The set-up: The Grizzlies enter the second half without big man Marc Gasol. That trade happened a month ago, but the new look home side will be looking to play spoiler here. The Clippers smashed the Suns 134-107 in their last game before the All Star break. LA comes in with a legitimate shot at making the playoffs, currently in the eight spot. LA averages 111.0 PPG and it concedes 110.2. The Grizz lost 122-110 in Chicago in their final game before the All Star break. Memphis averages 103.9 PPG and it allows 106.9.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but LA has seen the total go "under" the number in 15 of 24 this year in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent, while Memphis has seen the total go "under" in six of its last eight when playing with three or more days rest. I think each team comes out a little flat to open the second half. When taking into account the rest of the above info, all signs do indeed point to the "under" as the correct call here.

8* play