The set-up: Both teams are desperate for a victory and because of that, I'm expecting a high-tempo contest. Faster pace = more shots and more shots = more points. The Blazers have lost three of their last five, while the Suns have dropped two in a row. Strtictly from a "situational" stand point, I think this one absolutely sets up as a high-scoring affair.

The pick: The numbers/trends also support a high-scoring game though, with Portland having seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 12 off a road loss vs. a division rival, while Phoenix has seen the total go over in four of five as a home dog already this season. This number is a little low.

10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the OVER Blazers/Suns.