Sports Handicapper Michael Alexander's Picks & Predictions

Rating: 2 Units

The Raptors are still missing Immanuel Quickley and they are keeping an eye on Brandon Ingram, who is a game-time decision, while the Cavaliers are entering with a full squad once again. The Raptors have been able to win all their home games to force a series decider, but they’ve yet to steal a home game this series despite coming close in Game 5, where they lost by just five points. The Cavaliers will be so annoyed with themselves, as they will know that they should already be done with this series, but you work hard during the regular season to have home-court advantage in these games. The Cavaliers’ role players will step up in this one, so I will stick with the Cavaliers to get the win, but the early money has been on the Raptors, which is why the line has already shortened by one point and I have to agree, as I think this one goes down to the wire again.

Rating: 2 Units

Tampa Bay has had plenty of issues with Montreal throughout this series, but they got great goaltending from Vasilevskiy in game six and will look to advance at home here. The Lightning were 26-14-1 at home this year, while the Canadiens were 24-9-8 on the road. Montreal doesn’t have much momentum coming into this one, but they have played well in the series and I think they have a very solid chance here. I view this game as a toss up, so I will gladly take the plus money with Montreal. Take the Canadiens here.

Rating: 2 Units

In my view, this matchup favors the Pittsburgh Pirates. Why? Pittsburgh starting pitcher Braxton Ashcraft has amassed a 3.71 ERA and a robust 39 strikeouts which ranks 21st in Major League Baseball. Additionally, the Pirates have won two consecutive games. Conversely, the Reds have lost three of the team’s last four games. Cincinnati starting pitcher Chase Burns has pitched relatively well this season, but I am concerned about the Reds lineup providing the hurler with run support. With that said, I am backing the Pittsburgh Pirates on the moneyline in this game.

Rating: 2 Units

In my opinion, this matchup favors the Tampa Bay Rays. Steven Matz enters today's contest with a 4-1 win-loss record and a 1.00 WHIP. Conversely, San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Tyler Mahle has allowed 33 hits in 30.1 innings which is concerning when facing a Rays lineup that has been far more efficient at home. With that said, Tampa Bay is the clear side to be on in this one. I am backing the Tampa Bay Rays on the moneyline in this game.