BlackJack Fletcher’s Favorite Plays of the Day: Why I’m Rolling with Vegas

This is a big come-down day, brothers. We have endured the wall-to-wall excitement of March Madness and the thrilling games over the weekend. Now we are back to a typical March Monday schedule: some NBA, some NHL and baseball season around the corner. While the schedule may be lighter, our focus is no less than 100%. We don't rest and we don't take days off. We attack — and we are attacking this day with the fire and fury of a thousand suns.

Early Final Four Betting Outlook: Loyola’s Chances, One Seeds Clash

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WINNERS

Buffalo Sabres at Toronto Maple Leafs (-310)

Toronto is heading to the playoffs and Buffalo is heading nowhere. The Sabres have virtually no offense to speak of and have absolutely nothing to play for. Toronto needs to work on its defense after a lackluster performance against the downtrodden Red Wings this past weekend. I would expect a motivated Leafs team to take the ice this evening. While value on the Leafs is far too high, the better value is on the total — particularly since the Sabres tend to play Toronto tight.

THE PICK: Under 6

Los Angeles Lakers at Detroit Pistons (-5.5)

These are two teams heading in opposite directions right now. The Pistons have won three of their past four to hang around the periphery of the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. The Lakers, on the other hand, who were so hot after the All-Star break, have now slumped, losing four of their past five. The Lakers are also without Brandon Ingram and Isaiah Thomas. It's going to be too much to overcome against a Pistons team that is playing better recently.

THE PICK: Pistons -5.5

Denver Nuggets at Philadelphia 76ers (-5.5)

This game is interesting for a couple of reasons. On paper, the Nuggets should have a very difficult time containing the Sixers' lineup, particularly Joel Embiid. That said, games aren’t played on paper. The Sixers just clinched a very long-awaited playoff spot. They may be in a bit of a celebration mode. The Nuggets are one of those teams that are very difficult to put away. I think this is probably too many points to lay in this situation. I like the Nuggets tonight quite a bit.

THE PICK: Denver +5.5

Colorado Avalanche at Vegas Golden Knights (-115 Reg)

This is a solid matchup of two Western Conference opponents, both with something to play for at this late juncture of the NHL season. The Avalanche are trying to shore up a wild-card playoff berth. The Golden Knights, on the other hand, are trying to secure the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Vegas is currently one point behind Winnipeg for second in the West. This very same Colorado team defeated the Golden Knights, 2-1, in a shootout victory on Saturday in Denver. Vegas generally bounces back nicely, and, with the second round of this matchup happening in the desert, I think it’s a good bet the Golden Knights find the winner's circle tonight.

THE PICK: Vegas in Regulation

Let's get this week started with a bang, baby. Let's get out there and get these wins.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports