanced offensive attack, averaging 74.1 points per game, with key contributions from VonCameron Davis (15.2 points per game) and Jalen Sullinger (15.1 points per game). Defensively, they have been solid, allowing 68.3 points per game, and they excel in rebounding, outrebounding opponents by an average of 5.0 boards per game. This game looks to be a tight contest and lower scoring. I'm on the UNDER here tonight. 

The Kennesaw State Owls (18-13, 10-8 CUSA) are set to face the New Mexico State Aggies (17-14, 10-8 CUSA) in the Conference USA (CUSA) Tournament quarterfinals on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, with tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET. The Owls have shown resilience this season, highlighted by recent back-to-back road victories against Liberty and Jacksonville State. Their defense has been notably effective, ranking 44th nationally in field goal percentage defense at 41.1%. Offensively, they average 76.4 points per game, with freshman guard Adrian Wooley leading the charge at 18.5 points per game. The Aggies concluded their regular season with a 76-69 loss to Sam Houston. They possess a strong defense, allowing just 65.5 points per game, ranking 27th nationally. Offensively, they average 69.4 points per game, with guard Christian Cook contributing 13.0 points per game.  This season, the teams split their regular-season encounters, each winning on the road. Kennesaw State secured a 69-56 victory on January 24, while New Mexico State responded with a 60-49 win on February 22.  Defense: Both teams excel defensively. Kennesaw State's field goal percentage defense ranks 44th nationally, while New Mexico State allows just 65.5 points per game, ranking 27th. Two defensive teams meet here today. Both previous games have been low scoring and I don't see that changing here today. Take the UNDER. 

The Indiana Pacers (33-24) are set to face the Atlanta Hawks (27-32) on March 6, 2025, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. This matchup marks their second meeting this season, with the Pacers securing a narrow 132-127 victory over the Hawks on February 1, 2025. The Pacers have been in strong form recently, winning 10 of their last 12 games. They currently hold a .579 win percentage, placing them third in the Central Division. Their offense averages 116.6 points per game (PPG) on 49.1% shooting, while allowing 115.3 PPG defensively. Conversely, the Hawks have struggled, losing seven consecutive games prior to their recent matchups. They stand at a .458 win percentage, ranking third in the Southeast Division. Offensively, Atlanta matches Indiana with an average of 116.6 PPG but has a less efficient shooting percentage of 46.3%. Defensively, they concede 119.5 PPG, indicating challenges in their defensive setups. The Pacers are led by Pascal Siakam with 20.3 PPG and 7.3 rebounds per game (RPG). Trae Young leads the Hawks, contributing 23.9 PPG and leading the league with 11.4 APG, though his shooting efficiency has been a concern at 40.6%. Both these teams can score and their first game flew over the total. No reason this one shouldn't do the same. Play the OVER.

The West Virginia Mountaineers (17-12, 8-10 Big 12) are set to face the Utah Utes (16-13, 8-10 Big 12) on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. The Utes are averaging 75.7 points per game while allowing 71.3 points to opponents. They excel in rebounding, securing 35.4 boards per game, which ranks 31st nationally. Offensively, Utah shoots 45.4% from the field and 33.2% from beyond the arc. However, free throw shooting has been a weakness, with the team converting only 63.8% of their attempts, placing them last in the Big 12. The Mountaineers average 68.2 points per game and are known for their strong defense, limiting opponents to 64.6 points per contest, ranking 19th nationally. They shoot 42.4% from the field and 32.6% from three-point range. Rebounding has been a challenge, as they have a negative rebounding margin and rank 300th in total rebounding percentage. Utah guard Gabe Madsen leads the team with 15.2 points per game, while forward Ezra Ausar contributes 12.4 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. West Virginia guard Javon Small is the team's leading scorer, averaging 18.2 points along with 5.5 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game. Forward Amani Hansberry adds 9.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per contest. Both teams are tied for 9th in the Big 12 with 8-10 records. The top eight seeds receive a bye in the conference tournament, making this game crucial for positioning. This contest looks to be a tough, highly contested game with the strong West Virginia defense and Utah limiting second chances with their rebounding skills. I'm taking the UNDER here today. 

