NBA PICKS

BY PROFESSOR MJ

 

 

We are all set for Game 2 of a couple of very interesting series. Will the Raptors and/or the Spurs rebound following an ugly loss in Game 1? I’m betting “yes” in both cases. Let’s dive into the details right away:

MAY 3, 2017
	SPREAD		MONEY LINE
	Pinnacle	PROF. MJ	Pinnacle	PROF. MJ	Pinnacle	PROF. MJ	PICK	ROI
Raptors	+7	+4,7	+285	+196	3,85	2,96	X	16,5%
Cavaliers	-7	-4,7	-325	-196	1,31	1,51		-21,2%
Tip: Bet the Raptors.
	Pinnacle	PROF. MJ	Pinnacle	PROF. MJ	Pinnacle	PROF. MJ	PICK	ROI
Rockets	+5,5	+6,6	+214	+262	3,14	3,62		-10,1%
Spurs	-5,5	-6,6	-240	-262	1,42	1,38	X	5,2%
Tip: Bet the Spurs.

 

“GOOD” BET (3 stars / 5):

I’m betting the Raptors +7 at the Cavaliers. The only notable injury is Cleveland’s J.R. Smith who tweaked his right thumb during the first game of the series (the same thumb that was surgically repaired earlier). He is listed as probable, so he should be fine. The spread was 6.5 in Game 1 and has increased by half a point for tonight’s match. Two days ago I noticed 67% and 77% of the spread and money line bets going on Cleveland; those numbers are now 70% and 84% despite the bigger line, so the public is pretty heavily on the Cavaliers in this one.

 

“PROCEED WITH CAUTION” BET (1 star / 5):

I’m taking the Spurs -5.5 against the Rockets. Those of you who have read my article entitled “How do NBA teams respond after getting blown out against the spread in the playoffs?” are probably not surprised by this pick. In this analysis, I pointed out that teams losing by more than 22 points against the spread (ATS) in a playoff game hold a 67-45 (59.8%) ATS in their next game facing the same opponent. Considering they lost by 33 points ATS, the Spurs easily qualify. Houston’s starters outscored San Antonio’s 77-44 through three quarters. Wow! Another stunning stat: the Rockets have now won their last six trips to San Antonio in postseason play. Let’s see if the Spurs can turn things around. It should be fun to watch!

 

Good luck with your plays!

Professor MJ