The set-up: The Rockets won 124-115 in LA back on October 20th and I'm expecting another high-scoring shootout this time around as well. Since then though, these teams have essentially moving in opposite directions, with the Lakers slowly improving on both ends of the court, while Houston has struggled for the most part to re-gain its form from season's past. Both teams come in off victories though (Lakers won 108-105 over the Heat, while Houston snapped a losing streak with a convincing 111-104 win over Portland). LA plays with revenge and will be pushing the pace. Houston will be out to build off its recent victory. From a situational stand point, I definitely think this one sets up as a high-scoring affair.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but LA has seen the total go "over" the number in seven of its last nine in trying to revenge a home loss vs. an opponent in which it allowed 120 or more points in. This number is a little low, play the "over."

10* play