The Cavs haven't lost three straight all season; prior to last night at Philadelphia, only once had Cleveland lost as many as two in a row in this fun-filled campaign. Kenny Atkinson should have no trouble reminding his troops about playing better defense after allowing the Sixers to hit 132 last night, the second-highest allowance of points by Cleveland this season (the Hawks scored 135 back on Nov. 27, part of Atlanta's back-to-back sweep). This is also a quick payback spot for the Cavs after a bitter Wednesday loss at Houston when Darius Garland would miss a pair of free throws in the final seconds that proved the difference in a 109-108 loss. Play Cavs

I'm taking a shot with the Cavs here at home. Cleveland played last night and this will be its third game in four days, so tired legs are a concern. However, after consecutive losses to the Rockets and Sixers, I expect to see a fired up Cavs squad returning home where they are 21-2 this season. Houston hasn't played since Jan. 22 when the beat the Cavs by one at home. The Rockets have the rest edge, although the spot and line give the advantage to Cleveland. I'll lay the 3.5.

A player that has increased his prop market rapidly has been Amen Thompson. The second year player has shown flashes, but now he is entering that consistently level. He has has cutback on three point shot attempts and kept his game to his strength inside the arc. Houston is also facing the Cavaliers for a second consecutive game. Each of the last two instances where Thompson has faced the same opponent in consecutive matchups, he has scored exactly 19 points. January 13th against Memphis, and November 23rd against Portland. Play his over.