3* NBA BLOCKBUSTER BOOKIE BEATDOWN

Minnesota vs. Dallas, 01/25/2012 20:30 EDT, Score: 105 - 90

Point Spread: -5½/-108 Dallas

Sportsbook: 5Dimes

Result: Loss

Even though the Mavericks are playing without star power forward Dirk Nowitzki, I believe they have more than enough fire-power to win this game by at least six points.

There's no denying the Timberwolves are headed in the right direction, but they are really hurting with injuries at the moment. Minnesota really struggled in their last game because of the lack of depth, falling 92-107 at home to the Rockets.

The Mavericks beat the Suns 93-87 at home in their first game without Nowitzki, giving them three straight wins overall. Dallas is 32-12 ATS after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons. They are also 15-3 ATS in their last 18 games as a favorite of 5.0-10.5 and 10-1 ATS in their last 11 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. BET THE MAVERICKS!