AAA's 5-GAME PRO HOOPS PASS *394-319 +$47,158 NBA RUN!*
(NBA) Toronto vs. Washington, 01/08/2016 2:00 PM, Score: 97 - 88
Point Spread: 2.00 | -115.00 Washington (Home)
Result: Loss
This is an 8* play on the Washington Wizards.

While we are primarily a situationally based handicapping service, we don't prescribe to any one single methodology, but instead feel that being flexible with ones approach is the best way to secure profits over the longterm. Sometimes we keep it simple, while other times we'll take into account a bunch of different factors, like motivation, scheduling and significant injuries. Recognizing classic "spot bets" is something we always do as well, IE: the "look ahead" spot, the "let down" spot and the "trap" game. The actual contestants on the field of play rarely enter into our equation when making selections, unless it's a Top 3 player like a LeBron James or Aaron Rodgers etc. One set of criteria which we almost always use when making our decisions, are Against The Spread (ATS) statistics. Sometimes these stats can be overrated and other times they help foreshadow the outcome of a contest.

This particular play is based on a few different factors:

Motivation: We definitely feel that the Wizards have the upper hand in the "motivation department" today, they have lost three of their last four to Toronto, Miami and Cleveland, all of whom rank in the top four in fewest points allowed per game. There's no question that the "revenge" factor comes in to play here as well. Also note that the Wizards looked pretty damn good in defeat to the Cavs last time out, eventually succumbing 121-115 on Wednesday, but posting season bests in field-goal (55.3) and 3-point (58.3) percentage, assisting on 31 of 42 field goals and setting the pace with a 22-5 edge on fast-break points.

Getting healthier: Part of the Wizards recent issues have been because of injuries, but Nene returned to play against Cleveland along with Gary Neal. Both looked good and will now be back up to speed. Kris Humphries is also expected to play tonight after sitting vs. the Cavaliers.

Raptors D is slipping: It's true that Toronto dominated the lowly Nets 91-74 on Wednesday, but note that it had given up an average of 118.5 points in losses to Chicago and Cleveland previous.

ATS statistics: Note that Toronto is just 2-4 ATS in its last six overall, while Washington is 5-3 ATS in its last eight when revenging a road loss vs. an opponent.

The bottom line: Desperation breeds motivation, we think the home side is hungrier and that fact will prove to be the difference once the final horn blares; play on the WIZARDS.

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