BlackJack’s Plays of the Day: Triple Play

There are some times as a gambler when you are more analytical than others. There are some times when you are basing plays off systems. There are times when you look at trends. And then there are times when you operate off your gut. Today is one those days, brothers. Today is a day when it just feels right, and I don't think we live in a world where these plays don't cash. Today kicks off Memorial Day weekend. Today begins our summer. And with the new season, we rededicate ourselves to our ultimate goal of winning more than any team in human history. Today we reassert ourselves as the kings of the jungle. Let's take care of business, baby.

Game 6 Trends: LeBron Typically Covers in Elimination Games

Read now

WINNERS

Boston Celtics at Cleveland Cavaliers (-6.5) | O/U: 202

8:30 p.m. ET

Pick #1: Cleveland -6.5

The Celtics have been dreadful on the road in the playoffs and dynamite at home. The Cavaliers have been the same way. They have won their past three home playoff games by over 24 points per game. The Celtics have trouble scoring the ball on the road as well. I also have a theory that I believe in. This theory says that LeBron sees the Rockets up 3-2 on the Warriors and thinks he may not have to beat Golden State to win another title, and maybe he can get a more favorable matchup against Houston with a banged-up Chris Paul. I think either way we see a max-effort game from the Cavaliers in Game 6.

Pick #2: Cleveland first quarter -2.5

The Cavs have generally been the better team in the first quarter of these games even when they have lost. I think that trend has been exacerbated at home and will be in full effect in Game 6 with elimination staring them in the face. I expect the Cavaliers to come out firing tonight. I love the first quarter play here.

Pick #3: Over 202

We are hitting the well a third time here. The total is at 202 right now, and I think that is a generous number. I know defense has been improved in this series, and with blowout wins it has been hard to cash an over ticket. I think that changes tonight. The Cavaliers can't leave anything in the chamber tonight; they have to empty the clip on the Celtics. I don't know whether the Celtics can hang with them, but I think the Cavs do enough damage to cover the relatively low number here.

Let's do it, baby. It's summertime, and it's time to TCB.