The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The Lakers currently hold a 35-21 record, placing them fourth in the Western Conference, and are on a three-game winning streak. The Timberwolves, with a 32-27 record, sit seventh in the conference. In their most recent matchup, Minnesota secured a 97-87 victory over Los Angeles on December 13, 2024, leading the season series 2-1. The Timberwolves are dealing with significant injuries: Julius Randle: Out with a right adductor strain, expected to miss at least two weeks. Donte DiVincenzo: Sidelined indefinitely due to a Grade 3 left toe sprain. Anthony Edwards: Listed as questionable with a right calf injury. The Lakers' LeBron James: Managing left ankle soreness, which is expected to persist throughout the season. LeBron James continues to be a pivotal player, recently contributing 26 points, seven rebounds, and 11 assists against the Charlotte Hornets. The Wolves with Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo out, and Anthony Edwards questionable, players like Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels may need to step up. Despite their injuries, the Wolves are coming off a split with Oklahoma City in which the two teams combined for 259 and 253 points. In fact, the Wolves have scored 110 or more in 11 of their last 13 games. The Lakers have also been high scoring with 16 of their last 18 games having 110 or more points. I expect both teams to put up a lot of points here tonight. Take the OVER.

The USC Trojans (14-13, 6-10 Big Ten) are set to host the Ohio State Buckeyes (15-13, 7-10 Big Ten) on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. Both teams are aiming to halt three-game losing streaks and bolster their positions as the regular season nears its conclusion. The Trojans are on a three-game skid, with their latest defeat being a 95-85 loss to Rutgers. In that game, junior guard Desmond Claude delivered an impressive 30-point performance, while redshirt freshman Wesley Yates III added 23 points. Despite these individual efforts, USC has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 74.3 points per game this season. The Buckeyes have also faced challenges, recently falling 69-61 to UCLA. Junior guard Bruce Thornton leads the team with 17.3 points and 4.3 assists per game, showcasing his pivotal role in the Buckeyes' offense. Redshirt junior forward Devin Royal contributes significantly with 13.3 points and a team-high 7.0 rebounds per game. Ohio State's defense has been commendable, limiting opponents to a 29.4% three-point shooting percentage, ranking second-best in the Big Ten. The duel between USC's Desmond Claude and Ohio State's Bruce Thornton is poised to be a highlight. Both guards are prolific scorers and primary playmakers for their respective teams. Both teams are eager to reverse their recent fortunes, making this a crucial matchup. USC's home-court advantage and offensive firepower, led by Claude and Yates III, should make for an exciting and high scoring game. I'm taking the OVER here tonight. 

The Boston Celtics (38-16) are set to host the San Antonio Spurs (23-28) on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at TD Garden in Boston. The Celtics have been in strong form, winning six of their last seven games. They are currently second in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Cleveland Cavaliers by 5.5 games. In their recent victory over the Miami Heat, Jayson Tatum led the team with 33 points. The Spurs, on the other hand, have faced challenges, losing nine of their last 13 games. They are 12th in the Western Conference, three games behind the Golden State Warriors for the final play-in spot. In their recent win against the Washington Wizards, Victor Wembanyama scored a game-high 31 points. Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum leads with 26.9 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. He also averages 5.5 assists per game. San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama averages 24.3 points and 10.9 rebounds per game. Chris Paul contributes 8.1 assists per game, while De’Aaron Fox, acquired from Sacramento, adds 18.3 points per game. Offense: The Celtics rank sixth in scoring, averaging 117.2 points per game, and are 10th in three-point shooting at 36.8%. The Spurs average 112.8 points per game, ranking 16th, and are 22nd in three-point shooting at 35%. Defense: Boston allows 108.2 points per game, ranking fourth in defense, and holds opponents to 45% shooting. San Antonio concedes 114.3 points per game, ranking 19th, with opponents shooting 46.4%. I expect the Celtics to get plenty of points tonight. The Spurs will have to play keep-up in this one. I'll take the OVER. 

The Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland. The Cavaliers have been dominant this season, holding a 42-10 record, including an impressive 24-4 mark at home. The Timberwolves stand at 30-23, with a solid 15-11 road record. These teams last met on January 18, when Cleveland secured a 124-117 victory in Minnesota.

Injury Report: Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards (hip) and Mike Conley (finger) questionable. Julius Randle (groin) and Donte DiVincenzo (toe) out. Cavaliers: Isaac Okoro (shoulder) and Dean Wade (knee) out. De'Andre Hunter is expected to debut after a recent trade. 

Team Breakdown:

Cavaliers Offense: Leads the NBA in offensive efficiency, averaging 122.4 PPG on 49.8% FG and 39.5% from three.

Cavaliers Defense: Allows 112.1 PPG.

Timberwolves Offense: Averages 111.7 PPG, shooting 46.4% FG and 38.4% from deep.

Timberwolves Defense: Gives up 108.0 PPG.

The over/under is set at 228.5 points, and with Cleveland’s elite scoring ability and Minnesota’s respectable offensive efficiency, this game has strong potential to go OVER.

I’ll take the OVER in this matchup.

Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025, features a compelling rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, echoing their thrilling encounter in Super Bowl LVII two years prior, where the Chiefs narrowly triumphed 38-35. The Chiefs, under the seasoned leadership of Head Coach Andy Reid, concluded the regular season with an impressive 15-2 record, tying for the league's best. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, while not reaching his usual statistical heights, demonstrated exceptional clutch performance, orchestrating seven game-winning drives-tying for the second-most in NFL history. Tight end Travis Kelce remained a pivotal offensive weapon, leading the team with 823 receiving yards. A mid-season acquisition of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins bolstered the receiving corps, adding 437 yards and four touchdowns in five starts. Defensively, the Chiefs maintained a top-four ranking for the second consecutive year, anchored by All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones and standout cornerback Trent McDuffie. 

The Eagles, guided by Head Coach Nick Sirianni, improved to a 14-3 record. Quarterback Jalen Hurts achieved career highs in several passing metrics, complemented by the stellar performance of running back Saquon Barkley, who became the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a season. The receiving unit, featuring All-Pro A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, provided robust support. The offensive line's excellence was recognized with multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. Defensively, under coordinator Vic Fangio, the Eagles secured the league's second-ranked defense, highlighted by linebacker Zack Baun's 151 tackles and defensive tackle Jalen Carter's disruptive presence. Mahomes and Hurts, both dynamic playmakers, will be central to their teams' offensive success. Mahomes' experience and late-game heroics contrast with Hurts' dual-threat capabilities, setting the stage for an intriguing battle. Barkley's record-breaking season poses a significant challenge to the Chiefs' defense. The effectiveness of the Eagles' ground attack against the Chiefs' defensive front, led by Chris Jones, could be a determining factor. This matchup marks only the second time in Super Bowl history that two teams have met twice within three years. 

The Chiefs aim to become the first NFL team to secure three consecutive Super Bowl victories, a testament to their sustained excellence. Conversely, the Eagles seek redemption from their narrow loss two years ago, driven by a potent offense and a formidable defense. 

Both these teams have dynamic offenses and both teams should get plenty of points here in the Super Bowl. I'll take the OVER as one of my plays. 

The Utah State Aggies (20-3, 10-2 MWC) travel to Fresno, California, to take on the Fresno State Bulldogs (5-18, 1-11 MWC) on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Save Mart Center.

Utah State has been one of the most dominant teams in the Mountain West, averaging 81.0 points per game while allowing just 68.3. The Aggies are led by Ian Martinez (16.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.0 APG) and Mason Falslev (14.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.7 APG). They have also been solid on the road, boasting a 6-1 record away from home.

