The set-up: Washington returns to action here after a 121-115 road win over the Knicks. The Pistons will be eager to bounce back here though after a listless 125-109 loss at home to Philadelphia before X-Mas. Detroit also plays with revenge, as Washington has taken both previous meetings between the clubs so far this year. And while both those contests were higher-scoring affairs, I believe that this one sets up as much more of a defensive battle, as I look for the home side to run plenty of half-court sets on offense in an attempt to dicate the tempo.

The pick: Additionally note that Washington has seen the total go under the number in five of its last six following a SU victory, while Detroit has seen the total go under the number in six of its last eight following consecutive home losses. This number is a tad high.

10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the UNDER Wizards/Pistons.