Bob Balfe:
NBA
8:30 PM EST
Rotation #542
Heat +3.5 over Celtics
It’s not often that you see an eight-seed dominating in the Eastern Conference Finals, but Miami is a unique team. They might not have the best record, but they are the best defensive team in the NBA, and their zone defense is smothering to opponents who can’t beat it. It’s time to face facts and realize that Erik Spoelstra is the much better coach dominating the young Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla. Miami makes teams quit and should do just that at home tonight. Take the Heat.
MLB
1:35 PM EST
Rotation #951
Cubs +105 over Phillies
Steele/Walker
The Cubs hit right-handed pitching well and should be able to get after Taijuan Walker tonight, as he has struggled so far in 2023. The Phillies are the last-ranked team at on-base-percentage against left-handed pitching, and, on top of that, will be facing the red-hot pitching of Justin Steele. Look for Chicago to strike early and often. Take the Cubs
