The set-up: It's now or never for both teams. The Western conference is a difficult one and if either of these sub .500 teams is going to make a move, both have to come out hot and establish a run starting tonight. But with over a week off, I think these two normally high-scoring offenses will come out flat to start, opening up the door for the defenses to "steal the show." Situationally this one definitely sets up as a lower-scoring contest in my opinion.

The pick: Note as well that New Orleans has seen the total go under the number in six of eight already this year off an upset loss as a favorite, while Portland has seen the total dip below the posted number in both games it's played in already this season with three or more days rest. I'm banking on this total staying well below the posted number once it's all said and done.

10* TOTAL PLAYBOOK on the UNDER Pelicans/Blazers.