The set-up: Chicago has been on fire in the second half and it finds itself sitting at one game over .500. However the Hawks will be desperate to break a two-game slide and to gain some precious ground with limited time left on the equally as hungry Avs. The Avs are currently tied with the Coyotes for eighth spot, so they can ill afford to take the foot off the gas here either. From a situational stand point, I think this one sets up great as more of a wide open shootout, than a slower-paced defensive battle.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Chicago has seen the total go "over" the number in 14 of 19 this year trying to revenge a home loss vs. an opponent, while Colorado has seen the total go "over" in all five games that it's played in this season after playing to three or more consecutive "unders." This number is low, play the "over."

9* play