4* NBA SMASH

Denver vs. Houston, 04/16/2012 20:00 EDT, Score: 105 - 102

Point Spread: -4½/-107 Houston

Sportsbook: 5Dimes

Result: Loss

4* NBA SMASH on Rockets -4.5
Motivated by 3 consecutive defeats, including an embarrassing 15-point loss to Denver Sunday, expect the Rockets to bounce back strong here.

The Rockets know they can't afford another defeat as they try to hold on to the last playoff slot in the West.

Houston has been very strong at home this season. In fact, it is 8-1 ATS in home games following a road loss this season. In addition, it is 8-0 ATS all-time under coach McHale when playing the second game of a back-to-back at home. It has won these games by an average of 8.1 points.

The Nuggets are a lousy 1-11 ATS in their last 12 games following a win and 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games when playing without a day of rest. Lay the points.