The set-up: Dallas has played to so many "overs" this year, that I think that whenever anyone sees them play now, they're automatically just playing the "over." Both teams in fact enter having played to several straight "overs," but I think that this line is inflated finally here by public perception and I look for it to finally swing the other way.

The pick: With a much more winnable game at Detroit, New Orleans could be caught looking ahead here. The Mavericks are off a tight 118-117 home win over the Hawks, allowing Atlanta back into the game late. I think the home side buckles down finally a little on the defensive end as they look to continue their recent up-tick in play. Finally note that New Orleans has seen the total go "under" in ten of its last 14 road games after playing to three or more straight "overs" overall. This number is high for sure in my opinion.

This is a 10* SOUTHWEST DIV. TOTAL OF THE YEAR on the UNDER Pels/Mavs.