Doc’s Sports NBA Picks & Against the Spread Plays

Boston got right back into this series in Game 3 with a big win, and it’s easy to think they can keep the momentum going tonight. They had a rare three nights off because of the strange scheduling in the bubble, and as a result they got some much needed R and R. This definitely benefits the Celtics more since the Heat had them kind of on the ropes after that 2-0 lead but now Boston recaptured the momentum and they got some time to get Hayward some more rest, and he should be a major factor tonight in this likely win. Boston is the better defensive team, and with the extra rest we should see that unit flourish tonight. And their offense really woke up in Game 3 with 117 points, and we see that continuing tonight, especially with Hayward more fully in the mix. Miami is playing some very good basketball right now, but they have had an easy path and haven’t faced a lot of adversity. Boston is more battle tested, and ready for this crucial Game 4. And not to mention that Boston has been one of the best betting teams in the NBA for the last several years, and they normally exceed the expectations of the oddsmakers. We think that will be the case again tonight.

7-Unit Play. Competition: Major League Soccer. Take Philadelphia ML over Cincinnati FC (Wednesday at 7:30pm). Includes 90 minutes + Injury time.

As per your selection on Philadelphia, we believe this is a major mismatch and the price is way too good to pass up. Philadelphia is easily one of the top teams in the MLS and they come into this game riding a three match winning streak which has seen them score 9 goals while conceding just 2. They should have no trouble keeping Cincinnati FC out of the back of the net as Cincy has managed just 2 goals over their last five games and play a very defensive brand of soccer. Philadelphia will be able to break the Cincy defense down with their plethora of attacking options and ideas and we see Philly racing away to a 3-0 win in this game.

5-Unit Play. Take Tampa Bay over Dallas (Wednesday at 8pm).

It's a little redundant to write the same things each time we take tampa in this series but let me reiterate. Tampa is the better team. The deeper team. The better defensive team. The team with the better offense. Game 1 they were tired from flying across the country and in Game 2 they showed flashes of the team they can be. Game 3, we expect Tampa to dominate from the onset and get the win and go up 2-1 in the series.

4-Unit Play. Take #902 San Diego (-1.5 RL) over LA Angels (4:10 p.m. Wednesday, September 23)

San Diego saw the chance to bolster their pitching staff before the trade deadline and they didn't hesitate to trade for Mike Clevinger. Clevinger has delivered so far going 2-1 winning both of his starts at Petco Park and I think he will come through today. Los Angeles doesn't have much room for error if they want to make the playoffs as they are chasing the Astros and Blue Jays for the final two playoff spots in the American League. Jaime Barria will be on the bump for the Angels. Barria has pitched well in his four starts, but I think the Padres bounce back after losing last night's game in what will be their last game in San Diego before the playoffs start.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports