Rogers' *10* NBA SURE SHOT - 82-56 +$20,056 NBA Y-T-D!
(NBA) Boston vs. New York,
Point Spread: 2.50 | -103.00 New York (Home)
Result: Loss
*10* SURE SHOT on New York Knicks.

The Boston Celtics had won five consecutive games prior to a 119-114 defeat at Orlando Sunday. I don't like their chances at Madison Square Garden tonight either as they'll come up against the Knicks who will be desperate to record a win.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Motivational - The Knicks have lost five of their last six with the lone win a 102-84 victory against reeling Suns. They're still third in the Atlantic division, 4.5 games behind the Celtics in second, so a win here is of the essence both to snap out of their current funk and to stay relevant in the race for a playoff spot.

2. Home Cookin' - The Knicks are 14-11 outright at home this season and have covered the spread in seven of their last 10 at MSG. The Celtics are 0-6 ATS through their last six visits to a team with a winning home record. The home team has covered the spread in each of the last four meetings in the series and the Celtics lost 120-114 their last trip to New York last month.

3. X-Factor - Carmelo Anthony had 24 points and 10 boards in Sunday's 116-95 loss against the Warriors and he has averaged 23 points and seven rebounds in two meetings with Boston this season.

Selection: This is a play on the New York Knicks (10*)