The set-up: Utah enters having won two straight. It crushed New York 128-104 at home earlier in the year, but I'm expecting a much more methodically paced affair this evening. Utah averages 112.7 PPG and it allows 109.5, while the Knicks average only 106.1 points per 100 possessions. New York has looked better of late, having posted two straight victories, but I think a return to medocrity is imminent here facing this tough defensive non-conference opponent tonight.

The pick: Note as well that Utah has seen the total go under the number in four of its last five after allowing 105 points or more in five straight games, while New York has seen the total dip below in 14 of 23 already this season when the total in the contest is set at 220 or higher. I think the Jazz slow the pace of this one down whenever possible and because of that, I look for this total to stay well under once it's all said and done.

10* TOTAL BLOOD-BATH on the UNDER Jazz/Knicks.