Fresno State has endured a tough season, averaging 72.6 points per game while allowing 82.2—a defensive weakness that has contributed to their five-game losing streak. Guard Zaon Collins leads the team with 13.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, while Jalen Weaver adds 12.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per contest.

These teams met earlier this season on January 4, with Utah State securing an 89-83 victory. Both teams shot well from the field—Utah State at 48.4% and Fresno State at 48.3%—with the Bulldogs holding a 40-35 rebounding advantage. Despite their struggles, Fresno State has a history of bouncing back at home, winning five of their last six games at the Save Mart Center following an overtime loss.

This game features one of the highest totals of the night, set well over 150 points. While Utah State can light up the scoreboard, Fresno State knows they can’t afford to get into a fast-paced shootout. Expect the Bulldogs to slow the tempo and control possessions, keeping the game more competitive on their home court. The best play here is the UNDER.

The San Antonio Spurs (22-26) take on the Charlotte Hornets (12-36) on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte. Both teams are looking to turn things around after recent struggles.

San Antonio has won just three of its last ten games, slipping to 12th place in the Western Conference. However, they are coming off a narrow 126-125 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, with Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox each scoring 24 points. Despite the win, the Spurs have struggled offensively, ranking 24th in paint scoring and 25th in the league with an average of 109.3 points per game.

Charlotte is on a six-game losing streak, most recently falling 112-102 to the Milwaukee Bucks. Nick Smith Jr. led the Hornets with 23 points, while Miles Bridges and KJ Simpson each added 15 points. Defensively, Charlotte has had trouble containing opponents, allowing teams to shoot over 50% from the field in recent matchups.

San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama: 20.7 PPG, 10.5 RPG. De’Aaron Fox: 24.0 PPG, 13.0 APG

Charlotte Hornets: Nick Smith Jr.: Led the team with 23 points vs. Milwaukee. Miles Bridges & KJ Simpson: 

With both teams struggling defensively, this game sets up well for a high-scoring contest. While the Spurs may have the edge, the best play is on the OVER, as both teams should be able to put up points throughout the game. Take the OVER in this matchup.

The Virginia Cavaliers take on the Pittsburgh Panthers this Monday at the Petersen Events Center, with Pitt favored by 12 points and the over/under set at 133.5.

Virginia (10-12, 3-8 ACC) has struggled offensively, putting up just 63.3 PPG, ranking near the bottom nationally. They shoot 44% from the field and 37.3% from deep, but their defense keeps them competitive, allowing 65.2 PPG on 42.6% opponent shooting.

Pittsburgh (14-7, 5-5 ACC) counters with a high-powered offense, averaging 79.6 PPG on 46.8% shooting, including 35.7% from three. Defensively, the Panthers allow 70.9 PPG, with opponents shooting 42.9% from the field and 33.5% from beyond the arc.

While Pitt’s offensive firepower is undeniable, Virginia’s slow, methodical pace and defensive mindset could dictate the tempo, keeping the total score lower than expected. The Cavaliers struggle to generate points, which could make hitting the over 133.5 a tough task.

I’m taking the UNDER 133.5 in this matchup! Good luck!

The Milwaukee Bucks (26-19) are set to face the San Antonio Spurs (20-24) on Friday at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. The Bucks have a 22-23-1 record against the spread (ATS) this season, going 6-2 ATS in their last eight games. They have hit the over in 24 of their 44 games. The Spurs are 21-23 ATS this season. Their games have gone over the total in 24 of 44 matchups. Milwaukee has been potent offensively, averaging 118.6 points per game in January, with a field goal percentage of 50.3%. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are combining for 57 points per game. San Antonio's defense has struggled, allowing 121.8 points per game in January. Opponents have been shooting 48.3% from the field and 39.7% from three-point range against them. Given the Bucks' offensive efficiency and the Spurs' defensive struggles, the over/under line of 233.5 points is noteworthy. I look for these two teams to get this total over the number. The posted total is high, but the way these teams have played of late should get us there. Play the OVER.

