The set-up: Dallas is a different team this year than in season's past, but it's still significant to note that it's lost six straight at Smart Home Arena. The Mavs come to town having won five of their last six games. Not to be outdone though, Utah enters on a three-game win streak. This is the first time these team's have met up this season, but I'm expecting an all out war from start to finish. Dallas comes in off a 133-125 road win in Porltand, but I can't see the Mavs producing like that in this tough road venue. The Jazz throttled Golden State last time out 129-96.

The pick: Note as well that Dallas has in fact seen the total dip under the number in ten of its last 14 after allowing 110 points or more in four straight games, while Utah has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of five already this season after a blowout win by 20 points or more. Everything points to this one being more of a defensive battle, than a high-scoring shootout.

10* TOTAL SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the UNDER Mavericks/Jazz.