The set-up: After knocking off the Blazers in their last game in Portland, I think the Pelicans take a predictable step back here in this difficult road venue. Denver enters on a seven-game win streak, most recently holding on for a 113-111 win over the Suns. Denver has the No. 2 ranked defense in the league, holding the opposition to just 44.1 percent shooting at the Pepsi Center. Denver also plays with revenge here after it fell in New Orleans back in October. I believe the home side controls this one from start to finish and I look for the Pels to have a letdown after their latest road win. Situationally, it absolutely sets up as a lower-scoring affair in my opinion.

The pick: Note as well that New Orleans has seen the total dip below the posted number in seven of their last ten after an ATS cover in their previous outing, while Denver has seen the total go under in 11 of 16 at home already this season. This number is a tad high.

10* GRINCH-BUSTER on the UNDER Pelicans/Nuggets.