The #16 Oregon Ducks (16-4, 5-4 Big Ten) are set to face the UCLA Bruins (15-6, 6-4 Big Ten) on Thursday at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles. Oregon is coming off a 77-69 loss to Minnesota, where Brandon Angel led the team with 18 points. Despite this setback, the Ducks have been strong on the road, holding a 4-1 record away from Eugene this season. UCLA recently secured an 82-76 victory over USC, with Eric Dailey Jr. contributing 16 points. The Bruins have been formidable at home, boasting a 10-1 record at Pauley Pavilion. Oregon: Brandon Angel has been a significant contributor, leading the team in scoring during their recent game against Minnesota. UCLA: Eric Dailey Jr. has been instrumental in the Bruins' offense, leading the team in their recent win over USC. Both teams should be able to get decent points here tonight. My own number has this game about five points higher. I'll be on the OVER tonight.

The UCLA Bruins and USC Trojans are set to face off in a Big Ten matchup on Monday at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. The game is scheduled to tip off at 10:00 PM ET (7:00 PM PT) and will be broadcast on FS1. UCLA enters the game with a 14-6 overall record and a 5-4 mark in Big Ten play, riding a three-game winning streak. The Bruins have been strong defensively, ranking 16th in adjusted defensive efficiency and allowing an average of 64.5 points per game. Notably, they limit opponents to 28.2 two-point attempts per game, the fifth-lowest in the nation. USC stands at 12-7 overall and 4-4 in the conference, having won three of their last four games, including a notable victory over Illinois. UCLA's strong defense is a significant factor. Their ability to limit high-percentage shots and control the pace of the game often results in lower-scoring contests. UCLA also has injury concerns with forward Tyler Bilodeau, averaging 13.9 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, questionable due to an ankle injury sustained in the previous game against Washington. His potential absence could impact the Bruins' offensive output. Eight of the last ten meetings between these teams have stayed under the total, including both matchups last season. Additionally, only one of their last five games had a closing total above 135 points, making the current over/under of 139.5 appear relatively high. Considering their history, I'm sticking with the UNDER here on Monday.

The highly anticipated AFC Championship Game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills is set for Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 3:30 PM PST at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. The Chiefs secured their seventh consecutive AFC Championship appearance by defeating the Houston Texans 23-14 in the Divisional Round. Led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City aims for a historic third straight Super Bowl appearance. Tight end Travis Kelce continues to be a pivotal offensive weapon, recently surpassing Jerry Rice's record for most 100-yard postseason games. The Bills advanced by edging out the Baltimore Ravens 27-25 in a snowy thriller. Quarterback Josh Allen has been instrumental in Buffalo's success, leading a dynamic offense seeking its first Super Bowl appearance since 1994. The Bills' defense, known for forcing turnovers, will be tested against a Chiefs offense that hasn't committed a turnover in eight games. The duel between quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen is central to this matchup. Both have a history of high-stakes performances, including the memorable 2021 Divisional Round game where the Chiefs won 42-36 in overtime. The Chiefs' offense, bolstered by Kelce's record-setting performances, will face a Bills defense adept at creating turnovers. Conversely, the Bills' offense must contend with a Chiefs defense that has shown vulnerability, allowing significant plays this season. This marks the seventh playoff meeting between these teams, with the Chiefs leading the series 4-2. Notably, Kansas City has won the last three postseason encounters, including the 2023 Divisional Round where they triumphed 27-24. The Bills, however, secured a 30-21 victory in their regular-season meeting this past November. With both teams boasting explosive offenses and strategic defenses, fans can anticipate a thrilling game. The outcome may hinge on each team's ability to protect the football and execute under pressure. The winner will advance to face either the Philadelphia Eagles or the Washington Commanders in Super Bowl LIX. The days of the Chiefs running away with high scoring games seems to be in the past. The Bills games have also been more controlled of late though they did get 52 in the Ravens contest. Still, the Chiefs can't get into a scoring affair here today. Take the UNDER.