The set-up: The first thing that comes to mind when we look at these two teams is obviously, high-scoring offenses. Both teams push the pace and each has difficulty defending the perimeter, but I believe this line is a bit inflated due to public perception, as it's now automatic for many NBA bettors to just hammer the "over" whenever Dallas plays these days. So why will today's matchup finally stay "under" here?

The pick: Let's take a quick look at these team's offensive averages to start. Portland averages 115.2 PPG, while Dallas averages 112.7. After holding on for a 143-130 win over the Pelicans on Friday, I expect this Dallas offense to take a step back here. Portland beat Cleveland 129-110 in a high-scoring home game, but note that the Blazers have seen the total dip below the posted number in seven of their last ten road games after scoring 125 or more points in a SU/ATS home victory in their last outing. This can still be a high-scoring game and stay "under" this sky-high number, and that's exactly what I'm expecting.

This is a 10* TOTAL COACH'S CORNER on the UNDER Blazers/Mavericks.