I'm looking for a more poised and smarter Timberwolves team than the one that showed up in this past Saturday's Game 1 playoff game. Minnesota built an early 12-point lead against Denver in that game. But the Timberwolves became frustrated with the Nuggets' huge free throw shooting advantage and ended up losing, 116-105.

The Nuggets were 30 of 33 for 91% from the free-throw line. That was 14 more free throws than the Timberwolves had. Minnesota defended Jamal Murray well. But the referees gifted Murray 16 free throws - and he made all of them.

The Timberwolves know what they are up against here. I expect them to have more composure. They have the talent and playoff experience to hang within this point spread. 

I find this total too low. The Braves are the second highest scoring team in the majors averaging 5.5 runs a game. They have the second highest batting average, too, and are fourth in home runs.

Washington is pitching Jake Irvin, who has a 6.16 ERA after posting a 5.70 ERA last year. The Nationals' bullpen has a 5.37 ERA. Oh, yes, the Nationals also have committed the most errors.

The Nationals can hit, though. They rank third in runs and fourth in batting average.

This combination is why Washington has gone Over in 15 of its 22 games.

Braves starter, Bryce Elder, is off to a fantastic start. But let's not forget he had a 5.30 ERA last season. 

The Penguins are strong home favorites here after being upset, 3-2, by the Flyers in Game 1. Pittsburgh has scored four or more goals in each of their last 15 victories.

Pittsburgh was the third highest scoring team in the NHL and ranked seventh on the power play. Sidney Crosby had 10 power-play goals.

The Flyers did an excellent job keeping the Penguins from sustaining constant pressure. But the Penguins are a veteran team with all-time greats. I see them making the adjustment at home and having a big scoring game. They have averaged 6.4 goals during their past five victories.

I don't trust Pittsburgh's goaltending, however. The Flyers are playing loose and with house money in this Game 2 after pulling the upset in Game 1.  

The Penguins have surrendered 19 goals in their last four games. The Flyers have reached at least three goals in each of their past six games. They are averaging 4.1 goals a game during this span.