William Burns

Burns' Selection: Winnipeg Jets [Moneyline] .

After New Jersey lost Jack Hughes, I said to myself that this group is going to have a tough time staying relevant, and keeping itself in a playoff spot. With eight games remaining, I'm very surprised at how well the Devils have played considering. That being said though, they still won't have him for any of the remaining games which will definitely hurt them, especially against some of the best of the best like Winnipeg.

The Jets are the top team in the Western Conference (points wise) at the moment. Hellebuyck, who's got 41 wins on the year, will be back between the pipes tonight. The Jets just beat the Capitals in an Overtime game which was huge for them in a battle of the top teams in each conference. With a 71% win percentage against Eastern Conference foes, I'll go with the Jets this evening, even with the heavy juice.

Score Prediction: 4-1 Jets.

Burns' Selection // Cleveland Cavaliers (ATS) ..

After Mobley rested last night, he should be ready to go for this game against Detroit. Cleveland was still able to win by eight even without their star in the making last night. Yes, the Cavs had to travel after the game last night. But, not very far. Cleveland has beaten Detroit 12 consecutive times since February of 2022.

Without the likes of Cade Cunningham, I simply don't see how this Pistons team can compete with the best team in the East this season. I mean, to begin with, I found it hard to see Detroit winning 35 games this season, yet alone 41 already. Great for the Pistons, their organization and their coaching staff. Having said that, this could all be a fluke as regular season is a completely different animal than the playoffs. This will be a tough game for them (like playoffs will be) and I don't think that they will live up to the hype. Take Cleveland here.

Score Prediction: 122-104 Cavs.

Burns' Selection // Michigan State Spartans [Moneyline] .

Although it's fun a fun story for this Ole Miss team that many counted out after it drew against UNC in the first round even. The Rebels have won as underdogs in both of their first two matchups (UNC/ISU) and have looked brilliant. However, North Carolina isn't as strong this year as some years and Iowa State wasn't fully healthy for this tournament. Having said that, I believe that the Rebels are going to have a much tougher time against one of the best teams in the country right now in Sparty.

Looking at Michigan State, the Spartans have also looked brilliant so far. I was expecting a much closer game between them and the Lobos on Sunday. But, the Spartans took control in the second half and were able to pull away and cover ATS in the end. Now, if they continue to play like this, I don't see why MSU couldn't win this whole thing. I know it's going to be tough, but this is a very favorable matchup for a Sweet Sixteen in my opinion.

Now, I'm not going to underestimate the Rebels are neither should the Spartans. But, MSU is the better team and should play very confidently this evening. Ole Miss does not rebound the ball well whatsoever and that is one of Michigan State's strengths. That's going to make a big difference here today. Expect a fairly comfortable win from Sparty in the Sweet Sixteen here to advance to play the winner of Michigan/Auburn in the Elite Eight.

Score Prediction: 79-66 Michigan State.