The set-up: Minnesota beat the Nets on Opening night in an OT decision, but I think the team has a predictable letdown here. Charlotte enters off a hard-fought upset win at home over the Bulls and with nothing to lose, I think the home side can keep this one competitive until the final moments again. Last year the Wolves averaged 112.5 PPG and allowed 111.1.

The pick: Dwayne Bacon had 22 points for the Hornets in their 126-125 win over the Bulls. last season Charlotte averaged 110.4 PPG and it conceded 114.0. Note though that the Hornets are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last four when playing on one days rest and 5-1 ATS in their last six at home, while the Wolves are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight following an ATS victory. While this one has "upset" written all over it, in the end I'm grabbing the points.

8* play on Charlotte.